Feature: SPE 6-part series
Article 4: Answers to common questions about implementing single pair ethernet in industrial environments
By Ruud Van Den Brink, product manager industrial communications and Manuel Ruter, senior principal engineer
Factors to be aware of There are some common questions to consider when industrial plants, building automation system OEMs and manufacturing facilities are interested in implementing Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) for connected devices. In the fourth article in our six-part SPE series, we address some of the frequently asked questions about transitioning to SPE.
Q1: What are the advantages? In the not-so-distant past, manufacturers needed four wires to have 100 Mbit/s Ethernet and up to eight wires for 1 Gbit/s Ethernet. Now, with SPE, only two wires are needed for both data and power transmission. This allows high-speed communication with higher bandwidth in a smaller package. Slim and lightweight, yet powerful, this connectivity solution enables the industry to digitise at the field level and is seen as the infrastructure for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). It brings Ethernet down to the sensor/actuator level and reduces complexity. When SPE in the network edge is paired with existing Ethernet and industrial Ethernet solutions, it provides a
46 February 2025
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
fully transparent IP-based industrial network infrastructure, essentially eliminating the need for expensive gateways that add delay to and reduce full transparency in communication. This connectivity allows real-time data collection, and transparent communication, which enables the analysis and exchange of the collected data to accelerate the optimisation of productivity, efficiency, and process controls. Connections up to 1 Gbps and cable length up to 1000 meters for 10 Mbps are possible.
Q2: What do I need to do to start implementing SPE? First, take an inventory of the existing connectivity and devices in your facility. This includes checking cables, noting what type of sensors are on systems and pieces of equipment, and considering the power capabilities of the facility and whether they will meet the standards necessary for SPE. It is also important to think about operational goals and what type of return on investment (ROI) can be achieved with SPE.
Q3: Can SPE co-operate with existing technologies? SPE is the next step forward for many facilities to enhance
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