Single Pair Ethernet Promises A Consistent Ethernet Connection From The Sensor To The Cloud

weidmueller 03/04/2020

446 3 minutes read

Key points

Listen to this article

Data communication from the device to the field: Single Pair Ethernet promises a consistent Ethernet connection from the sensor to the cloud.

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is the catchword when it comes to the network infrastructure for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Users hope it will allow them to implement a consistent communication architecture in all applications where data is present.

This is based on the concept of extending Ethernet connection right down to sensor level, i.e. wherever there are no data highways but where users need compact data transmission with a long reach.

Industrial-Ethernet networking is used in industrial applications and offers a range of benefits thanks to its real-time transmission. However, the technology is too complex for simple sensor applications.

Simon Seereiner, Head of Product Management SAI & IE at Weidmüller

“At sensor level, we are still using bus architectures. We now want to create an IP-based communication infrastructure with a uniform communication protocol, reaching from the sensor to the cloud“, explains Simon Seereiner, Head of Product Management SAI & IE at Weidmüller.

Adjusting data transmission rates

Single Pair Ethernet makes it possible. After all, SPE does not require excessive data-transmission rates and can span larger distances, while also having a more compact design. Unlike cabled Ethernet connections, this connection technology requires just one pair of wires rather than two or four pairs.

This is down to a development from the automotive sector, where space and weight savings are of utmost importance. In this sector, it is necessary to have an infrastructure that has as few cables as possible but that can deliver the high performance required due to the increasingly autonomous driving characteristics.

Digitalisation has meant that the same issues are now becoming relevant in the industrial sector: As more and more sensors need to be integrated into machines and systems, the cabling needs to be compact and designed for industrial use.

Single Pair Ethernet is the key technology that makes it possible to implement IoT applications in the industrial sectors: transfer rates of 10 Mbits/s with a transfer length of 1000 m up to 1 Gbit/s with a transfer length of 40 m are completely adequate even for complex sensor systems.

Scanners and cameras for monitoring or for detecting a component's type and location can also be continuously integrated into the network via Ethernet.

Data and power supply in one

Power over Data Line (PoDL) technology means that Single Pair Ethernet can also ensure the power supply to the connected components. Up to 60 W can be guided to an interface during simultaneous data transmission of 100 Mbit/s.

“This makes it possible to supply a sensor with both power and data using just one two-wire cable. And this is all done with a small and compact design“, Seereiner explains. There is no need for an additional power supply cable, which is beneficial when spatial conditions are tight.

Power supply with simultaneous data transmission is set out in the relevant standards. The IEEE has defined a classification into different power classes for this purpose. Since classes 1–9 are already assigned to Power over Ethernet (PoE), the power classes for PoDL start at 10.

Weidmüller's product range already includes two plug-in connectors for Single Pair Ethernet technology; one variation in protection class IP20 and one variation in protection class IP67. Both variations are part of the series of standards IEC 63171, which defines the plug-in connectors for Single Pair Ethernet.

Due to the sturdy locking mechanism, which is similar to that used in the RJ45 plug-in connector, the extraction force of at least 50 N and an industrial dielectric strength of 2.25 kV DC, the new SPE plug-in connectors have the perfect properties for industrial use.

The high density means that up to 50% less space is required compared to RJ45 plug-in connectors in the IP20 environment. Furthermore, the SPE plug-in connectors can be quickly and easily assembled in the field and are suitable for cabling in the AWG 26 to AWG 22 range.

Pooling experience and expertise

Weidmüller has also been involved in technology partnerships right from the start.

“We want to create as broad a foundation as possible for the topic of Single Pair Ethernet, which is why our network includes manufacturers of sensors, cables, plug-in connectors, measuring equipment and chips and also manufacturers of end devices, all of whom are working together to pool their competences“, says Seereiner.

The aim is to guarantee a coordinated infrastructure for devices, plug-in connectors, cables and measurement technology. With a technology of this importance, this involves an extremely wide range of organisations such as the IEEE.

For the IEEE 802.3 cg project, plug-in connectors and their electrical properties were defined for the first time in the IEEE environment. All plug-in connectors can also be used if they meet the electrical properties set out in the standard.

Visit www.weidmueller.com/spe or email marketing@weidmuller.co.uk.

Contact Details About Us Latest News Latest Videos

Weidmüller UK

+44 1162 823470
http://www.weidmueller.com
Klippon House, Centurion Court Office Park, Meridian East, Meridian Business Park Leicester, Leicestershire LE19 1TP GB

About us

Be it automobile manufacturing, electricity production or water management - hardly any of today’s industries can do without electronics and electrical connectivity. In this internationalised, technologically changing world, the complexity of requirements is rapidly increasing due to the emergence of new markets. New, more varied challenges have to be overcome, and the solutions to them will not be found in high-tech products alone. Connectivity is the key, whether it involves power, signals and data, demands and solutions or theory and practice. Industrial Connectivity needs connections. And that’s precisely what we stand for.

Our Industries

Our industrial environment is full of connections that need to be connected, controlled and optimised. We are absolutely committed to always providing the best connection possible. This is not only demonstrated in our products but also in the human connections we maintain: We develop solutions in close cooperation with our customers which meet the full measure of all requirements of their particular industrial environment.

Industry 4.0 and Digitalisation

In the light of Industry 4.0, customised, highly flexible and self-controlling production units often still seem to be a vision of the future. As a progressive thinker and trailblazer, Weidmüller already offers concrete solutions that allow producing companies to prepare themselves for the “Industrial Internet of Things” and for safe production control from the Cloud - without the need to modernise their entire range of machinery.

Where we supply to

UK Ireland

Industries we supply to

Chemicals, Energy and Power, Pharmaceutical Cosmetics Toiletries, Water and Wastewater

Networking of technology and expertise for smart cabinet building

In April 2020 Weidmüller, Komax, Zuken and Armbruster Engineering founded the "Smart Cabinet Building" initiative with the aim of increasing...
The easy way to remote maintenance: Weidmüller u-link

Estimates assume that up to 60% of errors can be resolved or at least supported via remote access. Remote maintenance...
Virtual Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) System Alliance Technology Days 2020

On 22nd and 23rd September, the SPE System Alliance invites experts from different industries and technology areas to an international...
Welcome to the NEW Weidmuller Virtual Fair

Visit Weidmuller’s new virtual fair stand with up-to-date information on their range of products and services. The entrance is free...
ABEL Power & Control Solutions Invests In The Future Of Control Panel Wiring

ABEL Power & Control Solutions is a successful, forward-looking, ambitious panel builder and systems integrator that is constantly seeking ways...
Optimum separation instead of repair: GEA takes the next step in data utilisation with Industrial Analytics from Weidmüller

With Weidmüller's new Automated Machine Learning Software, GEA intends to expand and enhance its range of services in terms of...