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Connecting a sensor to the M12 connector on Logger WD-68 and 4WD

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Logger WD-68 and Logger 4WD use a standardized M12 connector that lets you connect sensors in a plug-and-play fashion.

Sensors provided directly by Consibio have this connector attached by default. You can also attach the connector to third-party sensors and use the same plug-and-play functionality. The specification for the M12 connector is defined below.

Any M12 plug with the specifications below should work with the Logger.

Parameter Value
Connector M12
Pins 8
Coding A
Gender Female

We suggest the part 643721100008 from Würth Elektronik. It requires soldering, but has a high IP rating (IP68). If lower IP ratings can be tolerated, other screw-type connectors can also be used.

Pin no. Signal
1 SDI-12
2 4-20mA input
3 RS485 A(+)
4 RS485 B(-)
5 GND (+ shield)
6 +12 or +24V output for sensor supply (configured on the Logger)
7 Pulse input (NO, Normally Open)
8 +3.3V output for sensor supply

M12 connector pinout diagram showing the 8-pin face of the connector with pin numbers 1 through 8 and their corresponding signal assignments

This guide refers to the suggested M12 sensor plug: 643721100008 from Würth Elektronik.

To mount the M12 sensor plug, follow the steps below:

  1. Install the sensor plug onto the “Tool”, the counterpart of the sensor plug.

    The M12 sensor plug installed onto its mating tool, labeled part 1

  2. Screw part “2” onto part “1”.

    Part 2 of the M12 connector assembly being screwed onto part 1

  3. Unplug the sensor plug from the tool. Install the two gaskets (part 3 and part 4) onto part 2.

    The two gaskets, parts 3 and 4, positioned for installation onto part 2 of the connector

  4. With the two gaskets aligned properly between part 2 and part 5, screw these together.

    Parts 2 and 5 screwed together with the gaskets aligned between them

The fully assembled M12 sensor plug is shown below.

The fully assembled M12 sensor plug after all parts and gaskets have been screwed together

If you run into trouble wiring or mounting the connector, contact support@consibio.com.