Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP90CA

Overview

MPLAD18KP90CA 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 90 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤146 V at 124 A peak impulse current, and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning standards.

For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP90CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP90CA pinout, MPLAD18KP90CA application, or MPLAD18KP90CA equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where multi-stroke lightning immunity, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), and RoHS-compliant SMT mounting are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The MPLAD18KP90CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS with bidirectional clamping action, enabling symmetric suppression of positive and negative transients without polarity sensitivity. Its breakdown voltage range is 100–111 V at I(BR), and it achieves sub-5 ns response time with clamping voltage VC ≤146 V at IPP = 124 A under 10/1000 μs waveform.

It is qualified per AEC-Q101 and supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options. Thermal performance is optimized via metal-base construction (cathode on package bottom), delivering RθJA = 50 °C/W on FR4 and enabling stable operation from −55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Low-profile Avalanche Diode) with metal base cathode termination. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.33 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode is electrically connected to the metal base (bottom side); anode is accessed via top-side terminals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMBJ90CA and SMCJ90CA, the MPLAD18KP90CA provides 30× higher peak power handling, certified lightning immunity, and metal-base thermal performance-making it the only option for avionics, heavy-duty automotive, and mission-critical infrastructure where multi-stroke survivability is mandatory.

Availability

MPLAD18KP90CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive load dump protection, and industrial motor drive DC bus applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MPLAD18KP90CA 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) designs high-reliability semiconductor solutions for aerospace, defense, communications, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened ICs, timing devices, and power protection components.

The MPLAD18KP90CA belongs to the PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning and load-dump protection in safety-critical platforms where thermal robustness and qualification rigor are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP90CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MPLAD18KP90CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 146 V at 124 A peak pulse current (IPP) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and guarantees that protected circuits will not experience voltages exceeding 146 V during worst-case surge events, ensuring compatibility with 90 V-rated downstream components. The MPLAD18KP90CA maintains this performance across its full operating temperature range.

Is MPLAD18KP90CA qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the MPLAD18KP90CA is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive applications including engine control units, battery management systems, and ADAS power supplies. It meets stress tests for temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and surge immunity required for under-hood deployment. The MPLAD18KP90CA also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 screening for enhanced reliability in mission-critical automotive subsystems.

Does MPLAD18KP90CA require special PCB layout considerations?

Yes - the MPLAD18KP90CA uses a metal-base package where the cathode is the bottom-side thermal and electrical interface. Recommended layout includes a large, thermally robust copper pour connected to the metal base for heat dissipation, and short, wide traces to minimize inductance. The pad layout specified in RF01215 Rev B must be followed to ensure 18,000 W surge capability and thermal stability. The MPLAD18KP90CA's performance degrades significantly if thermal path impedance exceeds design limits.

Can MPLAD18KP90CA be used in bidirectional AC signal lines?

Yes, the 'CA' suffix confirms bidirectional construction, making the MPLAD18KP90CA appropriate for protecting AC-coupled or floating DC signal paths such as RS-485, CAN FD, or analog sensor interfaces. Its symmetrical clamping behavior ensures equal protection for both polarities without external biasing. The MPLAD18KP90CA's <5 ns response and ≤10 μA leakage at 90 V support high-fidelity signal integrity in noise-sensitive applications.

What certifications does MPLAD18KP90CA meet for aviation use?

The MPLAD18KP90CA is validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient testing (Waveform 4 Level 4 and Waveform 5A Level 4), and supports secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 up to Class 5 with 42 Ω source impedance. It is also moisture sensitivity level 1 (per J-STD-020B), eliminating bake requirements prior to reflow. These qualifications make the MPLAD18KP90CA suitable for line-replaceable units (LRUs) and integrated drive generators (IDGs) in commercial aircraft systems.