Item specifics
Description
6ES7972-0BB12-0XA0 Product Overview
The 6ES7972-0BB12-0XA0 is a standard PROFIBUS bus connector (RS-485) from Siemens' SIMATIC NET series, used to connect PROFIBUS stations to the PROFIBUS bus cable. This connector features a 90° cable outlet design, making it particularly suitable for installation in space-constrained control cabinets, effectively preventing excessive cable bending. It is equipped with PG screw-type terminals and has a 35° angled opening for easy wiring using a screwdriver.
This model does not have a programming interface, nor does it include isolated 24V DC power supply terminals. It provides one terminal block for connecting incoming and outgoing cables and supports activating the terminating resistor via a switch. It is widely used for connecting PROFIBUS stations with 9-pin D-sub interfaces, such as ET 200M, ET 200MP/SP, S7-300/400, as well as various drives, converters, and operator panels.
6ES7972-0BB12-0XA0 Key Features
90° Cable Outlet Design: The cable exits at a 90° angle from the D-sub housing, significantly reducing installation depth. Ideal for compact cabinets or equipment with limited internal space.
PG Screw-Type Terminals: Uses PG screw-clamp terminals with a 35° angled opening for the wire entry, making it easy to wire with a standard screwdriver even in tight spaces.
Activatable Terminating Resistor: Integrated terminating resistor that can be easily switched on or off via a toggle switch. The terminating resistor must be activated when the connector is used on the last station of a bus segment to eliminate signal reflections.
High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports standard PROFIBUS baud rates up to 12 Mbit/s, meeting the high-speed data exchange requirements of most industrial field applications.
High-Reliability Mechanical Construction: The metal D-sub housing provides excellent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and mechanical strength. The screw-locking mechanism ensures a reliable connection to the device port, preventing loosening due to vibration.
Broad Station Compatibility: Suitable for all Siemens devices equipped with a 9-pin D-sub female PROFIBUS interface, including S7-300/400, S7-1200/1500 (with CM 1242-5/1243-5), ET 200 series, and third-party PROFIBUS slaves.
Easy Field Wiring: Provides clear terminal labeling for incoming and outgoing cables (A and B). Supports standard PROFIBUS cable (violet), with a recommended conductor size of up to 1.5 mm².
6ES7972-0BB12-0XA0 Applications
PROFIBUS DP Master-Slave Networks: Used as the DP master interface for PLCs like S7-300/400/1500, or as the slave interface for ET 200 remote I/O stations, building stable and reliable fieldbus networks.
Drive Control Systems: Connects SINAMICS converters and SIMODRIVE servo drives for real-time PROFIBUS control and parameter read/write access.
Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Connection: Connects SIMATIC panels, WinCC, or third-party touch screens for high-speed transmission of monitoring data.
Process Instruments & Actuators: Used for connecting pressure, temperature, and flow transmitters, as well as valve positioners, that feature a PROFIBUS PA coupler or a DP interface.
Distributed System Commissioning: Serves as a temporary programming interface (Note: this model has no programming port; use a model with a programming port for this purpose) for on-site device diagnostics and network testing.
6ES7972-0BB12-0XA0 Advantages & Highlights
Space-Saving Design: The 90° cable outlet and compact D-sub housing design are ideal for high-density cabinet installations, avoiding signal attenuation or core breakage caused by excessive cable bending.
Simple and Reliable Wiring: PG screw terminals provide a more reliable crimp connection than standard screw terminals. The 35° angled opening makes screwdriver operation more ergonomic, improving wiring efficiency.
Flexible End Configuration: The integrated terminating resistor switch allows the connector to be easily adapted for intermediate or end-of-segment positions in the network topology without additional accessories.
Robust and Durable Quality: Original Siemens manufacture, all-metal housing, offering vibration resistance, corrosion resistance, and high electromagnetic immunity. IP20 protection rating, suitable for long-term operation in harsh industrial environments.
Plug-and-Play Maintenance: Supports hot swapping (live insertion/removal), allowing stations to be replaced or added without disconnecting network power, reducing unplanned downtime.
