1. Configure RJ45 connectors

For residential or office cabling, RJ45 connectors are common applications and relatively easy to install. These types of Ethernet connectors are typically used to connect devices to networks such as most routers and Ethernet switches. To connect two cables, standard male and female chassis connectors are required. It is also possible to use a standard RJ45 male connector at both ends of the connection and then add a female chassis converter, etc.

Advantages: Common applications, convenient, low cost.

Disadvantages: not waterproof, high vibration applications are not very effective, industrial applications are not strong enough.

 

2. Using industrial M12 connectors

For factory industrial wiring, M12 connectors have become the accepted standard. Used in many vision systems, I/O modules, and data loggers, this industrial Ethernet connector maintains data integrity in wet, dusty, and high-vibration areas. It is also often shielded to protect data transmission from electromagnetic interference (EMI).

 

Advantages: Rugged, waterproof, and securely locked.

 

Disadvantages: Female chassis or converters are not universal.

 

3. Use of terminal blocks

Usually freely terminated cables first need to be fitted into a junction box or accessory. Because the sealed portion of the panel must seal the cable, no gaps are allowed when the connector is connected. A common method of connecting data cables is to use a terminal block. Connection methods include: screw-on, push-in spring connection, or insulation displacement connection (IDC) termination. In addition, simple RJ45 connections are commonly used.

 

Advantages: Modularity, DIN rail mounting, various wiring options.

 

Disadvantages: additional housing and sealing required.

 

4, Plugging RJ45 connectors into Ethernet switches

In the last decade, the cost of industrial switches has been greatly reduced, making it less costly to connect multiple Ethernet cables and connectors required. At the same time they need to support standard features such as packet priority, often referred to as Ethernet wire knobs. They need to have a rugged housing, a wide temperature rating range and a DIN rail mounting option.

 

Advantages: Ideal for connecting multiple free-end Ethernet cables. Mechanical port latching avoids accidental unplugging.

 

Disadvantages: Requires additional housing, accessories, and additional sealing. Not cost effective when combining only two cables.

 

5. Using the new IDC watertight inline cable connectors

New developments in articulating connectors make it easier to connect two cables with just one connection without trade-offs or additional parts and work. IDC technology is perfect for field installations because it does not require stripping or any special tools and can be made up to 80% faster than other competing connector solutions. In addition, the small round size of these connectors fits naturally into round cables and allows easy establishment of permanently shielded connections, ensuring reliable data communication.

 

Advantages: Fully shielded, reduced assembly time, only three components, wide cable OD and AWG range, simple and fast field wiring.

 

Disadvantages: Not suitable for plug-and-play.