ERNI Supplies M12 Connector with D-Coding

Expands the Range of M12 Products for Industrial Ethernet

Adelberg, Germany, February 7, 2005 – ERNI, a leading provider of printed-circuit board (PCB) connectors, has now expanded its range of M12 automation connectors to include a 4-pin version with D-coding. These connectors can be used to implement a flexible input-output (I/O) or field-bus connection on the circuit board. M12 connectors with D-coding are meeting Industrial Ethernet standards (IEC 61067-2-101, Amendment 1). Standards compliant M12 connectors are now recommended for nearly all field-bus specifications, and meet the IP67 protection standards rating (IEC 61076-2-101). They are also traditionally used to connect sensors and actuators in automation systems. An expansion (Amendment 1) of the IEC 61076-2-101 standard describes a 4-pole, D-coded variant specified for a higher protective class of Industrial Ethernet applications. From the perspective of transmission technology, these requirements correspond to those of a Category-5 modular jack (RJ45) connector, according to the EIA/TIA standard. The D-coding prevents the connector from being confused with the A-coding used for sensor-actuator wiring, or the B-coding used with some field buses. Modular design The connectors’ modular design concept makes it possible to produce connectors in different sizes and versions. Customers may choose the desired connection technique (surface mount "SMD", press-fit, or through-hole reflow "THR"). The black insulator is made of high-temperature-resistant plastic and is suitable for soldering with all the usual SMT procedures. The M12 connector’s contacts are so robust that a vibration device can be used to feed them in bulk-material packaging. Tape-on-reel packaging is also available. The new M12 connectors are already designed for lead-free processing, which will be mandatory beginning in July 2006.

ERNI ERNI Elektroapparate GmbH, a German member company of the international ERNI Holding Group, was established in 1956 and is headquartered in Adelberg (near Göppingen). ERNI develops and manufactures a wide variety of connectors for backplane and printed circuit board applications. The system technology business unit develops and produces customer-specific printed circuit board systems and backplanes. ERNI is a globally active enterprise with branch offices in Europe, North America and Asia. ERNI products are also marketed via a network of representatives and leading distributors. Further information is available at www.erni.com.