Power and data transmission with only one pair of wires
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is considered the technology of the future in industrial communication. Compared to previous Ethernet versions such as PROFIBUS or PROFINET, SPE promises data transmission at gigabit speeds, using only one pair of wires. Even power supply can be integrated into the cable thanks to "Power over Data Line" (PoDL). SPEis a smart, flexible solution that also saves on space and costs that enables real-time communication down to the field level.
What is Single Pair Ethernet?
Single Pair Ethernet is a type of data transmission technology for wired networks. Data cables with SPE technology differ from previous solutions in that they only have one pair of copper wires. In contrast, PROFINET cabling requires two pairs of wires, and Gigabit Ethernet even requires four. In addition, SPE makes it possible to simultaneously transmit power using the same pair of wires. Power over Data Line allows cables to be slimmer and lighter, which comes with numerous advantages, allowing for new possible applications.
Possible applications for Single Pair Ethernet
Originating from the vehicle construction industry, SPE technology provides space and weight savings, which are common constraints . Now, other industrial sectors also want to benefit from the advantages of Single Pair Ethernet, especially where high data transmission rates are required. Thanks to their ease of installation and low space requirements, Single Pair Ethernet now enables continuous automation at the field level, i.e., the integration of sensors, actuators, and other devices. These are traditionally connected with the higher control level through fieldbus systems that are not part of the Ethernet network. By providing real-time communication all the way down to the field, Single Pair Ethernet closes this gap and has become considered a key technology for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0.
The advantages of Single Pair Ethernet at a glance:
- Slim, light, and flexible cables
- Low installation and assembly costs
- Low purchase price
- Conserves resources
- Data transmission rates up to 1 Gbit/s (AWG 22, AWG 26)
- Up to 1,000 m range (AWG 18)
- Real-time communication down to the field level
- Small bending radii for moving applications
What types of Single Pair Ethernet are there?
A wide range of standards for Single Pair Ethernet exist to support users in adopting the technology. Depending on the range and data transmission rate, SPE is divided into different categories, just like previous Industrial Ethernet solutions:
| Traditional Industrial Ethernet | Single Pair Ethernet | ||||
| ISO IEC 11801 Category | Data Rate | Number of Pairs | Standard | Data Rate | Number of Pairs |
| Cat 3 | 10 Mbit | 2 | 10BASE-T1L | 10 Mbit / 1000 m | 1 |
| Cat 5 | 100 Mbit | 2 | |||
| Cat 5e | 1 Gbit | 4 | 1000BASE-T1 | 1 Gbit / 40 m | |
| Cat 6 | 5-10 Gbit* | 4 | |||
| Cat 6A | 10 Gbit | 4 | MultiGigBASE-T1 (being developed) | 2.5-10 Gbit up to 10 m | |
| Cat 7 | 10 Gbit | 4 | |||
Single Pair Ethernet cables from HELUKABEL
Cables for Single Pair Ethernet are divided into different categories depending on the cross-section and application:
| Cross-Section | Data Rate | Application |
| AWG 26 | 1 Gbit 1000BASE-T1 up to 40m | Type A - Fixed installations Type B - Flexible installations Type C - Dynamic applications, e.g., drag chain Type R - Torsion (robotics) |
| AWG 22 | 1 Gbit 1000BASE-T1 up to 40m | |
| AWG 22 + AWG 18 (Hybrid Data + Power) | 1 Gbit 1000BASE-T1 up to 40m | |
| AWG 18 | 10 Mbit 10BASE-T1 up to 1000m | Type A - Fixed installations Type B - Flexible installations |
| AWG 16 |
HELUKABEL offers several types of cable that are designed for Single Pair Ethernet technology.
These include the following items, which are currently available:
- 11017748 – SPE 10BASE-T1L – for fixed installations - More information
- 11018067 – SPE 1000BASE-T1 – AWG26 – for drag chains - More information
- 11018068 – SPE 1000BASE-T1 – AWG22 – for drag chains - More information
SPE Industrial Partner Network: A strong network for technological progress
HELUKABEL has been a member of the SPE Industrial Partner Network since 2019. This association, based in Rahden, Westphalia, Germany, is an association of companies that specifically aims to promote Single Pair Ethernet technology and advocate uniform standards. The information and exchange platform now has 52 members.
HELUKABEL is a premium member of the SPE Industrial Partner Network and a member of the Technical Working Group. As such it plays a key role in driving technological development forward with a focus on the development of consistently standardised infrastructure to make the migration to Single Pair Ethernet as easy as possible for manufacturers and users.
For further information, visit www.single-pair-ethernet.com, or download the SPE flyer.
FAQ
No, Single Pair Ethernet will not completely replace classic industrial Ethernet. 2 and 4-pair Ethernet cables continue to offer better range, transmitting up to100 metres without a repeater. Even if a pair should fail, 4-pair Single Pair Ethernet cables continue to transmit at 100 Mbit. SPE adds to the portfolio of data transmission solutions and is especially suited for applications where space and weight are limited.
The range depends on the chosen standard. With 1000BASE-T1, our Single Pair Ethernet cables transmit up to 40 metres at 1 Gbit speeds. In contrast, the standard 10BASE-T1L has a range of up to 1,000 metres at 10 Mbit.
Power over Data Line (PoDL) makes it possible to simultaneously transmit data and power through the same cable. Depending on their class, devices can be supplied with up to 50 watts of power. For higher performance requirements, we offer hybrid cables with separate current-carrying conductors that can deliver up to 400 watts at 60 volts over a distance of 40 metres.