Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP8.5CA
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP8.5CA
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP8.5CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 85VWM 137VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,117
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP8.5CA from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 8.5 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤14.4 V at 1250 A peak impulse current (IPP), and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection requirements.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP8.5CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP8.5CA pinout, MPLAD18KP8.5CA application, or MPLAD18KP8.5CA equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus and signal line protection where multi-stroke lightning immunity, low clamping voltage, and thermal robustness under repeated transients are critical design criteria.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP8.5CA employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time) and low dynamic impedance to limit voltage overshoot during high-current transients. Its bidirectional configuration enables symmetrical clamping on AC-coupled or floating lines without polarity constraints.
Thermal performance is enhanced by direct metal-base cathode mounting and low 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsinks. It is surge-tested per AEC-Q101 and supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for high-reliability programs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains full-rated surge energy without degradation in multi-stroke events |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 8.5 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before conduction begins; matches 8–9 V nominal DC rails |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤14.4 V @ IPP = 1250 A - limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels for 12 V logic and power ICs |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 9.44–10.4 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable turn-on margin above VWM with defined avalanche threshold |
| Peak Impulse Current (IPP) | 1250 A @ 10/1000 μs - quantifies maximum single-event surge current handling capability |
| Thermal Resistance (RθJC) | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat extraction via metal base to heatsink or large copper pour |
| Clamping Response Time | <5 ns - suppresses fast-rising transients before sensitive circuitry responds |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anode/Cathode) with metal base cathode terminal. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.33 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈ 1 g. Cathode is the exposed metal base (bottom side), anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Top-side metallization) | Positive surge path input | Connected to protected line; conducts during positive transients in bidirectional mode |
| Cathode (Metal base) | Common reference / heat sink interface | Electrically tied to ground or return plane; serves as primary thermal conduction path to PCB/heatsink |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables protection of AC-coupled, differential, or floating signal lines without polarity biasing |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Validated for 6.4/69 μs pin injection surges at 25 °C - required for avionics equipment certification |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 support (42 Ω source) | Meets secondary lightning immunity across all severity classes in industrial and transportation systems |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 | No dry pack or baking required before reflow - simplifies SMT assembly and reduces process risk |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood and powertrain applications requiring high reliability and temperature cycling endurance |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus | Automotive Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC distribution buses in flight control computers and sensor interfaces against DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient clamp on main power rail; absorbs multi-stroke energy without failure. Use Value: Enables compliance with RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and Section 22 multi-pulse lightning standards while maintaining <14.4 V clamping to safeguard 28 V tolerant ICs. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control unit (ECU) inputs and CAN transceivers during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power TVS placed at ECU power entry point to shunt >100 A transients within nanoseconds. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to ≤14.4 V, preventing latch-up or damage to 12 V-rated microcontrollers and communication ICs during 120 V/100 ms load dump pulses. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Control Signals | Railway Signaling Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding encoder feedback lines and analog sensor inputs in variable-frequency drives exposed to switching noise and ground bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS on differential encoder channels (A/B/Z) to suppress common-mode and differential transients. Use Value: Sub-5 ns response and symmetric clamping preserve signal integrity and timing accuracy of high-resolution position data under repetitive EFT bursts. | Use Scenario: Protecting 24 V DC signaling interfaces in train-mounted communication gateways subjected to IEC 61000-4-5 surge testing (Class 4, 42 Ω source). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary surge protector on Ethernet PHY or RS-485 transceiver lines in rolling stock electronics. Use Value: Delivers 18 kW pulse handling with ≤14.4 V clamping to ensure uninterrupted data transmission during rail infrastructure lightning coupling events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ8.5CA | 600 W PPP rating (vs. 18,000 W); same VWM and bidirectional polarity | Not suitable for multi-stroke lightning or load dump; limited to low-energy ESD/EFT | Select only for cost-sensitive consumer-grade designs with sub-1 kA surge exposure |
| SMCJ8.5CA | 1500 W PPP rating; larger SMC package; higher RθJA (12 °C/W vs. 0.7 °C/W) | Lacks RTCA DO-160F qualification and multi-stroke endurance; unsuitable for avionics | Acceptable for industrial PLC I/O protection where AEC-Q101 or DO-160F is not mandated |
Compared with SMBJ8.5CA and SMCJ8.5CA, the MPLAD18KP8.5CA provides three orders of magnitude higher pulse power handling, certified multi-stroke lightning resilience, and integrated thermal path for sustained operation-making it irreplaceable in aerospace, heavy-duty automotive, and mission-critical infrastructure applications.
Availability
MPLAD18KP8.5CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain, and industrial motor drive applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP8.5CA 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 Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability, radiation-tolerant, and precision timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP8.5CA belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for certified lightning and load dump protection in safety-critical platforms where standard TVS devices fail under repeated high-energy stress.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP8.5CA at its rated peak impulse current?
The MPLAD18KP8.5CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 14.4 V when subjected to its rated peak impulse current of 1250 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the manufacturer's electrical characteristics table and ensures downstream 12 V electronics remain within safe operating limits during surge events. The MPLAD18KP8.5CA achieves this clamping performance through low-dynamic-impedance avalanche structure and optimized thermal design.
Is MPLAD18KP8.5CA qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP8.5CA is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive powertrain and chassis applications subject to rigorous temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical stress testing. It is commonly deployed for load dump protection in ECUs and ADAS modules. The MPLAD18KP8.5CA also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for extended reliability in harsh environments beyond standard automotive requirements.
Does MPLAD18KP8.5CA require special PCB layout considerations?
Yes - the MPLAD18KP8.5CA requires adherence to the recommended pad layout (documented in RF01215 Rev B) to maintain thermal performance and surge integrity. Its metal base cathode must be soldered to a minimum 10 cm² copper pour or heatsink for optimal heat dissipation. Trace inductance must be minimized: keep leads short and wide, avoid vias in current paths, and place the MPLAD18KP8.5CA as close as possible to the protected port. Failure to follow layout guidelines risks thermal runaway or elevated clamping voltage.
Can MPLAD18KP8.5CA be used for bidirectional signal line protection?
Yes, the "CA" suffix confirms the MPLAD18KP8.5CA is a bidirectional TVS, making it appropriate for protecting AC-coupled, differential, or floating signal lines such as RS-485, CAN FD, or encoder outputs. Its symmetrical breakdown (9.44–10.4 V in both directions) and sub-5 ns response ensure balanced clamping without polarity biasing. The MPLAD18KP8.5CA maintains consistent performance across polarity reversals, unlike unidirectional variants which conduct only in one direction.
What certifications does MPLAD18KP8.5CA meet for aviation use?
The MPLAD18KP8.5CA meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements and Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) pin injection up to Level 4 at 25 °C. It is also validated for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance. These certifications are documented in Microsemi's RF01215 datasheet and make the MPLAD18KP8.5CA suitable for flight-critical avionics power and signal conditioning circuits.
MPLAD18KP8.5CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 85V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 94.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 137V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 132A
- 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
MPLAD18KP8.5CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP8.5CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP8.5CA 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 MPLAD18KP8.5CA reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP8.5CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP8.5CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP8.5CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP8.5CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP8.5CA?
MPLAD18KP8.5CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP8.5CA 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 MPLAD18KP8.5CA?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP8.5CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP8.5CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP8.5CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP8.5CA 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 MPLAD18KP8.5CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP8.5CA?
All MPLAD18KP8.5CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP8.5CA, 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 MPLAD18KP8.5CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP8.5CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP8.5CA Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

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D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

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D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

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DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
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