IL8M 8-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible

High-Performance 8-Pin Male Underwater Connector for Deep-Sea Applications

The IL8M 8-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector from HYSF SUBSEA is a high-performance subsea electrical connector designed to provide reliable multi-channel power and signal transmission in demanding underwater environments.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the IL8M features eight male electrical contacts, a durable molded neoprene rubber body, and an integrated underwater cable.Engineered for underwater applications at depths of up to 6000 meters, the IL8M provides a dependable electrical connection solution for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), oceanographic instruments, marine monitoring systems, and offshore equipment.The standard IL8M is supplied with approximately 1 meter of underwater cable, making it suitable for connecting external subsea electrical equipment to compatible bulkhead connectors.The IL8M is designed to mate with the BH8F 8-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector.Its Standard Circular mating interface is also compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON 8-pin female connector configurations.Manufactured by HYSF SUBSEA, the IL8M combines robust mechanical construction, gold-plated electrical contacts, dependable underwater sealing, and flexible cable customization options.

Key Features of the IL8M Underwater Connector

1. Eight Male Electrical Contacts

The IL8M features eight precision-manufactured male electrical contacts designed for dependable underwater electrical connections.Its eight-contact configuration allows multiple electrical circuits to be integrated into a single underwater connector interface.Typical applications include:

• Underwater sensor connections
• Electrical power distribution
• Marine instrumentation
• Control and monitoring signals
• Underwater camera systems
• Oceanographic data acquisition equipment
• Subsea robotic platforms
• Offshore electronic systems

Each contact has a nominal current rating of 10 A, subject to the cable configuration and operating conditions.The eight-contact arrangement provides additional connection capacity compared with lower-pin-count connectors.This makes the IL8M suitable for equipment requiring multiple electrical circuits within a compact subsea connection system.

2. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Standard Circular Interface

The IL8M is designed with a mating interface compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 8-pin female connectors.This compatibility makes it suitable for marine equipment manufacturers and offshore operators seeking compatible underwater cable assemblies.The IL8M can be paired with:

• HYSF BH8F female bulkhead connectors
• Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 8-pin female receptacles
• Corresponding SEACON Standard Circular 8-pin female receptacles

Compatibility should always be verified against the exact connector model, contact configuration, and locking arrangement.Important: The IL8M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and is different from the MCIL8M Micro Circular connector.Although both products have eight male contacts, they use different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.

3. Designed for Underwater Depths Up to 6000 Meters

The IL8M is engineered for underwater environments requiring reliable electrical performance under high hydrostatic pressure.The standard connector series supports underwater operating depths of up to 6000 meters of seawater, corresponding to approximately 60 MPa.This makes the IL8M suitable for applications including:

• Deep-sea exploration
• Offshore inspection
• Underwater robotic operations
• Marine scientific research
• Oceanographic monitoring
• Subsea instrumentation
• Underwater observation systems

The maximum operating depth of the complete cable assembly depends on the connector configuration, selected cable, correct mating, and qualification of the assembled system.

4. Durable Molded Neoprene Rubber Construction

The standard IL8M connector features a molded neoprene rubber body designed for demanding marine environments.Neoprene rubber provides flexibility, mechanical durability, and environmental resistance suitable for underwater electrical connections.The molded construction helps protect the cable termination area and provides strain relief where the underwater cable enters the connector body.This design is useful in environments involving:

• Continuous seawater exposure
• Hydrostatic pressure
• Equipment vibration
• Repeated deployment and retrieval
• Routine maintenance and handling

The underwater cable should be routed carefully to avoid excessive bending, pulling forces, or mechanical stress near the connector body.

5. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts

The IL8M incorporates gold-plated electrical contacts designed for dependable conductivity and stable electrical performance.Gold-plated contact surfaces help maintain reliable electrical connections and support repeated mating cycles under appropriate operating conditions.Before connecting the IL8M to a compatible female receptacle, users should inspect the mating interface.The electrical contacts and sealing surfaces should be kept free from sand, sediment, dirt, and other contamination.Correct mating and maintenance procedures help preserve reliable subsea electrical performance.

6. Standard 1-Meter Underwater Cable

The IL8M is normally supplied with approximately 1 meter of integrated underwater cable.This standard cable length provides a convenient connection to external marine electrical equipment.Typical connected devices include:

• Underwater sensors
• Camera systems
• Lighting equipment
• Electronic control modules
• Oceanographic instruments
• Marine monitoring systems
• Subsea data acquisition equipment

Custom cable lengths can be provided according to project requirements.HYSF SUBSEA can also discuss customized conductor configurations, cable construction, shielding requirements, and termination arrangements for OEM applications.Customers requiring specific cable electrical characteristics should confirm these requirements before production.

7. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connector Design

The IL8M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.The connector is designed to support mating and demating in underwater environments when used with compatible mating components.This design is useful for subsea cable replacement, underwater maintenance, and marine equipment servicing.However, wet-mateable does not automatically mean live-mateable.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless the specific connector configuration has been qualified for energized operation.

IL8M Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Product Model	IL8M
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Product Series	Standard Circular
Connector Type	Male Inline Underwater Connector
Contact Configuration	8 Male Contacts
Installation Type	Cable-Mounted Inline Connector
Standard Body Material	Molded Neoprene Rubber
Standard Cable Length	1 m
Rated Voltage	550 V AC/DC
Rated Current	10 A per Contact
Maximum Operating Depth	Up to 6000 m
Pressure Rating	Up to 60 MPa
Electrical Contacts	Gold-Plated
Mating Connector	BH8F
Compatible Connector Families	Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular
Mating Capability	Wet-Mateable
Custom Cable Length	Available Upon Request
Warranty	12 Months

Note: Specifications apply to the standard connector configuration. Final electrical ratings, cable construction, operating depth, and optional features should be verified using the approved product datasheet.

IL8M Eight-Pin Wiring Information

The HYSF Standard Circular 8-pin connector series uses the following standard cable wire color arrangement:

Pin Number	Standard Wire Color
Pin 1	Red
Pin 2	Black
Pin 3	Yellow
Pin 4	Blue
Pin 5	Orange
Pin 6	Brown
Pin 7	Purple
Pin 8	Green

This wiring sequence corresponds to the standard HYSF 8-pin Standard Circular cable configuration.The actual pin-to-wire arrangement should always be verified against the supplied connector’s pin-number diagram.Customized cable constructions or customer-specific wiring assignments may use different conductor colors.For applications requiring precise power and signal assignments, the wiring configuration should be confirmed before manufacturing.

IL8M Compatible Connectors and Accessories

Selecting the correct mating connector and protective accessories is important for reliable underwater electrical connections.

BH8F – 8-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector

The BH8F is the corresponding female bulkhead connector for the IL8M.It features eight female electrical contacts and is designed for installation through the pressure housing of underwater equipment.The standard BH8F is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.Its standard bulkhead mounting thread is 5/8-18 UNF-2A.When the IL8M and BH8F are correctly mated, they provide an underwater electrical interface between the external cable assembly and the internal electrical system of the equipment enclosure.Recommended electrical connection:IL8M Male Inline Connector + BH8F Female Bulkhead ConnectorThis configuration is suitable for underwater sensors, control systems, marine instruments, and other subsea electrical equipment.

DC8M – 8-Pin Male Protective Dummy Plug

The DC8M is the corresponding male protective dummy plug for the BH8F female bulkhead connector.When the IL8M cable connector is disconnected, the DC8M can be installed to help protect the exposed female mating interface.The dummy plug provides protective coverage during equipment maintenance, transportation, and storage.Protective configuration:BH8F Female Bulkhead Connector + DC8M Male Dummy PlugThe DC8M is a non-electrical protective accessory and does not transmit electrical power or signals.

IL8M vs. IL8F

The IL8M and IL8F are opposite-gender inline underwater connectors.

Model	Connector Gender	Corresponding Bulkhead
IL8M	Male	BH8F
IL8F	Female	BH8M

Both belong to the HYSF Standard Circular 8-pin connector series.Customers should confirm the required connector gender before ordering.

Advantages of an 8-Pin Underwater Connector

An eight-contact underwater connector provides a practical solution for equipment requiring multiple electrical connections within a single cable assembly.

Higher Contact Density

The IL8M provides eight electrical contacts in one Standard Circular interface.This supports applications requiring more conductors than lower-pin-count connector configurations.

Multiple Electrical Circuits

The eight-contact arrangement can accommodate suitable power, control, and signal circuits.The actual wiring configuration depends on the selected cable and application requirements.

Reliable Underwater Connection

The connector is designed for demanding subsea environments when correctly mated and used within its specified ratings.

Compatibility With Existing Equipment

Compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular interfaces can simplify equipment integration and replacement projects.

Flexible Cable Configuration

The standard 1-meter cable length can be customized to accommodate different equipment layouts.

IL8M Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Proper installation and handling are essential for maintaining dependable electrical performance.

Step 1: Confirm Connector Compatibility

Verify that the mating receptacle is a compatible Standard Circular 8-pin female connector.Check the exact model number, interface configuration, and contact arrangement.

Step 2: Inspect the Mating Surfaces

Before mating, inspect the IL8M male connector and the corresponding female receptacle.Ensure that the mating surfaces are clean and free from sand, sediment, or visible mechanical damage.

