Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors


Hybrid connectors for distributed automation

I&C February 2026 Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors


With its portfolio of hybrid connectors, Beckhoff is setting a milestone in distributed automation. The ECP and ENP connector series combine power with signal and data communication by means of One Cable Automation (OCA) and significantly reduce cabling work. Consistent modularity, a uniform data core, and full compatibility in accordance with DIN EN IEC 61076-2-118 assure reliability for users and future viability. Over 200 000 interfaces are already implemented in the field, underlining the outstanding practicality of hybrid connectors.

Against the backdrop of more modular, distributed system concepts, Beckhoff’s hybrid connectors represent a future-oriented solution which offers an integrated, standardised, yet flexible, connectivity platform based on the OCA approach. This portfolio comprises connectors in sizes B12, B17, B23, and B40. They transmit 24 V DC at I/O level as well as 400 V AC for drives or up to 630 V AC/850 V DC and currents of up to 72 A. The ECP and ENP connector families form the technological foundation for a wide range of applications for control cabinet-free automation.

One particular advantage of the hybrid connectors is their modularity. The data module, which is standardised across all sizes, enables a reduction in the number of variants while maintaining a high degree of flexibility. The mechanical and visual coding reliably prevents mismating. The connectors can be assembled intuitively from just ten individual components. Incorrect assembly is prevented by their mechanics. In practice, this cuts installation time by up to 66% in comparison to similar solutions.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Making high-quality industrial enclosures more accessible
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Rittal has reduced the list price of its AX, KX and stainless-steel compact enclosure ranges, making these IP66-rated solutions with tool-free installation and 30% more cable space more accessible to South African manufacturers and engineering businesses.

Read more...
Economy drive system closes the drive gap in the entry-level segment
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Beckhoff has launched an economy drive system pairing its new AX1000 servo drive and AM1000 servomotor with the AF1000 dual-axis variable frequency drive on a shared EtherCAT platform, targeting series machines and price-sensitive markets without sacrificing TwinCAT integration or functional safety.

Read more...
XPlanar aids innovation in laser processing
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Aalborg University is among the first in the world to test Beckhoff’s XPlanar intelligent transport system in advanced laser processes, achieving micrometer-precise workpiece positioning and dramatically shorter lead times compared with traditional tool-based manufacturing.

Read more...
Electromagnetic interference filters
Vepac Electronics Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Electromagnetic interference filters suppress unwanted noise in electronic systems, ensuring devices meet compatibility standards, and operate reliably in environments from medical equipment and radio circuits to industrial power converters and renewable energy systems.

Read more...
Ready-to-use hybrid cables
igus Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
igus South Africa is expanding its readycable hybrid range, combining power and data transmission in a single line to simplify automation cabling. The latest additions include harnessed cables for Siemens Sinamics S210 drives and SEW-EURODRIVE motors with MOVILINK

Read more...
XPlanar aids innovation in laser processing
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Aalborg University is among the first in the world to test Beckhoff’s XPlanar intelligent transport system in advanced laser processes, opening the door to faster, tool-free production of metal parts.

Read more...
Dynamic control of industrial solar plants and energy storage systems
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice IT in Manufacturing
Spanish group, Power Electronics uses Beckhoff embedded PCs and TwinCAT software to achieve switching times of 110 ms across solar and battery storage systems, enabling the delivery of grid support services that command higher energy prices.

Read more...
PC-based control in surgery
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Researchers at the University of Basel are using Beckhoff PC-based control technology to develop a miniature laser robot for minimally invasive bone surgery.

Read more...
Cutting-edge plastic e-chain protects cables in cleanrooms
igus Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
igus has developed the C6 cleanroom energy chain with an e-spin guide system that allows abrasion-resistant cable travel over distances of up to 30 metres without generating the microparticles that standard energy chains produce.

Read more...
Test bench for temperature calibrating power semiconductors
Beckhoff Automation Temperature Measurement
Precise temperature characteristics are essential for performing power cycling tests on power semiconductors. Infineon Technologies determines these characteristic curves on a test bench using PC-based control. As a result, calibration has become more precise and the efficiency of the entire test laboratory has increased significantly.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved