Hot EtherNet/EtherCAT Connectors

Ever wonder what circular connectors are and what they are used for? What are the common types of these connectors? If you struggle to choose a good connector, you have landed on the right site. We have gathered all the information you need to know about circular connectors. From basic design to functionality, this guide covers it all. Stay tuned and keep reading to find out!What Are Circular Connectors?Circular connectors are cylindrical electrical devices with various sizes and multiple circular mating surfaces. Numerous pins attached to connectors that connect with applicable parts to transfer signals, electric power, and even data. You may also know them by circular interconnects. Internal contacts are mated with wires or cables to carry out signals and data.It's rugged structure and vibration resistance are the most fascinating things. But why is that? A rugged structure and good resistance will eventually save it from impact, temperature, and extreme pressure damage. It will also make connectors catch outside signals, interference, and incursion from gases or dust.An array of circular connectors is currently available in various materials, including metal, plastic, and composite. You can also choose from a vast range of connector types, including Hermetic, Push-Pull, Mixed Signal, Keyed, DIN, Metric, Micro, and Nano. A hybrid type can be an excellent option because it combines power, signal, and data into a single device. If you wish to tailor a connector product to a particular application, you should get a modular or custom solution.What Are The Characteristics Of Circular Connectors?Circular connectors have a cylinder shape that provides a higher strength-to-weight ratio than any other shape. It also allows the resistance to accidental coupling, outside elements, and impact damage. More strength means more resilience. However, it frequently requires mating cycles. Similarly, the number of internal pins in a circular connector varies throughout the application. The contract layouts and internal keys are assured through proper alignment and insertion into a mating device. Usually, connectors are connected to threaded areas on the shells, but not always. The main purpose of forming this screw-in connection is to allow them to lock securely and freely into position. It remains intact despite the vibrations and impact due to its robust structure.How Are Circular Connectors Designed?Let's demystify the complex structure of a circular connectors.1. ContractsContracts are the basic material that holds the connectors in place. It includes pins and sockets housed internally to form an electrical connection through mating. A pair of contracts in each cylindrical connector consists of a male contract pin and a female socket.2. InsulatorsInsulators are used to insulate the material that is encapsulated in the contracts. It insulates them from each other alongside a connector shell. It holds the contracts in the right place and properly distorts them from each other.3. ShellThe shell is the outer cover of the connector. It's a house for insulators and contracts. When mating the connector halves, a shell provides a secure connector section to each other.4. Accessories Additional parts are essentially used to position, clamp, secure, guide, and seal the various parts of a connector. Accessories include pins, rings, keys, clamps, gaskets, and more.How To Select a Good Connector?When choosing a good connector, you need to be very considerate. You must look for a good connector with high-speed digital surveillance equipment. The circuit performance and speed should also ensure high signal integrity. However, there are a lot of factors that you should keep in mind when it comes to choosing a connector, which are listed below.● Consider the number of wires you are connecting with your device and connector.● What type of wire are you using?● What kind of receptacle will be required in the connector?● What type of back shell is essential?● Is the connector easily serviced or field-attachable?Here's The CatchNow, if you don't know these and don't want to waste time on technicalities, you can visit APTEK Cables. You can get everything from M5 to M8 to M12 under one roof. APTEK cables provide EMI shielding and a unique design with full metal shells. Moreover, our circular connectors provide reliable signal transmission to withstand high vibration and shock. The high-speed digital-analog system sets APTEK cable's connectors in the market. Multi-pin design ensures that contracts stay intact and can be used for a long period. Due to our unique design, our connectors have marked their place in the aerospace, defence, and medical sectors. What's keeping you away from getting your circular connector from us? Try it once, and you'll be thrilled to see the results! 

