IP67-sealed RJ-45 connector ruggedises Ethernet

Available in the UK from Aerco is a new industrial RJ-45 connection system that for the first time enables Ethernet and other datacommunication protocols to be used for industrial field devices.

Available in the UK from Aerco is a new industrial RJ-45 connection system that for the first time enables Ethernet and other datacommunication protocols to be used for industrial field devices.

The RJ-Lnxx, industry's first IP67-sealed RJ-45 connector, extends Ethernet from boardroom to the factory floor.

While Ethernet offers strong benefits in a manufacturing environment it is rarely used at this level because, until now, the connectors were not designed to withstand harsh environments.

By combining the industrially proven mini form factor with standard RJ-45 technology to protect against the effects of vibration and accidental disconnection, totally sealing out contaminants and protecting to immersion in water to one metre, the RJ-Lnxx family brings the benefits of Ethernet connectivity to areas where it was previously precluded.

The system provides a robust, secure connection for actuators, sensors and control monitoring equipment operating in harsh environments where commercial RJ-45 connection is unsuitable.

The design is highly suitable for factories and other harsh applications like oil fields, stadium and concert halls, railroads and marinas.

The system is compatible with standard RJ-45 components and provides automation devices with the ability to communicate over existing Intranet/Internet communication mediums so enhancing access to plant floor data.

It also web-enables factory equipment for data collection and remote diagnosis.

Rated at TIA/EIA CAT 5e, the RJ-Lnxx consists of male cordsets that thread directly into a range of female receptacles.

The male connectors achieve IP67-rating by using a rugged outer shell that fully seals the RJ-45 connector.

It includes an IP67 field-attachable version that allows the system designer to determine the required cable length plus a moulded version that offers prewired connectors with various lengths of CAT 5e cable.

The female receptacles are specially designed to be incorporated into industrial devices such as I/O, process transmitters, HMIs, control and supervisory hardware, electrical panels and similar devices.

They also provide manufacturers with the flexibility to use either commercial RJ-45 connection in a 'sterile' environment or the RJ-Lnxx connection system when increased environmental protection or connection security is required.

A shielded cable is provided for protection against electromagnetic interference.

Unshielded connectors are also available for applications where EMI protection is not a priority.

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