M8 and M12 connectors: Everything you need to know

In industrial automation, communications, medical devices and the Internet of Things (IoT), M8 and M12 connectors are widely used in critical systems such as sensors, actuators, power and data transmission. Their high level of protection, stable electrical performance and robust construction ensure efficient operation in harsh environments. So, what are

the differences between M8 and M12 connectors? How to choose the right app for you? This article will explore these issues in depth.

First，A basic overview of M8 and M12 connectors

The M8 and M12 connectors are circular connectors and are threaded to provide a secure, stable electrical connection. Among them:

The M8 connector (8mm external thread diameter) is commonly used in small sensors, actuators and automation devices for compact space applications.

The M12 connector (12mm external thread diameter) is suitable for devices with higher power requirements and is widely used in industrial Ethernet, fieldbus, signal transmission and power connections.

Second, the main application of M8 and M12 connectors

1. Application of M8 connector

Due to its small size, the M8 connector is suitable for devices with limited space, such as:

• Small sensors (e.g. proximity sensors, temperature sensors)
• Industrial automation equipment (e.g. compact PLCS, I/O modules)
• Robotic systems (e.g. end-effector signal transmission)
• Medical devices (e.g. micro diagnostic instruments, wearable devices)

2. Application of M12 connector

Because of its higher power and data transmission capabilities, the M12 connector is widely used in:

• Industrial Ethernet (PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus-TCP)
• Rail Transit (Signal and Data transmission)
• Energy and Power Systems (New energy, solar, wind power)
• Automation equipment (robot, AGV, production line)
• Food and pharmaceutical industry (IP69K compliant sanitary connectors)

Third，How to choose M8 or M12 connector?

When choosing a connector, you need to consider the following factors:

1. Application environment:

If the device size is small and the signal transmission requirement is low, choose the M8 connector.

For higher voltage, current, and data rates, choose the M12 connector.

2. Protection level:

IP67/IP68 is suitable for general industrial environments.

IP69K is suitable for food, pharmaceutical and other industries that require high temperature washing.

3. Coding type:

M8 connectors typically use either A code (signal transmission) or B code (fieldbus).

The M12 connector offers more encoding options, such as A-encoding (signal), D-encoding (Ethernet), and X-encoding (Gigabit Ethernet).

4. Electrical requirements:

Low power, small signal transmission, M8 is more suitable.

For high-power, industrial Ethernet applications, the M12 is the better choice.