Manufacturers of industrial devices have been following the trend of miniaturization for some time now, but often they can’t make their product smaller because the required connector is too big. Harting addresses this problem with its new M8 D-coded product. The connector offers fast Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) 
The M8 D-Code connector offers fast Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet via an individual miniaturized interface directly connected to the circuit board — resulting in big space savings for the end device. Source: Harting Technology Groupvia an individual miniaturized interface directly connected to the circuit board. This results in big space savings for the end device.
To optimize the benefits of miniaturization, components don’t just need to be smaller — they also need to speak a single language end-to-end, right down to the last sensor. Ethernet and power are the vital lifelines, but two separate connections are now a luxury from the past. This means that PoE is a critical requirement for smaller devices. This is one benefit the Harting M8 D-code offers: power and Ethernet in a single connection.
The M8 D-Code is IP67 protected, making it suitable for harsh environments. In addition, standardization to PAS IEC 61076-2-114 also makes it a safe investment, as it can be combined with the connectors and sockets of various manufacturers. This means that all users can benefit from a smaller but reliable interface for miniaturization.
