Connection cables with open cable end

Connection cables with open cable end

Connection cables with open cable ends are generally used in automation technology to connect sensors and actuators with connectors to splitter boxes.

Sensor cable FAQs

What is a sensor cable?

An ifm sensor cable with open cable end links M8/M12 sensors or actuators to splitter boxes. The molded connector ensures reliable communication; the free end gives wiring flexibility. Ecolink’s hand-tight seal, mechanical end stop, and vibration protection reduce installation time and prevent intermittent faults in industrial applications.

What are the 3 wires of a sensor?

Most three-wire sensors use supply, 0 V, and signal. With an open cable end, conductors are clearly separated for field termination. Pair an M8 or m12 sensor cable to the device, then land the free leads in the splitter box. This combination simplifies access, labeling, and future maintenance.

What wire to use for sensors?

Match connector size and environment. Use an m8 sensor cable for compact devices and an m12 sensor cable for common field wiring. Open cable ends support direct termination in splitter boxes, reducing adapters. Choose the ecolink category that fits the application so sealing, shielding, and temperature ratings meet your needs.

What are the 5 types of cable?

Five useful ifm options and why: m8 sensor cable to open end for tight positions, m12 sensor cable to open end for general field wiring, valve-plug to open end for valves, shielded PROFIBUS to open end for EMC-critical runs, and screened CAN bus to open end for mobile or modular systems.

What is an M8 cable?

An ifm m8 sensor cable to open end provides compact, standards-compliant connectivity. The connector side hand-tightens to a repeatable seal; the free end lands quickly in a splitter box. Ecolink’s end stop protects the O-ring and the anti-vibration nut resists loosening, which safeguards signals over time.

What is an M12 cable?

An ifm m12 sensor cable to open end suits broader field wiring and higher robustness. Tool-free sealing speeds installation at the device, while the open end allows tailored routing in the box. Vibration-secure coupling and clear LEDs help technicians verify status and prevent micro-disconnects in demanding positions.

What size is a M8 cable?

“M8” describes the connector interface, not length. Ifm offers M8 cables to open end in multiple lengths and jacket constructions. Selecting the right length avoids strain loops, preserves LED visibility, and shortens installation time. Pick the application category to align materials and shielding with the environment.

What is the difference between M8 and M12 connection technology?

Both meet EN 61076 and share ecolink sealing and vibration protection. M8 favors compact enclosures and dense manifolds; M12 offers broader accessory and routing options. For open cable ends, M12 provides more conductor room in the box, while M8 minimizes device-side footprint. Choose based on device port and space

What is the difference between Ethernet and industrial Ethernet cables?

Office Ethernet targets benign spaces. Industrial ethernet cables are designed for machines with shielding, wide temperature capability, and robust M12 connectors. Where terminations go to managed switches, use pre-terminated network leads. Open cable end designs are typically reserved for sensor/actuator signals rather than Ethernet data terminations.

What is the best Ethernet cable for industrial use?

Use an industrial ethernet cable with M12 connectors and verified shielding for machine networks. For boxes and switches, pre-terminated assemblies preserve impedance and EMC. Reserve open cable ends for sensor/actuator wiring where field termination in splitter boxes is required. This approach protects link quality and saves troubleshooting time.

How does ecolink keep connections sealed without tools?

Hand-tightening compresses the seal to a controlled preload, so IP performance is repeatable without torque tools. The mechanical end stop prevents O-ring damage, and the saw-tooth nut resists vibration. Together, these features maintain sealing and contact integrity, reducing re-tightening and avoiding intermittent errors after installation

Are there options for hygienic and wet areas?

Yes. Ecolink variants for hygienic and wet areas pair sealed M8/M12 connectors with materials suited to washdown. The open cable end enables clean terminations in protected splitter boxes, supporting audit-ready cleaning while keeping device-side connections secure and visible for quick status checks.

What about materials and jackets?

Variants are available with screened PUR constructions for dynamic routing and chemical resistance. Depending on category, other jacket options, such as PVC, may be available to match the application. Selecting the right material balances flexibility, abrasion performance, and cost while maintaining reliable communication under vibration.

How do LEDs help during installation?

Device-side LEDs on the M8/M12 connector remain visible even under bright light. During installation and commissioning, they confirm power and signal state without opening the box. That immediate feedback shortens fault isolation, prevents unnecessary rewiring at the open end, and speeds return to operation.

How do these cables improve long-term reliability?

Open cable ends let technicians land conductors securely where strain relief and shielding are managed. Combined with ecolink’s sealed, vibration-resistant connector, the result is fewer micro-disconnects, better EMC behavior, and faster planned maintenance. Over time, that translates to higher uptime and more predictable service intervals.