5 minute read
Connector Notes
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) allows an interconnected industry
By Ruud van den Brink • Product Manager for Industrial Communications • TE Connectivity
Industry 4.0 is all about enhancing e ciency and productivity. Part of these improvements can be realized in a more optimized communication in astructure in industrial networks. Modern-day industrial automation systems are complex. Diff erent layers in the network use diff erent communication standards. A mix of Ethernet, industrial Ethernet, fi eldbus and analog communication is used today, creating a communication in astructure that is not fully transparent. This interoperability challenge makes it di cult to make data-driven decisions about machines and factory operations in real time. Now there is a solution: using Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) with existing Ethernet and industrial Ethernet on the network edge. SPE technology enables the network in astructure to be IP-based and fully transparent, eliminating the need for expensive gateways that reduce transparency and add delays to communication. SPE found its roots in the automotive industry, triggered by the growing amount of communication nodes in a car network and the corresponding demand on data. Now, it’s fi nding its way into the industrial space for the same reasons: the need for transparent communication, space savings, high-performance and shared-weight solutions.
TE's SPE industrial combo plug
SPE replaces communication technologies on the network edge, part of the industrial network not serviced by Ethernet today. This means that SPE connectivity solutions are targeted for this application and confi gured diff erently than Ethernet solutions. SPE uses a single signal pair rather than 2 or 4 pairs, reducing the size of cables, improving fl exibility, and requiring fewer contacts for the interface. This simplicity reduces overall costs. In addition, SPE also addresses typical industrial specifi cations, including requirements like a 10Mbps connection, 1-kilometer reach, and a high-power, single-cable solution — requirements not covered in current Ethernet standards. SPE enables transparent IP communication om the sensor to the cloud, eliminating communication barriers and increasing network transparency. Combined with a reduced cost and complexity, it provides a fl exible solution complementing existing Ethernet solutions used in an industrial network. As industry trends move toward smarter and more autonomous solutions, SPE technology will serve as an important complement to existing Ethernet technology and the myriad of devices that continue to connect to the IIoT network. Meeting these demands that shape tomorrow requires integrating SPE into the industrial space today. DW
TE Connectivity te.com
TE's SPE IP67 M8 hybrid cable plug
Innovation Redefined
Components Corporation “The Pioneer in Test Point Technology”
Since our creation of the first Test Point for the electronics industry we’ve been redefining excellence in PCB interconnect technology. As the industry leader, we provide innovative, economical solutions to interconnect and testing challenges, both custom and standard, for board-level engineers worldwide.
PCB Test Points • Preform Jumpers • Battery Contacts • Card Edge Connectors • Custom Wireform Manufacturing
6 Kinsey Place, Denville, NJ 07834-2692 866-426-6726 www.componentscorp.com
Do more with less
in your electrical applications
WAGO continues to push the boundaries in the electrical and lighting industries with the introduction of the 2773 Series WALLNUTS® Splicing Connectors. Similar to its predecessor, the 773, WAGO’s 2773 provides a compact, easy, and reliable connection for a variety of diff erent wire sizes and types. But there are some obvious and subtle diff erences in this new connector. “The biggest diff erence between the 773 and 2773 is the size. Our 2773 is 30% smaller than our 773 and 45% smaller than our competitor,” says Nick Holzman, WAGO’s Product Manager for Electrical Splicing Connectors. “Ultimately, this means more connectors can fi t in a junction box or small space without having to worry about sacrifi cing the reliability of the connection.” Aside from its compact design, another big change comes with the low insertion force. With the slogan, “Your Wrists Will Thank Us,” the 2773 promotes PUSHWIRE® connection technology without having to twist together wires as is typical of twist-type connectors. Not only are the insertion forces low, but WAGO also ensures higher than standard retention forces. This is all thanks to its innovative spring design — the conductor termination comes with the highest degree of safety and reliability. “Using the 2773 makes every project easier, from your professional electrical installer to your weekend DIYer,” shares Holzman. “We take the guesswork out of the wire gauge type and how many wires can be inserted into the connector. Nobody has to wonder if the twist-type connector is eff ectively twisted or whether it has been rated to accept a certain number of wires. Just push the wire in and you’re done.” One of the more subtle changes with the 2773 series is the number of variants available. Both the 773 and 2773 come with 2, 4, 6, and 8-conductor versions. However, the 2773 has added a 3 and 5-wire variant to expand the PUSHWIRE® connector portfolio to accommodate common uses in the fi eld. The transparent housing has also been upgraded to provide users with a clearer visual, ensuring that the wire has been inserted completely and correctly. The strip length gauge along with the transparent housing window provides assurance that there is proper wire termination every time. These versatile, space-saving, reliable 2773 WALLNUTS® are the compact and clear choice for any PUSHWIRE® connection and yet another reason why WAGO continues to be an innovative leader in wire and splicing connection technology.
Features of the 2773 Series WALLNUTS® • It’s 30% smaller, allowing for more connections in junction boxes or small spaces • Convenient wiring, thanks to an extremely compact design • Push-in termination with up to eight solid and stranded conductors • Checks the conductor’s position at a glance, thanks to a highly transparent housing • Reliable connection due to a low insertion force and high pull-out forces
