New-Tech Europe Digital Magazine | May 2016

M12 connectors become more reliable, easier to fit and reduce installer injuries Michael Meckl , Molex

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the task of simplifying and speeding up installation while improving communication integrity. The traditional mainstream M12 connector utilises a screw thread that has three disadvantages. The hand applied torque during installation is a relatively uncontrolled process. Insufficient tightening can result in a poor connection, but too much will result in a compromise of the seal. Secondly, the time to fit a connector is quite long and thirdly is that of potential repetitive motion injury to the installer. With its patented Brad ® Ultra- Lock ® connection system, Molex has brought to the market an entire portfolio of M12 connectors with Push-Pull functionality. This breakthrough thread-less design combines innovative engineering and advanced ergonomics, while still meeting the mechanical and electrical requirements of IEC Standard 61076-

connectors have expanded from the original A-code (analogue) used for sensors and actuators, to B-code (fieldbus) and now includes D-code (100 MB Ethernet Cat5) and high speed X-code (Gigabit Ethernet Cat6) types. This in turn has led to higher expectations for secure connections even under extremely harsh conditions. In addition to IP67 (Ingress Protection - dust tight and 1m water immersion), M12 connectors are also offered with IP65, IP68 and IP69K (high pressure and high temperature spray) ratings. Compounding the challenge is the sheer number of connectors that are now being used. Their locations, often in very restricted places, can make installation difficult. Equipment upgrades to cope with the higher data rates can become very time consuming and complex. Molex, as a manufacturer of high- quality connectors, has set itself

he M8 and M12 sealed connector systems are the

most common method of cable termination for sensors in harsh environment industrial and control applications. 2015 is the 30th anniversary of the introduction of the M12 interconnects, and was initially launched with 3 and 4-pin versions. Originally targeted at the automotive manufacturing market, the screw-type, dust proof, water tight connectors found favour in many other industries, including food and beverage, textile and machine building. The need for increased productivity and Digital Industry 4.0 has increased the demand for higher data rates. Production lines and manufacturing systems are no longer stand-alone, but are digitally interconnected, “talking” to each other to deliver instantaneous decision critical data. Coding options for M8 and M12

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