M12 Connector
Understanding M12 Electrical Connectors
An M12 connector is a type of electrical connector commonly used in industrial settings for connecting sensors, actuators, and other devices. It's known for its high-speed signal transmission and power-feeding.
ATTEND provides both m12 socket (female connector) and m12 plug (male connector) formats with various coding styles and standard compliances, such as the IEC61076-2-109 with X coding and ISO 11801 for Ethernet.
M12’s Various Coding and Pin Assignment
- A-coded connectors are typically used for sensors and power.
- D-coded connectors are for Ethernet.
- X-coded connectors are for high-speed data transmission.
If you are unsure about which configurations to choose for your m12 sockets or m12 plugs, you may reach out to our experts for inquiries. We will help you find the best solutions for your specific application.
Harsh Environment Tolerance
- Waterproof Level IP67:
Guarantees protection against dust and temporary immersion in water, ideal for outdoor telecommunications and marine electronics.
- Operating Temperature -40°C to +85°C:
Ensures functionality in extreme cold or heat, suitable for demanding climates, such as marine electronic and automotive systems.
Electrical Stability
- Current Rating Range:
0.5A ~ 20A
- Voltage Rating Range:
50V ~ 250V
Current and voltage ratings specify the maximum electrical load a connector can safely handle without compromising performance. An optimal power rating also reduces contact resistance to enable efficient current flow, lowering the risk of breakdowns or overheating in demanding applications.
With a wide current and voltage rating range, ATTEND’s M12 circular connectors can accommodate various applications, from low-power sensors to high-current power distribution.
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Screw Locking Mechanism
The M12 electrical connectors from ATTEND incorporate a screw-locking mechanism to deliver a reliable connection. The mated components will tighten and create a secure bond as users rotate the connector's threaded coupling. This ensures the connector remains firmly attached, even under vibration, shock, or mechanical stress, so you won’t have to worry about accidental disconnections.
M12 Connection Options
At ATTEND, we offer diverse solutions so that you can seamlessly integrate the M12 circular connectors into your existing infrastructure while maintaining installation efficiency. Available options include:
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M12 Overmolded Cable Connectors: These M12 connectors come with pre-assembled cables so they can be used straight away. They also have a sealed layer around the cables, providing protection against moisture, dust, vibration, and fluctuating temperatures in harsh environments.
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M12 Field-Installable Connectors: Designed for on-site customization, these connectors can be soldered or crimped with simple tools, offering flexibility for cable length and other features. Still, users must select the right cable size and diameters to ensure compatibility with the M12 connector’s specifications.
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M12 Bulkhead Connectors: Also known as panel mount connectors, they can be directly mounted on the front or rear of a bulkhead using threads, allowing for quick and flexible installation. They can also be soldered onto the components for a more robust connection.
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M12 PCB Connectors: These connectors are specifically designed for mounting on printed circuit boards (PCBs) with soldering or through-hole methods. This eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware, streamlining the installation process while allowing for a more compact design.
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M12 SMD Connectors: These Surface Mount Device (SMD) connectors are tailored for automated assembly processes using SMT equipment, such as solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, and reflow ovens. This equipment will apply solder paste directly to the PCB pad before placing the M12 connectors in the designated area. The reflow oven will then heat the solder to secure the bond. This option reduces labor costs while ensuring precise and efficient mounting on PCBs
How to Assemble Our Field-Installable M12 Connectors
While our field-installed M12 electrical connectors offer flexibility, the assembly requires precision to ensure connection reliability. Here is a quick guide to help you understand the process:
- Prepare the Cable: Slide the connector components — including the coupling nut, grommet, gripper, etc — over the cable.
- Strip the Cable: Trim back the cable jacket by approximately 30 mm to expose the shielding. Then, carefully fold the shielding back over the jacket and secure it with electrical tape.
- Strip the Insulation: Remove any foil or plastic covering the conductors and strip back the insulation of each wire by about 5 mm.
- Connect the Wires: Attach the individual wires to the designated pins on the connector hub before soldering them in place. Most wires follow a number-coded or color-coded system, so you can match the wire placement accordingly to ensure correct alignment.
- Fit the Components Together: Slide the connector hub into the housing and make sure the shielding is evenly distributed around the circumference. Trim excess shielding if necessary and fasten the pressing screw until it is hand-tight.
- Secure the Connector: Screw on the coupling nut firmly to complete the installation. Inspect to ensure no stray shield wires fall back into the connector to prevent connection interference.
Soldering Termination for M12 Circular Connectors
Soldering termination is also particularly beneficial when working with smaller cables or densely packed connectors that are not suitable for crimping. The solder forms a secure bond between components, preventing shorts while ensuring a durable connection that resists vibration, mechanical stress, and temperature fluctuations.
To do this, align the corresponding solder cup onto each conductor. Then, apply heated solder paste to secure the wire in place. We suggest working from the inside out so that each joint can be soldered cleanly without interference.
Success Stories
Aerial Evolution: Autonomous Systems in Multirotor Drones
ATTEND connectors are a key component in the latest generation of advanced multirotor drones. These drones with autonomous flight systems demand compact and versatile connectors that can withstand challenging environments. ATTEND delivers a tailored solution: the M8 Series for RTK GNSS integration, 206A Series for high-definition camera connections, and others. This synergy empowers highly efficient, data-rich drones to propel the boundaries of aerial technology.
Maximizing Robotics: ATTEND M-Series Circular Connectors
Robotic applications require durable, space-conscious connectors. ATTEND's M-series circular connectors address the challenges faced by compact, general-purpose, and high-performance robots. These solutions boost efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and conquer limitations in space and power demands. ATTEND's adaptable connectors are reliable assets for the evolving robotics industry.
Jaime Coreano | VP of Sales, North America
With more than 20 years of experience in the semiconductor and electronic components industry, Jaime Coreano is a trusted professional in the field of connectors, pogo pins, power supplies, LEDs, memory products, and more. His extensive knowledge of market trends and technical expertise has enabled him to support clients across diverse industries, including networking, industrial machinery, medical devices, computing, and military aviation.
Whether you have questions about M12 connectors or need guidance on selecting the right components for your application, Jaime is here to provide tailored solutions and expert advice to meet your unique needs.
Our versatility and commitment to quality ensure you get the best in class. Feel free to Contact Us to discover how M12 connectors from ATTEND can revolutionize your setups!
