Sensor Cables

All Sensor Cables

M8 or M12 Connection

M12 - 12 Poles

A Coded

Sensor Cables in Industrial Signal Transmission

Sensor cables are an important component of industrial signal transmission. They are also known as sensor/actuator cables, ini cables and initiator line. Sensor cables connect the control unit (SPS) to sensors and actuators of a machine. They have to be suited for environmental conditions when used in the field.

Area of Application for Ini Cables and Sensor Cables

For the control unit of machines and plants more and more signal of sensors are required which are transmitted to actuators. The transmission via a sensor/actuator cable is subject to a number of requirements.

Some areas of application for sensor/actuator cables include:

• Automation Technology
• Machine Tool Industry
• Special Machine Construction
• Manufacturing Technology

Ini Cables with M8 and M12 Connector wit round plug connector M8 und M12

M8 connectors and M12 connectors belong to the most used plug connector systems of the industry. They can be easily mounted and offer high protection of the connection against pollution and environmental influences. Sensor cables M8 and sensor cables M12 are ready-made available in a number of variations.

Picture Sensor Cable M8 4 Poles

Sensor/Actuator Cable and Number of Poles

The direct wiring of sensors and actuators requires two or more cores for each connection. Sensor/Actuator cables are available as M12 12 poles in accordance to DIN EN 61076-2-101.

Picture Sensor Cables M12 12 Poles, Mounted behind Wall

Ini Cables and Coding

Sensor cables ready made with plugs with industrial codings on each side are available. A coding is used for signal transmission.

Picture Sensor Cable M12 4 Poles, A Coded

Transmit Analog and Digital Signals with Sensor Cables

Depending on the type of sensor and its application either analogue or digital signals have to be transmitted. The ini cable is to be selected in a version so the signals can be transmitted without interference. A consistent shield up into the connectors and the distance of lines which are used for power supply are additional requirements.

Correctly Select Sensor/Actuator Cables

Expertise and a clear strategy is required for the selection of the correct line to connect a sensor in a manufacturing area with automation components. The following aspects have to be taken into account:

• Which signals shall be transmitted with the ini cable?
• Which protective measures (coating, excess current) against interference are intended?
• Which mechanical stress is put on the sensor cable (seldom movement, energy chain)?
• Which aggressive materials (oil, chemicals) put stress on the coat of the cable?