The Technology – Standardization
WHY DOES IT MAKE SENSE TO STANDARDIZE CONNECTOR SYSTEMS IN SINGLE PAIR ETHERNET?
The Technology – Standardization
WARUM IST EINE NORMIERUNG VON SPE-STECKSYSTEMEN SINNVOLL?
A wide variety of standards must be coordinated to ensure smooth digital communication. In order to provide users with the security of intercompatibility between a wide variety of systems, standardization is also required in the SPE environment. Especially the plug-in systems have to be adjusted to all parameters of the protocol level.
Why commit to a common SPE standard now?
If a plug-in system is only considered at the end of a technological development, drastic limitations in performance are to be feared. For example, the influences of the connector system on the signal quality or the maximum cable length could be disregarded. Advantages of the new technology would thus be curtailed right at the beginning. The overarching cooperation of as many system participants as possible in the run-up to standardization is crucial in the definition of connectors.
“For SPE systems, the normative process is currently underway but not yet completed. The statement spread by some manufacturers that the market has already agreed on a connector face is therefore false.
Simon Seereiner, Head of Product Management SAI & IE bei Weidmüller
Which areas play an important role within standardization?
The specifications that a connector system must meet are defined in common standards such as IEEE or ISO/IEC. They include mechanical specifications, such as tolerances and dimensions, as well as environmental operations and necessary tests. In addition, there are the electrical specifications. They require tuning of a wide range of parameters. This applies in particular to data or signal transmission, which already begins with the processor and runs through the printed circuit board to the various components. Here, standardizations ensure the entire connection of passive and active components and enable the fulfillment of all requirements.
What is the current status of standardization?
There is no binding standard yet. Similar to circular connectors, various mating faces are still in the process of standardization. These are already listed in IEC 63171. Work on IEC 63171 is currently ongoing.
What role do user organizations play in the standardization process?
IEC standardization is a first step in the establishment of new connector systems. In general, however, a mating face will not achieve market relevance even with international standardization. This is often due to national and international user organizations such as PROFINET. In terms of the application, you decide which system to use.
Has the market already agreed on a mating face?
For SPE systems, the normative process is currently underway but not yet completed. The statement circulated by some manufacturers and the trade press that the market has already agreed on a mating face is therefore false. The statement circulated by some manufacturers and the trade press that the market has already agreed on a mating face is therefore false. The following table provides information on the current status of the standardization of mating faces.
