TE Connectivity remains a key driver to the Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology as part of the SPE Industrial Partner Network. TE, a founding member of the network, has been re-elected to its board of directors. TE’s representative Claus Kleedörfer, managing director in TE’s industrial business, was appointed as its vice chair. Together with the other network partners, TE aims to establish a comprehensive SPE ecosystem and consistent standards for communication protocols, cabling and device components driving advancement in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
The new board of directors was elected during the SPE Industrial Partner Network general meeting in April 2024. Claus Kleedörfer is one of four board members representing the founding members of the SPE IPN. The others are Frank Welzel, HARTING Electronics as Chairman of the Board, Wolfgang Schenk, Belden / Hirschmann Automation & Control (Treasurer), and Jochen Metz, Metz Connect (Secretary of the Board).The network is an equal alliance of companies that jointly define the strategic approach to establish SPE as the new Ethernet technology in the market and create the basis for rapid growth of IIoT. Since the SPE IPN was founded in 2019, TE has been represented on the board and is a leading force behind standardization and latest product introductions. TE played a key role in the roll-out of the IEC 63171-7 international electrotechnical standard that defines M12 hybrid connectors, supporting a faster acceptance of SPE interconnect technology in the industry.
“SPE means a technological leap forward for Ethernet-based single-cable connectivity solutions in smart factories,” Claus Kleedörfer said. “We believe SPE will revolutionize industrial communication in future IIoT application, that is why TE – through collaboration with other SPE IPN members – is dedicated to make SPE the standard in industrial automation.”
