DeviceNet Cable Types and Application Guide
--A complete explanation of trunk lines, drop lines, and extension lines
Technical white paper | Premier Cable
1. Introduction
In the field of intelligent manufacturing and industrial automation, DeviceNet networks are widely used to connect key devices such as PLCs, sensors, actuators, and I/O modules. The stable operation of this network is extremely dependent on high-quality, well-structured, and stable connection dedicated cable systems.
Premier Cable focuses on industrial connection solutions and provides high-performance M12 cables and 7/8" circular connector cables adapted to the DeviceNet system, which can meet the full process requirements from trunk lines to branch lines to terminal connections. This article will explain the classification and application of DeviceNet cables in detail to help system integrators and equipment manufacturers improve communication stability and deployment efficiency.
2. Overview of DeviceNet Network Basics
DeviceNet is an industrial communication protocol based on the CAN bus, launched by ODVA, designed for device-level data exchange, supporting master-slave architecture and multi-node communication, and is widely used in field automation scenarios.
The core structure of the DeviceNet network includes:
- Trunk Line: The main communication trunk, responsible for power supply and data transmission
- Drop Line: A branch from the trunk line, used to connect various devices
- Terminal resistor: Terminal resistors are required at both ends of the network to ensure signal integrity
- Connector: Mainly uses M12 A-Coding and 7/8"-16UNF circular connectors
The relationship between communication rate and distance is as follows:
| Rate | Maximum trunk line length | Maximum branch line length | Total branch line length limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 125 kbps | 420m | 6m | 156m |
| 250 kbps | 200m | 6m | 78m |
| 500 kbps | 75m | 6m | 39m |
3. Detailed explanation of DeviceNet cable types
DeviceNet dedicated cables are usually 4-core structures (2 cores for power + 2 cores for data), and are divided into three categories according to the application location:
1). Trunk cable (Thick Cable)
- Function: As the trunk line, it carries communication and power supply tasks
- Structural features: AWG 15 thick wire core, twisted pair + shielding layer, with excellent anti-interference performance
- Typical connection method: 7/8" male/female connector; it can also be customized into M12 connection form for some compact master control devices
2). Branch cable (Thin Cable)
- Function: Lead the trunk line to connect to the terminal device, such as sensor or I/O module
- Structural features: AWG 22 fine conductor, softer and easier to wire
- Typical connection method: M12 A-code male/female, supports quick plug and unplug
3). Extension/Drop Cable
- Function: Used to extend the connection between two devices, or to extend the wiring when the branch line is too long
- Connection form: Flexible combination, M12 to M12, 7/8" to M12, 7/8" to open wire end, etc.
- Wire gauge optional: AWG 15 / AWG 22, selected according to distance and current
4. Connector Selection Guide: M12 vs 7/8"
| Parameter | M12 A-code(4-12pin) | 7/8"-16UN(2-6pin) |
|---|---|---|
| Common Usage | Sensors, I/O modules | Main trunk, equipment power connection |
| Advantages | Small size, easy to deploy | High current, high stability |
| Protection level | IP67 | IP67 |
| Temperature range | -20°C ~ +80°C | -25°C ~ +90°C |
| Maximum current carrying | 4A / each core | 8A / each core |
5. Application examples and topology diagrams
