Single-Pair Ethernet has the potential to simplify industrial automation connections\n\nAfter spending almost six years developing separate versions of Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE), two group of industrial communications companies have decided to join forces to work together on the technology and its promotion. SPE allows industrial data to be transmitted over a single twisted pair of wires, saving space and costs for both cabling and connectors, and simplifying industrial automation installations.\n\nUntil now, the two groups – the SPE Industrial Partner Network and the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance – have operated independently with their own members, working groups and areas of interest.\n\nWith the growing awareness and relevance of SPE, the groups have been moving closer since the Hannover Messe 2025 exhibition earlier this year and now plan to coordinate their activities to accelerate the uptake of SPE.\n\nMembers of the SPE Industrial Partner Network include Harting, TE Connectivity, Hirose, Hirschmann, Würth Elektronik, Softing, Amphenol, Lütze, Lapp, igus, Nexans, Molex and Helukabel.\n\nMembers of the SPE System Alliance include Phoenix Contact, Weidmüller, Rosenberger, Sick, Wieland, Keba, Ilme, Honeywell, Wago, Legrand, Eaton, Werma, Innovance, Kübler, Endress+Hauser, 3M, Advantech and HMS Networks.\n\nMurr Elektronik and Hilscher are members of both groups.\n\nThe two groups say they have been committed to the development of international standards for SPE since the start. They both support the IEC 63171-7 SPE connector standard and have been driving its expansion to include a standard IP20 SPE mating profile.\n\nA main focus of their new collaboration will be the further internationalisation of SPE. The groups – most of whose members are German – are aiming to make the advantages of SPE known worldwide and to give users around the globe access to what they see as a powerful, efficient and future-oriented network technology.\n\nMember companies of both networks plan to pool their expertise to create a strong, sustainable SPE ecosystem. This will enable users worldwide to benefit from practical applications that pave the way for digitalisation.\n\nThe IEC 63171-7 standard creates a uniform basis for future-proof industrial communications. Other connector systems and associated international standards are unaffected by the latest developments, and will continue to be valid for the numerous fields of application of SPE.\n\nThe first joint activities will take place later this year. There will be a shared stand at SPS Atlanta 2025 (Smart Production Solutions USA) from 16–18 September. The two groups will make coordinated presentations to the SPE Forum in Ludwigsburg, Germany, from 22–23 October. And there will be a joint stand at the SPS (Smart Production Solutions) exhibition in Nuremberg, Germany from 25–27 November.

Single-Pair Ethernet groups bury the hatchet to promote technology

Two industrial communications groups, the SPE Industrial Partner Network and the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance, have merged to collaborate on Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of SPE, which simplifies industrial automation by reducing cabling costs and improving efficiency. The groups will coordinate efforts to promote SPE globally, with joint events planned for 2025.