Mencom M12 Molded Cable Overview



April 12 2022

Mencom M12 molded cable cordsets feature an M12 coupling nut and a single keyway. They are referred to as MDC or Micro DC cordsets, however that does not mean they can only be used with DC currents. These molded cables are categorized by the size of their mating thread. They are available in both male or female, straight or right-angle configurations. The A-coded keyway is the industry standard. This differs from the M12 Ethernet cables that feature a D-coded keyway. Cables range from 0.3 to 20 meters with 2 to 12 pin counts. They are rated IP 67 or IP 69 for dust and moisture protection, with the 2 to 8 pin count cables also being UL Listed.

Most of Mencom’s M12 cables are jacketed in yellow PVC, with 22 AWG wire. Other cables can feature PUR (polyurethane) jacket material or 18 AWG wire. PVC stands for polyvinylchloride and has a wide operating temperature range of -40 F to 221 F. It is the less expensive option. PUR material has a narrower temperature range of -40 F to 176 F but is suited to withstand abrasions and chemical exposure. Armored M12 cordsets are also available, with stainless steel or covered stainless steel insulating the cable inside. The stainless steel is made to stand up to abrasions and is crush resistant. The covered stainless steel also makes the entire cable water tight.

The Micro-DC M12 molded cables from Mencom also include male / female extension cables that have a female connector on one end and a male connector on the other. They are most commonly used mainly in factory automation for sensors and actuators, motors, and switches. However, they can be found in a number of applications. Other types of M12 connectors that work with these cables, such as hardwired connectors and receptacles, are also available.