A number of IEC standards have been created around the M12 connector to guarantee that secured connections can be established in an expanding number of applications. In order to fulfil the rising demand for signal, power, and data connections, more “coding” and configurations—originally employed by the automotive industry—have been developed.
The M12 connector’s design makes it perfect for usage with robots, industrial settings, and has features that shorten set-up and maintenance times. You can use our buying guide to select which M12 cordsets will best meet your needs.
Selecting the appropriate coding
- Are you familiar with the color coding that manufacturers employ?
- What standards do you have for connections to power, data, and signal?
Making sure the coding satisfies your unique requirements is the first step in choosing the best M12 cable. The M12 connector has a wide range of coding choices that reduce errors, and many manufacturers use color coding on both the cable and the inner contact of the connector. Users are able to distinguish between the various sorts that are offered thanks to this.
As a result of how long they have been available, A, B, D, and X-coded connections are by far the most popular. Among the original m12 x coded ethernet cable connector types are A, B, and D, although X-coded cables have gained popularity as a result of the demand for high-speed industrial Ethernet. In Ethernet applications, they’ll likely take the place of the A and D-coded component.
Users are always recommended to verify information against the manufacturer’s datasheet and it should be noted that the indicated current and voltage specifications mentioned are only intended to serve as a general guide.
Data 2 to 17 poles for A-coded power
Common for devicenet, IO Link, and Profibus, and primarily used with sensors and actuators.
Data 5 poles with B-Coded Power
B-coded connectors, which are the opposite of A-coded connectors, are used for devicenet, Profibus, and Interbus systems.
AC C-Coded Power
3, 4, or 6 poles
AC sensors and actuators are typically employed with dual keyway coding. S-Coded connectors will soon take their place.
Power with D-Codes: Data 3 to 5 poles
- Excellent option for Profinet, Ethernet/IP, industrial Ethernet, and ethercat.
- AC four poles with K-Coded Power + PE (protective earthing)
- This code has a power transmission of 630V at 16A when a conductor is used to make sure the exposed conductive surface is near ground potential.
- For reliable power transmission up to 63V and 12A or 16A, with or without functional earthing, L-coded power uses DC 4 poles plus FE (functional earthing).
Power: M-Coded AC
- Offering 630V at 8A and two additional pins for signals, 5 poles plus PE.
- Data 4 poles plus P-Coded Power
- Provides a number of options, but ethercat is commonly used.
- AC with S-Coded Power
Either 3 poles or 2 poles plus PE
Used for switches that are operated by a motor, frequency converters, and motors. AC power with 230V or 630V voltage ratings and current ratings of 12 to 16A (depending on the manufacturer).
DC four-pole T-coded power
Motors, passive distribution boxes, and psus for Power are needed for Fieldbus Comp. DC powered with a maximum 63V rating and 12 or 16A (depending on the manufacturer).
Data 8 poles with X-Coded Power
Used for 10GB Ethernet applications that require a harsh environment.
Hybrid 8 poles with Y-Coded Power
Provides CAT5e power at up to 30V and 6A, and data at up to 100Mbps.
Choosing connection arrangements
M12 cables are most frequently found with A-coded, 4-pin straight connectors that include a screw lock. Users may need to consider higher pin numbers with capabilities for protective earthing or data transmission as well as other locking strategies.
The connector’s configurations, including its pins and lock types, should be considered after the appropriate coding has been chosen. Depending on desire or requirement, connectors come in 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 and up to 17-pin varieties, and they can be straight or angled. Although the specifics differ depending on the manufacturer, this overview should assist in selecting the right cable type.
Picking the appropriate cordset
- What bending diameter and torsional angle are needed?
- How many cycles a minute, an hour, or a year does the cable experience?
- What is the highest acceleration that the jacket material can withstand?
The cordset, which will guarantee that the transmission of power, data, and signal is safeguarded and maintained inside the cable’s environment, should be the last thing you think about. Key elements include chemicals, vibration, mechanical stress, torsion, bending, tension, and compression, as well as dirt, dust, and liquids.
IP65/IP67 PVC Thermoplastic (TP) Rating
PVC thermoplastic is the best material for industrial control systems since it is generally hygienic and doesn’t experience large temperature swings. This makes it a practical, affordable solution that comes in a range of colors.
Polyurethane (PUR)
PUR Polyurethane may be the best option if exposure to the elements is a possibility. There are also halogen-free alternatives available on the market, and the material supports continuous bending and abrasions.
Thermally Plastic Rubber (TPE)
Thermoplastic Elastomer, a more robust substance, is resistant to the elements as well as to chemicals and welding spray. It can flex and stretch somewhat without being damaged, and it can withstand low temperatures and oil.
Cables for trays (PLTE/TC-ER)
Tray-rated cables provide protection against the elements, chemicals, and welding spray and are typically laid in series with other cables.
Shielding
This material is advised if exposure to severe temperatures and vibrations in hostile settings is probable. Additionally, it will defend against drilling or oil and gas applications, and it works well against signal interference in noisy conditions. As a result, sensor and data transfer work perfectly.
Cleanup Cordsets
The hostile situations where food and drink are present make washdown cordsets the perfect choice because of their exceptional resistance to chemicals and cleaning agents. Additionally, the substance can tolerate high pressures and temperatures. Torsion cable (Class 6) is frequently attached to moving robotic components, machinery, and power chains in industrial settings. Torsion cables can be used in environments where they need to move around because of their flexibility and wide range of protective sheathing options.