Did you know that your daily practices are costing you your circular connectors’ life? If you have spent your hard-earned money on your connectors, you want them to last long.But how will you do so? Well, lucky for you, we have compiled 6 maintenance practices recommended by top manufacturers that will ensure your connectors last the test of time. Shall we have a look?1. Always Perform A Routine InspectionNo matter how good your circular connectors are, continuous use will cause some wear and tear. This is why you need to perform a routine inspection on your connectors. And hey, don't rely on your memory; create a schedule for a routine inspection.You should regularly inspect your connectors for any visible damage signs, and see if they have any cracks, breaks, or corrosion so that you can nip the evil in the bud. You also want to check your connectors’ pins and sockets. If they are bent, misaligned, or damaged, it’s time to replace them.2. Try To Avoid Over-MatingIf you are repeatedly connecting and disconnecting your connectors more than what is necessary, heads up, you’re over-mating your connectors. This will cause premature damage to your circular connectors and, in return, reduce their performance. Don’t get it? Let us explain.Whenever you mate and unmate a connector, a small amount of mechanical stress and friction is placed on the connector's contacts. This will reduce your connector’s lifecycle in the long run, so follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how to mate and unmate safely.3. Avoid Going Over CurrentLike every other thing, your connector has a maximum tolerance for current. This is called the current rating, which represents the highest electric current level it can safely handle.If your connectors are subjected to currents higher than this rating, you risk overheating, contact damage, and sometimes even connector failure. Here are a few ways how you can avoid these issues:● Before choosing a connector, check with your manufacturer and select the one that fits your application.● Regularly monitor current levels to ensure they don't exceed your connector’s maximum limit.● Use fuses or circuit breakers to prevent excessive current from reaching your connectors.4. Regularly Remove Dirt And DebrisNow you might think what harm can a few dust particles do, but, in the long run, these can interfere with the electrical connection of your circular connectors. If you’re experiencing signal degradation, these tiny friends could be the reason. So, regularly inspect your connectors for dirt and debris and remove it using a suitable tool.Ready to clean your connectors? Follow these steps:● You can use compressed air to blow away loose dirt and debris particles by holding the connector at an angle.● Use a soft brush to dislodge stubborn contaminants.● Allow your circular connectors to air dry completely before putting them to use again.5. Adjust According To Your EnvironmentIs your application in an industrial setting or outdoor installation? If yes, they need extra care because these areas face extreme environmental conditions. You wouldn’t even notice that various environmental factors, like temperature, humidity, etc., will wear out your connectors slowly.If you’re still confused, these benefits will help you make a choice:● Humidity: By monitoring humidity levels, you can maintain optimal moisture levels for your connectors to protect them from corrosion and ensure reliable electrical connections.● Temperature: By monitoring temperature, you can identify if your connectors are overheating, face thermal stress, or are undergoing cold-induced brittleness.● Vibrations: If you keep an eye on the vibration levels of your circular connectors, you can easily detect if mechanical stress is affecting their performance in any way.6. Keep Labels And Documents HandyIf you have a huge industrial setup, keeping track of maintenance would be a nightmare for you. You have no idea how easy your maintenance and inspection will become once you start labelling all of your connectors. These 3 labelling and documentation points are any manufacturer’s holy grail; have a look!● Labelling: Each of your circular connectors should be clearly labelled with relevant information such as its type, model number, serial number, and other important details.● Documentation: Start maintaining detailed documentation of each circular connector you own. This will include information such as its installation date, application or system it's used in, maintenance schedule, and any modifications or repairs performed.● Usage Tracking: Additionally, you can record the usage pattern of your connectors, such as the number of mating and unmating cycles, duration of operation, and so on.Here’s The CatchSo we found out that by doing simple things like regular checks and regular cleaning, you can avoid huge problems like damage or corrosion. You should follow the above-mentioned tips but also choose a reliable manufacturer who does quality work.We recommend APTEK because they also offer custom circular connectors made to meet your work conditions. The result? Durable and high-performance connectors! Sounds like what you were looking for? Look them up right now!

