Industrial Hybrid Modules, Connectors & Cables: Save on Space & Budget 

This leads us to a similar question we’ve been pondering about I/O modules: Why use two ports and connectors to move power and data signals separately when a single hybrid port and connector can get the job done just as well?

3 Industrial Hybrid Solution Benefits

Industrial hybrid modules, connectors and cables—which transmit Industrial Ethernet protocols (data) and peripheral voltage (power) simultaneously vs. requiring separation—help save space, installation time and money.

Save Money

This one-cable technology reduces expenses in several ways:

• Eliminate need to purchase two types of cables & connectors vs one single, eight-pole cable
• Reduce investment in costly copper connectivity by decreasing amount of materials required
• Reduce time spent on assembly & installation
• Decrease troubleshooting time due to human error during deployment

Reduce Stock

By investing in hybrid modules, connectors and cables that transport power and data together, you will automatically save on storage space. Instead of keeping two kinds of connectors and cables in stock, you only need to keep one on hand.

Save Space

Picture some of the spaces inside your plant that call for data and power connectivity.

Clearance around machinery and equipment can be tight and some applications may involve moving parts—such as robotic arms—making it  difficult to connect cables. As sensors and actuators continue to miniaturize to integrate with robotic and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, space limitations will continue to be a challenge.

Conserve space and tidy up cable trays with hybrid solutions designed to reduce the number of components required to connect. Many hybrid modules, connectors and cables are also designed with a slim footprint to take up as little space as possible.

Although they are specifically designed for limited-space applications in industrial environments, hybrid solutions are versatile enough to be used anywhere inside your plant.

Hybrid Characteristics 

When it comes to dependability and uptime, not all hybrid modules, connectors and cables are created equal. Make the most of your investment by looking for the right options: 

• Deploy in phases—With limited budget or the need to replace only a portion of your architecture, you should be able to do so. Hybrid solutions don’t have to be used across the entire plant. Search for a solution that allows the separation of power and data connections when needed to accommodate integrating hybrid solutions with existing infrastructure when & where it’s most convenient

• Withstand Industrial Environments—As with any connectivity solution deployed inside a plant, hybrid modules, connectors & cables should be built to last regardless of temperature fluctuations, impact, water and dust, vibration, etc.

• Support Standardization—Search for solutions based on standardized wiring components such as M12 Y-connectors, commonly used in industrial environments, to streamline & simplify installation & ongoing management