Temposonics M12 8-Pin Connector, Standard Connection for Digital Sensors

Pin Assignment

The M12 8-pin connector on Temposonics sensors follows a standardised pin assignment for SSI applications:

• Pin 1: Supply voltage (+)
• Pin 2: Clock+ (RS-422)
• Pin 3: Supply voltage (−) / GND
• Pin 4: Data+ (RS-422)
• Pin 5: Shield / FE
• Pin 6: Clock− (RS-422)
• Pin 7: Data− (RS-422)
• Pin 8: Reserved / additional function

The differential RS-422 signalling on the clock and data lines provides excellent noise immunity, enabling reliable communication over cable distances up to 1,000 metres in electrically noisy factory environments. For Industrial Ethernet variants, the pin assignment follows the M12 D-coded standard.

Mating Connectors and Cables

Temposonics sensors with M12 8-pin connectors require a corresponding M12 8-pin female cable connector. Pre-assembled cables are available from Emolice in standard lengths (2 m, 5 m, 10 m, 15 m, 20 m) with the correct pin assignment for Temposonics sensors.

When specifying cables:

• Use shielded cables with the shield connected to pin 5 (FE) at the sensor end and to the cabinet earth at the controller end.
• For SSI applications, use cables with twisted pairs for clock and data lines.
• For cable lengths exceeding 20 metres, use cables with a minimum conductor cross-section of 0.34 mm².
• Avoid routing sensor cables parallel to high-voltage power cables or near variable frequency drives.

Emolice stocks compatible M12 8-pin cables and can advise on the correct specification for your installation.

IP Rating and Environmental Protection

The M12 8-pin connector achieves IP67 protection when properly mated and tightened. This means the connection is dust-tight and can withstand temporary immersion in water (up to 1 metre for 30 minutes). This level of protection is suitable for the vast majority of industrial environments including machine tools, hydraulic presses, and outdoor installations.

For applications requiring higher protection (e.g. subsea or high-pressure washdown), Temposonics sensors with cable outlet connections may be more appropriate, as these provide a permanently sealed cable entry.

When to Choose M12 8-Pin

The M12 8-pin connector (D70) is the recommended choice for:

• New installations using SSI, Industrial Ethernet, or other digital interfaces.
• Applications where the sensor may need to be replaced without disturbing the cabling.
• Environments where a reliable, vibration-resistant connection is required.
• Installations where IP67 protection is adequate.

For legacy installations with M16 7-pin cabling, the R-Series V also supports the M16 7-pin connector (D84) to avoid recabling during sensor upgrades.

Compatible Temposonics Families

Related Connectors & Interfaces

Frequently Asked Questions