The leading standards development organizations FieldComm Group, ODVA, OPC Foundation, and PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI), as well as 12 industrial project partners ABB, Emerson, Endress+Hauser, Krohne, Pepperl+Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, Rockwell Automation, Samson, Siemens, Stahl, VEGA and Yokogawa, introduced the new two-wire, intrinsically-safe physical layer at ACHEMA Pulse.
On October 5 and 6, 2021, the project partners will jointly present details on the Ethernet-APL technology in a virtual workshop. Interested participants can expect 8 hours of information-packed sessions, a multi-vendor demonstration, and real use cases. In addition, there will be the opportunity to talk to experts and to discuss ideas and questions about Ethernet-APL.
Ethernet-APL is an extension of the specification for Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) based on 10BASET-1L, which will be able to support EtherNet/IP, HART-IP, OPC UA, PROFINET, or any other higher-level network protocol. By making adjustments to the physical layer, the requirements necessary for reliable operation in process-related plants are satisfied. The principal requirements are high-speed Ethernet based communications, operation in potentially explosive areas, and an ability to install long cable lengths of up to 1,000 meters. The electrical parameters that an Ethernet-APL device must meet to ensure “intrinsically safe” ignition protection are defined in the technical specification of the IEC TS 60079-47 (2-WISE or 2-Wire Intrinsically Safe Ethernet).
With the launch of Ethernet-APL, users can now anticipate a single Ethernet physical layer that can enable long cable reach, intrinsic safety, and application-level protocol support for maximum productivity and output. Products will be available in the market soon with conformance testing certification. Users can learn more about Ethernet-APL by visiting ethernet-apl.org, downloading the “Ethernet to the Field” white paper and attending the technology workshop.
Information about the workshop & registration at www.ethernet-apl.org.