Revolutionizing Industry and Automation: The Power of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) Connectivity

Bringing Industry and Automation Together in an Innovative Approach

With Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) shaping the landscape, production facilities and automation systems are undergoing significant transformations. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE), a groundbreaking technology, is crucial in harnessing the full potential of this shift. This advancement holds particular significance for those in procurement and electrical engineering roles.

Innovative Connectivity for Tomorrow

In the past, Ethernet solutions typically needed two or four wire pairs. However, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) changes this by allowing both data transfer and power supply through just one wire pair. This not only conserves space and cuts costs but also unlocks new possibilities for applications. The Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance, of which Phoenix Contact is a member, is a worldwide organization advocating for the adoption of this technology in Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and various other sectors.

Stretched Polyethylene (SPE) technology allows for data transmission speeds ranging from 10Mbps over distances of up to 1,000m to 1Gbps over distances of 40m. These speeds can accommodate various needs, such as integrated sensor technology and advanced imaging systems, expanding the possibilities for applications that were once limited by data rate, distance, and communication barriers.

In real-world situations, this means that connections spanning up to 1,000m can be handled without the need for repeaters or switches. This is especially beneficial in industrial environments with manufacturing lines and conveyor belts. The higher speeds, along with advancements like Power over Data Line (PoDL), result in significant cost savings. For instance, specialized fieldbus technologies can be substituted with SPE solutions.

Specialized in Industrial Automation, Robotics, and more, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is not just for long distances. With transmission speeds ranging from 10Mbps to 10Gbps, SPE is ideal for intricate network setups that require seamless connections between various systems.

Efficient and safe transmission of data is crucial for the advancement of industrial automation. With the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), there is a need to rethink traditional systems that have been dependent on Ethernet network architecture and separate fieldbus systems. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology allows for smooth and dependable data connectivity in this industry.

With the advancement of factory automation, there is a growing amount of data being produced. This data is valuable in the industry, and it is crucial to have seamless communication from the sensor to the cloud in order to utilize this data effectively. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology helps ensure reliable networking from sensors to the cloud, leading to cost savings compared to traditional bus and Ethernet setups.

SPE is well-suited for robotics applications. Its faster data transfer rate allows for more accurate communication between robots and control units compared to traditional fieldbus systems. The single cable design for data and power simplifies cabling, leading to cost savings and improved performance and maintenance convenience.

Phoenix Contact provides a wide range of products to cater to the requirements of various applications, such as SPE systems. This includes options like M12 hybrid connectors, IP20 connectors, patch cables, M8 and M12 connectors, and PCB terminal blocks.

Future prospects

Single pair Ethernet (SPE) has the potential to revolutionize industrial automation. The compact size and extended reach provide the opportunity to reconsider and deploy different network structures.

Verena Neuhaus works as a Product Marketing Manager in the Data Connectors department at Phoenix Contact. Tim Kindermann is a Product Manager in the Single Pair Ethernet division at Phoenix Contact.

Siemens and PE Energy have joined forces to speed up the advancement of industrial automation and innovation in Nigeria. Avantra is showcasing its leadership in AI and automation at SAP Sapphire. Saab UK is developing innovative technology for deep-sea exploration to reduce risks for divers and the environment. The future of wholesales is being transformed by automation, as seen in L-com's new Arduino PLCs and power supplies. The element14 Community has launched the "Shift It! – Warehouse Automation Challenge" to promote innovation in warehouse operations. STMicroelectronics is leading the way in microcontroller innovations and ultra low power MCUs. They are also dedicated to empowering edge AI innovation and advancing power electronics for aircraft electrification. Sony India has introduced a new series of speakers called ULT POWER SOUND. Pickering Electronics is showcasing their new high power reed relays.