SMC ZS-37-A M12 Adapter: What to Check Before Bench Testing

SMC has introduced the ZS-37-A-X592/X593, a 24 VDC AC adapter with an M12 connector for sensor and wireless-system checks. It gives technicians a way to power supported devices before field wiring is available. The useful change is simpler temporary verification, not a replacement for a machine’s installed power or I/O system.

What SMC’s M12 adapter provides

SMC lists two order codes. The ZS-37-A-X592 includes an AC cable intended for Japan. The ZS-37-A-X593 ships without an AC cable. Both adapter versions accept 100–240 VAC at 50/60 Hz and provide 24 VDC at up to 1 A.

The distinction between adapter input and supplied cable rating matters. SMC rates the X592 cable for 125 V. For input above 125 VAC, its leaflet directs users to select X593 and provide a suitable cable. The adapter inlet is IEC 60320-C8. Buyers should confirm the local plug, cable rating, and site electrical rules before ordering.

Check the device, connector, and current first

An M12 connector describes a mechanical interface, not universal electrical compatibility. SMC specifies an A-coded socket for this adapter. Pin 1 supplies 24 VDC; pin 3 is power ground. Pins 2 and 4 have no connection.

Before connecting a device, compare its catalog pinout with that assignment. Confirm its voltage range and maximum current. Include any attached interface, wireless module, or sensor load in the current check. SMC also warns that some listed devices require a conversion cable. A matching connector shell alone cannot settle that question.

SMC names digital flow switches, pressure switches, flow sensors, and its EXW1 wireless system as application examples. These examples guide a compatibility check; they do not certify every model or configuration. Use the connected device’s own catalog for the final decision.

Where bench verification helps—and where it ends

A technician can use temporary 24 VDC power to confirm that a compatible device starts and displays a plausible value. This can separate a dead device from missing field power during early troubleshooting. It can also expose an ordering or connector mismatch before installation.

That check has a clear limit. Powering a sensor does not prove its PLC input wiring, signal scaling, network communication, alarms, or interlocks. A complete handover still needs field signal verification. Our PLC commissioning checklist covers those subsequent checks.

For a repeatable bench test, record the exact sensor model, adapter order code, connector arrangement, and observed output. Note whether the device was tested alone or with other connected loads. Then repeat the relevant signal and control checks after installation. These steps are editorial recommendations, not claims about a completed field trial.

Certification and purchasing boundary

SMC’s leaflet lists CE and UKCA compliance for the adapter. It also states that the product is not certified to CSA/UL. SMC adds that CSA/UL certification does not apply to connected equipment when this adapter supplies its power. That warning matters when a bench setup forms part of a regulated acceptance procedure.

Before purchase, confirm the intended country, mains cable, connector conversion needs, combined current draw, and acceptance requirements. SMC specifies an operating ambient range of 0–40°C. The available information supports temporary verification use; it does not establish suitability for permanent installation in a particular cabinet.

Quick answers

What is the difference between X592 and X593?

ZS-37-A-X592 includes a Japan-market AC cable rated for 125 V. ZS-37-A-X593 has no AC cable, so the buyer supplies a suitable one.

Will the adapter power any M12 sensor?

No universal compatibility is stated. Check 24 VDC requirements, current draw, A-coding, and the device pinout. Some devices need a conversion cable.

Does a successful bench test complete PLC commissioning?

No. It verifies only the checks actually performed. Field wiring, input mapping, scaling, communications, and interlocks still need separate tests.

Editorial note: AITUOS Controls Editorial Team. News lead: Shawn Dietrich, “SMC AC Adapter Makes Bench Testing M12 Devices Easier for Techs”, Control.com, October 1, 2026. Technical facts were checked against SMC’s product catalog and information leaflet. This article adds independent selection and commissioning analysis.