Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) enhances modern communication infrastructures. Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive SPE product portfolio, providing technical solutions and cross-industry expertise.
Unlike conventional Ethernet, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) uses just one wire pair to transmit data and power. It supports transmission rates from 10 Mbps over 1,000 m to 1 Gbps over 40 m, making it ideal for demanding applications like networked sensors and camera systems. SPE overcomes previous limitations in data rates, ranges, and seamless communication.
Connections of up to 1000 m
Conventional Ethernet is limited to 100 meters for point-to-point connections, requiring additional repeaters or switches for longer distances, which are prone to faults and maintenance. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) connects devices up to 1,000 meters at 10 Mbps with one cable and supports Power over Data Line (PoDL) technology. SPE can replace specific fieldbus technologies and supports complex network topologies with speeds from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps. New SPE standards being discussed could enable data rates of ≥10 Gbps for short distances (<15 m) and 100 Mbps for up to 500 m, opening new application fields.
Seamless and secure data communication
Classic industrial systems used Ethernet and many fieldbus systems. The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is making these topologies obsolete, requiring more efficient communication systems. This shift is seen in all applications needing seamless sensor and network communication, where secure data connections are critical.
Cost-efficient factory automation
Factories generate about one terabyte of data daily, and this is increasing. Continuous communication is essential for effective data evaluation. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) ensures consistent networking from sensors to the cloud. With more sensors and intelligent devices in industrial applications, SPE is the ideal cabling solution—simple, secure, compact, and cost-effective. SPE will be cheaper than current bus and Ethernet component combinations.
SPE and robots: Space-saving and high-performance
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) benefits autonomous and collaborative robots with higher data transmission rates than conventional fieldbus systems, enabling better communication. It simplifies cabling by combining data and power in one line. Future hybrid SPE solutions will include data and power contacts in one connector. Fewer cables and connections mean fewer errors, faster troubleshooting, and easier maintenance. The smaller bending radius of SPE also optimizes robot handling system design.
Process automation with SPE
In process automation, such as in the oil and gas sector, large sites require complete status overviews and remote control with consistent data flow from sensors to the cloud or ERP systems. Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) provides efficient network structures without intermediary devices. Power over Data Line (PoDL) with SPE enables simultaneous data and power transmission.
Process automation with SPE
In process automation, such as in the oil and gas sector, large sites with massive buildings or tanks are common. Companies need a complete status overview and remote control of all locations with consistent data flow from sensors to the cloud or ERP systems. SPE enables efficient network structures without intermediary devices for signal modulation or gateways. PoDL combined with SPE allows simultaneous data and power transmission in these applications.
APL technology for explosion-protected areas
The Advanced Physical Layer (APL) standard meets high data and power transmission
requirements in explosion-protected areas (zones 0, 1, and 2), used in the
process industry. It combines the 10BASE-T1L standard with the 2-WISE standard
for explosion protection and intrinsic safety. APL covers large distances (up
to 1000 m trunks, 200 m spurs) and ensures interoperability between devices
from different manufacturers. It supports predictive maintenance and modernizes
existing systems cost-effectively using existing cabling and Ethernet protocols
like EtherNet/IP™, HART-IP, OPC UA, and PROFINET. APL benefits industries such
as oil, gas, and chemicals by enabling secure, efficient, and future-proof
networks.
Range advantages for the energy sector
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) benefits renewable energy management, which requires intelligent data handling due to fluctuations. For wind turbines and photovoltaic systems, energy must be measured and fed into the grid intelligently. Modern wind turbines exceed 100 m in height, making conventional Ethernet insufficient. Operators use fiberglass or wireless solutions, but SPE’s increased range is advantageous for covering these distances in wind turbines, solar parks, and power-to-grid/gas systems.
SPE via connector or terminal block
SPE’s performance benefits devices with smarter, more compact, and complex functions in building technology and industrial applications. Device manufacturers need to consider connection technology, often requiring IP protection. Options include IP-protected connectors or cable glands. PCB terminal blocks suitable for SPE can be used inside devices, offering placement flexibility and ease of installation with familiar screw and Push-in connections. Clear color coding of SPE cables helps avoid installation errors, even in challenging environments.
Space-saving connection technology
SPE PCB terminal blocks excel in IP20 environments, like building technology, where space constraints limit connector use. They are ideal for distributor boxes and flush-mounted sockets, offering a space-saving alternative. These terminal blocks allow flush-mount and DIN rail devices to connect directly via an SPE installation cable and integrate into the network.
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