You can have a 10/10 circular connector, but do you really believe in one-size-fits-all? Sure, that is what your circular connectors manufacturer tells you, but well, we don’t believe that! Nor should you.When choosing a circular connector, there’s no one product you can rely on, and you need to look for what makes your application tick. Here’s a list of 3 key considerations you should look for before selecting a circular connector for your application.1. Size Of Your Circular ConnectorFirst things first, you want to see if the size of the circular connector matches your application. The rule is simple: larger size circular connectors are for larger contacts, and smaller sizes are for more minor contacts. But here’s why it is important for you to keep in mind the size of your circular connector:● Space Limitations:If your application space is small, why would you need a huge connector? The size of your circular connector must fit within the available space, and it must not interfere with other components.If the size is so big that it interrupts the overall design of the system, it’s time to switch. The M12 Female Field Installable is a good option for small space applications.● Portability And Mobility:If your area of application is something that requires mobility, such as handheld devices or portable electronics, you need a smaller connector. This will help you minimize the weight and make transportation easier.● Compatibility With Existing Infrastructure:You can use a small circular connector all you want, but if it doesn’t fit well with your existing infrastructure, it isn’t useful. Because it will not be able to power your electrical device, transmit data, or transmit signals. So, choosing an optimal-sized circular connector is crucial.2. Material Of Your Circular ConnectorMany of the circular connectors manufacturers you see online are masking cheap material connectors for good ones and selling them for high prices. Don’t fall for such scams, and choose the material of your connectors wisely. Here is a list of different kinds of circular connector materials available for you to choose from:● Simple Plastics:If you want lightweight construction and cost-effectiveness side by side, simple plastics should be your go-to material. Thermoplastics like polyamide (nylon), polycarbonate, polyethylene, and PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) are a few of the most commonly used materials.①. Pros:● Lightweight● Cost-effective②. Cons:● Vulnerable to high temperature● Metal Alloys:Most circular connectors are made of metal alloys like aluminum, brass, stainless steel, etc. This is because of their durability, strength, and corrosion resistance properties, making them suitable for harsh environments. The M8 Circular Female Connector from APTEK is made with metal alloys; check it out here.①. Pros:● Excellent conductivity● Good mechanical strength②. Cons:● Higher cost● Composite Materials:Want enhanced strength, stiffness, and resistance to heat and chemicals? Ask your circular connectors manufacturer to give you one made of composite material. Composite materials are made after combining two or more materials to achieve specific properties better than plastics and metal alloys.①. Pros:● Tailorable properties● Good resistance to corrosion②. Cons:● Limited availability3. Environmental Factors Of UseThere are many reasons why you should ask your circular connectors manufacturer to help you find the best connector for your environment. Here are a few reasons why:● Reliability And Performance:It is possible that your area of application has a high temperature, high humidity, or any kind of mechanical stress. This is why you need a specific connector that is made to last all these environmental challenges and help you go on with uninterrupted operation.● Safety And Compliance:The industry you’re working in has a different set of rules and regulations that must be followed. So, the circular connector you choose must meet the industry-specific safety standards. If not met, you are putting your and many other lives at risk, which is not something you would like to do.● Protection Of Equipment And Components:If your application environment is hostile, it has dust, high temperatures, humidity, etc. Not having an optimized connector will put you under mental strain. There can be frequent damages and breakdowns that can reduce the overall lifespan of your equipment. Your connector should be capable of securing your equipment and its components to work in the long run.● Cost Saving And Easy Maintenance:If your circular connector is not made specifically for your environment, it will exhaust often and increase the need for maintenance. Frequent repairs and replacements can lead to increased downtime and operational costs. This can be avoided by choosing a circular connector that is made to withstand your environmental conditions.Here’s The CatchBefore you jump on the hunt for your connectors, you need to know what you need and what your application needs. If you still haven’t found the circular connector of your dreams, check out APTEK.They have what you need, i.e., quality and efficiency. APTEK’s circular connectors manufacturer also provides you with custom-made products tailored specifically for your application. Check them out, and get the best of engineering expertise.

