Termination Types
The termination is how each conductor is secured inside the connector. It sets the tools you need, how long each connector takes, and which wire types it accepts.
| Termination |
How it works |
Good fit for |
| Screw clamp | Each stripped conductor is clamped under a small screw terminal. | General use with a wide range of conductor types; WAGO 756 series screw-clamp plugs and sockets. |
| Push-in or spring clamp | Conductors are pushed into spring terminals without a screwdriver. | Faster termination on the line; Turck FW series sensor connectors use push-in connection. |
| Ethernet termination | Pairs are landed in a keyed insert with a shield connection to the housing. | D-coded and X-coded Industrial Ethernet cable; follow the pair and shield instructions on the datasheet. |
What to Measure Before You Order
- Cable outer diameter. Every field wireable connector seals on a set range of cable diameters. Turck's FW series sensor connectors, for example, accept cable from 4 to 8 mm. Cable outside the range will not seal.
- Conductor size. Check the wire cross-section the terminals accept. The same Turck FW connectors take conductors from 0.14 to 0.75 mm².
- Number of conductors. Match the pin count to the conductors you need to land, plus shield or drain where the connector provides a connection for it.
- Coding, gender, and orientation. The same rules as a molded cordset apply: match the coding and choose the gender opposite to the port, straight or right-angle as space allows.
- Ratings and housing. Confirm voltage, current, and protection rating for the application. Turck's FW series Ethernet connectors, for example, are rated 60 VDC/60 VAC with a metal housing and IP65/IP67 protection.
- Gland thread, if mounting to a housing. Some connectors include a mounting thread such as PG9 for direct entry into an enclosure or device.
Field Wireable or Molded Cordset?
| Choose field wireable when |
Choose a molded cordset when |
| You need a length that isn't stocked or want to cut cable to fit on site | A standard length works and you want the fastest install |
| You are repairing a damaged connector on an otherwise good cable | The connection sees washdown, coolant, or heavy vibration |
| The cable has to pass through a gland or conduit before termination | You need a factory-tested, consistent termination on every cable |
| You are using a specialty or bulk cable that isn't offered as a cordset | The run uses a high flex or drag chain cable that is offered molded |
For molded options, see M12 Cordsets.
M12 Field Wireable Connector FAQ
What is a field wireable M12 connector?
A field wireable M12 connector is a plug or socket that you attach to your own cable on site, instead of buying a factory-molded cordset. The cable passes through a sealing insert and each conductor is secured to a terminal inside, by screw clamp, push-in spring, or another termination method. It is used for custom lengths, repairs, and cable that must be routed before termination.
How do I know if my cable will fit?
Compare your cable's outer diameter and conductor size with the ranges on the connector datasheet. Both must fall inside the stated range for the connector to clamp and seal correctly. For example, Turck's FW series sensor connectors accept 4 to 8 mm cable with 0.14 to 0.75 mm² conductors.
Can I make an M12 Ethernet cable with a field wireable connector?
Yes. Use a D-coded 4-pin field wireable connector for 100 Mbit/s networks such as PROFINET and EtherNet/IP, or an X-coded 8-pin connector with Cat6A cable for Gigabit. Use shielded Industrial Ethernet cable and land the shield as the connector datasheet specifies.
Is a field wireable connector as sealed as a molded cordset?
A correctly assembled field wireable connector meets its stated protection rating, such as IP65/IP67, when the cable diameter is within range and the housing is fully tightened. A molded cordset seals the connector to the jacket at the factory, so it removes the assembly variable. In washdown or high-vibration areas, a molded cordset is usually the safer choice.
What tools do I need?
At minimum, a cable stripper and wire stripper for the conductor size. Screw-clamp connectors also need a small screwdriver, while push-in connectors do not. Tighten the housing and cable gland to the values on the datasheet so the connector seals.
Not sure which connector fits your cable?
Send us the cable part number or its outer diameter and conductor size, plus the device you are connecting, and the Automation Distribution team will match the right M12 connector. Contact Automation Distribution or call 1-888-600-3080.
