Compact machines, decentralized units, and shorter commissioning times are increasing the pressure on industrial connection technology. Manufacturers need to use less installation space and fewer cables without compromising operational safety. Standardized hybrid connectors provide an effective answer by combining power, signals, and data within a single interface.
Why standardized hybrid connectors matter
Traditional machine wiring often requires separate cables for power and for signals or data. That architecture occupies valuable space, uses more material, and extends installation time. Hybrid one-cable solutions reduce these requirements. However, many existing solutions are proprietary, limiting compatibility between manufacturers.
Standardization addresses this challenge. International standard IEC 61076-2-117 defines requirements for shielded hybrid circular connectors in sizes from M12 to M40. These requirements include the mechanical interface, electrical characteristics, EMC performance, standard and fast locking, and degrees of protection up to IP67.
As a result, standard-based components can reduce dependence on individual vendors and simplify global procurement. Clearly defined interfaces also support long-term machine availability, spare-part planning, and future device development.
Three functions in one compact interface
The M17 PRO HYBRID is the first product in the M17 format designed in accordance with IEC 61076-2-117. It transmits power, signals, and data through one compact circular connector. Device developers can therefore use fewer interfaces, simplify system layouts, and reduce assembly and material requirements without sacrificing functionality.
The standard covers both the pin connector pattern and the connection thread. This establishes compatibility on the device and pin connector pattern sides while still allowing manufacturers some flexibility in the field-side realization of fast-locking systems.
Faster and safer installation
Phoenix Contact uses that flexibility in its patented ONECLICK fast-locking system. One click indicates that the connector has reached the correct locking position. Tactile and visual feedback provide additional confirmation. Depending on the application, this design can reduce connection time by up to 70% compared with traditional metric screw locking mechanisms.
Integrated touch protection on the power contacts enables the safe use of connector and socket inserts on device and field connectors. It also simplifies series connections in a daisy chain, reducing the need for complex parallel wiring.
Mechanical and color coding help prevent incorrect connections. They distinguish the 50 V Type 2B version from the 630 V Type 2 version defined by IEC 61076-2-117. This clear assignment supports safer installation, maintenance, and replacement.
Compact dimensions without sacrificing performance
Angled device plugs reduce the installed height by approximately 15% compared with standard M17 device plugs, bringing it to around 30 mm. A 21.6 × 21.6 mm flange option is available for straight and angled rotatable device plugs.
Despite its compact construction, the connector’s power contacts support conductor cross-sections up to 1.5 mm² and currents of up to 16 A per contact. Additional signal and data pins can integrate sensors, feedback signals, or communication into the same interface.
Built for demanding industrial applications
The M17 PRO HYBRID is designed to withstand vibration, shock, and temperature in industrial environments. Potential applications include industrial automation, robotics, mobile machinery, ventilation and building systems, automated guided vehicle wheel drives, collaborative robots, compact control units, and decentralized low-voltage drives.
For modular systems, standardized hybrid connectors offer a practical combination of compatibility, compact design, and faster mounting. By bringing power, signals, and data together, they can improve planning reliability while helping manufacturers build scalable machine concepts around predictable interfaces.
The M17 PRO HYBRID combines power, signals, and data in one compact connector designed in accordance with IEC 61076-2-117. Standardization, ONECLICK fast locking, clear coding, compact dimensions, and support for demanding industrial environments make it suitable for modular and decentralized machine concepts.
Explore the M17 hybrid connector portfolio and learn how standardized one-cable connectivity can support compact machine designs: www.phoenixcontact.com/M17hybrid
