Single Pair Ethernet work continues with the aim of toughening up this evolutionary new technology for as many application scenarios as possible. But reduced cable weight, miniaturization and simplification of the connection technology will only come into play with achieving continuity with the overall infrastructure.

Industrial network infrastructure is a valuable business asset. Investments in legacy networks require a clear migration path to optimize return on assets while not missing out on performance enhancements. A robust, well-executed physical layer is foundational to assuring this asset continues to deliver value.

Two key challenges need to be addressed when building a stable PROFINET application over a WLAN infrastructure. The selected WLAN solution must support L2 forwarding in different configurations, and wireless latency and jitter need to be minimized to meet the requirements of the PROFINET application.

New operational concepts are being developed to drive EtherNet/IP deployment to low-end constrained, in-cabinet devices such as contactors and push buttons.