Technology
IIoT network trends and the role of Single Pair Ethernet SOURCE: TE CONNECTIVITY
Looking at industry and the need for fully Ethernet-based networks, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) offers a promising solution. SPE only requires two wires to transfer data and power and is designed in a way that, over an entire network, all machines can talk in the same language.
The new Single Pair Ethernet standard easily integrates with existing Ethernet infrastructures to provide real-time data. WE ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FOURTH revolution. Or, otherwise known as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Following the first three waves of rapid changes in technology — first the steam engine, then electricity, then the computer — IIoT is now the primary driver for change. Because of IIoT, factories are getting smarter, machines are more connected, and productivity is increasing. As companies look to further optimize IIoT systems, they must be able to effectively gather data from each part of the IIoT network. This requires interconnecting each data source with secure, reliable connections so each data point is stored in a larger database for further analysis.
IIoT network trends
As IIoT networks become more common, they become more complex. More complex networks mean the number of devices per network increases. At the same time, networks have become decentralized due to increased 02.202 2
amounts of connectivity locally and on the factory floor. This movement underscores the need for more dustproof and waterproof solutions in order to withstand the harsh environment. IP20 regulations won’t hold up and instead IP67-compliant products need to be used. Another industry trend that impacts IIoT networks is the rise of miniaturization. The cost of nodes is decreasing and they’re getting smaller. Plus, the connectivity per device is increasing. In order to fit the expectations of increased connectivity while making products smaller, a new style of industrial connector is necessary to realize the interconnect. Lastly, today’s automation networks are built out of different communication protocols, ranging from serial to BUS to Ethernet communication. With increased complexity, decentralization and miniaturization, streamlining communication protocols will help increase overall productivity and establish a free flow of data from the network to the
i n d u str i a l e th e r n e t b o o k
database. In addition, combining an Ethernetbased network with an IP will give you an IP addressable network. This means the entire network is easier to access and add additional devices to.
Ethernet network architecture
In order to build a productive and effective Ethernet-based IIoT network, there are multiple levels and stages to consider. The first is the servo and motor drive portion of the network, which is created by various OEMs. The OEM chooses which connectivity types to use, which then impacts the larger system in which it will eventually be used — the second level of our network architecture. For example, robotics applications or control cabinets utilize servo and motor drives, so the machine will need to be constructed in a manner that will connect securely to the OEMs original connector type. This is where it’s important to select the right cable connectors and field installable connectors.
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