Single Pair Ethernet LAPP white paper

The Limits of Traditional Network Technologies Until now, manufacturers have typically relied on bus networks to enable the flow of data from field devices. One of the most widespread bus communication methods for automation technology is PROFIBUS ® , a serial fieldbus technology established over 30 years ago that uses one pair of cores in a BUS cable. Later, as the industry expanded from buses to Industrial Ethernet, particularly at the control and enterprise levels, PROFIBUS and PROFINET International (PI) developed PROFINET ® . This Industrial Ethernet protocol uses two pairs of cores to transmit Ethernet at a rate of 100 megabits per second (Mbps). Some manufacturing operations even use Gigabit (GB) Ethernet, a transmission technology that requires four pairs of cores and provides data rates up to 1 billion bits per second, or 1 GB. With the rise of the connected factory, bus systems can no longer handle the large data transmission rates required by the ever increasing number of sensors in production facilities. Despite the benefits of Industrial Ethernet solutions, Ethernet is not always suitable for connecting devices at the lowest field level. Cat.5 and Cat.7 cables can be too large to efficiently connect hundreds, possibly thousands, of individual sensors spread throughout production environments. Another challenge is connection complexity. In order to bridge the communication gap between the field device level (bus) and everything above it (Ethernet), manufacturers must install translators and gateways. In addition to driving up system costs and complexity, the field work required to install this additional hardware increases the risk of installation errors. SPE Benefits at a Glance • Enables Networking with Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) without system disruptions. IP can address all field participants. • Suitable for real-time critical applications thanks to time-sensitive networking (TSN). • Accommodates distances up to 1,000 m, enabling more flexibility in cabling and requiring fewer switches. • Can supply power to terminal devices via the same cable using PoDL. • Sustainable, thanks to an elimination of batteries compared to wireless systems. • Uses less material, lower weight over traditional 2- and 4-pair Ethernet. • Offers flexibility and space savings in drag chain applications, conduits, etc. • Reduces installation errors and saves assembly time. • Improves operational reliability.

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) has emerged as this critical bridge, making the field level smarter while ensuring consistent, reliable network communication across the entire automation pyramid. SPE is a cable design that uses a single pair of twisted copper wires to transmit data at speeds up to 1 gigabyte per second (Gbps), allowing real-time, continuous data transfer to and from the field level. It offers additional advantages including supporting cable lengths up to 1,000 meters (at 10 Mbps), minimizing space requirements and easing installation. The following white paper takes a deep dive into this game-changing cable construction, including its features, benefits and standardization practices, empowering you to quickly and effectively use IIoT communication technology to improve your manufacturing facility. Driving SPE Forward The SPE Industrial Partner Network, of which LAPP is a member, consists of many electrical connection companies, including cable and connector manufacturers, as well as companies that specialize in advanced Single Pair Ethernet technology. The group expects SPE to replace the current fieldbus systems at the sensor and actuator level, providing the core infrastructure for intelligent sensors and actuators in modern smart factories. The goal of this partnership is to continue to create standardized interfaces and system components, all while working closely with various international committees.

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