Wide Application Base: PROFIBUS is one of the most widely used fieldbuses globally. This connector is the standard component for millions of nodes worldwide, and spare parts are readily available.
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FAQ:
What is the Siemens 6ES7972-0BB12-0AA0 and what is it used for?
It is a 90‑degree PROFIBUS bus connector with an integrated terminating resistor and diagnostic LEDs. It connects PROFIBUS DP stations (PLCs, HMIs, drives, I/O modules) to the RS‑485 network. The metal‑housed plug screws directly onto the 9‑pin D‑sub port of any PROFIBUS device, ensuring reliable signal transmission at up to 12 Mbps.
How does the 0BB12 connector differ from the 0BB11 and 0BB13 variants?
The 0BB12 has a 90‑degree cable outlet, which routes the cable sideways and saves depth in the control cabinet. The 0BB11 has a straight (180‑degree) outlet. The 0BB13 is a FastConnect version that allows insulation‑displacement termination without stripping the cable. All three support the same electrical specifications and terminating resistor function; the choice depends on your cabling layout and preferred termination method.
What cable types are compatible with this PROFIBUS connector?
It accepts standard PROFIBUS cables with a solid or stranded copper core of 0.64–0.8 mm diameter (AWG 22‑20). The screw terminals clamp the conductors securely. For shielded cables, the metal housing provides a large‑area shield connection to the device ground. For quick wiring, use the 0BB13 FastConnect connector; the 0BB12 uses traditional screw terminals.
How do I activate the integrated terminating resistor on the 0BB12?
Slide the switch on the side of the connector to the “ON” position. This connects the internal 220 Ω termination network and disconnects the outgoing bus segment. Always terminate the first and last station on a PROFIBUS segment with the resistor switched ON; leave it OFF on all intermediate stations. A green LED confirms the termination is active.
What do the diagnostic LEDs on the 0BB12 connector mean?
Two LEDs provide immediate bus status: a green LED indicates the connector is powered and the bus is active; a red LED signals a fault, such as a missing termination, a short‑circuit, or a disconnected cable on the terminated end. During normal operation only the green LED should be lit. If the red LED turns on, check the terminating resistor positions and cable integrity.
Which Siemens PLCs and devices can I use this connector with?
Any PROFIBUS device with a 9‑pin D‑sub port is compatible: S7‑300, S7‑400, S7‑1200 (with CP 1242‑5), S7‑1500 (with CM 1542‑5), ET 200 distributed I/O, SINAMICS drives, SIMATIC HMI panels, and third‑party PROFIBUS DP slaves. The connector meets the PROFIBUS standard EN 50170 / IEC 61158.
What is the maximum data rate supported by the 0BB12 connector?
It is designed for PROFIBUS DP networks up to 12 Mbps. The integrated resistor network and symmetrical layout maintain signal integrity at the highest speed. Use a certified PROFIBUS cable and ensure the shield is properly landed to achieve reliable 12 Mbps operation.
Why choose a 90‑degree cable outlet over a straight one?
The 90‑degree outlet directs the cable parallel to the module face, reducing the depth required in front of the PLC. This is especially useful in shallow control panels, when modules are mounted close to a cable duct, or when the cabinet door must close without pressing against the cable bundle.
Can I mix the 0BB12 connector with other PROFIBUS connectors on the same network?
Yes. The 0BB12 is electrically compatible with all standard 9‑pin PROFIBUS connectors (0BB11, 0BB13, third‑party equivalents). The only mechanical difference is the cable exit angle. Ensure all connectors share the same grounding and termination rules for a stable bus.
How do I troubleshoot a PROFIBUS fault using this connector's LEDs?
If the red LED lights up, first verify that the terminating resistor is ON at both ends of the segment. Check for loose screws, a broken cable, or a swapped A/B line. Swap the connector with a known‑good one to isolate the fault. The green LED should be on at every station; if it is off, the connector is not receiving the bus voltage from the station.