The potential of Single Pair Ethernet is huge and experts consider it to be the next generation of communication architecture in automation. Originally developed for automotive applications, it promises nothing less than a continuous connection from the sensor to the cloud. And this is the case in practically every application, whether in industry, logistics, buildings or wherever data is generated. The concept behind it is essentially an extension of the Ethernet to the sensor, that is wherever "tracks" (in the literal sense) rather than data highways are needed in every inch of space within the plant – it is compact, flexible and offers extensive reach.
The SPE System Alliance is an association of leading technology companies from different industries and fields of application who bundle and exchange their expertise regarding Single Pair Ethernet. All partners share the common goal of promoting Single Pair Ethernet technology for Industrial IoT and all other application areas. Details and opportunities to contact the SPE System Alliance can be found on the website. There you will also find more information about Single Pair Ethernet technology, use cases, benefits and much more.
The increasing level of digitalisation of industrial plants calls for the further development of existing Ethernet cabling. For sensors and local, modular control units in particular, conventional cabling concepts are no longer able to meet the new demands with regard to space requirements and installation effort.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is an Ethernet standard for data transmission over a single pair of wires (2-wire Ethernet). SPE is developed to simplify and improve data transmission in industrial applications by providing a simple and cost-effective way to build Ethernet networks over existing wires.
In the development of new industry standards, Weidmüller, together with partners (companies from the connection technology sector), relies on the innovative Single Pair Ethernet technology. Single Pair Ethernet enables the end-to-end connection of a large number of devices in the Industrial IoT, from the sensor to the cloud.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is a technology that meets the essential requirements for IIoT and Industry 4.0 applications and was developed to enable end-to-end intelligent networking across all layers with Industrial Ethernet.
SPE solutions are scalable, deterministic and fully compatible with protocol layers above Physical Layer 1, enabling all components in industrial applications to communicate with each other.
New technologies must be developed to make Ethernet technology universal from the sensor to the cloud and to complement existing fieldbus systems at the process level.
Current Ethernet technology is too complex and oversized for many use cases in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and is often unsuitable for connecting the lowest field level. SPE (2-wire Ethernet) provides a solution by combining long cable lengths with compact design and simple, robust cabling, which is especially advantageous for future use cases in many areas of industry.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is the perfect solution for the challenges of Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The transfer of information from remote sensors and devices is no longer a problem thanks to SPE. With standardized interfaces and a direct connection via a two-wire solution, data and energy can be transmitted via just one line. Best of all, SPE can bridge distances of up to 1,000 m, resulting in increased plant availability with more production data. The reduction to only one pair of wires significantly reduces the cabling effort.
In addition, SPE enables data as well as power transmission via Power over Data Line (PoDL) with transmission speeds of up to 1 GBit/s. A uniform Ethernet-based communication system is thus ensured from sensors to the cloud. Get ready for the future - with SPE as the key technology for industrial communication and network infrastructure!
Do you want to access data from the field in the process industry? Then Ethernet-APL is the solution for you! Ethernet-APL is part of Single Pair Ethernet and was developed especially for the process industry.
Weidmüller offers qualified components for both application areas. For Single Pair Ethernet in industrial and building automation, Weidmüller offers miniaturized connectors, patch cords connectors for IP20 and IP67 environments that allow a tool-free assembly. For Ethernet-APL in the process industry, Weidmüller offers a wide range of components that are qualified for Ethernet-APL, such as classic terminals with screw or tension clamp connection, OMNIMATE® PCB terminals and PCB connectors, built-in connectors suitable for field assembly (M12).
Use Ethernet-APL to access data from the field in a demanding, industrial environment and benefit from reliable data transmission and simultaneous power over twisted-pair cables of up to 1,000 m while addressing intrinsic safety.
Single Pair Ethernet (2-wire Ethernet) describes various Ethernet standards based on IEEE 802.3 and enables transmission rates that are sufficient even for complex sensor components. At a cable transmission length of up to 1,000 m, 10 Mbit/s are possible, while according to the standard, a data rate of 100 Mbit/s to 1 Gbit/s can be achieved with a cable transmission length of 40 m.
However, it is also apparent that the standardized minimum transmission length of 40 m for 100 Mbit and Gigabit can be significantly increased by using suitable infrastructure components.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) now makes powering peripherals even easier and more flexible. Thanks to Power over Data Line (PoDL) technology, power can be supplied to connected devices via the data cable without the need for a separate power supply line. PoDL offers different voltage levels from 24V to 48V and can provide performance classes up to 52W at the Power Source Equipment (PSE). This makes the use of Single Pair Ethernet even more efficient and saves space as well as costs.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is a breakthrough innovation that supports forward-looking application areas in an efficient and cost-saving way. Compared to traditional Ethernet, SPE enables smarter, end-to-end networking that is scalable, deterministic, and fully interoperable.
In contrast to bus systems, SPE (2-wire Ethernet) allows seamless connection of field devices such as sensors, enabling real-time data transmission from the field level to the cloud using end-to-end TCP/IP communication. This is done without additional gateways or duplicate infrastructure for control and IT, which offers a decisive advantage over other systems.
The IEC standard IEC 63171 deals with the standardization of the connection technology of Single Pair Ethernet. The standard defines basic information, testing techniques, and requirements for SPE connectors. The standards cover electrical and transmission characteristics as well as different mating faces. In addition, the standard incorporates the MICE concept (Mechanical, Ingress, Climatic and Electromagnetic), which addresses environmental conditions and areas of use.
IEC 63171: basic standard
The Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance (SPESA) is an association of leading companies that has set itself the goal of optimally exploiting the enormous potential of the new SPE technology for the future. The SPE System Alliance promotes the exchange between experts from various technology areas with the aim of establishing SPE technology in as many markets and applications as possible and creating a common market standard.
For the fast implementation of Single Pair Ethernet, SPESA is also pursuing the goal of building up know-how about the technology and at the same time removing technological hurdles to implementation.
Do you need more information about Single Pair Ethernet technology and SPE products from Weidmüller? We have compiled further information for you, which is available for download. Feel free to download our brochure or whitepaper to get exactly the information you need for your application fields. Use these resources to find the right connection technology for your individual needs.
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