75 % smaller device interface for industrial-grade network connections

Espelkamp, 9 September 2026 --- ODVA specifies the new compact and robust ix Industrial® Interface for Ethernet/IP.

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The ODVA (Open DeviceNet Vendor Association) has now officially specified the compact and industrial-grade ix Industrial® mating face for Ethernet/IP network applications. This completes the picture of standardization and referencing for the much smaller alternative to the classic RJ45 connector. In addition to Ethernet/IP, the ix Industrial® is already an integral part of leading industry standards, including PROFINET, CC-Link IE TSN, FL-net and GigE Vision.

Consistent miniaturization combined with significantly increased robustness and performance for reliable data transmission take into account the paradigm shift in industry. ix Industrial® is the standardized miniature Ethernet connector of the next generation and replaces the ubiquitous RJ45. As an official IEC standard (IEC 61076-3-124), ix Industrial® is offered by three independent manufacturers – Hirose, HARTING and Amphenol. This guarantees users free market access, price diversity and long-term supply security without manufacturer dependency.

The need for smaller, more robust interfaces is undisputed: RJ45, the previous standard in the industrial Ethernet market, is large, mechanically vulnerable and reaches its limits in modern compact devices. ix Industrial® solves this problem consistently. With an assembly pitch of only 10 mm and a volume reduced by around 75 % compared to RJ45, the connector enables a significantly higher port density in a confined space – a decisive advantage for manufacturers of industrial PCs, robot controllers, servo drives and FA cameras.

Mechanically, ix Industrial® sets new standards: A robust double-row contact system, two metal locks and a high-strength PCB connection through THR shield pins ensure reliable operation even under harsh industrial conditions. Tested 5,000 mating/disconnection cycles at operating temperatures from −40 °C to +85 °C prove the durability. A pull-tab variant makes unlocking easier even in confined installation situations.

Electrically, ix Industrial® offers Cat. 6A performance with 360° full shielding and is designed for data rates of up to 10 Gbit/s (10GBASE-T). In addition, it supports IEEE802.3bt PoE++ with 1.5 A current carrying capacity per pair – ideal for directly powering field devices via the Ethernet cable.

The product range is broadly based: in addition to standard sockets and angle variants, connectors with IDC or solder connection, IP65/67 versions with HARTING push-pull locking and variants with integrated magnetics (ix MAG) are available. Field-assembleable designs allow on-site assembly without the need for special tools. Cable assemblies – also known as ix-to-RJ45 transition cables – are available worldwide through distributors such as Sinbon and Misumi. Renowned companies such as Siemens, Beckhoff and B&R have already successfully integrated the ix Industrial® into their own products.

Development teams that are now entering their next product developments should integrate ix Industrial® into upcoming devices as a robust, industrial-grade and significantly smaller alternative to the RJ45. The significantly smaller, internationally standardized interface offers the opportunity to make devices more compact, robust and future-proof.

Learn more: harting.com

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