Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)

The network infrastructure for the Industrial IOT

Hardware for the Ethernet of the future

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.

End-to-end communication from the sensor to the cloud with Single Pair Ethernet

Transmission rates from 10 Mbit/s at transmission lengths of max. 1,000 m up to 1 Gbit/s at a transmission length of max. 40 m
PoDL (Power over Data Line)
Future-proof, standardized plug-in connectors and cables according to IEC 63171-2 (IP20) and IEC 63171-5 (IP67)
Minimum space required in the field and in the device
Robust and easy handling

Use Cases for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)

Process Industry
- Ethernet-APL is specially designed for the requirements of process automation
- APL is based on the IEEE 802.3cg 10BASE-T1L standard and enables the connection of sensors in zone 0 or explosive environments
- Long distances of up to 1,000 meters at 10 Mbps can be covered
- Efficient network structures and faster networks and data transmission in industries such as oil, gas and chemicals
- Manageable and reduced wiring effort due to the multidrop capability of 10BASE-T1S
Building automation
- Increased plug-in connector density on network devices
- Increased transmission lengths of up to 1,000 meters at transmission rates of up to 10 Mbit/s without additional gateways
- Improved security with end-to-end IP communication from IoT (and IIoT) devices
- Simplified commissioning and maintenance of network devices
- Integration of sensors for light, temperature, smoke and air as well as controls for windows and shutters into the building network
Factory automation
- Consistent, scalable and time-critical networking from IIoT devices to the cloud
- Ethernet across all automation levels down to the sensor/actuator level
- Bridging of long distances up to 1,000 meters with a transmission speed of 10 Mbit/s without additional gateways
- PoDL (Power over Data Line) enables simultaneous power and data supply to sensors, actuators and field devices – separate supply lines are not required
- Efficient (and cost-reduced) commissioning, maintenance and retrofitting of plants
Robotics
- Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) enables the miniaturization of communication infrastructure and supports more sophisticated end-of-arm tools for robots
- More bandwidth than conventional protocols, so communication between robot arm and controller can work with larger data frames
- PoDL simplifies cabling along the robot body, as data and power are transmitted in a single cable
- High-resolution 2D or 3D robot vision is possible with transmission rates of 1 Gbit/s at a transmission length of up to 40 meters
- A smaller bending radius compared to conventional automation cables can result in reduced robot body and arm dimensions with Single Pair Ethernet
Process Industry
- Ethernet-APL is specially designed for the requirements of process automation
- APL is based on the IEEE 802.3cg 10BASE-T1L standard and enables the connection of sensors in zone 0 or explosive environments
- Long distances of up to 1,000 meters at 10 Mbps can be covered
- Efficient network structures and faster networks and data transmission in industries such as oil, gas and chemicals
- Manageable and reduced wiring effort due to the multidrop capability of 10BASE-T1S
Building automation
- Increased plug-in connector density on network devices
- Increased transmission lengths of up to 1,000 meters at transmission rates of up to 10 Mbit/s without additional gateways
- Improved security with end-to-end IP communication from IoT (and IIoT) devices
- Simplified commissioning and maintenance of network devices
- Integration of sensors for light, temperature, smoke and air as well as controls for windows and shutters into the building network
Factory automation
- Consistent, scalable and time-critical networking from IIoT devices to the cloud
- Ethernet across all automation levels down to the sensor/actuator level
- Bridging of long distances up to 1,000 meters with a transmission speed of 10 Mbit/s without additional gateways
- PoDL (Power over Data Line) enables simultaneous power and data supply to sensors, actuators and field devices – separate supply lines are not required
- Efficient (and cost-reduced) commissioning, maintenance and retrofitting of plants
Robotics
- Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) enables the miniaturization of communication infrastructure and supports more sophisticated end-of-arm tools for robots
- More bandwidth than conventional protocols, so communication between robot arm and controller can work with larger data frames
- PoDL simplifies cabling along the robot body, as data and power are transmitted in a single cable
- High-resolution 2D or 3D robot vision is possible with transmission rates of 1 Gbit/s at a transmission length of up to 40 meters
- A smaller bending radius compared to conventional automation cables can result in reduced robot body and arm dimensions with Single Pair Ethernet

Single Pair Ethernet: The hardware for the Industrial Ethernet of the future

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.

