Sensor connectors use various coding systems to ensure proper mating and compatibility in different applications. These coding systems are crucial for preventing incorrect connections and are tailored for specific uses. Here are the most common types of coding used in Sensor cables:

• A-coded: Ideal for connecting a range of sensors, actuators, and motors.
• B-coded: Suitable for Fieldbus network cables.
• C-coded: Specifically designed for AC sensors and actuators.
• D-coded: Enables high-speed data transfer up to 100Mbps for network cables.
• X-coded: Supports ultra-fast data transfer up to 10Gbps.
• S-coded: An upgraded version of the C-coded for enhanced performance.
• T-coded: An advanced variant of the A-coded, offering improved capabilities.

Sensor connectors are vital for connecting sensors to devices or systems, and a variety of accessories are available to enhance their performance and durability in different applications. These accessories include:

• Connector Backshells: Designed to protect connectors from environmental factors like moisture and dust, backshells seal the termination point between the connector and cable. They are typically attached to the rear of circular connectors and can also offer protection against electromagnetic and radio frequency interference when paired with shielded cables.
• Connector Seals: To protect connectors from environmental exposure, seals are placed inside the connector or at the cable entry points. Made from durable materials like rubber or plastic, these seals prevent contaminants like dust or moisture from infiltrating the connector and damaging the internal components, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh conditions.
• Connector Strain Relief: Cables are often subjected to stress from bending or continuous movement. Strain relief, or cable glands, are used to secure the cable within the connector, preventing damage from external forces. By absorbing and distributing the stress, strain relief ensures that the cable and connector remain intact and functional over time.

These accessories enhance the lifespan and reliability of sensor connectors, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging industrial environments.

IO-Link is a serial digital communication protocol used in automation technology, connecting sensors or actuators to a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Essentially, IO-Link enables the complete digitization of communication links with sensors and actuators. It is defined under the international standard IEC 61131-9.

In scenarios where binary states (on/off) or analog signals are currently being sent, IO-Link allows the reading of status information from sensors or actuators and writing of parameterization data to them. IO-Link is not another fieldbus system; rather, it’s a point-to-point communication protocol between IO-Link devices and IO-Link masters.

The physical interface for IO-Link communication uses up to a five-wire standard cable (M12-5), although four-wire cables (M12-4, M5, M8) are also common. Among these, the M12-4 and M12-5 cables are the most widely used in the market. The only difference between the two is that the M12-5 interface has an additional fifth wire in the center. IO-Link masters typically use the M12-5 interface to ensure compatibility with devices that support either M12-5 or M12-4 interfaces.

IO-Link ports are classified into two types based on connection methods: Class-A and Class-B.