M12 connectors
(7 421)M12 connectors are typical industrial connectors, commonly used for signal transmission. They are used to connect sensors and automation in industrial networks which apply standards such as Profibus, DeviceNet, Ethernet and others. They can also be used to supply power. Thanks to the possibility of creating a durable, twisted-pair connection with high ingress protection (depending on IP class), M12 connectors are suitable for actuators operating in harsh environmental conditions. With M12 thread, users can save some space, as it is suitable for use even in narrow slots.
What is an M12 connector?
M12 connectors belong to the family of IEC metric screw sized connectors, along with M5 and M8 connectors. The specific number used for each connector type provides the outer screw thread diameter in millimeters, making it easier to distinguish between the types. The connectors are also further categorized by coding, which basically means different pin counts and shapes of the connecting surfaces. Different coding might also mean different electrical properties.
Connector types and coding are used primarily to prevent incorrect connection. While there is a wide variety of coding types for M12 connectors, the 5 most popular ones are A, B, C, D, and X. A-coded connectors are the most common, frequently used for various sensors, motors, and other regular devices. They feature between 2 and 12 pins. B-coded connectors are most often used in fieldbus networks, with 3 to 5 pins. C connectors feature increased security measures, including a dual keyway, but are less common, used mostly in AC power sensors. The D-connector system is used for industrial Ethernet networks with transfer up to 100Mb. Finally, X-coded M12 connectors are a newer innovation, offering easy installation and connection up to 10 GB/s, used mostly for IIOT solutions.
See also: M12 plugs and sockets
What are M12 connectors used for?
The M12 connector is one of the most commonly used connector systems in the industrial world. They were first used to connect industrial sensors, primarily at automotive factories where it still sees use to this day. Since these connectors featured a much better protection against the elements, they needed to be replaced much less often than previous alternatives.
From food processing to factory automation, a variety of industries use the M12 connector for their convenience and effectiveness. A wide variety of the cables is available, with varying connector orientations and coding, making them a viable choice for many different applications. You can find the M12 connector system with as low as 2 pins and as many as 12 pins, depending on the version. They also range in security measures, and while most offer only IP67, there are some that offer IP68 and even IP69K, making them appropriate for use in harsh environments where high-pressure water is used.
The M12 connector is also used for reliable Ethernet communication, with advanced connector systems that also include IO modules and cable assemblies, making field installation easy and reducing tooling costs. Connectors with silver-plated contacts are also sometimes used for higher conductivity.
See also: M12 connectors with cable
What is the difference between M8 and M12 connectors?
The main difference between M8 and M12 connectors is their outer screw thread diameter. Both M12 and M8 connectors are used in similar application areas, mostly factory automation and transportation. Both can be made out of PVC or PUR if oil and wear resistance is necessary, and both can highly improve and simplify mass production processes. These connectors are easy to repair and replace, for example in case of an electronic component failure. The specific type of connector usually can also be changed to feature different coding or more advanced technologies.
Both connectors were preceded by the German RK30 connector, which was structured very similarly and also offered IP67 protection. The RK30 was introduced in 1982, with the M12 introduced just 3 years later in 1985. At first, the connectors were only available in 3 and 4-pin versions and allowed smaller currents to pass through, but were quickly developed further and improved after automotive industries from all over the world adopted using them for industrial automation. The M8 connector was first released in 1989 and was immediately just as successful as the M12.
In contrast to M12 connectors, the M8 has somewhat limited uses. Mostly, they are used with industrial sensors, feature the IP67 standard, and come pre-assembled. Most of the connectors make use of 3 pins, but there are 4-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin alternatives available as well.
See also: M12 adapters
The benefits of M12 connectors
There are many benefits to using M12 connectors for industries. The most important benefit is saving time and resources required for installation of advanced wiring systems, as well as their maintenance. Before M12 connectors were first introduced, wiring systems were messy and required frequent maintenance, especially since they weren’t waterproof and dustproof out of the box.
M12 and M8 connectors quickly changed the rules of the game, quickly appearing in sensors, actuators, I/O boxes, switches, and PLCs in a variety of industries. They made cable management at an industrial scale much easier and less costly, finding uses in virtually every corner of the world. With these connectors, industrial automation became much simpler and safer, since they can be used in a variety of industrial environments, including corrosive environments.
See also: M12 connector accessories
Wide range of products
The M12 connector is available in a number of versions. This is the response to the specific needs of different industries. High ingress protection classes (e.g. IP67 or IP69) are available for protection against dust, submersion in water and even pressure jets. Depending on your needs, you can also choose the spatial orientation of the plug (straight, angled, T or Y), the insulation material, as well as - which is very important – the mounting method. The choice is wide, and it’s easy to find M12 connectors in SMT and THT, clamp or soldering versions on the market. They can be mounted on panels and PCBs, as well as on cables.
See also: military connectors
M12 connectors in Transfer Multisort Elektronik offer
TME’s catalogue includes more than 1400 various M12 connectors, as well as a variety of plugs and sockets, cable connectors, various adapters and accessories. You can easily find connectors with a specific number of pins - from 2 to 12. The most numerous group of connectors is the M12 4 pin plug. You can choose between male and female connectors with different polarization options and locking systems.
See also microswitches and thermal fuses.
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