This is a YouTube video. By clicking on this video, you agree to Google/YouTube's Privacy Policy & Terms of Use . You also agree to our Privacy Policy.
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.
This is a YouTube video. By clicking on this video, you agree to Google/YouTube's Privacy Policy & Terms of Use . You also agree to our Privacy Policy.
This is a YouTube video. By clicking on this video, you agree to Google/YouTube's Privacy Policy & Terms of Use . You also agree to our Privacy Policy.
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 wires.
Together with partner companies from the connection technology 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.
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.
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.
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, 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!
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.
Weidmuller offers qualified components for both application areas. For Single Pair Ethernet in industrial and building automation, Weidmuller offers miniaturized connectors, patch cords connectors for IP20 and IP67 environments that allow a tool-free assembly. For Ethernet-APL in the process industry, Weidmuller 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 24 V to 48 V and can provide performance 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.
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 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.
Do you need more information about Single Pair Ethernet technology and SPE products from Weidmuller? 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.
Customer Service - USA
Technical Support - USA
