Single Pair Ethernet and Ethernet-APL: Revolution in communication technology

Industrial Communication SPE And Ethernet-APL on the Verge of A Breakthrough

2025-10-06 Source: Lapp | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

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Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer (Ethernet-APL) are powerful technologies that enable Ethernet-based communication all the way to the field level for the first time. Recent advances in standardization and concrete steps toward market introduction show that the groundwork for broad industrial implementation has been laid.

Lapp offers Single Pair Ethernet cables for fixed and flexible applications, as well as long distances, along with specially designed cables for Ethernet-APL.(Image: LAPP) — Lapp offers Single Pair Ethernet cables for fixed and flexible applications, as well as long distances, along with specially designed cables for Ethernet-APL.
(Image: LAPP)

With Single Pair Ethernet, data transmission and power supply occur over a single pair of wires, promising significantly simplified cabling. Thus, SPE is ideal for compact devices, space-saving installations, and flexible network options. However, the widespread market introduction has so far faced a significant obstacle: the variety of competing connector faces. The IEC 63171 standards series describes various variants that are not compatible with each other. This fragmentation has significantly slowed the development of infrastructure and end devices in recent years.

A Unified Connector for SPE

Now, however, an important breakthrough has been achieved. “SPE has regained momentum in recent months,” says Ralf Moebus, Head of Product Management Industrial Communication at Lapp, with enthusiasm. The reason: “The Profinet User Organization (PI), together with its member companies, has finally agreed on a standardized connector for SPE.” The IEC 63171-7 interface forms the basis for this—a robust M12 hybrid connector developed for IP67 applications, with the SPE data container now also intended for use in the IP20 environment. This standard is already being integrated into Profinet's planning guidelines and is expected to be included in IEC standardization over the course of 2025.

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"SPE has gained momentum again in recent months," says Ralf Moebus, Head of Product Management Industrial Communication at Lapp.(Image: LAPP)

"The bigger issue for our customers, in our experience, is currently the upgrading of existing cabling rather than new construction, as there are many existing buildings that need to be retrofitted," says Christian Illenseer, Product Manager Industrial Communication and Ethernet APL expert at Lapp.(Image: LAPP)

For component manufacturers and users, this agreement on a common connector provides the necessary investment security for the first time. Shortly after the completion of standardization, the first end devices and comprehensive infrastructure are expected. SPE is thus on the verge of a widespread market breakthrough in industrial automation. The specialist for integrated connection solutions in the field of cable and connection technology, Lapp, is actively shaping this process: as a member of the relevant standardization committees and with the development of a complete SPE product portfolio, from cables and connectors to industrial Ethernet switches. All with the common goal of driving the market penetration of SPE.

Ethernet-APL: Greenfield Projects Benefit, Brownfield Requires Retrofitting

Ethernet-APL developed in parallel with SPE as a solution for the specific requirements of the process industry. APL is based on Single Pair Ethernet but extends the technology with intrinsic safety (according to IEC TS 60079-47) and allows data transmissions of up to 10 Mbit/s over distances of up to 3,281 feet. At the same time, the field devices are powered via the same cable. Ethernet-APL is already being successfully planned in greenfield projects—i.e., new facilities. Here, certified and approved APL components can be used from the outset. Although the acquisition costs are slightly higher compared to classic systems like 4–20 mA/HART, Ethernet-APL offers significant advantages: faster amortization through improved remote maintenance options and simplified planning. The complex calculation of intrinsic safety parameters is entirely eliminated by using 2-WISE-compliant field devices and passive components.

In the brownfield, however, the situation is different: Ethernet-APL defines strict requirements regarding capacity, inductance, and shielding, which existing cabling infrastructures often do not meet. A careful qualification of existing cables with specialized measuring equipment is required. If the parameters are outside the tolerance range, reduced transmission lengths or even a complete rewiring may be necessary.

Future-Proof Solution for the Process Industry

Despite these challenges, it is clear: Ethernet-APL offers a future-proof solution for the process industry, enabling seamless IP communication even in hazardous areas in the long term. “The bigger issue for our customers at the moment, based on our experience, is upgrading existing cabling rather than building new infrastructure, as there are many existing facilities that need retrofitting,” says Christian Illenseer, Product Manager Industrial Communication and Ethernet APL expert at Lapp. “For their inspection, highly complex equipment is required to ensure successful APL communication.”

Lapp Delivers Solutions

Lapp supports companies in the implementation of these new technologies with an extensive portfolio:

Etherline T1: Single Pair Ethernet cables for fixed and flexible applications as well as long distances.
Etherline T1L: Specially designed cables for Ethernet-APL, certified according to international standards and designed for high mechanical durability and easy handling (Fast Connect).

Through training, planning support, and personalized consulting, the specialist also ensures that SPE and Ethernet-APL can be seamlessly integrated into existing and new systems. “For example, in our new Lapp Exploration Center at the Stuttgart location,” explains Ralf Moebus. “Here, we have the opportunity to invite customers and users to our site and, for instance, provide them with a full day of training on topics like SPE and APL, as well as engage in professional exchange.”

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Thinner cables generate more heat due to their higher electrical resistance, resulting in greater power loss. The thicker a cable is, the lower the resistance—allowing the current to flow freely without a significant portion of the energy being converted into heat. (Image:Lapp)

A Competitive Advantage in the Connected World

The agreement on a standardized connector for SPE and the increasing applications of Ethernet-APL in the process industry provide the foundation for a widespread market rollout. Companies that invest in these innovative technologies now are laying the groundwork for powerful and future-proof communication networks—thus securing important competitive advantages in a connected industrial world. Ralf Moebus and his team anticipate the major breakthrough in 2026, when an even greater range of devices and infrastructure will be available.

We notice that users are currently gathering information. Machine builders want to know exactly where and how SPE is used, and Lapp is, of course, ready with comprehensive expertise. Our customers can implement the technology immediately.

Ralf Moebus, Head of Product Management Industrial Communication, Lapp