M8M12 Field Wireable Connector

M8/M12 field wireable connectors allow a technician to manually assemble or retrofit an existing assembly that is currently installed in the field and can not be sent back to the factory for repair or replacement. Field wireable connectors can be used to build a custom patch cable or repair an existing wire harness or assembly. These M8 and M12 connectors are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Field wireable connectors are also used in installations where the overall length of the cable assembly is unknown and must be determined in the field. These connectors typically include a terminal body with screw-clamp terminals, a back-shell, or a body comprised of plastic or metal and a cable grommet.

M12 connector M12 connector

What are the Main Differences between Field Wireable Connectors and Custom Overmolded Connectors?

M8/M12 field wireable connectors consist of multiple loose components that are assembled in the field. Custom overmolded connectors are manufactured by crimping or soldering wires to a terminal body and then injecting molten thermoplastic into the connection. This process creates a strong encapsulated shell that holds all internal components in place and is bonded to the cable, making it less susceptible to failure. Because this overmolded assembly is factory manufactured, it can be tested and verified for quality control.

Here are the key differences between field-wireable connectors and custom overmolded connectors:

Field Wireable Connectors:

  • Have open screw terminal contacts for direct field wiring. There is no pre-installed cable.
  • Allows the user to route cable lengths as needed during installation. Provides flexibility.
  • Requires wiring tool to terminate cables in the field. Requires specialized knowledge for proper wiring.
  • Replaceable modular connectors eliminate the need for rewiring.
  • Standard connector designs such as M8 and M12 are available.
  • Installation requires assembly of two separate sections.
M12 field Wireable M12 field Wireable

Custom Overmolded Connectors:

  • Pre-assembled cable and connected to connector.
  • User-specified custom cable lengths are available.
  • No field wiring required. Quick and easy plug-and-play installation.
  • Molded as a one-piece assembly with connector and cable combined.
  • Completely sealed from the environment.
  • More design flexibility - customizable connector styles and wiring layouts.
  • Ideal for finished cable assemblies and OEM equipment.
  • Typically more expensive than field wired cables.
overmolded cable overmolded cable

Field Wireable Connectors Key Features

  • Rugged, industrial grade connectors for harsh environments. Metal threaded coupling nut is vibration resistant.
  • Used to wire sensors, actuators, motors, drives, controllers and PLCs in factory automation.
  • Available in 3 to 8 pins/contacts for power, analog, digital signals, data and more.
  • Allows quick connection/disconnection of field devices using plug-and-play cables.
  • Field Wireable models have open screw terminals for direct wire termination.
  • Replaces fixed cable connectors. Replaces fixed cable connectors.
  • IP67 rated for protection against dust, water, and temporary immersion.
  • Locking mechanism provides a reliable, secure electrical connection.
  • Supports a variety of industrial communication protocols such as IO-Link, Profinet and EtherNet/IP.

Overall, the M8 and M12 Field Wireable Connectors simplify the wiring and maintenance of industrial equipment in factory environments by enabling modular plug-and-play connections.

What Applications are Field Wireable Connectors Used?

Field-wireable connectors like M8 and M12 are widely used for connecting sensors, actuators, machine vision systems, motor controls, robotics, safety devices, industrial networking, and more in industries such as manufacturing, automation, and robotics. These connectors enable reliable connections in various applications and environments, including harsh conditions like washdown procedures in food and beverage industries.

Field Wireable M8/M12 connectors are a cost effective method of quick field repair and are a better solution for equipment installations that require disassembly or periodic rebuilds. However, in new installations, the use of custom overmolded assemblies is more cost-effective and a better choice for use in demanding or corrosive environments. Metabee offers both overmolded connectors and field-wireable connectors. Overmolded solutions tend to be better suited for new and high volume applications, while retrofits, repairs and custom installations often require field wiring solutions.