Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) - Compact Network Solutions for Industry 4.0 and IIoT

Seamless communication from the sensor to the cloud is essential in the factory automation. Comprehensive data networking and analysis are necessary to predict maintenance cases, plan raw material requirements, and efficiently implement individual customer requests. The challenge lies in ensuring that data is transmitted reliably and quickly. It is also vital that it functions quickly and reliably over longer transmission distances, and that it is easy and flexible to integrate into both IT and OT.

Ethernet down to field level with SPE and PoDL

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) opens up new possibilities for industrial production and communication. It provides reliable Ethernet connectivity via a single twisted pair of cables, reaching directly up to the sensor and actuator level. This reduces space requirements, simplifies installation, and enables the creation of consistent IP-based networks. SPE is used in areas such as intelligent device communication, sensor technology, and monitoring, for example for barcode readers, camera systems, and user interfaces.

Another advantage is that Power over Data Line (PoDL) enables power and data to be transmitted via a single cable. This eliminates the need for separate power cabling, saving time, costs and space.

Future-proof infrastructure for Industry 4.0

SPE and PoDL enable standardised, Ethernet-based communication from sensors to the cloud. As key technologies, they pave the way for a new generation of industrial automation that is powerful, compact and networked. Automation

Precise and fast data transmission is essential in modern robotics. This enables complex movements, real-time control and interaction with the environment.

In addition, space and weight savings are decisive factors for mobile or collaborative robots. Rigid cabling restricts the flexibility of robot arms, accelerates wear and tear, and limits their use in confined or dynamic environments. Lighter, slimmer cabling can significantly increase the agility and service life of systems. As sensors and actuators transmit and require power, a compact, flexible power supply is essential.

One cable. Two functions

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) optimises miniaturisation of communication infrastructure in robotics. Compared to classic fieldbus systems, SPE provides:

• Higher bandwidths that enable fast and reliable communication between the robot arm and controller, even for large data volumes.
• Compact cabling via a single twisted pair of cables, which is ideal for tight installation conditions in end-of-arm tools.
• PoDL functionality, which transmits data and power over the same cable. This reduces the complexity, weight and space requirements of the robot structure.

Increased manoeuvrability for robotics

Combining SPE and PoDL allows for the development of powerful robotic systems with leaner, more flexible and durable cabling. This improves manoeuvrability, reduces maintenance costs, and makes integration into flexible production environments easier — a decisive step towards flexible robotics.

The increasing automation of industrial processes results in a constantly growing number of sensors and actuators. These need to communicate reliably and quickly over long distances. In addition, they often operate in space-critical or hard-to-access areas. As well as requiring a stable power supply, they also need a standardised connection to higher-level systems — from the field level to the cloud.

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and the PoDL standardize device connections

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is a forward-looking solution that enables Ethernet communication via two wires in a single cable, connecting directly to sensors and actuators. The standardized interface allows the integration of the smallest field devices, which can be operated over long distances (up to 1000 metres) without signal amplifiers. In combination with Power over Data Line (PoDL), data and power can be run over the same cable. This eliminates the need for additional power lines and significantly reduces cabling costs — a decisive advantage when integrating sensors, detection modules, or actuator systems.

Typical applications:

Temperature, pressure and proximity sensors
Barcode and image processing systems
Actuators, valves and dosing systems
HMI elements and operating units at field level

Lean, connected and ready for the future

SPE and PoDL provide an efficient, space-saving and scalable infrastructure for sensors and actuators. Whether in robotics, building automation or networked production environments: This technology enables the integration of smart devices in line with the principles of Industry 4.0.

Further Infomation on Sensor Connectivity