The browser-based Turck Automation Suite TAS graphically displays the measured values of the M12Plus
Besides the incorporated measurement technology, the M12Plus also features an onboard Bluetooth
chip. This enables it to measure voltages and currents and send these measured values to a data
interface in the plant, such as Turck's TBEN-PLC. A Bluetooth dongle enables the robust IP67
controller to read a host of Bluetooth-enabled devices, and the scan intervals can be adjusted
for the particular application in order to ensure optimum performance. The cable data is
transferred to the controller in real time. This information can be used to determine
potential issues such as voltage drops in the cable or the plug contact, even before the
connection actually fails. If required, the controller can be programmed so that an alarm
is triggered as soon as a specific threshold value is reached.
Effective protection from cable failures
The smart M12Plus connector with integrated measurement electronics consists of a
four-core cable (4 x 0.34 mm²) of the TXL series with a polyurethane outer sheath and
is specially designed for use in drag chains. A-coded M12 connectors are fitted to both
ends of the sensor/actuator cable. The integrated sensors enable precise voltage and
current measurement at the male and female connector.
The M12Plus can also be configured conveniently
via TAS
Comparing input and output values thus enables problems such as cable kinks, cable
breaks or an inadequate power supply to be detected early on.
Video Expert Talk: M12Plus Connector
Fast localisation of failures
The measured values enable the precise monitoring of contact quality for reliable
connectivity. Factors such as contact corrosion or wear by repeated mating are taken
into consideration here.
The M12Plus also offers a decisive advantage in localizing
faults in the plant: the unique MAC address of each M12Plus connector makes it
possible to identify the cable at risk of failure directly via the documentation.
