In the last article, we answered some of the most interesting questions about single pair Ethernet (SPE). In this issue, we will detail Weidmuller’s active efforts and contributions to the development of single-pair Ethernet as an industry pioneer, and the new single-pair Ethernet connector Weidmuller has developed to this end – the ideal tool for iot and Industry 4.0 applications.

With the new SPE connector, Weidmuller has developed the ideal tool for iot and Industry 4.0 applications.

New communication architecture for Future Ethernet

95IRS2-1 It is clear that conventional Ethernet bus systems can only meet future requirements in industrial environments to a limited extent. Therefore, a new wiring standard is urgently needed. Experts believe that single-pair Ethernet will become the next generation communication architecture in automated environments. SPE supports a continuously scalable and deterministic network from sensors to the cloud. Suitable for almost any environment that generates data, such as industry, logistics, construction, etc. Single-pair Ethernet technology requires only one (rather than two or four) pairs of cables, and plays an important role in many areas of communication architecture.

Renowned experts from the connector industry, automation technology and cable industry have worked together to develop an international standard for single-pair Ethernet technology. Phoenix, Weidmuller, Raymax, Belton, Fluke and others have formed a one-pair Ethernet (SPE) technology partnership to work together to create a unified standard for this new technology. Each partner is an expert in their field, bringing together capabilities from various areas such as cable production, automation technology and connector expertise. Thanks to this technology partnership, users also gain long-term investment security and the adoption of common standards. These companies are developing and supporting joint surfaces that comply with IEC 63171-2 and IEC 63171-5 standards, which have been incorporated into the uniform standard.

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Standardization is the key to success – standardized joint surfaces increase transparency

Together with technical partners, Weidmuller supports joint surfaces that comply with IEC 63171-2 and IEC 63171-5 standards. The IEC 63171-X series of standards define connectors for single-pair Ethernet. The IEC 63171 standard defines the general electrical requirements for interfaces. IEC 63171-1 to -6 standards define the design of joint surfaces and the mechanical requirements of connectors, different connectors have different joint surfaces, sizes and mechanical requirements. In addition to different mechanical requirements, there are also different electrical requirements. Compared to other solutions, IEC 63171-2 and IEC 63171-5 connectors are very compact and have excellent RF performance and even dielectric strength up to 2.25 kV DC. Therefore, users can choose the right connector according to their application.

95IRS2-1 Weidmuller’s SPE development: Connectors are the first step

Weidmuller has developed IEC 63171-2 connectors for IP20 environments and IEC 63171-5 connectors for IP67 environments. With an eye on the AWG 26-AWG 22 cross section, Weidmuller is developing user-friendly connectors that can be used as jumpers or freely configured. The joint surface of the M8 connector can be designed with male and female ends. Thus, a free connector connection can be achieved. This eliminates the need to use an expansion cable with only a plug or socket at either end. Since the joint surface is the same, the two can be freely combined. This reduces the number of components required without reducing the application, thus reducing the pressure on warehousing. In addition, due to good high frequency performance, the joint can also be used independently of a variety of applications, from workstations to data centers, from industrial cabling to the cloud.