A smart infrastructure charting the course to the IIoT

Ethernet is being deployed in more and more areas of automation and is the connecting element for IT and OT (Operational Technology). In order to be able to implement correspondingly robust networks for industrial use, HARTING is constantly developing and refining its range of reliable Industrial Ethernet connectivity. With regard to Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, the Technology Group is highlighting new variants of the robust RJ Industrial^® Multifeature interface: the industrial RJ45 with "integrated side cutter" for accelerated and simplified cable connection, as well as the new preLink^® RJ45 in optimised design. Both RJ45 innovations are decidedly convincing in their straight and angled versions.

Catering to demanding Ethernet applications on the field level, where assembly can be subject to massive time pressure, HARTING is now presenting M12 circular connectors according to the new IEC 61076-2-010 standard. This represents the cross-market PushPull locking standard for M12 connectors that users have long been waiting for. On the one hand, this allows access to standing and recessed device sockets, while on the other hand, the interfaces can also be connected 75% faster in the field. Consequently, the long-standing critical issue of second source and interoperability has been overcome.

Users of PROFINET-compatible cabling solutions should take a good look at the miniaturised ix Industrial^® connector. Compared to RJ45 solutions, the 70% smaller interface is now also specified in the PROFINET Guideline Cabling and Interconnection Technology and offers users a significantly more compact, robust and absolutely industry-compatible interface for demanding applications in the PROFINET environment.

Moreover, among the innovations, the new variants of the T1 industrial interface for single pair Ethernet are also playing a special role, most particularly the interface standardised according to IEC 63171-6 in M12 and M8 housings. In addition, the technology group will be presenting the new hybrid concepts for SPE plus Power according to IEC 63171-7. In order to meet power requirements beyond the possible 50W of Power over Data Line, the -7 standard for hybrid SPE solutions represents an important step.

Pursuing the aim of making SPE technology accessible to further industrial application areas, the Technology Group has now made the first solutions for single-pair connection via PCB terminal available. Terminals simplify the connection of SPEs to an even greater extent, and can help to bring Ethernet to the field level and simplify handling. This is particularly interesting within the context of SPE and IIoT with low data rates from 10 Mbit/s and transmission lengths of up to 1000 m in industry, building and process automation.

SPE Industrial Partner Network

HARTING’s role as a founding member of the SPE Industrial Partner Network e.V. is also visibly communicated to the outside world. Application examples for SPE will be shown as part of our digital offering – interested parties are cordially invited to ask their questions about SPE.