They can also be processed economically on an SMT production line. Currently, 3, 4, or 5-pin versions are available; 8-pin versions are under development.The new angled M12 connectors are extremely compact thanks to their centered position on the board edge. They also incorporate board supports to accommodate the three most common board thicknesses (1.0 mm, 1.6 mm, and 2.0 mm). The socket and pin versions share the same design and can also be used for enclosures with an integrated M12 thread. A, B, and D-coded versions are also available. A 360-degree shield will be offered as an option later, with the shielding ring soldered to the board using two solder pins. Three contact terminals located around the circumference provide electrical contact with the M12 thread. The high degree of robustness provided by THR technology and the exceptional resistance to leakage currents, with a Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) of 600, also make the M12 connector suitable for harsh industrial environments. An optional O-ring allows for encapsulation of the assemblies.
The new right-angle M12 connectors also offer several process advantages, including tape and reel encapsulation for automated pick-and-place assembly, an integrated suction surface, reliable positioning via pins, and integrated supports on the board to prevent tilting during processing. The connector can also be mounted on the back of a pre-fitted board within a housing. The new M12 connectors can be applied using lead-free reflow soldering and can provide IP65/67 protection when wired or screwed in.
In addition to solutions for standard applications, pin-type connectors are available specifically for sensor applications. These new right-angle M12 connectors are designed for M12 sensor tubes, are extremely short (14 mm), and are supplied with an O-ring for encapsulation. Once fitted, the boards are inserted fully into the sensor tube. The connector's ring provides the stop, a common feature in these applications. These versions also offer options such as anti-twist grooves and a snap-in connection function.
The new right-angle M12 connectors target a wide variety of industrial applications such as fill level sensors, distance and pressure sensors, light barriers, position switches, fieldbuses, peripheral equipment and measuring sensors.
