What Is Broadband Over Power Lines (BPL)?
Broadband over Power Lines (BPL) is a power line c...
Nessum Alliance
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the demand for cost-effective IP network solutions is higher than ever. Among the technologies capturing attention are “Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)” and “Nessum”—two game-changers poised to reshape industrial connectivity.
This article takes a closer look at how these cutting-edge technologies are addressing long-standing challenges in industrial networking and playing a pivotal role in accelerating digital transformation (DX) across the sector.
In the field level of industrial networks—whether in Building Automation or Factory Automation—non-IP, legacy communication protocols like RS485 are still widely used across many sites. While these systems have long served their purpose, they are increasingly becoming bottlenecks in the drive toward smarter, more efficient operations.
As industries push for tighter integration with advanced sensors, smarter control systems, and greater operational efficiency, the limitations of these legacy networks become more apparent. Their low-speed data transmission and lack of scalability hinder the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Moreover, the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), which was enforced in December 2024[1], is mounting the pressure. Under the CRA, IoT devices across various sectors must meet strict security requirements throughout their entire lifecycle. Since legacy non-IP networks were not designed with modern cybersecurity in mind, they pose significant vulnerabilities, potentially serving as entry points for cyber threats.
Migrating to IP-based networks isn't just a technical upgrade—it's a strategic move. It enables higher productivity, seamless data collection and analysis, enhanced remote maintenance capabilities, and a security posture that aligns with today’s regulatory standards. The future of industrial communication is connected, intelligent, and secure. The shift to IP is no longer optional—it’s inevitable.
According to a study by HMS Networks, 71% of new nodes in industrial networks are connected using Ethernet (22% Fieldbus and 7% Wireless)[2]. When you hear "migrating to IP networks", your first thought is probably rebuilding everything with Ethernet. It’s the obvious choice — right? But here’s the catch: that approach comes with some serious trade-offs you might not have considered.
"High cost of new wiring", "Need for network HUBs every 100 meters", and "Bulky connectors and cables that don’t fit many industrial environments" — these challenges are far from trivial. In fact, they can become roadblocks in cost-sensitive or space-constrained applications.
To truly unlock the potential of IP networking in industrial settings, we need smarter, more flexible solutions that overcome these limitations.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is a next-generation Ethernet technology that enables Ethernet-based communication with just a single pair of cables. Unlike traditional Ethernet, which requires two or four pairs of cable and an RJ45 connector, SPE reduces cable weight and space usage, contributing to easier wiring and more compact devices.
The transmission speed allows for 10 Mbps over a transmission length of 1,000 meters and 1 Gbps over 40 meters. The OSI network layers 2 through 7 are common to traditional Ethernet. Furthermore, SPE supports Power over Data Line (PoDL), enabling a DC power supply (up to 50W) to devices.
Technical specifications of SPE are defined in the IEEE 802.3 standard series.
| Standard | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IEEE 802.3cg | 10BASE-T1S |
|
| IEEE 802.3cg | 10BASE-T1L |
|
| IEEE 802.3bw | 100BASE-T1 |
|
| IEEE 802.3bp | 1000BASE-T1 |
|
Additionally, the requirements for the cable structure and construction are defined in the IEC 61156 series, while the requirements for connector shapes and interfaces are specified in the IEC 63171 series. The details of these standards are omitted in this article.
SPE was originally developed for the Automotive Industry, but now SPE applications are expected to extend beyond in-vehicle networks to various fields, including the following:[3][4][5]
and more.
Nessum is a next-generation communication technology that enables you to build long-range, wide-coverage networks while utilizing existing wiring. It enables the upgrade of various types of cables, such as twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, and power lines, into communication lines, regardless of the cable type. As a topology-free technology not limited by wiring configuration, it contributes to cost-effective network construction. The built-in functionality of the L2 switch also allows seamless integration with IP networks.
The transmission speed allows for several Mbps to tens of Mbps over a transmission range of several kilometers. With the ability to connect up to 1,024 devices per Master device and support for multi-hop (automatic relay) technology, it can build large-scale networks. Furthermore, its robust noise resistance and flexible bandwidth adjustments ensure reliable communication.
Technical specifications of Nessum are defined in the IEEE 1901 standard series.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| IEEE 1901 |
|
| IEEE 1901a |
|
| IEEE 1901b |
|
| IEEE 1901c |
|
Nessum was originally developed for Broadband over Power Line (BPL) technology, but now it is expanding into various fields by utilizing cables other than power lines, including the following:[6][7]
and more.
Nessum Alliance is building a powerful ecosystem made up of diverse products developed and provided by our member companies. These solutions are designed to help developers and end users build cost-effective, reliable IoT networks.[8]
Best of all, if you're interested in Nessum technology, you can start testing its effectiveness right away.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Nessum are both technologies that contribute to building IP-based industrial networks using a single pair (two wires) cable as the transmission medium. Each has its unique features and strengths. Understanding the advantages of both technologies is essential for selecting the optimal solution.
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)
Nessum
| Nessum | Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nessum WIRE | 10BASE-T1S | 10BASE-T1L | 100BASE-T1 | 1000BASE-T1 | |
| Standard | IEEE 1901 | IEEE 802.3cg | IEEE 802.3cg | IEEE 802.3bw | IEEE 802.3bp |
| Communication Speed |
Several to tens of Mbps(*) | 10 Mbps | 10 Mbps | 100 Mbps | 1 Gbps |
| Connection | Point-to-Multipoint (Free Topology, 1,024 nodes) |
Point-to-Point or Point-to-Multipoint (Multidrop, 8 nodes) |
Point-to-Point | Point-to-Point | Point-to-Point |
| Communication Distance |
Several km(*) | 25 m | 1,000 m | 15 m (UTP) 40 m (STP) |
15 m (UTP) 40 m (STP) |
| Transmission | Half Duplex | Half Duplex | Full Duplex | Full Duplex | Full Duplex |
| Cable | Any type of cable (No new wiring) |
SPE cable | SPE cable | SPE cable | SPE cable |
A variety of societal and industrial trends are accelerating the shift toward IP-based industrial networks. If you're facing challenges with rebuilding your network using traditional Ethernet, the two technologies introduced in this article—Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Nessum—could be the cost-effective game-changers you've been looking for.
By understanding the strengths and unique capabilities of each, you’ll be empowered to make smarter infrastructure decisions—and unlock significant value for your business strategy.
[2] Annual Analysis Reveals Steady Growth in Industrial Network Market
[3] Use Cases - Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance
[4] Single Pair Ethernet Use Cases | Single Pair Ethernet
[5] Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) PHYs and Switches | Microchip Technology
[6] Nessum Marketplace | Nessum Alliance