Interconnection
Figure 3: A general overview of the various interface options for M-style connectors. (Image source: CUI Devices)
Figure 4: Mating of a male and female circular connector pair. (Image source: CUI Devices)
list of parameters to consider:
M8 (8 mm), and M12 (12 mm) connector types. M12 circular connectors and cables are arguably the most common type found as they are a global standard for the automotive industry.
As a whole, M-style connectors are further divided into several categories that define the keying and shape of the contact body to ensure properly mated connections. These designations and codes are defined as follows (Figure 3): ● A – connectors for sensors, dc power and 1 Gbit Ethernet (protocol for connecting computer systems to form a network). ● B – connectors for Fieldbus (industrial computer network for distributed control) and Profibus (digital network standard providing communication between field sensors and a control system). ● C – connectors with a dual keyway for added security, used for ac power for sensors and actuators. ● D – connectors for 100 Mbit Ethernet and Profinet (protocol for data exchange between controllers and devices) systems. ● X – connectors for 10 Gbit Ethernet high speed applications as well as power over Ethernet (PoE). ● S – connectors for ac power (replacement for C – coded parts). ● T – connectors for dc power (replacement for A – coded parts).
www.cieonline.co.uk
Circular connector selection criteria There is a nearly endless list of specifications and considerations to take into account when selecting circular connectors and/ or cables for a design. Outside of deciding whether a circular plastic connector (CPC) or circular metal-shell connector (CMC) is the better fit, here is a relatively comprehensive
● Gender (Male/Female): The male end incorporates the contact pins that plug into the female sockets (Figures 4 and 5). Most plugs and receptacles are designed to mate within their own brand or manufacturer. Connectors from different manufacturers typically do not interconnect, so in general, connectors will be sourced as a mated pair. ● Number of Contacts: The number of conductive pins in the connector required to carry the signals, data, or power. This number can range from 1 into the hundreds. ● Termination: How the wire or cable will mate with the conductive contacts in the connector, including solder, wire wrap, lugs, or crimping. ● Contact Size: The diameter of the individual contacts or gauge of wire that can mate with each contact. ● Voltage & Current Rating: The maximum voltage, expressed as volts (V), or current, expressed as amps (A), that the connector is designed to carry. ● Insertion Frequency: How often the connector will be connected and disconnected. Also known as mating cycles, the frequency of connection may require a
Figure 5: How to designate jacks and plugs of different genders (Image source: CUI Devices)
more robust connector or cable protection accessory. ● Mounting Style: Common mounting options include cable mount, panel mount, or surface mount. ● Coupling or Locking Style: Offers secure mating of the connector and can include bayonet, latch, push-pull, threaded, and quick-disconnect. ● Backshell Type: Threaded onto the cable side of a circular connector to offer secure cable support, backshell types include straight, right angle, braid tail, spring, strain relief, sealed, and crimped. ● Materials Used: Common materials used for the connector body are stainless steel, aluminium, plastic, composite, or brass, depending on design requirements and budget. ● Ingress Protection: IP ratings are defined by the IEC 60529 standard that covers protection against solids and liquids entering the body of the connector. ANSI 60529 covers IP in the United States and EN 60529 covers it in Europe. ● Plugs & Sockets: There is no standard naming convention so different manufacturers may use alternate terms, but typically sockets and jacks are associated with panel mounted circular connectors, while plugs relate to circular connector cable assemblies.
Conclusion
Will the connector be exposed to environmental contaminants or subject to immersion? Does the connector require protection from EMI or RFI signals? Will the connector be subject to excessive vibration or frequent impacts? The answers to each of these will help determine the quality, features, and accessories needed, but regardless, circular connectors have proven to be a reliable and rugged interconnect solution when dealing with harsh application conditions. CUI Devices offers a diverse range of circular connectors and circular cable assemblies that can meet these design challenges head on.
https://www.digikey.co.uk/ Components in Electronics April 2023 33
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