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R&M, the global Swiss developer and provider of connectivity systems for high-quality, high-performance network infrastructures, has co-founded a Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) Alliance together with Fluke Networks, Phoenix Contact, Weidmller, and Telegartner.
The main objective of the Alliance is to drive development of SPE for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and collaborate on related technological challenges. The companies aim to accelerate development of their SPE technology expertise, ensuring this can be implemented in their products faster and more reliably.
SPE and its main application areas
SPE, based on xBASE-T1, uses a single twisted pair for data transmission with miniaturised connectors. A key benefit is that it offers uniform manufacturer-independent connectivity instead of introducing specialised connectivity for each application. Ranges of up to 1000m and transmission speeds of up to 1 Gbps make this technology suitable for use across applications, and the flexibility to reuse and extend existing cable installations.
Passive industrial cabling. SPE provides consistent IP communication from sensor to cloud, revolutionising industrial data transmission. Standardised pin connector patterns form the basis for the barrier-free networking of a wide range of components and devices, providing an alternative to today’s fieldbus systems.
Building automation. Smart buildings and factories can be cost-effectively realised by connecting devices to the building management system via LAN networks and the cloud. Application-specific fieldbus systems are no longer required, making gateways, complex interfaces, and different protocols obsolete. SPE is an ideal solution for connecting numerous small sensors and actuators in Digital Ceiling ‘zones’. Sensors, controls, WLAN access points and other distributed services are simply plugged in and instantly powered and connected to the network.
Sensor technology. Sensors and actuators are increasingly supplying data to IIoT applications. SPE’s miniaturised, standardised connection technology makes it possible to quickly and easily connect smaller sensors to Ethernet networks and power these.
The SPE System Alliance is an open platform for advancing SPE technology in the market. Following its initial establishment, Datwyler, Kyland, Microchip Technology, Rosenberger, SICK, O-Ring, Draka/Prysmian Group, and University4Industry have also joined the Alliance. The breadth of this lineup means the Group covers a wide range of industries, applications and application areas.
