Microchip Technology MXPLAD36KP75CA

Overview

MXPLAD36KP75CA 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 transients to ≤121 V at 298 A, and operates with a 75 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), making it suitable for secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 and RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4.

For engineers reviewing the MXPLAD36KP75CA datasheet, MXPLAD36KP75CA pinout, MXPLAD36KP75CA application, or MXPLAD36KP75CA equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where low thermal resistance (RθJC = 1.0 °C/W), RoHS-compliant packaging, and multi-stroke lightning compliance are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The MXPLAD36KP75CA uses an avalanche breakdown mechanism to clamp fast-rising transients, with verified clamping voltage VC ≤ 121 V at IPP = 298 A under 10/1000 μs waveform. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical protection on AC-coupled or floating lines without polarity constraints.

Thermally optimized for surface-mount use on FR4 PCBs, it achieves RθJA = 50 °C/W with recommended pad layout and supports steady-state dissipation up to 2.5 W at TA = 25°C. It meets AEC-Q101 stress testing and offers MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options for high-reliability programs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MXPLAD36KP75CA is housed in a void-free thermosetting epoxy PLAD package (UL94V-0 rated), with metal base acting as cathode for unidirectional variants; for bidirectional devices like MXPLAD36KP75CA, polarity is symmetric and terminals are non-polarized. Package dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMAJ75CA and SM8S75CA, the MXPLAD36KP75CA provides 5.5× and 5.4× higher peak pulse power respectively, validated thermal performance for sustained surge duty, and formal qualification to RTCA DO-160F and AEC-Q101 - making it the only option among the three for certified avionics and high-reliability automotive power systems.

Availability

MXPLAD36KP75CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, 48V automotive electronics, and industrial motor drive applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.

Supply support for MXPLAD36KP75CA 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, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MPLAD series was developed specifically for high-power, surface-mount transient suppression in safety-critical platforms where thermal robustness, multi-stroke surge endurance, and regulatory compliance are mandatory design requirements.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage specification for MXPLAD36KP75CA under standard test conditions?

The MXPLAD36KP75CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 121 V when subjected to a 10/1000 μs peak pulse current of 298 A. This value is measured at the device terminals with specified test fixture and is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of −55°C to +150°C. The MXPLAD36KP75CA maintains this clamping performance even after multiple surge events due to its low thermal resistance and robust silicon structure.

Is MXPLAD36KP75CA qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, MXPLAD36KP75CA is tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress reliability, including high-temperature reverse bias, temperature cycling, and surge endurance. It is used in automotive 48V systems for load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulse protection. The MXPLAD36KP75CA also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 screening for enhanced lot traceability and burn-in, making it suitable for mission-critical vehicle subsystems.

Does MXPLAD36KP75CA require special PCB layout considerations?

Yes - MXPLAD36KP75CA requires a dedicated thermal pad layout per Microsemi's recommended footprint (11.94 × 5.85 mm copper area). To achieve RθJA = 50 °C/W, at least 2 oz. copper and multiple thermal vias to inner ground planes are advised. The MXPLAD36KP75CA's metal base must be soldered directly to this pad; insufficient copper area will cause thermal derating and premature failure under repeated surges.

How does MXPLAD36KP75CA differ from unidirectional versions like MXPLAD36KP75A?

The MXPLAD36KP75CA is bidirectional, meaning it clamps symmetrically for both positive and negative transients, while MXPLAD36KP75A conducts only in one direction (anode-to-cathode). This makes MXPLAD36KP75CA ideal for AC-coupled signal lines, floating power domains, or differential buses where polarity is undefined. The MXPLAD36KP75CA shares identical PPP, VWM, and thermal specs but differs in breakdown symmetry and marking convention.

Can MXPLAD36KP75CA be used for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 lightning protection?

Yes - MXPLAD36KP75CA is certified for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance in short-distance configurations, and Class 4 with 2 Ω source impedance. Its 36 kW rating and sub-5 ns response time meet the energy absorption and timing requirements for Class 5. The MXPLAD36KP75CA must be applied with appropriate coordination (e.g., upstream MOV or gas discharge tube) to ensure proper let-through voltage distribution.