Microchip Technology MPLAD36KP36CA

Overview

MPLAD36KP36CA 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 ≤58.1 V under 620 A peak impulse current, and features 36 V reverse standoff voltage (V_WM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (40.0–44.2 V). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MPLAD36KP36CA datasheet, MPLAD36KP36CA pinout, MPLAD36KP36CA application, or MPLAD36KP36CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 36 kW surge rating, 36 V working voltage, low thermal resistance (R_θJC = 1.0 °C/W), and compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 (Class 1–5), IEC 61000-4-2/4, and RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 & 5A.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar device during transients, leveraging avalanche breakdown across both polarities due to its bidirectional construction. Its metal-base package enables direct thermal coupling to PCB copper or heatsinks, supporting sustained energy dissipation under repetitive surges at ≤0.05% duty factor.

It is characterized by tight V_(BR) tolerance (±5%), low standby leakage (<10 μA at 36 V), and fast response time (<5 ns), enabling robust protection against ESD, EFT, load dump, and induced RFI without affecting normal signal integrity in DC power rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MPLAD36KP36CA uses a surface-mount PLAD package with a metal base acting as the cathode terminal for unidirectional variants; for bidirectional operation (CA suffix), both terminals are symmetrical and non-polarized. The metal base provides low-inductance current path and primary thermal conduction path to PCB copper.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ36CA and SMCJ36CA, the MPLAD36KP36CA delivers 24× and 24× higher peak power respectively, enabling certified lightning protection in aerospace and heavy-duty industrial systems where lower-rated TVS diodes would fail catastrophically under repeated surges.

Availability

MPLAD36KP36CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, automotive ECU power inputs, and industrial motor drive DC bus protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MPLAD36KP36CA 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, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MPLAD series was developed specifically for high-power, surface-mount transient suppression in mission-critical platforms where thermal performance, surge endurance, and qualification to RTCA DO-160 and AEC-Q101 are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD36KP36CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MPLAD36KP36CA has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 58.1 V at 620 A peak pulse current (I_PP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and ensures downstream components see no more than 58.1 V during worst-case surge events. The clamping occurs within <5 ns, preserving signal integrity in fast-switching power systems.

Is MPLAD36KP36CA suitable for automotive under-hood applications?

Yes, MPLAD36KP36CA is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive load dump protection per ISO 7637-2. Its 36 kW surge capability, -55°C to +150°C operating range, and moisture sensitivity level 1 (no dry pack required) make it suitable for under-hood ECUs, battery management systems, and ADAS power supplies where thermal and electrical robustness are critical.

How does the PLAD package of MPLAD36KP36CA improve thermal performance compared to standard SMC packages?

The PLAD package of MPLAD36KP36CA features an exposed metal base that serves as both electrical terminal and thermal conduction path, achieving R_θJC = 1.0 °C/W - 24× lower than typical SMC packages (~24 °C/W). When soldered to ≥4 in² of 2-oz copper with thermal vias, it dissipates >70 W continuously, enabling reliable operation in high-ambient environments where standard TVS diodes would thermally saturate.

Does MPLAD36KP36CA meet IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 lightning protection requirements?

Yes, MPLAD36KP36CA is validated for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance (short-distance configuration) and 12 Ω source impedance (Class 3). Its 36 kW rating and low clamping voltage ensure compliance across all specified test levels, making it appropriate for telecom infrastructure, railway signaling, and industrial control panels requiring highest immunity tier.

What is the polarity configuration of MPLAD36KP36CA and how does it affect circuit layout?

MPLAD36KP36CA is a bidirectional TVS, indicated by the "CA" suffix, meaning it protects against surges of either polarity without regard to orientation. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., MPLAD36KP36A), it requires no polarity-aware placement - both terminals are functionally identical. This simplifies PCB layout, eliminates risk of reverse installation, and supports AC-coupled or floating DC interfaces such as CAN bus power rails or sensor excitation supplies.