• Switzerland - English
  • Contact

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)

A complete cabling solution in IEC 63171-1 and IEC 63171-2

SPE is a network technology with revolutionary potential in the IoT and IIoT. Based on IEEE’s xBASE-T1 technology, SPE uses a single twisted pair for data transmission and miniaturized connectors. SPE can replace traditional field bus systems, helping realize high density, fast connections, and ease of installation.

Key technology

Single Pair Ethernet will become a key technology in smart buildings and industrial automation. It is closing the “Ethernet Gap” by connecting devices down to the sensor/actuator level utilizing a standard Internet protocol (IP).

In Building Automation, SPE is the ideal supplement to existing cabling structures like Digital Ceiling for the last few meters. It provides a high-density connection solution for low-bandwidth applications. However, it is not considered a general replacement of the RJ45 technology, but a problem solver for specific circumstances.

Single Pair Ethernet is a new technology. Many developments will be introduced in the next years. Coordination between the different developments will be necessary. R&M is committed to participating in the development of SPE as a whole technology. For this, R&M is a member of the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance and TIA SPEC.

Single Pair Ethernet – Ready for the future

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) has its origins in the automotive sector. In order to be prepared for the challenges of the future, SPE was developed as a lightweight, space-saving, and low-cost transmission protocol for Ethernet. SPE is now finding its way into the Building-, Industrial- and Process-Automation. In these environments, it offers an IP-based alternative to existing fieldbus protocols. The vision: an uninterrupted ALL-IP communication from the Sensor to the Cloud.

Find out more in our White Paper!

 

R&M SPE cabling solution

R&M developed two complete solutions with different connector types: LC-Cu in compliance with IEC 63171-1 and MSP in compliance with IEC 63171-2. Many cabling experts see the LC-Cu / IEC 63171-1 as the connector system of choice for structured cabling systems and building automation. In the industrial environment, many companies prefer the MSP /IEC 63171-2 connector system with its more compact but robust design.

The use of proven connection technology makes the change to R&M’s SPE connectivity virtually risk-free. The LC-Cu and MSP duplex connection modules correspond to the RJ45 cut-out and fit into existing R&Mfreenet outlets and 19’’-panels.

The IEC 63171-1 SPE portfolio from R&M is the first fully industrialized and commercially available solution providing an end-to-end SPE cabling channel.

The use of proven technology elements makes the change to R&M’s SPE connectivity virtually risk-free.
The LC-Cu duplex connection modules fit into the RJ45 cut-out and are compatible with existing R&Mfreenet outlets and 19’’-panels.

Evaluation kits for development purposes

R&M has created SPE evaluation kits for development purposes. These each contain two patch cords, two connection modules, and ten meters of installation cable.

Contact your regional R&M representative to learn more about the evaluation kits.

Do you want to find out more about the evaluation kits?

Download

Visit the System Alliance website