Weidmüller Unveils New Ethernet Switch with Increased Range and Power

Weidmüller, a global company specializing in industrial connectivity and automation solutions, has recently announced the release of a new unmanaged switch. The switch takes advantage of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology. Weidmüller hopes the new unmanaged switch will give users a higher level of performance for their industrial applications.

Internet and Power Over Ethernet (POE) have often been troublesome when used in industrial applications that require long-distance connections. Weidmüller’s latest switch release looks like a promising solution. The use of SPE technology helps to increase the possible range of internet connections for applications that require long-distance hard-wired connectivity.

The New 10Base-T1L SPE Switch and Comprehensive Infrastructure

Weidmüller has extended both the range and the performance of POE connections with their new SPE switch named the 10Base-T1L SPE. The latest solution promises to provide users with a robust, cost-effective solution that can efficiently transmit both industrial power and data over ethernet.

The 10Base-T1L SPE switch is capable of transmitting both power and data long distances with an impressive range of 1 kilometer. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

The company is also looking into expanding its product lineup to include a broad range of single-pair ethernet connections, making the technology into a more universal tool kit for industrial users. The components include plug-in type connectors for quick installation in the factory and pre-assembled patch cables. All device connection infrastructure can be purchased with IP20 and IP67 class protection.

Features of the 10Base-T1L SPE Switch

Weidmüller’s 10Base-T1L SPE Switch includes some exciting features that promise to bring users new capabilities in industrial automation. Traditional RJ45 ethernet cables usually have a range limit of 100 meters, but the new switch can transmit data to distances of 1 kilometer. The switch can also produce a bandwidth of 10Mbit/s, which is much higher than what is possible with RJ45 at such a distance.

The connected surfaces of the connectors have been designed with the industrial environment in mind, and micro interruptions can be eliminated with the secure SPE mating face. In addition, users can transmit up to 50 watts of power through a single switch port. This translates to a Power over Data Line with a rating up to class 14. To facilitate the process of setting up power supplies for new devices, Weidmüller uses Serial Communication Classification Protocol.

Weidmüller also provides several SPE connections and plug-in components. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

The 10Base-T1L SPE switch includes Quality of Service (QoS), which manages network resource distribution and prioritizes data traffic. This enables users to prioritize critical applications and maximize bandwidth usage. The switch also meets PROFINET conformance class A standards, ensuring easier integration in areas with PROFINET-compatible networks.

Weidmüller's 10Base-T1L SPE hopes to serve as a space-saving alternative to fiber optic technology and will be beneficial in confined spaces. This is because it transmits both data and power over a single pair of wires, requiring the use of only one cable. Reducing wire number and size creates a more cost-effective solution to connect sensors in different industrial settings using cheaper copper cables rather than more expensive fiber optics.