Microchip Technology MPLAD36KP33CA

Overview

MPLAD36KP33CA 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 36 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤53.3 V under 676 A peak impulse current, and features a 33 V reverse standoff voltage (V_WM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (36.7–40.6 V). It meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance.

For engineers reviewing the MPLAD36KP33CA datasheet, MPLAD36KP33CA pinout, MPLAD36KP33CA application, or MPLAD36KP33CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 33 V working voltage, low thermal resistance (R_θJC = 1.0 °C/W), RoHS-compliant e3 plating, and qualification per AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening options.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar device triggered by avalanche breakdown, with symmetrical bidirectional conduction enabling protection against both positive and negative transients without polarity sensitivity. Its void-free thermosetting epoxy package (UL94V-0) and metal-base cathode construction minimize thermal resistance and support high-repetition-rate surge handling when mounted on FR4 with recommended pad layout.

It is characterized for 10/1000 μs waveform compliance, supports pin-injection protection per RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 (Level 4 up to 400 V_WM) and Waveform 5A (Level 4 up to 78 V_WM), and provides ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and EFT (IEC 61000-4-4) immunity. Derating applies above 25°C ambient per Figure 3.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anode/Cathode) - surface-mount, low-profile void-free thermosetting epoxy body (UL94V-0), metal base cathode terminal, tin-lead or RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating (e3), weight ≈1.7–2.0 g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ33CA and SMCJ33CA, the MPLAD36KP33CA delivers 60× and 24× higher peak pulse power respectively, enabling certified lightning protection in safety-critical systems where thermal management and multi-stroke endurance are mandatory.

Availability

MPLAD36KP33CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics lightning hardening, automotive ECU load dump protection, and industrial motor drive I/O safeguarding requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MPLAD36KP33CA 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 radiation-hardened ICs for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MPLAD series was developed specifically for high-power, surface-mount transient suppression in mission-critical platforms where DO-160, AEC-Q101, and IEC 61000-4-5 compliance are non-negotiable design requirements.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD36KP33CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MPLAD36KP33CA has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 53.3 V at its rated peak pulse current (I_PP) of 676 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per datasheet Figure 3 and ensures downstream components see limited overvoltage during worst-case surge events. The MPLAD36KP33CA achieves this while maintaining thermal stability via its 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case resistance.

Is MPLAD36KP33CA qualified for automotive under-hood applications?

Yes, the MPLAD36KP33CA is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for operation from −55 °C to +150 °C, making it suitable for under-hood automotive environments. Its bidirectional construction, 33 V standoff, and 53.3 V clamping align with ISO 7637-2 and SAE J1113-11 load dump requirements. The MPLAD36KP33CA also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for enhanced reliability in safety-critical modules.

Does MPLAD36KP33CA require special PCB layout considerations?

Yes - the MPLAD36KP33CA's metal base serves as the cathode and primary thermal path, so it must be soldered to a minimum 1.0 in² (645 mm²) copper pour or external heatsink to achieve the specified R_θJC = 1.0 °C/W. The recommended pad layout (Ref. A = 0.470", B = 0.230") ensures mechanical stability and thermal performance. Improper layout will degrade surge endurance and increase clamping voltage in the MPLAD36KP33CA.

Can MPLAD36KP33CA be used for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 testing?

Yes, the MPLAD36KP33CA is explicitly listed for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance (short distance) and 12 Ω (Class 3). Its 36 kW PPP rating and sub-5 ns response time meet the energy and timing demands of Class 5 waveforms. The MPLAD36KP33CA is validated for this use in Microsemi's RF01216 Rev B documentation.

What does the "CA" suffix indicate in MPLAD36KP33CA?

The "CA" suffix in MPLAD36KP33CA denotes bidirectional polarity - meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients without requiring orientation-specific placement. This contrasts with "A"-suffixed unidirectional variants where the cathode is on the metal base and polarity matters. The MPLAD36KP33CA's bidirectional design simplifies layout in AC-coupled or floating systems.