Standardized, miniature Ethernet connector
ix Industrial standardized, miniature Ethernet connector is a mating face for Ethernet/IP network applications and completes the standardization and referencing picture for much smaller alternatives to traditional RJ45 connectors. In addition to Ethernet/IP, this connector is an integral part of industry standards, such as Profinet, CC-Link IE TSN, FL-net and GigE Vision.
Because it’s an official IEC standard (IEC 61076-3-124), ix Industrial can be offered by three independent manufacturers, namely Hirose, Harting and Amphenol, which gives users free market access, price diversity and long-term supply security.
With an assembly pitch of only 10 mm and a volume reduced by around 75% compared to RJ45, ix Industrial enables a higher port density in confined spaces.
On the mechanical side, ix Industrial has a double-row contact system, two metal locks and a high-strength PCB connection through THR shield pins that ensure reliable operation even in harsh conditions. It’s tested to serve for 5,000 mating/disconnection cycles at operating temperatures from -40 °C to 85 °C. A pull-tab variant makes unlocking easier, even in confined areas.
Electrically, ix Industrial offers Cat. 6A performance with 360° full shielding, and is designed for data rates up to 10 Gbit/s (10GBASE-T). It also supports IEEE802.3bt PoE++ with 1.5 A current carrying capacity per pair, which is ideal for directly powering field devices via an Ethernet cable.
In addition to standard sockets and angle variants, ix Industrial provides IDC or solder connections, IP65/67 versions with Harting’s push-pull locking, and variants with integrated magnetics (ix MAG). Field-assembly designs allow onsite implementation without special tools. Cable assemblies, such as ix-to-RJ45 transition cables, are available worldwide via distributors such as Sinbon and Misumi.