Step 3: Verify Electrical Wiring

Confirm the connector pin numbering and cable conductor identification before connecting the cable to external electrical equipment.For customized cables, use the approved wiring diagram.

Step 4: Mate the Connectors Correctly

Align the IL8M with the compatible female receptacle.Complete the mating process according to the approved connector instructions.Use the appropriate locking arrangement where required.Avoid excessive force or incorrect alignment.

Step 5: Provide Cable Strain Relief

Route the underwater cable carefully.Avoid sharp bends or excessive mechanical loading near the molded connector body.

Step 6: Perform Electrical Testing

Depending on the application, recommended checks may include:

• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Functional equipment testing

For critical subsea applications, the completed assembly should be qualified for its intended operating conditions before deployment.

Typical Applications of IL8M Underwater Connectors

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

ROVs often require multiple electrical circuits for sensors, camera systems, lighting equipment, and control modules.The IL8M provides an eight-contact underwater cable connection for suitable ROV equipment.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

AUVs frequently use external electrical connectors for integrating sensors and electronic instruments.The IL8M can provide a reliable connection between external devices and compatible equipment bulkheads.

Oceanographic Monitoring Instruments

Marine research systems often require multiple electrical connections for power supply, control, and data acquisition.The IL8M can be integrated into suitable underwater measurement and monitoring equipment.

Underwater Cameras and Lighting

Subsea imaging systems may require several conductors for power and control functions.The IL8M provides a durable underwater cable interface within its specified electrical ratings.

Offshore Monitoring Systems

Offshore equipment frequently operates in demanding marine environments.The IL8M can be used in suitable electrical connection systems for offshore monitoring and inspection applications.

Marine Research and Testing

Research institutions and subsea equipment manufacturers can use the IL8M in underwater prototypes, experimental instruments, and test platforms.

HYSF SUBSEA Manufacturing and Quality Control

HYSF SUBSEA specializes in manufacturing underwater electrical connectors, subsea cable assemblies, fiber optic connectors, and customized marine interconnection solutions.Our Standard Circular connector series is designed for demanding subsea operating conditions.Depending on product specifications and project requirements, inspections and testing may include:

• Dimensional inspection
• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Hydrostatic pressure testing
• Salt spray testing
• Mechanical durability evaluation

The standard IL8M connector is supplied with a 12-month warranty.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized cable lengths, conductor configurations, wiring assignments, and specialized subsea cable assemblies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IL8M underwater connector?

The IL8M is an 8-pin male inline underwater electrical connector from the HYSF Standard Circular Series.It is designed to provide electrical connections through an integrated underwater cable.

Which connector mates with IL8M?

The corresponding HYSF mating connector is BH8F, the Standard Circular 8-pin female bulkhead connector.

Is IL8M compatible with SubConn?

Yes. The IL8M is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 8-pin female connectors.The exact mating model should be verified before installation.

What is the standard cable length?

The IL8M is normally supplied with approximately 1 meter of underwater cable.

Can the cable length be customized?

Yes. Customized cable lengths and termination arrangements are available according to project requirements.

What is the maximum operating depth?

The standard connector series supports underwater operating depths of up to 6000 meters, subject to correct mating and qualification of the complete assembly.

What is the rated voltage?

The standard connector series is rated at 550 V AC/DC.

What is the rated current?

The standard IL8M is rated at 10 A per contact, subject to the complete cable assembly design and operating conditions.

Is IL8M wet-mateable?

Yes. IL8M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless energized operation has been specifically qualified.

What is the difference between IL8M and MCIL8M?

IL8M belongs to the Standard Circular Series, while MCIL8M belongs to the Micro Circular Series.They use different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.

Which dummy plug is compatible with BH8F?

The corresponding protective dummy plug is DC8M, designed for the BH8F female bulkhead interface.

Does IL8M have a mounting thread?

IL8M is a cable-mounted inline connector and does not use a bulkhead mounting thread.The corresponding BH8F bulkhead connector uses a 5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread.

Conclusion

The HYSF SUBSEA IL8M 8-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector provides a reliable cable-mounted electrical interface for underwater systems operating in demanding marine environments.Featuring eight male electrical contacts, a durable molded neoprene body, standard 1-meter underwater cable, and deep-sea pressure capability, the IL8M is suitable for ROVs, AUVs, oceanographic instruments, underwater cameras, marine sensors, and offshore monitoring equipment.Its compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular connectors makes it a practical solution for compatible replacement applications and new subsea equipment designs.For a complete underwater electrical connection, the IL8M can be paired with the BH8F 8-pin female bulkhead connector.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized cable lengths, wiring arrangements, and connector configurations to meet specialized subsea project requirements.