Discrete and Process Automation

New IEC standard regulates SPE cabling and installation

28 April 2022

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) recently issued a new edition of the installation standard IEC 61918:2018/AMD1:2022 Amendment 1 — Industrial communication networks — Installation of communication networks in industrial premises.

The standard describes the installation of communication networks in industrial premises and now also includes important key points on cabling structures based on single pair Ethernet (SPE). This makes it an important basis for all users who want to bring their production into the industrial internet of things (IIoT).

The new edition of IEC 61918:2018/AMD1:2022 Amendment1 is the installation standard for communication networks in industrial plants, machines and automation islands. Both cabling infrastructure and the components to be used, such as cables and connection technology, are clearly defined for all automation profiles. Cabling solutions using fiber optic cables, symmetrical copper cables and for wireless media are considered.

The new amendment to IEC 61918 addresses the new 1-pair cabling structures for SPE and the associated remote power supply PoDL (Power over Data Line). This closes the gap between classic IT infrastructure and industry, internet of things/IIoT. SPE has a special significance for industry and automation. For the first time, it enables the universal application of TCP/IP-based automation protocols even for long distances, as in process automation or for the simple connection of sensors and actuators up to the industrial field level. Higher data rates, more power transmission and greater ranges than with classic fieldbuses pave the way for the IIoT and Industry 4.0.

This provides the users clear specifications for infrastructure components that are identical and compatible with ISO/IEC 11801-3 (industrial buildings). Annex 1 (AMD1) references the cable standards for 1-pair data cables according to IEC 61156-11/12/13/14 and the standard for the 1-pair data connectors according to IEC 63171-6. This gives system designers and users a stable basis for selecting suitable cables and interfaces, and the implementation of SPE technology in the automation world can begin.

To contact the author of this article, email GlobalSpecEditors@globalspec.com


Powered by CR4, the Engineering Community

Discussion – 0 comments

By posting a comment you confirm that you have read and accept our Posting Rules and Terms of Use.
Engineering Newsletter Signup
Get the GlobalSpec
Stay up to date on:
Features the top stories, latest news, charts, insights and more on the end-to-end electronics value chain.
Advertisement
Weekly Newsletter
Get news, research, and analysis
on the Electronics industry in your
inbox every week - for FREE
Sign up for our FREE eNewsletter
Advertisement