When shopping for Ethernet and fiber optic outdoor and industrial connectors, the selection process can be overwhelming due to the variety of features and types available. Understanding the different elements that contribute to performance, durability, and suitability for your specific application ensures you invest wisely in reliable outdoor and industrial connectors. Here, we’ll explore the key features to consider, along with the benefits of these features.

Outdoor vs. Industrial

While both outdoor connectors and industrial connectors are designed to withstand challenging environments, they serve different purposes. Outdoor connectors are made to endure exposure to elements such as moisture, UV light, and temperature fluctuations. They often feature rigorous weatherproofing and ingress protection ratings (such as IP67 or IP68), making them ideal for applications located outside of buildings, like security cameras, outdoor access points, and remote monitoring systems. In contrast, industrial connectors are built to resist mechanical stress, vibration, and other hazards present in industrial settings. These connectors may be used in applications such as factory automation, machinery control, and robotics, where the connection might be exposed to rigorous operational environments but not necessarily outdoor weather conditions.

Cord Grips and Cable Glands

Cord grips and cable glands are critical components for maintaining a secure and watertight connection. Cord grips provide strain relief for the cables, preventing damage from pulling or twisting. Cable glands, on the other hand, act as seals to protect cable entry points from moisture, dust, and other contaminants. In outdoor and industrial settings, using connectors equipped with high-quality cord grips and cable glands is essential for ensuring a stable connection that will withstand environmental conditions.

Different Modes: SM, MM, and SM-APC

In fiber optic connections, single mode (SM), multimode (MM), and single mode angled physical contact (SM-APC) are important distinctions:

  • Single Mode (SM) fibers use a single light path, allowing for long-distance communication (up to several kilometers) and are commonly used in outdoor connections.
  • Multimode (MM) fibers allow multiple light paths and are suitable for shorter distances, making them ideal for use within buildings or for connecting nearby equipment.
  • Single Mode Angled Physical Contact (SM-APC) connectors have an angled end face that reduces back reflections, improving performance in high-bandwidth applications.

Choosing the right mode is vital based on the distance and application of your network.

Connector Types: MPO, RJ-45, M12, LC, SC, and SC/APC

Understanding different connectors is crucial:

  • RJ-45 Connectors: Commonly used for Ethernet connections, these are essential for industrial Ethernet connectors in networking environments. They are straightforward and compatible with Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6a cables.
  • M12 Connectors: Known for their rugged design, M12 connectors for outdoor use are ideal for connecting sensor technology in industrial settings, providing resistance to environmental stress and vibration.
  • MTP/MPO Connectors: Utilized for high-density applications, MTP/MPO outdoor connectors allow multiple fibers to be connected in a single interface, which is essential for data centers and trunk cabling solutions.
  • LC and SC connectors: These are standard types used primarily for fiber optic connections. LC connectors are compact and suitable for high-density applications, while SC connectors offer push-pull designs for easy connectivity.
  • SC/APC Connectors: These feature an angled design to minimize back reflections and are used in applications where signal integrity is critical.

Form Factors: Straight, Simplex, Inline, Duplex, and Bulkhead

The form factor of connectors also impacts installation and application:

  • Straight connectors allow for standard connections, while simplex connectors facilitate single-fiber applications.
  • Inline connectors connect two cable lengths directly in a line.
  • Duplex connectors offer two fibers in a single component, enabling simultaneous send and receive functionalities.
  • Bulkhead connectors permit connection points to be panel-mounted, providing more stable and secure connections in space-restricted areas.

Material Choices: Metal vs. Plastic

The material of connectors should be considered based on the application:

  • Metal connectors offer superior durability and resistance to physical stress, making them ideally suited for rugged fiber optic connectors in industrial environments.
  • Plastic connectors are generally lighter and less expensive but may not withstand the same levels of environmental stress or high-temperature ranges as their metal counterparts.

Ingress Protection Ratings: IP67 vs. IP68

Choosing connectors with appropriate Ingress Protection (IP) ratings is critical for outdoor use:

  • IP67 connectors offer protection against dust and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
  • IP68 connectors provide even higher protection, capable of enduring continuous water immersion beyond 1 meter. For outdoor environments where moisture and dust are concerns, selecting IP68 fiber optic connectors ensures enhanced durability and reliability.

At ShowMeCables, our outdoor and industrial connectors are in stock and available with FREE standard same-day shipping if ordered before 5 p.m. EST. Shop our outdoor and industrial connectors today!