Binder Debuts M8 12-Pin Circular Connector for Miniaturization and Signal Transmission

The new connector is designed for measurement, control, camera technology, and robotics. Binder USA notes that the circular connector offers advantages, particularly in terms of miniaturization, flexibility, and performance.

Modern machines and automation systems are becoming smaller and more powerful. To design devices efficiently, all components, including connectors, must take up as little space as possible. Several factors drive the industry's demand for compact connectors, including space savings, higher packing density, flexibility, modularity, cost efficiency, improved performance and reliability, user-friendliness, and ergonomics.

Space-saving and Continuous Plug Compatibility

Binder sees miniaturization playing a big part in the future of automation. “We are already very well positioned with our portfolio of smaller sizes such as M5 and M8,” said Guido Werner, product manager at binder. “One of the advantages of M8 is that it requires 20 percent less space for adjacent connectors compared to the next larger series,"

The new edition of the design specification for M8 circular connectors with screw or snap-in locking DIN EN 61076-2-104 also includes the C-coding. "This lays the foundation for continuous plug compatibility in the connector market. New possibilities in signal transmission arise for M8," said Werner.

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Despite the high number of contacts, the M8 12-pin circular connector remains compact, making it ideal for applications with limited space. The high contact density allows for versatile use in a wide range of industrial applications. With IP67 protection, it is well-suited for harsh industrial environments. The support of C-coding and adaptability to future standards and requirements make it a future-proof solution, according to binder.

Customer Demand Was the Initial Spark – and Challenge

Customer needs initiated the development of the M8 12-pin circular connector. A major customer demanded a new generation of length measurement systems that could transmit more than eight signals without increasing the compact size of the M8 circular connector. "The development of the M8 12-pin connector posed several technical challenges for our design and development team,” said Werner. “One of the biggest tasks was to fit 12 pins on the compact M8 connector facet.”

He noted that the solution was achieved through a symmetrical arrangement of the contacts and the introduction of five small coding steps. “This solution enables secure polarization and protects the sensitive contacts from damage,” said Werner. “In production, manual pre-assembly requires a delicate touch. Ultimately, we successfully mastered all challenges through trained personnel and the use of color templates for precise placement of the wires,"

The M8 12-pin circular connector is now a logical addition to the binder standard product portfolio. Leading manufacturers already use M8 12-pin connectors in length measurement systems and laboratory automation for environmental analytics. M8 12-pin connectors are also integrated into industrial cameras from well-known manufacturers.