Single Pair Ethernet Connectors in Industrial Automation: What to Watch in 2026

Industrial automation networks are entering a new phase of connectivity.

For decades, factory communication systems have relied on:

Fieldbus networks
Industrial Ethernet
M8 and M12 connectors
RJ45 interfaces
Multi-pair communication cables

Today, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is emerging as one of the most important technologies supporting Industry 4.0, IIoT, and smart manufacturing initiatives.

While SPE has been discussed for several years, 2026 is expected to be a significant milestone as more industrial equipment manufacturers move from pilot projects to commercial deployment.

For engineers, OEM buyers, and system integrators, understanding upcoming SPE connector trends can help guide future product and infrastructure decisions.

Why SPE Is Gaining Momentum

Industrial networks continue to evolve toward greater connectivity.

Factories now require:

more sensors
more data collection
more edge devices
more intelligent actuators

Traditional Ethernet remains effective, but many field-level devices do not require the size and complexity of four-pair Ethernet infrastructure.

Single Pair Ethernet offers:

reduced cable size
lighter harnesses
simplified installation
Ethernet-based communication down to the sensor level

This makes SPE highly attractive for next-generation automation architectures.

Trend #1: Increasing Adoption of IEC 63171 Connector Standards

One of the biggest developments to watch in 2026 is the growing acceptance of IEC 63171 connector standards.

These standards define connector interfaces for SPE applications.

Common variants include:

IEC 63171-2
IEC 63171-5
IEC 63171-6

As more automation suppliers adopt standardized interfaces, interoperability across equipment platforms is expected to improve.

For buyers, connector standard compatibility will become an increasingly important procurement criterion.

Trend #2: Expansion of SPE in Smart Sensors and Actuators

Many industrial sensors currently use:

discrete I/O
fieldbus interfaces
proprietary communication methods

SPE enables direct Ethernet connectivity to field devices.

Benefits include:

simplified architectures
real-time diagnostics
easier device integration
reduced gateway requirements

By 2026, more sensor and actuator manufacturers are expected to release SPE-enabled products.

Trend #3: Growth of Power over Data Line (PoDL)

Power over Data Line (PoDL) remains one of the most compelling SPE features.

PoDL allows:

data transmission
device power

through the same twisted pair.

Potential advantages include:

fewer cables
reduced installation costs
smaller harnesses
simplified device deployment

As SPE ecosystems mature, PoDL adoption is expected to accelerate across industrial automation markets.

Trend #4: Smaller and More Compact Industrial Devices

Machine builders continue to pursue:

smaller equipment footprints
higher device density
reduced cabinet space

SPE connectors support these goals through:

compact connector designs
reduced cable diameter
lighter cable assemblies

This trend is particularly important in:

robotics
machine vision
semiconductor equipment
compact automation cells

Connector miniaturization will remain a major development focus in 2026.

Trend #5: Stronger Focus on EMC Performance

As industrial networks become more data-driven, communication reliability becomes increasingly critical.

Industrial environments contain significant sources of electromagnetic interference:

servo drives
VFDs
motors
switching power supplies

Although SPE cables are smaller, EMC challenges remain.

Future SPE connector development will likely emphasize:

improved shielding
lower transfer impedance
optimized grounding
enhanced connector shielding continuity

EMC performance will continue to be a key differentiator among suppliers.

Trend #6: More SPE Solutions for Robotics

Robotic systems require communication solutions that can withstand:

continuous flexing
torsion
vibration

As robots become more connected, SPE presents an opportunity to simplify communication architectures.

However, robotic SPE cable assemblies must still address:

dynamic motion
shielding durability
flex life requirements

2026 may see a broader range of SPE products specifically designed for robotic applications.

Trend #7: Integration with Industry 4.0 Architectures

Industry 4.0 initiatives emphasize:

unified communication
real-time data access
device interoperability

SPE aligns closely with these goals.

Benefits include:

end-to-end Ethernet connectivity
simplified networking
easier data collection
scalable architectures

Many manufacturers view SPE as a foundational technology for future smart factories.

Trend #8: Growing Demand for Hybrid Connectivity Solutions

The transition to SPE will not happen overnight.

