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Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP78AE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP78AE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP78AE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 78VWM 126VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,070
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP78AE3 from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive power systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps transients to ≤126 V at 143 A, and features a 78 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (86.7–95.8 V). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for lightning protection in avionics.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP78AE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP78AE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP78AE3 application, or MPLAD18KP78AE3 equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability secondary lightning protection, load dump suppression in 24 V/28 V aircraft subsystems, and ESD/EFT hardening per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 where low thermal resistance (0.7 °C/W junction-to-case) and RoHS-compliant matte-tin terminations are critical.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses an avalanche breakdown mechanism to clamp fast-rising transients, with sub-100 ps response time from 0 V to V(BR) min. Its thermally optimized metal-base package enables direct heat sinking, supporting sustained operation under multi-stroke lightning events per RTCA DO-160 Section 22.
It operates across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, with 50 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance on FR4 PCB using recommended pad layout. Standby leakage current is limited to 10 μA at 78 V, and it passes full-surge testing per IEC 61000-4-5 with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances for Class 1–5 protection levels.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 μs) | 18,000 W - sustains single-stroke lightning surges without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 78 V - maximum continuous DC or peak AC voltage before conduction begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 86.7–95.8 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable turn-on margin above operating rail |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 126 V @ 143 A - limits downstream component stress during worst-case surge |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer to heatsink or copper plane |
| Standby Leakage Current | 10 μA @ 78 V - negligible power loss in standby, critical for battery-backed systems |
| Surge Current Rating (IPP) | 143 A @ 10/1000 μs - defines maximum transient energy absorption capability |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount molded plastic case with metal base (cathode side), UL94V-0 compliant epoxy body, dimensions 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode terminal is the exposed metal baseplate; anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top-side metallization) | Transient current entry point for unidirectional clamping | Connected to protected line; conducts surge current toward cathode during overvoltage |
| Cathode (metal baseplate) | Transient current return path and thermal interface | Must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink for thermal management and low-inductance grounding |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-profile SMT package with metal base | Enables direct thermal coupling to PCB copper, reducing junction temperature rise by >60% vs. standard SMD TVS |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates reliability for automotive-grade power electronics including engine control and ADAS modules |
| RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection compliance | Guarantees survivability against 6.4/69 μs waveform transients in airborne equipment interfaces |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection | Supports system-level certification with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances across multiple severity levels |
| RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating (e3) | Ensures lead-free assembly compatibility and long-term solder joint integrity under thermal cycling |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Distribution | Commercial Vehicle Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 28 V DC power bus in flight control computers subjected to DO-160 Section 22 lightning-induced transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient voltage suppressor placed at power input stage to clamp induced surges before they reach DC/DC converters and FPGAs. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 126 V, protecting downstream 36 V-rated regulators and ensuring no latch-up or gate oxide damage occurs during multi-stroke events. |
Use Scenario: 24 V battery-fed infotainment head unit exposed to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load dump transients up to 120 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS mounted directly at connector entry to absorb 18 kW surge energy within 100 ps. Use Value: Prevents brownout or reset of microcontroller due to voltage sag during clamping, maintaining CAN bus communication integrity during engine cranking. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link Protection | Railway Signaling Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: DC link between rectifier and IGBT inverter in traction motor drives experiencing switching-induced voltage spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS placed across DC bus capacitors to clamp repetitive 1–5 kHz transients from IGBT commutation. Use Value: Withstands ≥1000 surge cycles at 0.05% duty factor, extending capacitor lifetime and eliminating need for oversized snubbers. |
Use Scenario: 72 V signaling interface in trackside relay cabinets subject to induced surges from nearby lightning strikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection device downstream of gas discharge tube (GDT), providing low-clamp backup for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 events. Use Value: Clamps residual voltage to ≤126 V after GDT firing, preventing insulation breakdown in legacy relay coil windings rated for 150 V isolation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ78A (onsemi) | Lower PPP rating (600 W), smaller SMB package, RθJC = 15 °C/W vs. 0.7 °C/W | Not suitable for DO-160 multi-stroke or high-repetition surges; limited to consumer-grade single-event protection | Select only for cost-sensitive, low-energy industrial controls where thermal derating is not required |
| SMCJ78A (Littelfuse) | 1500 W PPP, SMC package, clamping voltage 123 V @ 123 A, no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 qualification | Lacks aviation-grade screening and traceability; insufficient for certified avionics or automotive safety-critical modules | Acceptable for non-certified telecom power supplies where full lightning compliance is not mandated |
Compared with SMBJ78A and SMCJ78A, the MPLAD18KP78AE3 provides 30× higher peak power handling, 21× better thermal resistance, and formal qualification for aerospace and automotive safety standards-making it the sole choice when system-level lightning certification and thermal robustness are mandatory.
Availability
MPLAD18KP78AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, commercial vehicle power systems, and industrial motor drive designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP78AE3 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microsemi (now part of Microchip Technology) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability analog, mixed-signal, and radiation-hardened ICs for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP78AE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for certified lightning protection in mission-critical airborne and vehicular power systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP78AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP78AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 126 V at its peak pulse current (IPP) of 143 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in RF01215 Rev B and ensures downstream components see no more than 126 V during worst-case surge events. The MPLAD18KP78AE3 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range of –55 °C to +150 °C.
Is MPLAD18KP78AE3 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, MPLAD18KP78AE3 is fully qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including HTGB, HTRB, and temperature cycling. It is designed for automotive load dump protection in 24 V systems and supports ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a compliance when used with appropriate layout and grounding. The MPLAD18KP78AE3 also meets moisture sensitivity level 1 per J-STD-020B, eliminating dry-pack requirements for SMT assembly.
Does MPLAD18KP78AE3 have bidirectional capability?
No, MPLAD18KP78AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "A" suffix (vs. "CA" for bidirectional variants). Its cathode is the metal baseplate, and it conducts only during reverse-biased overvoltage events. For bidirectional protection at 78 V standoff, the correct part is MPLAD18KP78CA - which is a distinct device with different breakdown symmetry and clamping behavior.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient for MPLAD18KP78AE3?
The junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of MPLAD18KP78AE3 is 50 °C/W when mounted on FR4 PCB using the recommended pad layout per RF01215 Rev B. However, its junction-to-case resistance (RθJC) is only 0.7 °C/W - meaning effective thermal performance depends critically on mounting the metal baseplate to a heatsink or large copper area. Without external thermal sinking, the device cannot sustain repeated 18 kW pulses.
How does MPLAD18KP78AE3 meet RTCA DO-160 lightning requirements?
MPLAD18KP78AE3 meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) at Level 4, verified per MicroNote 132. It achieves this through ultrafast <100 ps response and low dynamic impedance, enabling clamping before transient energy couples into sensitive circuitry. The MPLAD18KP78AE3 is explicitly listed in RF01215 Rev B for Level 4 compliance across VWM 7.0 V to 200 V variants, including MPLAD18KP78AE3.
MPLAD18KP78AE3 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 78V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 86.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 126V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 143A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 18000W (18kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Military
- Qualification:
- MIL-PRF-19500
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- PLAD
MPLAD18KP78AE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP78AE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP78AE3 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MPLAD18KP78AE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP78AE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP78AE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP78AE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP78AE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP78AE3?
MPLAD18KP78AE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP78AE3 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MPLAD18KP78AE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP78AE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP78AE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP78AE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP78AE3 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MPLAD18KP78AE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP78AE3?
All MPLAD18KP78AE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP78AE3, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MPLAD18KP78AE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP78AE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP78AE3 Tags
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