Microchip Technology MPLAD36KP160A
- Part No.:
- MPLAD36KP160A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD36KP160A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,436
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MPLAD36KP160A 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 36 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤259 V under 10 A IPP, and features a 160 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 178–197 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), and 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance - enabling robust secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 and RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD36KP160A datasheet, MPLAD36KP160A pinout, MPLAD36KP160A application, or MPLAD36KP160A equivalent, key selection criteria include its 160 V VWM rating, low-profile PLAD package with metal-base cathode, 139 A peak pulse current (IPP), compliance with AEC-Q101, and suitability for multi-stroke lightning protection in avionics power distribution units and 24/28 V vehicle electronics.
Technical Context
The MPLAD36KP160A operates as a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS, leveraging controlled avalanche breakdown to clamp transients above its 160 V working voltage. Its unidirectional polarity and metal-base cathode configuration enable direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting sustained energy dissipation with RθJC = 1.0 °C/W.
It meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 for multi-stroke lightning (Waveform 4, Level 4 up to 400 V VWM) and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary protection with 2–42 Ω source impedances. Standby current ID is ≤10 μA at VWM, and temperature coefficient αV(BR) is +195 mV/°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping begins; matches 28 V aircraft bus with 5.7× safety margin |
| V(BR) min/max | 178–197 V - verified avalanche onset range at 5 mA; ensures predictable turn-on without premature conduction |
| VC @ IPP | 259 V max at 139 A - clamping voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels |
| PPP | 36,000 W - peak pulse power handling at 10/1000 μs; enables single-device protection against severe load dump events |
| RθJC | 1.0 °C/W - low junction-to-case thermal resistance; allows efficient heat transfer to external heatsink or PCB copper |
| ID @ VWM | ≤10 μA - ultra-low leakage at rated standoff; prevents battery drain in always-on avionics subsystems |
| αV(BR) | +195 mV/°C - positive temperature coefficient; supports stable parallel operation and predictable derating |
Pinout & Package
Package: PLAD - low-profile, void-free thermosetting epoxy case (UL94V-0), metal base cathode, tin-lead or RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, weight ≈1.85 g. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top surface pad) | Transient current entry point | Connected to protected line (e.g., 28 V bus); carries full surge current into device |
| Cathode (metal base) | Current return path & thermal interface | Must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink; serves dual role of electrical return and primary heat extraction path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 36 kW peak pulse rating | Enables single-device protection against RTCA DO-160F lightning Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and automotive load dump without cascaded stages |
| Metal-base thermal design | RθJC = 1.0 °C/W allows >70% of surge energy to be conducted directly into PCB or heatsink, reducing junction temperature rise by ~40% vs. standard SMD TVS |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood environments including temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity exposure |
| RoHS-compliant (e3 marking) | Tin-plated terminals meet J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity; no dry pack required, simplifying SMT assembly |
| Traceable wafer & assembly lots | Supports AS9100-certified aerospace programs requiring full material pedigree and failure analysis traceability |
Applications
| Avionics Power Distribution | Commercial Aircraft Lighting Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC bus inputs in flight control actuator power modules against induced lightning transients per DO-160F Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient shunt element placed upstream of DC-DC converters and motor drivers. Use Value: Clamps surges to ≤259 V within <100 ps, preventing latch-up or overvoltage damage to downstream SiC gate drivers rated for 300 V max. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding LED driver inputs in cabin lighting systems exposed to ESD and switching noise from adjacent power relays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection device after input filter, absorbing fast-rising transients missed by bulk capacitance. Use Value: With ≤10 μA standby leakage, avoids measurable current draw on always-on 28 V standby rails while maintaining 160 V operational headroom. |
| Heavy-Duty Vehicle ECUs | Ground Support Equipment Power Inputs |
Use Scenario: Load dump suppression on 24 V engine control units subjected to alternator disconnection events per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power TVS mounted directly to chassis-grounded metal core PCB layer. Use Value: 36 kW PPP rating handles 120 V/350 A transients without degradation; metal-base cathode reduces thermal impedance by 65% vs. standard SMA packages. | Use Scenario: Input stage protection for 28 V ground power units (GPUs) connecting to aircraft umbilicals, where repeated lightning-induced surges occur. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Frontline surge absorber in redundant power feed paths, coordinated with MOVs for multi-level clamping. Use Value: Passes IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 testing at 42 Ω source impedance, enabling certification for critical ground infrastructure. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ160A | 600 W PPP rating, SMB package, RθJC = 18 °C/W, VWM = 160 V, VC = 259 V @ 2.2 A | Only suitable for low-energy transients (e.g., ESD, EFT); cannot meet DO-160F multi-stroke or ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a | Select only for cost-sensitive industrial controls with <5 kW surge requirements and no aerospace qualification needs. |
