Rugged Micro-Change M12 Cat 6 connector from Molex

16th December 2009

ES Admin

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Molex Incorporated has taken the next step in terms of speed in the M12 form factor with the introduction of the new Brad Micro-Change M12 Cat 6 connector. Not only does the connector handle Gigabit Ethernet speeds, the Micro-Change M12 Cat 6 is IP68-rated and designed to provide secure and safe electrical connections in harsh or hostile conditions.

The 2 shielding crosses inside the cable connector and receptacle overlap when mated – this prevents system noise from interfering with the signal integrity. The Micro-Change M12 Cat 6 connector’s 4 pair mating interface is standardised to IEC 61076-2-10x, with ODVA (Open DeviceNet Vendor Association) certification pending. Each individual conductor pair is cross-shielded throughout the connector; ensuring superior signal integrity is maintained in comparison to conventional RJ-45 Cat 6 systems.

For rugged applications and high-vibration environments, the Molex M12 Cat 6 features 2 points of contact per male and female conductor pair, ensuring a robust and reliable contact interface. The Micro-Change M12 Cat 6 range of IP68-rated environmentally sealed, waterproof connectors meets the needs of traditional areas in Process & Automation Control, but also the rigours of other applications that require high speed data in harsh environments.

The initial system layout of the Molex M12 Cat 6 is a male-to-male, overmoulded patch cord cable system available in predetermined lengths and either AWG 24 or AWG 26 sizes, together with backmount female receptacles. The receptacles can be mounted using THR (through hole reflow) technology. This allows for automated assembly, providing significant reductions in installation costs for the OEM. The initial set-up will use the standard threaded coupling, which provides IP67 protection. An Ultra-Lock® version of the Molex M12 Cat 6 connector is in development that will provide IP69K rating.