What is an M12 to M12 Ethernet Patch Cable?
An M12 to M12 Ethernet patch cable is a specialized cable used for industrial Ethernet applications. The specialized connectors, called M12 connectors, are available at both ends. When looking at M12 connectors, there are two standard configurations: A-coded and D-coded (shown below). These connectors make up an industrial-grade cable that is ideal for harsh environments (pun intended).
M12 to M12 Ethernet patch cable applications are found in automation systems (and similar), factories, and machines communicating with one another, typically using a common protocol such as PROFINET or Siemens Ethernet.
What Makes This M12 Cable Different?
This cable is different from an average Ethernet cable because it was designed for industrial applications, which can sometimes be described as harsher environments suitable for higher levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI) than your typical cable. The cable is rated as CAT6A and utilizes 26AWG conductors to ensure the highest level of signal integrity while accommodating longer lengths.
The flexible design combines shielded cable (S/FTP) with a foil shield and shielded twisted pairs to allow for use in industrial settings with heavy machinery and electrical noise.
The cable supports POE and PLC applications. POE means that the cable can carry power to devices and data simultaneously, which makes it a great option for powering multiple devices with one connection in addition to data communications.
The cable is rugged and flexible enough to enable applications in tight spaces or difficult access points.
Specifications
Specification | Details |
Connector Type | M12 to M12 |
Pin Configurations | 4-pin (A-coded), 8-pin (X-coded), D-coded |
Connector Gender Options | Male to Male, Male to Female, Female to Female |
Cable Category | CAT5E/CAT6A |
Conductor Gauge | 26 AWG |
Shielding | S/FTP (Shielded Foiled Twisted Pair) |
Cable Jacket Material | Flexible, industrial-grade PVC or PUR |
Supported Lengths | Customizable: 0.3m, 0.5m, 1m, 1.5m, 2m, 3m, 5m, 8m, 10m, 15m, 20m |
Data Transmission Speed | Up to 10 Gbps |
Supported Protocols | PROFINET, Siemens Industrial Ethernet |
Environmental Protection | Resistant to oil, water, vibration, and temperature variations |
Application | Industrial automation, POE, PLC systems |
Why Choose This Ethernet Network Patch Cable?
This cable is an industrial patch cable where reliability and performance are crucial. The M12 4-pin and M12 8-pin options ensure compatibility with a variety of devices and controllers your organization uses, while the D-coded connectors are designed for PROFINET applications and work seamlessly with Siemens equipment in your automation and control systems.
The shielding can either be FTP or S/FTP shielding to increase immunity to noise (EMI), which is somewhat common when using cables in industrial environments. The cable is rated as 26AWG and maintains a good balance between flexibility and conductivity, whether used for a fixed installation or a mobile machine or type of connection.
Installation and Use Considerations
When installing this cable, you should carefully consider the length. Excess length can increase signal loss, just as a cable that is too short will limit your installation options. The flexible jacket should allow you to route it through a machine panel or cable tray to achieve the installation you need. Choose the correct gender (male or female) to ensure a secure connection to the port on your device. Consider the POE or PLC application with this cable and verify that the device you are using meets the specifications for POE or PLC signals and power.
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