M12 connector is a circular connector widely used in industrial automation, sensors, data communication and power supply. It has a diameter of 12mm, so it is called M12 connector. Among them, M12 8 pin connector refers to M12 connector with 8 contacts (pins), which is usually used for data transmission, industrial Ethernet, PROFINET, CAN bus and other applications.
M12 connector has the characteristics of high protection level, strong durability and good vibration resistance, and can work stably in various harsh environments. For the 8-pin version of M12 connector, it is mainly used for high-demand data transmission and signal control, and is suitable for equipment that requires multiple signal or power connections.
This article will focus on the structure, technical specifications, types, connection methods, application fields, advantages and related standards of M12 8 pin connector to help you have a deeper understanding of this important industrial connector.
Structure and technical specifications of M12 8 pin connector
1. Structural composition
The basic structure of M12 8 pin connector usually includes the following parts:
● Shell: Usually made of metal or high-strength plastic, providing mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding.
● Contacts: M12 8 pin connector has 8 contacts for signal transmission or power connection. The contact material is generally made of gold-plated or silver-plated copper alloy to ensure conductivity and anti-oxidation performance.
● Sealing Ring: Used to prevent dust and moisture from entering and improve the protection level.
● Threaded Coupling: Adopts M12 standard thread design to ensure a firm connection and prevent loosening.
● Insulator: Used to isolate each contact to prevent short circuit.
2. Technical parameters
M12 8 pin connectors of different brands and models may have certain technical differences, but generally speaking, their main technical parameters are as follows:
| M12 8 pin connector parameters | Description |
| Number of pins | 8 |
| Outer diameter | 12mm |
| Rated current | 2A – 4A (depending on model) |
| Rated voltage | 30V – 250V |
| Contact resistance | ≤ 5mΩ |
| Insulation resistance | ≥ 100 MΩ |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| IP rating | IP67 / IP68 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| Connection method | Thread locking |
| Cable diameter range | 4mm – 10mm |
The rated current and voltage of M12 8 pin connector depend on the specific application requirements. In data communication applications, the current is usually small, while in power transmission applications, a higher current carrying capacity may be required.
What are the types of M12 8 pin connectors?
According to different connection requirements, M12 8 pin connectors can be divided into the following main types:
1. Straight vs. Right-Angle M12 8 pin connectors
● Straight connector: The contacts are arranged in a straight line and are suitable for scenes with ample space.
● Right-Angle connector: The contacts are arranged at a 90-degree angle, which is suitable for small spaces and optimizes wiring design.
2. Male vs. Female M12 8 pin connectors
● Male connector: With exposed contacts, it needs to be paired with a female connector.
● Female connector: With embedded contacts, it is used to match the male connector.
3. Shielded vs. Unshielded M12 8 pin connector
● Shielded: The housing or interior has a metal shielding layer to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and improve signal integrity.
● Unshielded: No additional shielding layer, suitable for environments that are not sensitive to electromagnetic interference.
4. Cable-end vs. Panel-mounted M12 8 pin connector
● Cable-end connector (Cable Mount): Connects the cable, usually with pre-installed cables or terminals.
● Panel-mounted connector (Panel Mount): Installed on the panel of the device or control cabinet to provide a stable device interface.
Different types of M12 8 pin connectors can be selected according to application requirements to meet specific connection requirements.
What is the connection method of M12 8 pin connector?
M12 8 pin connector mainly adopts threaded coupling to ensure a firm connection and prevent loose connection due to vibration or external force. In addition, some models of M12 8 pin connector also support quick connection (Push-Pull) technology to improve installation efficiency.
M12 8 pin connector connection steps
● Check the connector: Make sure the male and female interfaces match and check whether the pin arrangement is correct.
● Align the plug direction: Align the marking point of the pin to avoid incorrect insertion.
● Rotate and lock: Rotate the thread clockwise until it is fully locked to ensure a stable connection.
● Check the connection status: Gently pull the connector to ensure that it is firmly locked and not loose.
For shielded connectors, ensure that the shielding layer is properly grounded during installation to reduce electromagnetic interference and improve signal transmission quality.
Application areas of M12 8 pin connector
Due to its high reliability, compact design and protection capabilities, M12 8 pin connector is widely used in multiple industries, including:
● Industrial automation (PLC controller, sensor, actuator)
● Intelligent transportation system (ITS equipment, vehicle communication)
● Industrial Ethernet (PROFINET, EtherCAT, CAN bus)
● Medical equipment (precision instruments, monitoring equipment)
● Rail transportation (signal transmission, in-car control system)
● Food and pharmaceutical (production equipment requiring high protection level)
The high protection level of M12 8 pin connector makes it particularly suitable for outdoor equipment, humid environments and high vibration occasions, and can ensure long-term stable operation.
Main advantages of M12 8 pin connector
● High protection level (IP67 / IP68), strong waterproof and dustproof capabilities.
● Strong durability, suitable for harsh environments.
● Standardized design, high compatibility, easy installation and replacement.
● Stable signal transmission, support for industrial Ethernet and high-speed data communication.
● Good vibration resistance, suitable for applications with large mechanical vibration.
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