Single Pair Ethernet and Ethernet-APL: Revolution in communication technology

Connection And Interconnection Technology
SPE And Ethernet-APL on the Verge of A Breakthrough

2025-11-28

Source:

Lapp | Translated by AI


4 min Reading Time

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With Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer (Ethernet-APL), Ethernet-based communication can, for the first time, be consistently implemented down to the field level. Meanwhile, the conditions for broad industrial implementation have also been established.

With Single Pair Ethernet, data transmission and power supply occur over a single pair of wires, promising significantly simplified cabling. Thus, SPE is ideal for compact devices, space-saving installations, and flexible network options. However, broad market adoption has so far faced a major obstacle: the variety of competing connector faces. The IEC 63171 standard series describes several variants, which are not compatible with each other. This fragmentation has significantly hindered the development of infrastructure and end devices in recent years.

A Unified Connector for SPE

Now, however, an important breakthrough has been achieved. “SPE has regained momentum in recent months,” says Ralf Moebus, Head of Product Management Industrial Communication at Lapp. The reason: “The Profinet user organization (PI), together with its member companies, has finally agreed on a unified connector for SPE.” The IEC 63171-7 connector face forms the basis for this—a robust M12 hybrid connector developed for IP67 applications, whose SPE data container is now also intended for use in IP20 environments. This standard is already being integrated into Profinet planning guidelines and is expected to be incorporated into IEC standardization during 2025.

For component manufacturers and users, this agreement on a common connector provides the necessary investment security for the first time. Shortly after standardization is completed, the first end devices and comprehensive infrastructure are expected. SPE is therefore on the verge of a major market breakthrough in industrial automation. Lapp, a specialist in integrated connection solutions for cable and connection technology, is actively shaping this process: as a member of the relevant standardization committees and through the development of a complete SPE product portfolio, from cables to connectors to industrial Ethernet switches. All with the shared goal of driving the market penetration of SPE.

Ethernet-APL: Greenfield Projects Benefit

Ethernet-APL has been developed in parallel with SPE as a solution for the specific requirements of the process industry. APL is based on Single Pair Ethernet but extends the technology with intrinsic safety (according to IEC TS 60079-47) and enables data transmissions of up to 10 Mbit/s over distances of up to 3,280 feet. At the same time, field devices are powered via the same cable. Ethernet-APL is already being successfully planned in greenfield projects—i.e., new facilities. Here, certified and approved APL components can be used from the outset. While acquisition costs are somewhat higher compared to traditional systems like 4–20 mA/HART, Ethernet-APL offers significant advantages: faster ROI through improved remote maintenance capabilities and simplified planning. The complex calculation of intrinsic safety parameters is completely eliminated through the use of 2-WISE-compliant field devices and passive components.

In the brownfield, however, the situation is different: Ethernet-APL defines strict requirements regarding capacitance, inductance, and shielding, which existing cabling infrastructures often do not meet. A careful qualification of the existing cables with specialized measuring equipment is required. If the parameters are outside tolerances, reduced transmission lengths or even a complete recabling may be necessary.

Future-Proof Solution for the Process Industry

Despite these challenges, it is clear: Ethernet-APL offers a future-proof solution for the process industry, enabling seamless IP communication all the way into explosion-hazard areas in the long term. “From our experience, the bigger issue for our customers currently is upgrading existing cabling, not building anew, as there are many existing facilities that need retrofitting,” says Christian Illenseer, Product Manager Industrial Communication and Ethernet APL expert at Lapp. “For their inspection, highly complex equipment is required to ensure successful APL communication.”

Lapp Delivers Solutions

Lapp supports companies in implementing these new technologies with an extensive portfolio:

• Etherline T1: Single Pair Ethernet cables for fixed and flexible applications as well as long distances.
• Etherline T1L: Specially designed cables for Ethernet-APL, certified according to international standards and designed for high mechanical resilience and easy handling (Fast Connect).

With training, planning support, and individual consulting, the specialist also ensures that SPE and Ethernet-APL can be seamlessly integrated into both existing and new facilities. “For instance, in our new Lapp Exploration Center at our Stuttgart location (Germany),” explains Ralf Moebus. “Here, we have the opportunity to invite customers and users to our site and, for example, provide them with a full day of training on SPE and APL topics while exchanging knowledge on a professional level.”

Date: 20.11.2020

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A competitive Advantage in the Connected World

The agreement on a unified connector face for SPE and the increasing applications of Ethernet-APL in the process industry are laying the foundation for a widespread market rollout. Companies that invest in these innovative technologies now are establishing the basis for powerful and future-proof communication networks—thus securing crucial competitive advantages in a connected industrial world. Ralf Moebus and his team anticipate the major breakthrough in 2026, when an even larger range of devices and infrastructure will be available.

We notice that users are currently gathering information. Machine builders want to know exactly where and how SPE is used, and Lapp is naturally ready with comprehensive expertise. Our customers can implement the technology immediately.

Ralf Moebus, Head of Product Management Industrial Communication, Lapp