One solution is Single Pair Ethernet (SPE), an Ethernet standard for data transmission via a single wire pair (2-wire Ethernet). Single Pair Ethernet 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 cables.

Together with partner companies from the connectivity sector, Weidmüller is relying on innovative Single Pair Ethernet technology to develop new industry standards. Single Pair Ethernet technology enables a consistent and economical connection of a large number of end devices in the industrial IoT, from sensors in the field to the cloud.

Product highlights for Single Pair Ethernet

Highlight

Single Pair Ethernet PCB terminal blocks

Easy and efficient SPE solutions for the PCB

OMNIMATE® components from Weidmüller transmit data and voltage via Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) – efficiently and reliably up to 1,000 meters. Ideal for Industrial IoT and Industry 4.0: real-time data and security field device connection.

Reliable data transmission at 10 Mbit/s up to 1,000 meters
Ideal for IIoT devices: cost-effective SPE PCB components for simple field device integration
Optionally available with PUSH IN, SNAP IN or screw connection

About data connectors TO THE PRODUCT CATALOG

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) meets OMNIMATE® 4.0

Discover the new, modular, hybrid system to build every kind of plug-in connector for data, signal and power – also ready for the IIoT. The future-proof system is suitable for the toughest requirements of the digital and connected world.

Innovative SNAP IN connection technology is the most time and cost saving connection technology
Individual configuration for your smart application of the future
Ready for dispatch within a few days thanks to a high-performance digital value chain

OMNIMATE® 4.0 TO THE PRODUCT CATALOG

Ethernet APL: Single Pair Ethernet for the process industry

Ethernet-APL as a dedicated definition of the SPE standard 10Base-T1L enables direct connection via a two-wire solution taking into account the special requirements of the process industry.

Ethernet-APL-compliant connection from the PCB to the field
10 Mbit/s communication for long ranges according to IEEE 802.3cg-2019
PoDL (Power over Data Line) – remote power supply according to IEEE 802.3bu

OMNIMATE® Ethernet APL To the product catalog

Advantages of Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connectors

Particularly compact

Miniaturization of SPE plug-in connectors

Miniaturization of Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connectors

Currently the smallest mating face according to IEC 63171 on the market
Only 20% of the volume of an RJ45 jack, therefore doubling the port-density
Can be integrated into standard M8 housings and plug-in connectors as with I/O-Link or PROFINET

Future-proof SPE plug-in connectors

Ready for the challenges of tomorrow

Future-proof Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connectors

Extensive support within the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance
Suitable for various Ethernet applications with transfer rates from 10 Mbit/s to 1 Gbit/s
Standardization to ensure mating compatibility and transmission reliability

Made for highest demands

The industrial suitability of SPE plug-in connectors

Industrial suitability of Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connectors

Robust metal enclosure with metal snap-on hooks
Coupling attenuation at 600 MHz according to IEEE 802.3
Shock resistant and vibration resistant according to IEC 60068

Easy to use

The simplicity of SPE plug-in connectors

Simplicity of Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connectors

Industry standard plugs and sockets with metal snap-on hook lock
Simple installation due to a two-part plug
Compatibility of IP20 and IP67 variants

FAQ

What is Single Pair Ethernet?

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.
Single Pair Ethernet 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.
How does Single Pair Ethernet work?

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is an Ethernet standard that enables data transmission via a single wire pair (2-wire Ethernet). This technology was developed to simplify and optimize industrial applications. SPE transmits both data and power (Power over Data Line) via a single pair of wires, which reduces cabling costs and simplifies installation.
SPE uses a symmetric transmission technology in which data is transmitted in both directions simultaneously via a single pair of wires. This technology enables stable and reliable connections even over long distances and under difficult industrial conditions. With transmission rates of 10 Mbit/s at transmission lengths of up to 1000 meters and up to 1 Gbit/s at transmission lengths of up to 40 meters, SPE is ideal for use in the Industrial IoT, from sensors to control units.
What is the advantage of Single Pair Ethernet?

