M12 A-Code Connectors Tips

M12 A-Code Connector Inter-changeability

To put it another way, what is the difference between 3, 4, 5, 8 pole connectors?

First of all let’s clarify one important point the 3, 4 and 5 pole connectors are all interchangeable, the 8 and the newer 12 pole are not!

If you look at the end of the female connector you will always see a minimum of 5 cavities where in the 3 pole version there are only 3 contacts used (1, 3 and 4) and similarly for the 4 pole (1, 2, 3 and 4). The 8 and 12 pole however is totally incompatible with these versions due to the higher number and size of contacts used in these versions.

The 3, 4 and 5 pole are inter-changeable so that you do not have to use a five pole connector where are not using all of the functions of the device that it is connected to. One example being the programming input for some photo-electric sensors is on pin 5, if you are not using it then there is no need to have it connected. There is of course a but, the 5 pole connector has a maximum operating voltage of 60 Volts, so it cannot be used on devices operating at a higher voltage.