TE's latest SPE M12 hybrid connectors, compliant with IEC 63171-7, enable network integration of power-hungry field devices that transmit large amounts of real-time data to the control system or cloud.
The compact SPE M12 hybrid connectors support high-speed data transmission and unprecedented current levels over a single cable. This makes this connection technology ideal for robotic systems and drives, as well as future IIoT applications in automation technology. In particular, it supports the trend toward miniaturization, as devices (e.g., cobots, grippers, sensors, and vision systems) can deliver higher performance within the same M12 form factor without increasing space requirements.
Existing hybrid connectors compliant with IEC 61076-2-113 only offer 2 x 6 A and 100 Mbit/s, limiting high-power devices and fast data exchange. TE's latest SPE M12 hybrid is an industrial connector that combines data and power transmission in a single interface. It supports high-speed data transmission up to 1 Gbit/s, enabling real-time communication at data rates 10 times higher than previous industrial applications. The 2 x 8 A power supply supports the operation of power-hungry components, up to approximately 1 kW.
TE has developed this connector for harsh environments and designed it to be extremely robust, with an IP67 protection rating. It supports interoperability between devices and manufacturers thanks to its standardized mating face. Its integrated design simplifies wiring, eliminates cable clutter, and reduces installation costs.
Communication is achieved via advanced Ethernet protocols, reducing the need for gateways and fieldbus couplers. Plant and system developers and designers can incorporate the standardized, future-proof SPE M12 interfaces into their designs, increasing planning reliability and reducing development costs.
Conventional M12 connectors have limitations in terms of power and data transmission. This hinders compliance with Industry 4.0 requirements. These existing barriers will be overcome with the second edition of IEC 63171-7 and the corresponding products, which extend the SPE standards adopted to the hybrid M12 format.