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 system availability with more production data. The reduction to only one pair of wires significantly reduces the cabling effort.
In addition, Single Pair Ethernet (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 ensured – from sensors to the cloud. Get ready for the future – with Single Pair Ethernet as the key technology for industrial communication and network infrastructure!
What is the difference between Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Ethernet-APL?

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 cables, and plugs for tool-free assembly in IP20 and IP67 environments. For Ethernet APL in the process industry, Weidmüller offers a wide range of components that are qualified for Ethernet APL, such as conventional terminals with screw or tension clamp connection, OMNIMATE® PCB terminals and PCB plug-in connectors, as well as built-in plugs and plugs 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 supply over twisted-pair cables of up to 1,000 m while addressing intrinsic safety.
What data rates are possible with Single Pair Ethernet?

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.
Is it possible to transmit power, such as with PoE (Power over Ethernet)?

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 24 V to 48 V and can provide power classes up to 52 W at the Power Source Equipment (PSE). This makes the use of Single Pair Ethernet even more efficient and saves space as well as costs.
What is the difference to existing Ethernet solutions?

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 inter operable.
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.
Which Single Pair Ethernet plug-in connector standards are available?
The IEC standard IEC 63171 applies to the standardization of Single Pair Ethernet connectivity. 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.
- M1I1C1E1 corresponds to applications in typical office environment
- M2I2C2E2 corresponds to applications in light industrial environment (light stress, e.g. in control cabinets)
- M3I3C3E3 corresponds to applications in heavy industrial environment (heavy-duty, in machines and plants)
IEC 63171: basic standard
- IEC 63171-1: for M1I1C1E1 applications
- IEC 63171-2: IP20 for M2I2C2E2 applications
- IEC 63171-3: for M1I1C1E1 applications
- IEC 63171-4: Withdrawn
- IEC 63171-5: IP67 based on IEC 63171-2 mating face for M2I2C2E2 and M3I3C3E3 applications
- IEC 63171-6: for M2I2C2E2 and M3I3C3E3 applications
- IEC 63171-7: M3I3C3E3 Hybrid M12 SPE plug-in connectors (data and power)
What is the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance?

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 Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance promotes exchange between experts from various technological 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.

Services related to Single Pair Ethernet

White paper about Single Pair Ethernet

This white paper provides detailed insight into the possibilities that new Single Pair Ethernet technology provides, focusing on use cases, the state of standardization and plug-in connector development.

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Videos on Single Pair Ethernet

In short clips, our SPE expert Simon Seereiner explains why SPE is the network infrastructure of the Industrial IoT. Let us introduce you to the communication architecture of tomorrow.

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Discover & order Single Pair Ethernet sample products

Free 72-hour sample service

Order your Single Pair Ethernet sample product quickly and easily: Use the free 72-hour sample service! We deliver your Single Pair Ethernet samples to the desired location within 72 hours.

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Single Pair Ethernet sample set

Quickly and easily request a sample set with our Single Pair Ethernet plug according to IEC 63171. Please use the order form in our product catalog.

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Perfect complements for Single Pair Ethernet

Ethernet-APL components OMNIMATE®

Weidmüller offers a wide range of components for Single Pair Ethernet that are qualified for Ethernet APL. These include OMNIMATE® PCB plug-in connectors and PCB terminals, built-in plug-in connectors and those suitable for field assembly (M12). They provide a reliable connection to field devices using two-wire technology. This makes plant data available in real time. We offer you components with connection technologies that have been proven many times over. Their color-coded markings support an intuitive and error-free wiring.

Industrial Ethernet Switches

Single Pair Ethernet enables data transmission and power supply via just one pair of wires, which is particularly advantageous in automation technology, building automation and industrial applications. Unmanaged switches designed for SPE require no configuration and are still customizable. They use basic standardized protocols, such as autonegotiation, autocrossing and flow control, allowing them to adapt automatically to widely varying transmission speeds or plug assignments.

Downloads on the topic of Single Pair Ethernet

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 white paper to get exactly the information you need for your application fields. Use these resources to find the right Single Pair Ethernet solution for your individual needs.