Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP90CAE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP90CAE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP90CAE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 9VWM 15.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤146 V under 100 A peak impulse current, and features a 90 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (100–111 V). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for Waveform 4.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP90CAE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP90CAE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP90CAE3 application, or MPLAD18KP90CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, bidirectional polarity, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning compliance, and suitability for multi-stroke lightning protection per DO-160 Section 22.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with protected circuitry, activating when transient voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold (V(BR) = 100–111 V). Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables effective heat transfer to an external heatsink, supporting repeated surge events at ≤0.05% duty factor. The metal-base cathode construction ensures low-inductance current path and stable clamping performance under fast-rising transients.
It complies with IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) using 2 Ω, 12 Ω, and 42 Ω source impedances - validated across Classes 1–5 depending on impedance. Pin injection testing per RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) confirms Level 4 immunity up to 90 V VWM devices like MPLAD18KP90CAE3.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains single-stroke lightning surges without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 90 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 100–111 V @ I(BR) - defines precise conduction onset; ±5% tolerance enables robust design margin |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 146 V @ IPP = 100 A - limits downstream voltage stress during worst-case surge |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables direct mounting to heatsink for cumulative multi-pulse thermal management |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 90 V - negligible leakage in standby, critical for low-power monitoring circuits |
| Temperature Range | −55 °C to +150 °C - supports operation in extended-temperature avionics and engine bay environments |
Pinout & Package
Surface-mount package with metal base acting as cathode terminal; anode connected to top-side metallization. Low-profile thermoset epoxy body (UL94V-0) with matte-tin (e3) RoHS-compliant plating. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.33 mm (L × W × H).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Base (Bottom) | Cathode | Primary heat sink interface and low-inductance return path; must be soldered to copper pour or heatsink |
| Top-Side Metallization | Anode | Signal/power line connection point; layout must minimize trace inductance to preserve clamping speed |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Protects AC-coupled or floating lines (e.g., differential data buses, sensor inputs) against both polarities of surge |
| DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Validated for aircraft pin-injection immunity up to 90 V VWM - eliminates need for additional filtering in avionics I/O |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Qualified for automotive under-hood applications including load dump and alternator ripple suppression |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 | No dry pack or baking required prior to reflow - reduces manufacturing overhead and avoids moisture-induced popcorning |
| 3σ lot norm screening on ID | Ensures consistent low-leakage performance across production lots - critical for battery-backed or ultra-low-power systems |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics I/O Protection | Automotive Power Distribution |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting ARINC 429 data lines and analog sensor inputs in flight control computers against lightning-induced transients per DO-160 Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping TVS placed directly at connector entry point to shunt surge energy before reaching signal conditioning circuitry. Use Value: Enables compliance with DO-160F Level 4 pin injection (Waveform 4) without added RC filters or ferrites - preserving signal integrity and reducing board area. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 12 V/24 V power rails in vehicle ECUs during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression device mounted near power input connector, clamping transients within 100 ps to limit voltage overshoot. Use Value: Withstands 18 kW surges while maintaining <146 V clamping at 100 A - prevents latch-up or damage to downstream DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Control | Railway Signaling Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding PLC digital I/O modules from switching transients generated by contactors and VFDs in factory automation systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS on each I/O channel to clamp EFT bursts (IEC 61000-4-4) and induced RFI. Use Value: 10 μA max standby current avoids loading of high-impedance optocoupler inputs; bidirectional structure accommodates AC-coupled isolation schemes. |
Use Scenario: Securing trackside signaling equipment interfaces (e.g., axle counter inputs) against lightning-induced ground potential rise in rail infrastructure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary lightning protector per IEC 61000-4-5 with 42 Ω source impedance, installed after primary gas discharge tube (GDT). Use Value: Validated for Class 1–5 protection levels - allows single-device solution across multiple railway safety integrity levels (SIL 2/3) without redesign. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ90CA | Lower PPP (400 W), smaller SMC package, higher RθJA (50 °C/W), no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 qualification | Suitable for consumer-grade or non-safety-critical industrial use; not rated for multi-stroke lightning or automotive under-hood | Select if cost-sensitive and surge requirements are ≤400 W; avoid where thermal cycling or aviation certification is required. |
| Vishay V180LA20P | Varistor-based (not silicon TVS), 180 VAC RMS rating, slower response (>500 ps), no guaranteed clamping voltage spec | Used in AC mains input stages; lacks precision clamping needed for low-voltage DC electronics protection | Choose only for AC line filtering; unsuitable for protecting 90 V DC systems like avionics power buses where tight VC control is mandatory. |
Compared with SMAJ90CA and V180LA20P, MPLAD18KP90CAE3 provides 45× higher peak power handling, certified reliability for aerospace and automotive, and deterministic sub-100 ps turn-on - making it the sole option for mission-critical, high-energy, low-clamp applications requiring regulatory compliance.
