Microchip Technology MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3

Overview

MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 90 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤146 V at 124 A peak impulse current (IPP), and meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 datasheet, MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 pinout, MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 application, or MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening capability, and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with protected circuitry, activating when transient voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold (V(BR) = 100–111 V). Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables efficient heat transfer to the PCB copper pad or heatsink, critical for sustaining repetitive 18 kW surges under ≤0.05% duty cycle per Figure 1.

The MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 implements a silicon avalanche structure optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time), low leakage (<10 μA at 90 V), and stable temperature coefficient (αV(BR) = 109 mV/°C). Its bidirectional construction ensures symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, supporting pin-injection protection per RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 uses a surface-mount plastic package with metal base cathode termination. The device has two terminals: anode and cathode, with polarity marked by the metal base (cathode) on the bottom surface per datasheet note.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ90CA and SMCJ90CA, MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 uniquely delivers 18× higher peak pulse power in a compact SMT form factor with military-grade thermal performance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), making it the only qualified solution for aerospace lightning hardening and automotive load dump with multi-event endurance.

Availability

MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, automotive power electronics, and industrial motor drive designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified surge immunity.

Supply support for MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 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 solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MPLAD family was engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in safety-critical platforms, emphasizing thermal robustness, DO-160 compliance, and MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening readiness.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage specification for MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 under standard test conditions?

The MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 146 V when subjected to a 10/1000 μs surge waveform at its rated peak impulse current of 124 A. This value is measured per Figure 3 in RF01215 Rev B and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during transient events. The clamping occurs within <5 ns, ensuring rapid response to fast-rising surges.

Does MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 meet RTCA DO-160 lightning protection requirements?

Yes, MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 is explicitly validated for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. It achieves Level 4 pin injection protection per Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and supports Class 4 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance. These qualifications are documented in RF01215 Rev B and confirmed via factory surge testing per AEC-Q101.

What does the "MXL" prefix indicate in MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3?

The "MXL" prefix denotes Microsemi's highest reliability screening level per the Hirel Non-Hermetic Product Portfolio, incorporating full lot traceability, 3σ standby current (ID) screening, surge testing, and optional MIL-PRF-19500 conformance. This grade is mandatory for aerospace applications requiring documented process control and failure rate prediction.

How should the metal base (cathode) of MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 be mounted for optimal thermal performance?

The metal base of MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 must be soldered directly to a minimum 1-inch² copper pour on inner or outer PCB layers, using the recommended pad layout from RF01215 Rev B. This achieves the specified 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance. Avoid thermal relief patterns; use solid copper connection to maximize heat dissipation during repetitive 18 kW surges.

Is MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 RoHS compliant, and what does the "E3" suffix signify?

Yes, MXLPLAD18KP90CAE3 is RoHS compliant, as confirmed by the "E3" suffix in its part number. This indicates annealed matte-tin plating per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity, eliminating the need for dry pack packaging. The device complies with exemption 7a for lead in high-melting-temperature type solders.