Hilscher has introduced a new SPE Media Switch designed to integrate Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) into industrial Ethernet networks. The new SPE Media Switch, based on Hilscher’s multiprotocol-capable netX90 communication controller, provides seamless connectivity for SPE applications with PROFINET, Open Modbus/TCP, and EtherNet/IP networks. This ready-to-use device offers a cost-effective solution for implementing SPE in industrial field environments.
The SPE Media Switch enables seamless IP-based communication from sensors to the cloud without the need for additional, expensive network components. This allows devices to be easily and affordably connected over distances of up to 1.000 meters using the 10BASE-T1L standard, making it ideal for large production facilities or widely distributed applications.
As a member of both the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance (SPE SA) and the SPE Industrial Partner Network (SPE PN), Hilscher supports both SPE connector standards. The SPE Media Switch is compatible with IEC 63171-2 (SPE SA) and IEC 63171-6 (SPE PN) connectors, giving users the flexibility to choose the option that best meets their needs.
The SPE Media Switch is based on Hilscher’s netX 90 communication controller, offering users several advantages:
- A multiprotocol communication platform with unified interfaces, drivers, and tools from a single source
- netX 90 security-ready architecture with integrated security components
- Energy efficiency with low power consumption and minimal heat generation
- A development board with netX 90 and SPE PHYs for building custom SPE-enabled field devices
In PROFINET and EtherNet/IP networks, the SPE Media Switch can operate in either transparent or configured modes. In transparent mode, data is simply routed through the SPE Media Switch, which is invisible to the controller. In configured mode, the switch is mapped in the controller and can, for example, be assigned a fixed IP address. For Open Modbus/TCP networks, only transparent mode is available.
Rate limiter ensures reliable data transfer
To ensure stable network performance and reliable data transfer, Hilscher has integrated a rate limiter function into the SPE Media Switch. This feature helps prevent data loss when bandwidth decreases from 100 Mbit Industrial Ethernet to 10 Mbit SPE.
The unique rate limiter function manages network traffic during high data loads by prioritizing and processing Industrial Ethernet frames based on predefined parameters. Additionally, a flow meter mechanism allocates bandwidth across various types of messages. For example, a minimum of 5 Mbit can be reserved for Industrial Ethernet messages from PROFINET and EtherNet/IP in the SPE network, while up to 3 Mbit is allocated to unicast messages, and a maximum of 1 Mbit for multicast or broadcast messages with lower priority.