| SMCJ160A | 1500 W PPP rating, SMC package, RθJC = 12 °C/W, VWM = 160 V, VC = 259 V @ 11.7 A | Handles moderate load dump but fails RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4; lacks AEC-Q101 and lot traceability | Acceptable for non-safety-critical automotive body electronics where full lightning compliance is not mandated. |
Compared with SMBJ160A and SMCJ160A, the MPLAD36KP160A provides 24× and 24× higher peak pulse power respectively, validated thermal performance for chassis-mounted deployment, and full aerospace-grade screening - making it the only option for certified DO-160F Section 22 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 applications requiring 36 kW surge absorption.
Availability
MPLAD36KP160A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, commercial aircraft lighting control, and heavy-duty vehicle ECU designs requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles and rigorous environmental qualification.
Supply support for MPLAD36KP160A 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 analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD36KP160A belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD-series TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and automotive load dump immunity in mission-critical power systems where thermal robustness and qualification traceability are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD36KP160A under maximum surge conditions?
The MPLAD36KP160A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 259 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 139 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case surge events, ensuring compatibility with 300 V-rated components in 28 V avionics systems.
Is MPLAD36KP160A suitable for bidirectional signal line protection?
No, the MPLAD36KP160A is a unidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "A" suffix (not "CA"). Its cathode is the metal base, and it conducts only during negative transients relative to that terminal. For bidirectional protection at 160 V standoff, the correct variant is MPLAD36KP160CA - using the MPLAD36KP160A on AC or floating lines risks forward conduction and failure.
Does MPLAD36KP160A require a heatsink for reliable operation?
While the MPLAD36KP160A can survive single-event surges without external heatsinking, its 1.0 °C/W RθJC rating is optimized for direct thermal coupling to a PCB copper plane or metal chassis. For repetitive surge duty cycles (>0.05% duty factor) or ambient temperatures above 70°C, a minimum 25 cm² 2 oz copper pour or bolted heatsink is required to maintain junction temperature below 150°C per derating curves in Figure 3 of the datasheet.
What qualifications does MPLAD36KP160A meet for automotive use?
The MPLAD36KP160A is tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 standards for discrete semiconductors, covering stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity bias. It also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for enhanced reliability in harsh automotive under-hood environments, with full wafer and assembly lot traceability.
How does MPLAD36KP160A perform in RTCA DO-160F lightning testing?
The MPLAD36KP160A is explicitly rated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 protection up to 400 V VWM variants; for the MPLAD36KP160A, this translates to validated performance at 160 V standoff with ≤259 V clamping. It also meets Waveform 5A Level 4 up to 78 V VWM, confirming suitability for lower-voltage avionics subsystems requiring fast-rising transient suppression.
MPLAD36KP160A 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):
- 160V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 178V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 259V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 139A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 36000W (36kW)
- 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
MPLAD36KP160A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD36KP160A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD36KP160A 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 MPLAD36KP160A reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD36KP160A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD36KP160A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD36KP160A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD36KP160A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD36KP160A?
MPLAD36KP160A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD36KP160A 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 MPLAD36KP160A?
For technical support, including MPLAD36KP160A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD36KP160A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD36KP160A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD36KP160A 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 MPLAD36KP160A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD36KP160A?
All MPLAD36KP160A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD36KP160A, 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 MPLAD36KP160A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD36KP160A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD36KP160A Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

