Industrial Ethernet & Fieldbus Cable
Industrial Ethernet & Fieldbus Cable: M12, DeviceNet and RS485 Cabling for Automation Networks
Machine builders and controls technicians wiring a PLC network, VFD, or sensor bus need cable that survives vibration, oil exposure, and constant cable-chain movement — general-purpose data cable won't hold up on a factory floor. This range covers industrial ethernet cordsets and fieldbus cable for DeviceNet, Profinet, CAN, and RS485 networks, suited to panel builders, automation technicians, and process engineers across manufacturing and processing sites. For higher-throughput links between switches and drives, the M12 X-code Cat6a cordset supports Gigabit-rated industrial ethernet, and our guide to M12 ethernet cable selection covers connector coding for new installs.
What's in This Range
- M12 to RJ45 Cat6a industrial ethernet cordset — a shielded 10m cordset built for Gigabit-rated links between managed switches and field devices.
- Profinet cable, M12 to RJ45 — the IP65/IP67-rated Profinet lead handles direct connection to PLC and drive hardware in wash-down areas.
- DeviceNet thick cable — an IP67 grey trunk cable for main bus runs on CIP-based control networks.
- DeviceNet thin cable — a IP67 yellow drop cable for device-level connections off the main trunk.
- RS485 fieldbus cable — an LSZH-jacketed cable suited to Modbus and serial communication runs in enclosed spaces.
- CAN bus cable, M12 shielded — a 5m straight cordset for CANopen and industrial control networks.
- High-flex industrial ethernet cordset for drag chains — a TPE-jacketed M12 to RJ45 lead rated for continuous flex on moving machine sections.
- Industrial fibre optic cable kit — a data transmission kit for long-distance or high-noise ethernet backbone runs.
Who Uses This
This range gets specified on manufacturing lines, packaging equipment, and processing facilities where PLCs, VFDs, and sensors need a reliable network backbone. Panel builders use DeviceNet and CAN cable for machine control wiring, while automation technicians reach for shielded M12 ethernet cordsets during switchboard upgrades and SCADA network installs. High-flex cable gets specified wherever the run crosses a cable drag chain or moving gantry.
Industrial Ethernet & Fieldbus Cable — Common Questions
What's the difference between DeviceNet thick and thin cable?
Thick DeviceNet cable carries the main trunk line and higher current load across longer runs, while thin cable connects individual devices off that trunk over shorter distances. Most installations use thick cable for the backbone and shorter cordsets, like the Kwiklink heavy-duty cable, for drops to sensors and actuators. Match the current rating to your device load before selecting a length.
Do I need shielded cable for an industrial ethernet network?
Yes, in most plant environments. Shielding protects the signal from electrical noise generated by VFDs, motors, and switching equipment nearby. A shielded M12 cordset, such as the high-flex PUR cordset, holds signal integrity better than unshielded cable when routed near power cabling or through trays with mixed services.
What IP rating do I need for DeviceNet cable in a wash-down area?
Look for IP67-rated DeviceNet cable with moulded connectors if the run passes through a wash-down or outdoor area — the sealed connection resists moisture and dust ingress far better than IP20 cable designed for enclosure interiors. Our DeviceNet cable guide covers connector types and current ratings in more detail.
Why Choose SCHNAP
- Industrial ethernet and fieldbus cable from established brands including Allen-Bradley, SICK, and NHP, tested for demanding plant environments.
- IP67-rated connectors and cordsets across most of the range, built to handle wash-down areas and outdoor installations.
- Cable lengths from 1m cordsets through to 600m drum lengths, so you can spec the exact run without over-ordering.
Wiring a fieldbus network from scratch or extending an existing one? Our RS485 cable guide covers wiring practices for serial and Modbus networks. Get in touch with the SCHNAP team for trade pricing on industrial ethernet and fieldbus cable.
