The Two Leading Single Pair Ethernet Networks Join Forces for the Future of Industrial Communication

Summary

RAHDEN/FRANKFURT - July 11, 2025 - After nearly six years of successful but separate work, the two major networks promoting Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology are joining forces. The SPE Industrial Partner Network e.V. and the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance e.V., consisting of numerous well-known industrial companies, have been committed to the dissemination and further development of SPE since their inception.

Until now, they have operated independently with their own members, working groups and areas of focus. With the growing awareness and relevance of SPE in the market, the networks have come closer together since the Hannover Messe 2025 and now plan to coordinate their activities in the future. The aim is to bring the strengths and combined expertise of both networks even more effectively to bear in the market and to further accelerate the spread of SPE. The first joint activities are already planned for 2025: both networks will be represented with a joint stand at SPS Atlanta 2025 – Smart Production Solutions USA Sept. 16-18. Both networks will also play a key role in shaping the SPE Forum Oct. 22-23 in Ludwigsburg, Germany, with coordinated presentations. The year will conclude with a joint exhibition stand at SPS – Smart Production Solutions Nov. 25-27, 2025 in Nuremberg.
 
Both networks have been committed to the development of international standards for SPE since the beginning. Together, they support the SPE connector standard IEC 63171-7 and are consistently driving forward its expansion to include a uniform IP20 SPE mating profile. This standard forms a connecting element for the world of automation and creates a uniform basis for future-proof industrial communication. Other existing connector solutions and the associated international standards remain unaffected and continue to be valid for the numerous fields of application of SPE.

A central focus of the collaboration is the further internationalization of Single Pair Ethernet. The aim is to make the advantages of SPE visible worldwide and to give users around the globe access to a powerful, efficient and future-oriented network technology. 

The numerous member companies of both networks are pooling their extensive expertise and innovative strength to create a strong and sustainable SPE ecosystem. This will enable users worldwide to benefit from practical solutions that pave the way for digitaliation.

In the photo above, the board members of SPE Industrial Partner Network e.V. and Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance e.V. are excited about shaping the SPE ecosystem together. From left to right: Claus Kleedörfer TE Connectivity, Simon Seereiner Weidmüller, Kilian Schmale HARTING, Tim Kindermann Phoenix Contact

About the networks

The two SPE networks bring together leading companies from different industries with the aim of advancing the development and adoption of Single Pair Ethernet as a key technology for digitalization and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).