Microchip Technology MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR

Overview

MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR from Microsemi (now Microchip) is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) rated for 36,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, with 300 V working standoff voltage (V_WM), 333–369 V breakdown voltage (V_BR), and 483 V clamping voltage (V_C) at 75 A peak impulse current. It is designed for secondary lightning protection in aerospace avionics per RTCA DO-160G Waveform 4 Level 5 and IEC 61000-4-5 with 42 Ω source impedance.

For engineers reviewing the MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR datasheet, MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR pinout, MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR application, or MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR equivalent, this device delivers verified multi-stroke surge handling, AEC-Q101 qualification, RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, and thermal resistance of 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case - critical for high-reliability rail, aviation, and industrial power bus protection.

Technical Context

This bidirectional TVS uses silicon avalanche diode architecture to clamp transients within nanoseconds: clamping response time is <5 ns, with low differential resistance during surge conduction. Its PLAD package integrates a metal base acting as cathode terminal, enabling direct thermal coupling to heatsinks and supporting steady-state dissipation up to 504 W at T_C = 100 °C.

It meets IEC 61000-4-2 ESD (±30 kV contact), IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (40 A), and IEC 61000-4-5 surge (Class 5, 42 Ω source) - validated across full temperature range (–55 °C to +150 °C) with 3σ lot norm screening on standby current (I_D ≤ 10 µA at V_WM).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR uses the PLAD surface-mount package: void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body with metal base acting as cathode terminal; total weight ≈ 1.7–2.0 g. Cathode is the exposed metal bottom surface; anode is the top-side metallized pad. Package outline conforms to Microsemi's Figure 6 and pad layout per Figure 7 (FR4, 1 oz Cu, recommended thermal pad).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bidirectional TVS applications.

Compared with SMBJ300CA and SMCJ300CA, the MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR delivers 24× higher peak power, 35× lower thermal resistance, and formal DO-160G Waveform 4 Level 5 certification - making it the only option for certified avionics 300 V bus protection requiring multi-stroke lightning resilience.

Availability

MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace power distribution, automotive 48 V DC systems, and industrial motor drive DC links requiring stable component supply, full lot traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR 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 (acquired by Microchip Technology in 2018) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability analog, RF, timing, and radiation-hardened solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection in mission-critical avionics and transportation systems where thermal robustness and waveform certification are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR at its rated peak pulse current?

The MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 483 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 75 A under the 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per standard test conditions in the datasheet and ensures downstream components remain within safe voltage limits during certified lightning transients such as RTCA DO-160G Waveform 4.

Is MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its reliability for automotive use including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and surge lifetime testing. Its 300 V standoff and 483 V clamping make it suitable for 48 V mild-hybrid and EV power distribution systems where load dump and ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b protection is required.

Does MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR meet RTCA DO-160G Section 22 requirements?

Yes, the MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR is explicitly validated for RTCA DO-160G Section 22, Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) at Level 5 for devices with V_WM ≤ 300 V. This certification is documented in the datasheet's "Applications and Benefits" section and confirms suitability for primary or secondary lightning protection in certified avionics equipment.

What is the thermal resistance junction-to-case for MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR?

The MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR has a junction-to-case thermal resistance (R_θJC) of 1.0 °C/W, as specified in Table 3 of the datasheet. This ultra-low value enables efficient heat transfer from the die to the metal base, allowing direct mounting to a heatsink or chassis - essential for sustaining repeated high-energy surges without thermal degradation.

How does the bidirectional construction of MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR affect its circuit implementation?

The "CA" suffix denotes bidirectional construction, meaning MPLAD36KP300CAE3/TR clamps transients of either polarity symmetrically - ideal for AC-coupled lines, floating DC buses, or interfaces where polarity cannot be guaranteed. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, it requires no orientation during placement and provides identical V_BR and V_C for both positive and negative surges.