What are M8 Circular Connectors?

M8 circular connectors are a type of electrical connector used to join cables, wires, and devices in industrial and automation applications. Here are some key things to know about M8 circular connectors:

Physical Design:

• Round, threaded connector design with 8mm diameter
• Locking screw-type coupling for secure connectivity
• Often made of plastic, metal or combination

Contact Pins:

• Available with 3, 4, 5, 6 or 8 metal contact pins inside
• Pins are used for power, signals or data transmission
• Gold plated pins provide corrosion resistance

Ratings:

• Rated for IP67 protection - dust tight and waterproof
• Vibration, moisture, shock and oil resistant

Benefits:

• Allow quick wiring of sensors, actuators and controllers
• Standardized for interoperability between brands
• Compact size saves space in small control cabinets

M8 circular connectors provide a sturdy, reusable and small option to safely extend electrical signals and power to industrial devices and sensors while protecting against environmental threats. The circular threaded design offers excellent cable retention and flexibility.

Product Overview

Application of M8 Circular Connectors

M8 circular connectors are commonly used for the following applications:

• Connecting Sensors - The main application is connecting all types of industrial sensors to controllers, data loggers and monitoring systems. Sensors include proximity sensors, photoelectric sensors, limit switches, encoders, pressure sensors, temperature sensors and more.
• Actuators - The connectors allow interfacing actuators like solenoid valves, stepper motors to PLCs for control using digital or analog signals.
• Robotics - In robotics arms, sensors, end-effectors and other parts are interfaced using M8 connectors for both signal and power transmission.
• Drives and Servo Motors - The connectors are utilized for giving control signals and feedback from variable frequency drives, servo motors to automation systems.
• Man-Machine Interfaces - In industrial HMIs and panel interfaces, the connectors help extend communication reliably to nearby equipment I/O modules.
• Machinery & Portable Devices - M8 delivers signal or data connectivity for applications like CNC machines, power tools, portable diagnostic equipment used in the field.

In essence, common usage involves connecting any device - whether industrial sensors, drivers or consumer devices - safely for reliable data and power delivery in demanding environments like factories. The circular threaded design ensures vibration resistance and flexibility.

Key Differences to M12 Circular Connectors

There are several key differences between M8 and M12 circular connectors:

• Size: M8 connectors have an 8mm diameter, while M12 connectors are larger with a 12mm diameter.
• Contact Pins: M8 typically has 3, 4, 5, 6 or 8 pins, while M12 connectors can have anywhere between 3 to 12 pins in various configurations. M12 supports more pins and power contacts.
• Current Rating: M12 connectors offer substantially higher amperage per pin or contact - able to support 16A+ continuously. M8 is limited to about 4A max per pin.
• Applications: The smaller size of M8 suits confined spaces and lighter duty sensors. M12 is better for heavy industrial settings with high temperatures, current and vibration.
• Robustness: Both have water/dust sealing IP ratings like IP67 or IP69K for waterproofing ar possible in spezial Productfamilys. However, M12 offers greater physical ruggedness and impact resistance due to more housing material.
• Cost: M8 circular connectors tend to cost lesser than M12 connectors which are built for very rugged operating conditions.

In summary, M12 circular connectors are larger, more heavy duty, can carry more pins & current, and cost more compared to smaller M8 connectors. M8 suits lighter sensors via compact form, while M12 excels driving high power devices in extreme industrial environments.