Availability
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive power distribution, and industrial motor drive applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified surge protection performance.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP90CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP90CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and harsh-environment surge immunity in certified electronic systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP90CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP90CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 146 V when subjected to a 100 A peak impulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and process variation, ensuring predictable overvoltage limiting for protected circuitry. The clamping behavior is bidirectional and symmetric, critical for safeguarding floating or AC-coupled signal paths in systems using MPLAD18KP90CAE3.
Is MPLAD18KP90CAE3 compliant with automotive qualification standards?
Yes, MPLAD18KP90CAE3 is fully qualified to AEC-Q101 for discrete semiconductors, covering stress tests including HTGB, HTRB, TST, and surge. It is designed for automotive powertrain and chassis applications exposed to load dump and ISO 7637-2 transients. Its 18,000 W PPP rating and 0.7 °C/W RθJC make it suitable for under-hood deployment where thermal management and reliability are paramount - unlike standard TVS diodes not rated for sustained surge duty cycles.
How does the metal base of MPLAD18KP90CAE3 function electrically and thermally?
The metal base of MPLAD18KP90CAE3 serves as the cathode terminal and primary thermal interface. Electrically, it provides a low-inductance, low-resistance path to shunt surge current directly to ground or chassis. Thermally, its 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case resistance enables efficient heat transfer to an external heatsink or PCB copper pour - essential for managing cumulative heating during multi-pulse events defined in RTCA DO-160 Section 22. Proper soldering of the base is mandatory for both electrical and thermal performance of MPLAD18KP90CAE3.
Can MPLAD18KP90CAE3 be used for IEC 61000-4-5 compliance testing?
Yes, MPLAD18KP90CAE3 is explicitly validated for IEC 61000-4-5 secondary lightning protection across multiple source impedances: 42 Ω (Class 1–5), 12 Ω (Class 1–4), and 2 Ω (Class 2–3). Its datasheet specifies performance under these exact test conditions, enabling direct use in certified designs without derating or supplemental components. This validation applies specifically to MPLAD18KP90CAE3 - not inferred from family-level data - and is documented in RF01215 Rev B.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in MPLAD18KP90CAE3?
The "CA" suffix in MPLAD18KP90CAE3 denotes bidirectional construction, meaning the device clamps symmetrically for both positive and negative voltage transients. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., MPLAD18KP90AE3), which conduct only in reverse bias, the CA version protects AC-coupled lines, differential buses, and floating references without polarity constraints. This is confirmed in the part nomenclature section of RF01215 and verified in electrical characteristics tables showing matched V(BR) and VC for both polarities.
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 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):
- 9V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 10V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 15.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1169A (1.169kA)
- 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
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP90CAE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP90CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP90CAE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP90CAE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP90CAE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP90CAE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP90CAE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP90CAE3?
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP90CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP90CAE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP90CAE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP90CAE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP90CAE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP90CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP90CAE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP90CAE3?
All MPLAD18KP90CAE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP90CAE3, 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 MPLAD18KP90CAE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP90CAE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP90CAE3 Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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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

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PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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