Molex adds industrial-strength RJ-45 Ethernet plugs and jacks

August 20, 2009 -- Molex has expanded its industrial data interconnect product offering with the introduction of more robust versions of its RJ-45 Ethernet plugs and jacks for use in industrial, marine and telecom applications. Designed specifically for compact applications requiring high density and high protection levels, the IP67 / IP20-rated connectors are built in accordance with the PROFINET specification.

Extended usage of Ethernet applications from office floors to the factory level requires RJ-45 connectors with an enhanced protection level and Category 5 (100 Mbps Fast Ethernet) performance – typical industrial applications include PROFINET driven robotic devices. Molex claims its IP20 data plug is the smallest RJ-45 Ethernet plug on the market and the only version to which 22 AWG cables may be connected to support Insulation Displacement Technology (IDT). The connector is designed with a standard grid of 14.00 mm (.551"), which provides maximum packing density in the application.

Other features include: a push-pull housing that can be locked and unlocked using one hand with minimal force; a durability rating of 750 mating cycles with the hybrid jacks rated at 500 mating cycles and a working voltage of 48V; contact areas that are 1.27-micron gold plated, with the hybrid version 5-micron gold plated; housings manufactured from high-grade thermoplastic which provide a UL 94V-0 flammability rating and an operating temperature range for the connectors of +40 to +70 deg. C.

On the Web:
www.molex.com/product/io/rj45ethernet.html