Every so often we experience a leap forward in technology. We are now seeing one of those very moments. Recently, several manufacturers working together have introduced a new Ethernet connection. Single Pair Ethernet, or SPE, is the use of two copper wires that can transmit data at speeds of up to 1 Gb/s over short distances while simultaneously delivering Power over Dataline (PoDl). This could be a major step forward in factory automation, building automation, the rise of smart cars, and railways. Speed in data acquisition and transmission is essential to all industries. Whether we look at the expansion of sensor networks in factories and plants or building autonomous vehicles, massive amounts of data are being collected. The ability to acquire and transmit that data reliably is needed now more than ever.

The SPE Industrial Partner Network has come together to create a new universal standard in communication via Ethernet, IEC 63171-6. HARTING, Würth Electronics and others have established an ecosystem of communication protocols, cabling, connectors, and devices to support the new technology.

(Image source: HARTING)

How it works. Standard Ethernet works using multiple pairs of copper wire to transmit data. To transmit 100 Mb/s of data, two pairs were required, for 1 Gb/s, four pairs are required. This means cables must be larger with l