Single-Pair Ethernet for Smart Building Connections

Currently, standards organizations like IEEE, TIA, and ISO actively working on defining Single-Pair Ethernet. SPE is an important emerging technology, and an ideal solution for applications that require limited power and low bandwidth but need a longer distance.

SPE technology is well suited for smart building applications where it could replace legacy fieldbus technology, such as RS485-based systems that traditionally support access and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) controls. Devices such as sensors for air quality, occupancy, ambient light levels, temperature, and even lighting control are well suited for a single-pair infrastructure because they require limited power and low bandwidth.

One question we hear is “Why not just go with wireless for these smart devices?” Many people view wireless solutions as the primary alternative to SPE. For devices that remain in a fixed position, wireless proves flexible enough to place the device without having to consider the proximity of a data port. A quick and easy way to increase the intelligence and control within the building is to replace legacy devices with smart devices that communicate wirelessly.

Still, SPE will offer some important advantages relative to wireless technology in terms of security of data transmission, connection reliability, and power delivery.

SPE devices will support critical infrastructure for commercial buildings and industrial process control operations, so security of the data and reliability of the connection will be paramount. The reliability of device data, especially sensor data, is highly dependent on the reliability of the device connection to the network and its power source. Connection loss can mean the loss of critical building system operation.

Many of these devices will be in environments which are challenging for wireless communication. Some settings can have high levels of electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference, while building automation devices are likely to be located behind walls or in enclosed spaces.

The biggest advantage SPE offers relative to wireless technology is the capability for remote power delivery. For the quantity and size of the sensors and controls, the use of a battery as a power source may seem advantageous. But having to replace thousands of batteries in a building would be a maintenance nightmare, as the devices could be enclosed and in hard-to-reach locations. Plus, a dead battery could lead, again, to the loss of a critical building system function.

One hidden cost that is frequently overlooked when deploying battery operated devices is the responsible disposal of used batteries. The sheer quantity of devices anticipated for IoT applications makes battery use a significant consideration. Businesses are looking for ways to increase use of sustainable materials and lower their carbon footprint. Deploying many thousands of devices with single-use batteries isn’t feasible when a more sustainable alternative is available.

Learn more about SPE in the Leviton white paper?“Advantages of Single Pair Ethernet”, which covers SPE cabling standards, typical deployments, and its advantages versus fieldbus and wireless.