‌Hilscher launches new SPE Media Switch for PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus networks

Hattersheim, 04. Nov. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has introduced a new gateway  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.

 

Two white devices on a colorful background. On the right side are the logos of the SPE Partner Network as well as the SPE System Alliance.

netX 90 and SPE

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 PHY for building custom SPE-enabled field devices

Learn more about SPE solutions with Hilscher's netX 90

Block diagram of the netX 90 communication controller with Hilscher firmware for SPE protocol stacks

Supported protocols:

Transparent and configured mode

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.

Logo Profinet
PROFINET
  • IO device
  • Rate limiter
  • Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
  • Rapid deployment
  • Conformance class B
  • IP-based communication (supports TCP and UDP)
  • IP address assignment via DCP
  • Firmware updates via web interface

 

Logo EtherNet/IP
EtherNet/IP
  • Explicit messaging server
  • Rate limiter
  • Address conflict detection
  • Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
  • IP-based communication (supports TCP and UDP)
  • IP address assignment via DHCP
  • Firmware updates via web interface
Logo Modbus
Open Modbus/TCP
  • Server
  • IP-based communication (supports TCP and UDP)
  • IP address assignment via DHCP
  • Firmware updates via web interface

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.

Related links

NS 90-RE-SPE

SPE Media Switch

Single Pair Ethernet conversion to Industrial Ethernet

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A PCB graphic with numerous peripherals mounted on it. At the front left side is a SPE connector hovering in front of the corresponding socket. Its cable is blue and changes to a stylized depiction of a data stream after a few centimeters. The background is cyan and dark red.
Single Pair Ethernet – simple connection technology

With Single Pair Ethernet, a new physical layer standard is finding its way into the world of automation. Hilscher's netX communication controllers are already prepared to implement SPE for you into industrial networks. Find out more!

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