Microchip Technology MPLAD36KP18A
- Part No.:
- MPLAD36KP18A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD36KP18A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 30.8VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MPLAD36KP18A from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power systems. It delivers 36 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 18 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps transients to ≤30.8 V at 1169 A IPP, and operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD36KP18A datasheet, MPLAD36KP18A pinout, MPLAD36KP18A application, or MPLAD36KP18A equivalent, this device is selected for lightning immunity (RTCA DO-160 Section 22), load dump suppression, and secondary IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3–5 protection where low thermal resistance and metal-base cathode thermal path are critical.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses an avalanche breakdown mechanism to clamp fast-rising transients, with a specified breakdown voltage range of 20.0–22.1 V at 5 mA test current and a maximum clamping voltage of 30.8 V at 1169 A peak impulse current. Its metal-base package provides 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper or heatsink under multi-stroke surge conditions.
It meets AEC-Q101 stress testing requirements and supports RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 protection up to 400 V standoff variants, with derated performance above 25°C per Figure 3. Standby leakage is limited to 60 μA at 18 V VWM, ensuring minimal system quiescent impact.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 36,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - enables single-device protection against severe lightning-induced surges without cascaded stages |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 18 V - matches nominal 12 V automotive and avionics bus systems while allowing margin for ripple and tolerance |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤30.8 V @ IPP = 1169 A - ensures downstream 36 V-rated components remain within safe operating area during surge |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 1.0 °C/W - allows direct thermal coupling to PCB ground plane or heatsink for sustained multi-pulse operation |
| Standby Current (ID) | 60 μA @ 18 V - negligible leakage in always-on systems such as flight control sensors or engine ECUs |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 20.0–22.1 V @ 5 mA - defines precise turn-on threshold for predictable clamping onset |
| Operating Temperature Range | –55°C to +150°C - qualified for under-hood, avionics bay, and industrial motor drive environments |
Pinout & Package
Package: PLAD (Plastic Low-profile Anode-down) surface-mount package with metal base acting as cathode terminal; dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H); RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating; weight ≈ 1.7–2.0 g.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top surface pad) | Transient current entry point | Connected to protected line (e.g., battery feed); low-inductance top-side routing minimizes voltage overshoot |
| Cathode (metal base) | Current return path & thermal interface | Soldered directly to large copper pour or heatsink; serves dual role as electrical return and primary thermal conduction path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 36 kW peak pulse rating | Single-device solution for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning compliance without parallel stacking |
| Metal-base thermal design | 1.0 °C/W RθJC enables >5× higher thermal power handling vs. standard SMC packages under repeated surge duty |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated reliability for automotive powertrain and chassis modules requiring zero-failure field performance |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3–5 support | Meets secondary lightning immunity up to 42 Ω source impedance with no external series impedance required |
| Moisture sensitivity Level 1 | No dry-pack or baking required prior to reflow-reduces manufacturing overhead and avoids moisture-related popcorning |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus | Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of 28 V DC distribution lines in commercial aircraft against lightning-induced transients per RTCA DO-160F Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element on main power input, absorbing multi-stroke surges up to 36 kW without degradation. Use Value: Eliminates need for discrete MOV+TVS hybrid networks; maintains <100 ps response time and full energy rating over 1000+ surge cycles. |
Use Scenario: Load dump suppression on 12 V battery-fed ECU power rails during alternator regulation failure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between battery input and upstream fuse, clamping to ≤30.8 V within nanoseconds. Use Value: Prevents microcontroller reset or CAN transceiver latch-up by holding rail voltage below 36 V absolute maximum rating. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link | Railway Signaling Power Supply |
Use Scenario: Surge protection on 48 V DC link feeding IGBT gate drivers in variable-frequency drives subject to switching-induced transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-clamping TVS mounted directly at DC bus terminals to limit dv/dt-induced overvoltage spikes. Use Value: Reduces risk of IGBT short-circuit failure by limiting transient overshoot to <31 V, well below 65 V gate oxide rating. |
Use Scenario: Secondary protection on 72 V signaling power supplies in EN 50121-4-compliant railway control cabinets exposed to traction return currents. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS installed after primary filter stage to handle residual 42 Ω IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 surges. Use Value: Achieves Class 4 immunity without redesigning enclosure grounding-leverages low RθJC to dissipate 36 kW pulses into chassis copper. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A | Lower PPP (600 W), SMC package, RθJC ≈ 15 °C/W, VWM = 18 V, VC = 29.2 V @ 20.9 A | Only suitable for single-event, low-repetition surges; cannot meet RTCA DO-160 multi-stroke or IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4/5 | Select when cost and board space constrain use of high-power TVS, and surge energy is limited to <100 J |
| SMCJ18A | PPP = 1500 W, same VWM/VC specs as SMBJ18A but larger SMC package, RθJC ≈ 10 °C/W | Supports moderate repetition rates but still insufficient for aircraft lightning standards or automotive load dump validation cycles | Use where AEC-Q101 qualification is needed but 36 kW rating is unnecessary-e.g., infotainment power inputs |
Compared with SMBJ18A and SMCJ18A, the MPLAD36KP18A delivers >24× higher peak power handling and 10× lower thermal resistance, making it the only option among the three qualified for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary protection in safety-critical systems.
