Faster and more cost-efficient IEC 63171-6-compliant SPE connectors

Amphenol's Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) connectors for industrial applications allow direct Ethernet connection to peripheral devices and are available now from Rutronik. These include actuators, sensors, and cameras for vision systems running at speeds up to 1Gb/s. The products comprise rugged SPE jacks available in right-angle or vertical versions. That enables uncomplicated PCB mounting without any problems. The company combines field-terminable connectors with a completely shielded interface with metal interlocking features. The current carrying capacity of up to 4A supports Power over Data Link up to 1km. This eradicates the necessity for slow, expensive, and complex fieldbus protocols and connections - whilst simplifying and standardising new and existing industrial network systems.

As more and more sensors need transmission rates that BUS systems can no longer ensure, the requirement for a more powerful and streamlined infrastructure increases greatly. Also, Ethernet infrastructures must be economically implemented for most field applications. Here, the focus is on cables, connectors, and device components. With SPE connectors from the company, these structures are notably optimised, and costs are saved. As well as data transmission through Ethernet, the simultaneous power supply of the end devices via Power over Data Line is feasible.

Until now, two copper pairs were required for Fast Ethernet (100MB) or four copper pairs for Gigabit Ethernet. These SPE connectors open up entirely new possibilities and areas of application for Industrial Ethernet, particularly in automation and railroad technology. The miniaturised SPE standard interface for industrial applications can efficiently reach each sensor and actuator in the field together with slim SPE cables.