FIC-M12F4 Circular Connector Plug - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FIC-M12F4 is a 4-position circular connector plug with female sockets and wire leads, manufactured by Banner Engineering Corporation. This connector is designed for applications requiring M12-4 shell size with threaded fastening and keyed orientation. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for system maintenance, repair, and new design implementations where equivalent functionality is required.

Substiute Parts

FIC-M12F4

Banner Engineering CorporationIn Stock: 749FIC-M12F4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BFW-M12F4-6X

Banner Engineering CorporationIn Stock: 682BFW-M12F4-6X Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The BFW-M12F4-6X qualifies as a functional substitute for the FIC-M12F4 based on the following critical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Connector type: Plug, Female Sockets
• Number of positions: 4
• Shell size: M12-4
• Mounting type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Fastening type: Threaded
• Orientation: Keyed
• Current rating: 4A
• Voltage rating: 250VAC/DC
• Ingress protection: IP67
• Operating temperature range: -25°C ~ 90°C
• Contact finish: Gold
• Shielding: Unshielded

Differing Parameters:

• Termination method: Wire leads (FIC-M12F4) versus Screw (BFW-M12F4-6X)
• Shell material: Zinc aluminum alloy (FIC-M12F4) versus Polyamide nylon, glass filled (BFW-M12F4-6X)
• Cable opening range: 0.157" ~ 0.197" (FIC-M12F4) versus 0.157" ~ 0.236" (BFW-M12F4-6X)
• Insert material: Plastic (FIC-M12F4) versus Thermoplastic polyurethane (BFW-M12F4-6X)

The substitute maintains electrical and mechanical compatibility through identical connector interface specifications, current/voltage ratings, and environmental protection ratings.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The BFW-M12F4-6X is the designated substitute for the obsolete FIC-M12F4. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, ensuring regulatory alignment for industrial and automotive applications.

The primary consideration for selection is the termination method difference: the FIC-M12F4 uses wire leads, while the BFW-M12F4-6X employs screw termination. This distinction requires assessment of the existing installation infrastructure and cable assembly compatibility. The BFW-M12F4-6X's active product status ensures ongoing availability and manufacturer support, whereas the FIC-M12F4's obsolete designation limits future procurement options.

Both connectors deliver equivalent electrical performance across the specified current and voltage ratings, with identical environmental protection and operating temperature ranges suitable for automotive and industrial deployment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the BFW-M12F4-6X directly replace the FIC-M12F4 in existing installations?

A: Direct mechanical and electrical compatibility is established through matching M12-4 shell size, 4-position configuration, threaded fastening, and keyed orientation. The primary integration consideration is the termination method: wire leads versus screw terminals. Cable assembly modifications may be required depending on the existing installation design.

Q: What are the key electrical parameters that determine substitution eligibility?

A: Current rating (4A), voltage rating (250VAC/DC), contact finish (gold), and shielding configuration (unshielded) must match between the original and substitute components. Both the FIC-M12F4 and BFW-M12F4-6X meet these criteria.

Q: Are there compliance differences between these connectors?

A: Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. No regulatory compliance barriers exist for substitution in applications requiring these certifications.

Q: What is the significance of the cable opening range difference?

A: The FIC-M12F4 accommodates cable diameters of 0.157" ~ 0.197" (4.00mm ~ 5.00mm), while the BFW-M12F4-6X accepts 0.157" ~ 0.236" (4.00mm ~ 6.00mm). The wider range of the BFW-M12F4-6X provides greater flexibility for cable selection without compromising sealing integrity or mechanical performance.

Q: Why is the FIC-M12F4 listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. The BFW-M12F4-6X, with active product status, represents the current equivalent offering from Banner Engineering Corporation for this connector category.