Have you ever wondered how your smartphone, the plane you're flying in, or the medical device you're using is operating seamlessly? Even in the most demanding situations, these things do their job pretty well. These connectors find their application in a wide range of industries where they help in the transmission of power, data, and signals.All this is because of the advancements in technology, and some such advancements are being seen in the circular connectors world, too. In today's blog post, we will find out how circular connectors manufacturers are pushing boundaries to come up with the best innovations for these connectors. All so that you can enjoy the best benefits, so let's dig right in!1. MiniaturizationJust as the name suggests, circular connectors manufacturers have introduced miniaturization, the trend of reducing the size and weight of connectors while still maintaining their efficacy. This is called miniaturization. Why would you need a mini circular connector, you may ask? Well, take this scenario as an example.Suppose your industry is the aerospace or aviation industry; you'll need miniature-sized connectors to reduce weight and conserve space. Another example is the medical industry, where compact-size connectors are necessary for life-saving equipment like pacemakers, implantable sensors, and so on.Here are the benefits of miniaturization you can enjoy:● Weight Reduction:First and foremost, a small circular connector will definitely have less weight, which can contribute to overall weight saving in electrical equipment. This weight reduction will make your system more portable and energy efficient. Like in automotive applications, using lightweight connectors can help you improve fuel efficiency.● Increased Flexibility:An overweight person can walk less than an normal-weight person, right? The same goes for circular connectors where a minimal design allows the circular connectors manufacturer to be more versatile in applications.You also get greater flexibility in component placement and layout; what more can you ask for? The M5 Female Panel Mount Connector from APTEK fits the miniature model perfectly.2. High-Speed Data TransmissionIt's 2024, and we live in a world that is more like Fast and Furious. So, of course, the circular connectors manufacturer had to come up with options with high-speed data transmission. It means that the connectors being produced now are capable of fast and reliable communication between your electronic devices.These high-speed connectors find applications in industries like telecommunications, industrial automation, data centers, etc. Here's why the world needs to thank the circular connectors manufacturer who came up with this innovative technology:● Enhanced Signal Integrity:You need high-speed data transmission if you want to maintain the integrity of your signals while they travel along the cable. If any degradation occurs in between, you can lose a lot of important data. But with circular connectors designed for high-speed transmission, you get minimized distortion and signal loss, so they are definitely reliable.● Shielding:Did you know that electromagnetic interference EMI and radio frequency interference RFI can distort your signals during transmission? That is not the case with high-speed transmission connectors, which are optimized using metal shells or coatings to shield your data from external electromagnetic fields.3. Sealing InnovationsWhat works in a normal temperature area might not work the same in a high temperature, highly humid area. Environmental stressors can affect the lifespan and effectiveness of your connectors, so they need to be sealed using certain materials. Here's how sealing innovations for connectors are making our lives easier:● Hydrophobic Coating:If your area of application is prone to moisture in the environment, worry not because hydrophobic coating connectors are now available. They repel water and moisture to help minimize the risk of corrosion.● Chemical Resistance:Multiple industries are exposed to harsh chemicals, and these chemicals can damage the connectors. This is where circular connectors with chemical resistance come into action and provide redundant layers of protection for your connectors.● IP Rating:Did you know that there are now specific strict standards that tell how suitable your circular connector is at keeping intruders at bay? This is called Ingress Protection or IP rating and can help you decide whether your connector will withstand your environmental conditions. Circular connectors are now made to meet specific IP ratings so that you can get the worth of your money.Our RecommendationWe have not seen innovations in connectors like APTEK anywhere else. If you don't know already, this is a circular connectors manufacturer brand that has it all. Huge variety, fast delivery, custom products, you name it. Check them out if you haven't. Still confused? Here's one product from them that we can certainly vouch for: the M12 Male Panel Mount Connector.Take Home MessageSo, there you have it! Circular connectors are becoming pretty awesome, aren't they? As we move forward, advanced technologies are being introduced, and they are definitely helping. From enhanced durability to faster results, the variety of circular connectors now available is better than ever. And we only have creative circular connectors manufacturers to thank!