Connector Size Guide
Turck names each connector family by size. The family appears in the Product Family field on every Automation Distribution product page, so you can match it to the connector on your device.
| Connector |
Turck Family |
Typical Use |
| M5 | Pentafast | Miniature sensors |
| M8 | Picofast | Compact sensors and small actuators; threaded or snap-lock coupling |
| M12 | Eurofast | Sensors, actuators, IO-Link, Industrial Ethernet |
| M16 | Versafast | Higher current in a compact connector |
| 1/2" (1/2-20 UNF) | Microfast | AC and DC sensors, North American installations |
| 7/8", 1", 1-1/8" | Minifast | Heavy-duty field wiring, DeviceNet, power distribution |
| M23, M27 | Multifast | High pin count home-run cables |
| M16, M23, A-size, D-size | Powerfast | NFPA 79 compliant power for conveyors and material handling |
How to Read a Turck Cordset Part Number
Most Turck M12 cordset part numbers follow the same pattern. For example, WKC 4.5T-2-RSC 4.5T breaks down as follows:
| Code |
Meaning |
| R / W | Straight (R) or right angle (W) connector |
| K / S | Female (K) or male (S) connector |
| 4.5 | Wiring code: 4 = 3 wires, 4.4 = 4 wires, 4.5 = 5 wires, 8 = 8 wires, 12 = 12 wires. A /S suffix such as /S653 (shielded) can change the wiring, so check the product page. |
| -2 | Cable length in meters |
| -RSC 4.5T | Second connector on a double-ended cordset. No second connector means single-ended with flying leads. |
Every product page also lists these details as separate fields (Connection A Gender, Orientation, Coding, No. of Pins, Cable No. of Conductors), so use those to confirm before ordering.
Ordering Notes That Prevent Returns
- Single-ended vs. double-ended: single-ended cordsets have flying leads for terminating in a panel or terminal block. Double-ended cordsets connect a device straight to a junction box, splitter, or I/O module with no wiring.
- Pins vs. conductors: a 5-pin connector may carry only 3 or 4 conductors. Match both to the device wiring diagram.
- M12 coding: A-code for sensors, actuators, and IO-Link; B-code for PROFIBUS; D-code and X-code for Ethernet. Codings are keyed and will not mate with each other.
- Jacket for the environment: PVC for general static runs; TPU or TPE for oil, abrasion, and drag chain motion; PTFE for high-temperature areas. Check the Cable Quality field on each product page.
- Need a custom length? Use field wireable connectors with bulk cable, and cap unused ports with closure caps.
Cordset FAQ
What is the difference between a single-ended and a double-ended cordset?
A single-ended cordset has a molded connector on one end and stripped flying leads on the other, for wiring into a terminal block or panel. A double-ended cordset has a connector on both ends and plugs directly between a device and a junction box, splitter, or I/O module. Double-ended cordsets are also called extension cables or patch cords.
Do I need a male or female cordset for my sensor?
Most sensors have a male connector, so the cordset end that mates with the sensor is female. In Turck part numbers, K indicates a female connector and S indicates a male connector. Confirm the gender in the Connection A Gender field on the product page.
What is the difference between M12 and 1/2" micro-style cordsets?
M12 (Turck Eurofast) uses a metric M12 x 1 thread, while 1/2" micro-style (Turck Microfast) uses a 1/2-20 UNF thread. They look similar but do not mate with each other. Check the thread on your device before ordering.
When should I choose a right-angle connector?
Right-angle connectors are useful where clearance is tight or the cable must run along the machine frame close to the device. They also keep the cable from bending sharply right at the connector. In Turck part numbers, W indicates a right-angle connector and R a straight connector.
Can I connect an M8 sensor to an M12 port?
Yes. Adapter and conversion cordsets have a different connector on each end, such as an M8 female to an M12 male, so an M8 sensor can plug into an M12 junction box or I/O port. Pin count and wiring must still match both devices.
Need Help Matching a Cordset?
Send us your sensor, valve, or device part number and the Automation Distribution team will match the connector, pin count, coding, jacket, and length.
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