Many facilities will operate mixed environments including:

traditional Ethernet
fieldbus networks
SPE networks

As a result, demand is growing for:

SPE-to-Ethernet adapters
hybrid cable assemblies
migration-friendly connectivity solutions

Suppliers that support both legacy and emerging standards may have a competitive advantage.

Trend #9: Higher Expectations for IP Protection

Industrial users continue to demand robust environmental protection.

Common requirements include:

IP67

Factory automation equipment.

IP68

Harsh industrial environments.

IP69K

Washdown applications.

Future SPE connectors will need to maintain industrial-grade sealing despite smaller form factors.

Trend #10: Supplier Qualification Will Become More Important

As SPE adoption grows, buyers will increasingly evaluate suppliers based on:

connector standard compliance
EMC performance
environmental testing
manufacturing quality
application engineering support

Selecting the right connectivity partner may become as important as selecting the connector itself.

Challenges That Still Need Attention

Although SPE offers significant advantages, several challenges remain.

Standard Fragmentation

Multiple connector standards continue to coexist.

Ecosystem Maturity

Some industrial markets are still in the early adoption phase.

Infrastructure Transition

Existing Ethernet systems remain deeply established.

Education and Training

Many engineers are still learning SPE design principles.

These factors will influence adoption rates over the coming years.

Questions Buyers Should Ask in 2026

Before selecting SPE connector solutions, buyers should ask:

Which IEC 63171 standard is supported?
Is PoDL available?
What EMC testing has been completed?
What IP protection level is achieved?
Is the connector suitable for robotics or drag-chain applications?
What interoperability testing has been performed?
How does the supplier support future scalability?

Typical Applications Expected to Grow

SPE connectors are expected to expand across:

Smart sensors
Intelligent actuators
Industrial IoT devices
Edge computing equipment
Robotics
Machine vision systems
Process automation
Smart manufacturing platforms

How FPIC Supports Emerging SPE Connectivity Needs

FPIC develops advanced industrial connectivity solutions including:

SPE cable assemblies
Industrial Ethernet harnesses
M8 and M12 communication cables
Shielded data cable assemblies
Robotic communication harnesses
Custom overmolded connector solutions

Our engineering team helps customers evaluate emerging connectivity technologies while maintaining compatibility with current industrial infrastructure.

Final Thoughts

Single Pair Ethernet connectors are moving from concept to practical deployment.

In 2026, key developments are expected around:

IEC 63171 standard adoption
PoDL expansion
connector miniaturization
robotics integration
Industry 4.0 implementation
EMC optimization

For OEMs and industrial buyers, now is the time to understand SPE technologies and prepare for the next generation of industrial networking.

Organizations that evaluate SPE early may gain advantages in system simplification, scalability, and future connectivity readiness.

FAQ

What is a Single Pair Ethernet connector?

An SPE connector is a connector designed to transmit Ethernet communication through a single twisted pair of conductors.

What is PoDL?

Power over Data Line (PoDL) enables both power and data transmission over the same SPE cable.

Will SPE replace Industrial Ethernet?

Not immediately. SPE is expected to complement existing Ethernet infrastructure, particularly at the device level.

Which SPE connector standards are most important?

IEC 63171-2, IEC 63171-5, and IEC 63171-6 are among the most widely discussed industrial SPE connector standards.

Why is SPE important for Industry 4.0?

SPE enables direct Ethernet connectivity to sensors and actuators, supporting unified and scalable industrial communication architectures.

Planning for Next-Generation Industrial Connectivity?

FPIC provides custom SPE cable assemblies, Industrial Ethernet harnesses, M8/M12 connectivity solutions, and engineering support for automation, robotics, and Industrial IoT applications.

Contact us to discuss your future Single Pair Ethernet connectivity requirements.

Resources

IEC 63171 Series – Single Pair Ethernet Connector Standards
IEEE 802.3cg – 10BASE-T1L and 10BASE-T1S Standards
PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) SPE Resources
ODVA Single Pair Ethernet Guidance
Phoenix Contact and HARTING SPE Technology Documentation

Source References: IEC 63171, IEEE 802.3cg, PI, ODVA, Phoenix Contact, HARTING SPE technical resources.