Availability
MPLAD36KP18A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain, and industrial motor drive applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle continuity, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.
Supply support for MPLAD36KP18A 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 analog, mixed-signal, and power semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened, AEC-Q101, and MIL-spec qualified components.
The MPLAD36KP18A belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning immunity and automotive load dump compliance in mission-critical power interfaces.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD36KP18A at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD36KP18A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 30.8 V at its peak pulse current (IPP) of 1169 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table and ensures protected circuits remain within safe voltage limits during worst-case surge events. The MPLAD36KP18A achieves this clamping performance while maintaining sub-100 ps response time due to its low-capacitance avalanche structure.
Is MPLAD36KP18A suitable for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 lightning testing?
Yes, the MPLAD36KP18A is explicitly rated for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning protection, as confirmed in the product documentation. Its 36 kW peak pulse power rating, metal-base thermal design, and validated performance across multiple stroke sequences make it appropriate for aircraft power bus protection. The MPLAD36KP18A meets Level 4 requirements for Waveform 4 and supports Level 5 up to 300 V standoff variants-ensuring robustness in certified avionics systems.
Does MPLAD36KP18A require special PCB layout considerations?
Yes, the MPLAD36KP18A requires a dedicated thermal pad layout per the manufacturer's recommended footprint: 11.94 mm × 5.85 mm copper area with 2.44 mm solder mask opening. Because its cathode is the metal base, this pad must connect directly to internal ground planes or external heatsinks to realize the 1.0 °C/W RθJC. The MPLAD36KP18A also demands short, wide traces to minimize inductance-critical for preserving its nanosecond-scale response during high-di/dt surges.
What is the polarity configuration of MPLAD36KP18A?
The MPLAD36KP18A is a unidirectional TVS diode, with the cathode located on the metal base (bottom side) and the anode on the top surface pad. This polarity is clearly marked on the device body and must be observed during placement to ensure correct circuit protection-reverse orientation would prevent clamping. The MPLAD36KP18A does not conduct in reverse bias until breakdown, unlike bidirectional variants which use "CA" suffixes.
How does MPLAD36KP18A compare to standard SMC-package TVS diodes in thermal performance?
The MPLAD36KP18A offers a junction-to-case thermal resistance of 1.0 °C/W-over 10× better than typical SMC-package TVS diodes (e.g., ~10–15 °C/W). This is achieved via its void-free thermosetting epoxy body and direct metal-base thermal path. As a result, the MPLAD36KP18A can sustain repeated 36 kW surges without thermal runaway, whereas standard SMC devices would fail catastrophically under identical conditions. This thermal superiority is integral to the MPLAD36KP18A's qualification for aerospace and automotive safety-critical applications.
MPLAD36KP18A 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):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 30.8V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1169A (1.169kA)
- 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
MPLAD36KP18A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD36KP18A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD36KP18A 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 MPLAD36KP18A reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD36KP18A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD36KP18A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD36KP18A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD36KP18A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD36KP18A?
MPLAD36KP18A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD36KP18A 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 MPLAD36KP18A?
For technical support, including MPLAD36KP18A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD36KP18A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD36KP18A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD36KP18A 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 MPLAD36KP18A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD36KP18A?
All MPLAD36KP18A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD36KP18A, 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 MPLAD36KP18A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD36KP18A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD36KP18A Tags

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