Single Pair Ethernet: The new standard is coming

The universal SPE pin connector pattern ushers in a new era of efficient connectivity.
The new SPE pin connector pattern in accordance with IEC 63171-7 ED2
Single Pair Ethernet pin connector patterns in IP20, M8, M12, and M12 Hybrid format

A standard for factory automation

Finally, there is an end to uncertainty and competing standards in factory automation. Whether IP20, M8, M12, or M12 Hybrid – with the standardized SPE pin connector pattern in accordance with IEC 63171-7 ED2 (in progress), you will soon benefit from all the advantages of the Single Pair Ethernet connection for your devices. Making this technology interoperable and future-proof across manufacturers. Various mechanical codings enable new flexibility for different IEEE standards and applications – perfect for modern factory automation. Start planning now, with Phoenix Contact as your strong partner at your side.

Your advantages

  • Cross-manufacturer compatibility due to new standard in accordance with IEC 63171-7
  • Full interoperability creates planning security for future applications
  • High-speed data communication with up to 1 Gbps at 600 MHz
  • Up to 52 W effective output with Power over Data Line (PoDL)
  • Broader scope of application with ranges of up to 1,000 meters at 10 Mbps

The added value of the universal pin connector pattern in detail Invest in security, the future, and compatibility

The Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern in detail
Single Pair Ethernet pin connector patterns in detail
The Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern in detail
The Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern in detail

The reduction to a single cable for data and power enables space-saving installation. The reduced cabling complexity also leads to considerable savings in material and installation costs.

Single Pair Ethernet pin connector patterns in detail

Take advantage of the innovative edge: With Phoenix Contact, you can rely on a partner who has played a leading role in developing SPE and the standard and is shaping the industry.

The Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern in detail

With the compact design and hybrid interface, the standard supports the miniaturization of devices and systems – a decisive advantage for modern industrial and IoT applications.

Products


New IP20 and M12 pin connector pattern for Single Pair Ethernet

Green light for the new generation: IP20 and M12 are on the way

The first connectors will be available in the course of 2026 – in the proven IP20 format and as a robust M12 version for industrial applications. Our team is working intensively on series production. In this way, we ensure that you benefit from high quality and reliability at market launch. Other designs will be gradually converted to the new, unified standard.

Get started now: Make sure you are up to speed early on and gain an edge with the first available SPE connectors – suitable for factory automation and industrial communication.

M12 hybrid connectors for Single Pair Ethernet

Its data container forms the basis for the new pin connector pattern: The M12 hybrid connector for Single Pair Ethernet combines data and power transmission in a compact format. The space-saving data element with two contacts enables higher power transmission in minimal installation space. Instead of separate connectors for data and power, the hybrid solution provides greater flexibility and more efficient supply.

SPE portfolio

The proven SPE portfolio – can also be used flexibly in the future

Continue to access all previous connectors and components for Single Pair Ethernet: Our existing portfolio will continue to offer you tried-and-tested solutions for SPE communication in many applications.

Robot arm

Future-proof interfaces for factory automation

The IEC 63171-7 standard makes it possible to integrate a wide variety of applications in the field of factory automation on the basis of a standardized data container. This creates new possibilities for the direct integration of devices into industrial networks.

  • Typical areas of application: In robotics, connectors in accordance with IEC 63171-7 offer compact and powerful interfaces for power supply and data communication.

  • Sensors and actuators: Field devices can be integrated directly into the Ethernet network – without gateways or media discontinuities.

  • Building technology: Lighting systems, access controls, and air conditioning units benefit from the compact cabling and simple network connection.

SPS 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany
SPS 2025: Experience the new pin connector pattern live

Experience innovation firsthand: Our prototype for the new Single Pair Ethernet standard will be on display at SPS in Nuremberg, Germany, from November 25 to 27, 2025.

Our experts will be available to answer all your SPE-related questions in Hall 9, Booth 310. Take the opportunity to see for yourself the benefits of the next generation of industrial data transmission. Discuss specific applications, integration options, and the future of your system communication with us.

Visit us at SPS
Phoenix Contact booth at the SPS trade fair

Webinar on the new SPE pin connector pattern


Webinar on the new SPE pin connector pattern

A compact explanation: The new SPE pin connector pattern in industrial communication

Learn firsthand how the new, unified SPE standard is revolutionizing industrial communication. Verena Neuhaus and Tim Kindermann from the team of SPE experts at Phoenix Contact explain the advantages of the new pin connector pattern, provide insights into the development, and show how you can optimally prepare your company for the future.

When you come to us, you have the best partner for SPE at your side. Phoenix Contact offers you more than just innovative solutions. You also receive comprehensive support and expertise to successfully implement your projects.

Verena Neuhaus, Expert in Single Pair Ethernet
Verena Neuhaus, Phoenix Contact

FAQs regarding the new Single Pair Ethernet standard

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern
Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

SPE in accordance with the IEC 63171-7 standard ensures true cross-manufacturer compatibility for the first time and reduces planning risks for your company.

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

IP20 and M12 connectors are expected in 2026. We recommend that you start planning now. There are plans to convert other designs to the new standard.

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

Phoenix Contact is the initiator and active co-designer of the new standard – you benefit from our experience and innovative strength.

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

The new pin connector pattern simplifies integration, increases compatibility, and enables even more flexible use in numerous applications.

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

No, there are currently no plans to discontinue existing product lines. You can continue to access all previous connectors and components.

Questions and answers about the new Single Pair Ethernet pin connector pattern

Yes, our solutions are designed so that you can use existing and new products flexibly and in parallel in your systems.