The 3M brand is known for many types of products, primarily in the area of high-quality accessories – however, the supplier also offers a wide selection of connectors and cables.
Below we focus on a specific part of the 3M assortment: connectors and cables intended for industrial robotics. This is a field that is constantly evolving, currently further driven by the popularization of machine learning and artificial intelligence. For such systems to operate at full efficiency, it is necessary to use high-quality power and signal connections, including products resistant to operation in dynamic installations. 3M’s solutions facilitate their execution while ensuring high durability and minimizing downtime.
3M’s offer for robotics
CoaXPress Cables
CoaXPress (CXP) cables are solutions for modern industrial applications. This interface is used to create high-capacity and fast connections with cameras, primarily to control processes in automation and robotics. Since the CPX 2.0 interface allows transmission at a speed of 12.5Gb/s per channel, it enables centralized real-time control.
CoaXPress cables are available with BNC, Micro BNC, and DIN connectors. They can be from 3m to 11m long (the maximum transmission distance of CPX-6 is 13m). Wiring has a diameter of 4.2…4.3mm, characterized by good flexibility and durability for operation in dynamic applications. For the 0S version (see symbol), bending resistance is at least 10 million cycles; for the 0G version, the manufacturer guarantees durability exceeding 45 million.
Antenna Cables
MDR Connectors
MDR connectors (Mini D Ribbon) have a variety of applications in electronics, including high-speed data transmission, vision systems, automation and robotics, and measurement equipment. They are smaller and lighter than D-Sub, offer relatively high contact density, low interference, and good temperature resistance (even from -55…105°C). Plugs can be mounted in sockets using clips or screws (3M supplies both types).
The manufacturer’s offer includes female sockets for through-hole and surface mounting (THT, SMT) as well as soldered and crimped (IDC) inserts. These components have from 14 to 50 pins arranged on a 1.27mm pitch (current rating up to 1A). To complete the connector, a plug housing is also needed, which can be purchased in snap-lock or screw versions.
MDR Connectors
Ribbon Cables
Due to their small cross-section and ease of laying, ribbon cables are still often used for digital signal transmission, especially in places where the risk of interference is low. In robotics and automation, they allow connecting PLC controllers, modules made as printed circuit boards, and are also used for internal connections in machines, apparatus, as well as consumer devices (RTV, household appliances). 3M supplies ribbon cables made using PO (polyolefin), PVC HIGH FLEX CABLES (polyvinyl chloride), or material with LSZH properties (low smoke, zero halogen). This makes them compliant with many international standards (including VW-1, UL 21682, CSA AWM). The products also have high thermal resistance (max. -40…105°C), and selected models are adapted for continuous motion.
3M’s assortment includes ribbon cables containing from 6 to 68 cores arranged on pitches of 0.635mm, 1mm or 1.27mm. Most are made in stranded format, but wire cables are also available. Products come in rolls containing 30.5m (other versions in packages up to 100m).
Ribbon Cables
Raster Connectors
The Mini-Clamp series raster connectors are elements for creating 3-4 line connections of wire-to-wire or wire-to-board type. Contacts are placed on a 2mm pitch, and the housings are equipped with clips. These signal connectors can be mounted on wires with a cross-section of 0.14…0.25mm2 or 0.25…0.5mm2 (depending on the model). Mini-Clamp products are perfectly suited for making signal connections inside devices. Notably: they do not require additional tools for assembly.
