By Arduino Team

Arduino and Microchip are excited to open electronica – the “world’s leading trade fair and conference for electronics” – by introducing the Arduino UNO SPE Shield, a powerful ally to bring advanced connectivity to new and existing projects, with Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) and RS485. 

SPE is a new Ethernet communication standard that enables power and data to coexist on a single pair of wires, referred to as Power over Data Line (PoDL). This allows for faster data transfer and reduced wiring complexity and costs, leading to more streamlined and rapid deployment of integrated strategies for the automation of buildings, factories, and processes, in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). 

By incorporating RS485 connectivity, the Arduino UNO SPE Shield becomes a versatile tool for upgrading RS485 legacy systems or integrating modern technologies with current infrastructures, creating a seamless bridge between the old and the new.

As a valuable new addition to the Arduino ecosystem, the Arduino UNO SPE Shield offers plug-and-play compatibility with Arduino UNO R4 – catering to a broad spectrum of innovators, from DIY enthusiasts to engineers developing cutting-edge solutions for industrial applications.

A powerful partnership

The SPE Shield was created in collaboration with Microchip, a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control and processing solutions, by using its LAN8651B1T-E/LMX Single Pair Ethernet MAC-PHY.

In recognition of this joint effort, Martin Miller, Director of Automotive Information Systems at  Microchip remarked: “Our collaboration with Arduino in launching the new SPE Shield aims to empower the maker and engineering communities by providing them with advanced tools to drive new breakthroughs. This solution represents our commitment to developing and delivering flexible, connected and scalable solutions for the future.”

Indeed, the partnership has allowed for a product that delivers both cutting-edge, reliable technology as well as versatility and a user-friendly experience. 

Fabio Violante, CEO of Arduino, commented: “The Arduino UNO SPE Shield represents a pivotal step in accelerating the adoption of 10BASE-T1S technology across industry and maker communities alike. By bringing single-pair Ethernet to our globally trusted platform, we’re making this game-changing standard accessible to millions of innovators worldwide. What sets our implementation apart is our unique addition of Power over Data Lines capabilities – an industry-first feature that extends beyond the standard specifications to unlock entirely new possibilities for powered, single-cable solutions. This powerful combination of standardized communication and innovative power delivery empowers developers to create more elegant, cost-effective connected systems that bridge today’s industrial requirements with tomorrow’s possibilities. Whether you’re retrofitting legacy equipment or prototyping next-generation IoT devices, the UNO SPE Shield delivers the essential building blocks for modern industrial communication in our signature easy-to-use Arduino format.”

Key benefits of the Arduino UNO SPE Shield

  • Fast and reliable data transfer with Single-Pair Ethernet.
  • Reduced wiring complexity and lower project costs.
  • Versatile use across industries from smart factories to energy monitoring.
  • Seamless integration with the widest range of technologies, ensuring a quick start with minimal setup.
  • Plug-and-play compatibility with Arduino’s major maker platform for makers at all levels.
  • Open-source support with a dedicated Arduino library to streamline programming and development.

Revolutionizing connectivity across industries

The Arduino UNO SPE Shield enables enhanced innovation across a wide array of fields, solving real-world challenges from smart buildings to prototyping IoT devices. 

For instance, with the Arduino UNO SPE Shield interconnected building management solutions can easily combine smart lighting, HVAC, and security devices with energy monitoring systems – all integrated via a central control system powered by SPE and RS485.

In general, the new SPE standard is considered a game changer for the connection of field devices and sensors. For example, in smart-grid monitoring the SPE Shield provides seamless connectivity between energy meters, solar inverters, and battery storage systems, delivering real-time data to the cloud. 

In factory automation, adopting SPE can reduce wiring costs, node costs, and power consumption, while enabling data communications via a single pair of wires. Being able to effortlessly retrofit legacy RS485 equipment with this technology only adds to the benefits of the Arduino UNO SPE Shield.

In the automotive industry, combining SPE and RS485 allows for solutions that bridge advanced systems with legacy components, enabling comprehensive monitoring of engine health and fuel efficiency in connected vehicles. 

Last but not least, the SPE Shield’s unique combination of ultra-fast data transfer, real-time connectivity and seamless integration with legacy components facilitates quick testing and refinement of prototypes, accelerating the development of new ideas.

Connect to your next innovation, with Arduino UNO SPE Shield. Sign up for the waiting list to be the first to know when it’s available for purchase!

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