Chicago, USA
A new chapter in industrial automation began today at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), the largest manufacturing exhibition in the western hemisphere, with the announcement that the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance and SPE Industrial Partner Network have merged to form a unified organisation – the Single Pair Ethernet Association (SPE Association). The new association represents members from more than 130 leading manufacturing and technology companies globally.
With the unanimous approval of the leadership teams of both networks, the two previously independent organisations are combining their expertise, activities and memberships under the SPE Association identity. The move aims to build momentum and accelerate the development, standardisation, global adoption and implementation of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology for industrial communication, automation and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.
As an advanced technology supporting the future of industrial automation, Single Pair Ethernet simplifies Ethernet connectivity by transmitting high-speed data over longer distances through a single twisted pair of wires, instead of traditional two- or four-pair configurations. SPE enables efficient connectivity across a wide range of industrial environments, particularly where reducing weight, space and cost is a priority.
The newly established SPE Association will enhance global awareness of the benefits of SPE-enabled industrial automation while supporting a strong ecosystem of industry stakeholders, users and research communities. By bringing together technical expertise, market initiatives and international programmes, the association aims to create closer alignment across the global SPE landscape.
Existing members of both founding networks have been seamlessly integrated into the Single Pair Ethernet Association, ensuring that their established knowledge, technical capabilities and industry experience continue to contribute to the association’s objectives.
“IMTS provides the ideal platform to demonstrate the potential of Single Pair Ethernet as a foundational technology that will help shape the future of industrial networking. We invite IMTS attendees to visit our Booth #236134,” said Nick Sandoval, President of SPE Association’s North American Marketing Council.
“This merger marks the beginning of a new phase of industry collaboration. By working together as one organisation with a global approach and a unified voice, we can help manufacturers achieve simpler architectures, improved interoperability and a more connected industrial future,” he added.