's range of data interconnection products for industry Molex Incorporated has been expanded with more robust versions of its RJ-45 male and female Ethernet connectors, which are aimed at industrial, marine and telecommunications systems.Designed specifically for compact applications requiring high density and protection, IP67/IP20 rated connectors are manufactured in accordance with the PROFINET® specification.
The widespread use of Ethernet applications, from offices to manufacturing plants, demands RJ-45 connectors with a higher degree of protection and Category 5 performance (100 Mbit/s Fast Ethernet); typical industrial applications include PROFINET-controlled robotic devices. The Molex IP20 data connector is the most compact RJ-45 for Ethernet on the market and the only version that allows the connection of 22 AWG wires to support Insulation Displacement Technology (IDT). The connector is designed with a standard grid of only 14 mm (0.551”), providing maximum encapsulation density for the application.
The IP67-rated version features an innovative push-pull housing that can be opened and closed with one hand and minimal force. Despite its high level of protection, the housing is very compact, allowing for rapid deployment and easy installation without the need for special tools. The panel-entry female connector enables a smooth transition from harsh industrial conditions to protected IP67/IP20 environments.
The industrial hybrid RJ-45 system integrates data lines and power supply into a single, more competitively priced connector for hybrid Ethernet networks. The IP67-rated hybrid male connector incorporates a lever-locking mechanism for one-handed coupling and uncoupling, significantly reducing installation costs.
The male and female RJ-45 connectors for industrial Ethernet comply with the IEC-60603-7 standard. The durability of the push-pull male connectors with IP67/IP20 protection and the hybrid female connectors is 750 and 500 mating cycles, respectively, the latter at an operating voltage of 48 V. The contact surfaces of the Molex male and female connectors are coated with a 1.27 µm gold foil, while in the hybrid version, the power contacts have a 5 µm gold layer to ensure reliable and consistent performance. The housings are made of high-quality thermoplastic with flame-retardant properties conforming to the UL94V-0 standard, and the connectors operate at temperatures ranging from -40 to 70 °C.
