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.
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
Supported protocols:
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
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
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
Related links
Hattersheim, 25. Feb. 2025– Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation has added a new evaluation board to its single-pair Ethernet (SPE) technology portfolio. The NXEB-90-SPE board is based on Hilscher's multiprotocol-capable device controller netX 90 and offers users and developers numerous options for developing and evaluating industrial applications with SPE.
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!
