In industrial communication, range and reliability are key factors. The Network Extender SPE from Wiesemann & Theis was developed to extend Ethernet connections beyond the limits of traditional network cables. Supporting Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and other two-wire cables, this compact device enables Ethernet transmission over distances of up to 1000 meters – easily, stably, and without complex configuration.

With high compatibility to industrial standards and a rugged design, the Network Extender SPE is ideal for Industry 4.0, building automation, and traffic control systems. Supporting Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) and simple plug & play integration, it provides a low-maintenance solution for connecting devices that need to communicate over long distances.

Single Pair Ethernet for extended range

The Network Extender SPE uses 10BaseT1L technology, an Ethernet standard that enables full-duplex transmission via a single wire pair. This significantly simplifies cabling, especially in buildings and industrial systems where existing two-wire connections – such as bell wire – can be reused. Transmission distances reach up to 1000 meters with SPE cables and about 600 meters with standard bell wire under laboratory conditions.

Operating fully transparently on OSI Layer 2, the device requires no configuration or software. Users can extend any Ethernet connection with minimal effort while keeping their existing network structure intact.

Simple plug & play – ready to use immediately

One of the greatest strengths of the Network Extender SPE is its plug & play capability. No IP addressing, pairing, or management is required. Simply connect the units — one near the control panel and one at the remote Ethernet device — and the connection is established automatically. The system detects the signal direction and adjusts itself accordingly.

An optional WLAN diagnostic module is available for monitoring connection status and reading debugging information in real time. This allows service technicians to quickly identify and fix connection issues.

Flexible power supply including Power-over-Ethernet

The Network Extender SPE offers flexible power options. It can be powered either via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or an external, galvanically isolated DC input (24V–48V). PoE enables power delivery directly through the data line, eliminating the need for separate power supplies — particularly useful for remote or hard-to-access installations.

This flexibility simplifies integration into existing infrastructures in industrial, building, and transportation systems.

Robust industrial design

Like all Wiesemann & Theis products, the Network Extender SPE is designed for continuous industrial operation. It features:

• one Ethernet interface (10BaseT Full Duplex),
• one Single Pair Ethernet interface (10BaseT1L Full Duplex),
• both supporting auto-negotiation and auto-MDIX.

The durable hardware is DIN rail-mountable, built for extended temperature ranges, and protected against mechanical stress. This makes it suitable for outdoor use, control rooms, and industrial cabinets exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Cost efficiency through use of existing infrastructure

While fiber solutions or repeaters often come with high material and installation costs, the Network Extender SPE can reuse existing two-wire cabling. This not only saves on cable expenses but also minimizes downtime during infrastructure upgrades. For many retrofit applications in older production facilities, the extender provides an ideal alternative to costly rewiring.

Thanks to its simplicity and full transparency, networks remain easy to understand and maintain — with no special tools or added configuration required.

Comparison with alternative Ethernet extension technologies

Conventional Ethernet extenders often use VDSL or media converters that require complex pairing, separate power setups at both ends, or dedicated management systems. In contrast, the Wiesemann & Theis Network Extender SPE works fully transparently and requires no IP or protocol configuration.

Compared to fiber optic systems, it offers lower installation costs and easier maintenance. Wherever 10 Mbit/s bandwidth is sufficient — such as for controllers, HMIs, or sensors in industrial and IoT networks — it serves as the more economical alternative.

Typical application scenarios

• Industry 4.0: connecting controllers, sensors, and gateways across large production areas
• Building automation: networking lighting, heating, or ventilation systems using existing two-wire cables
• Transportation systems: connecting control units in tunnels, stations, or traffic management centers
• Infrastructure monitoring: integrating measurement stations, cameras, or gateways over long distances
• IoT systems: extending Ethernet connectivity to remote IoT devices

Standards compliance and operational safety

The Network Extender SPE complies with key industrial and EMC standards:

• EN 61000-6-2 (immunity)
• EN 55032:2015 + A1 Class B (emissions)
• EN 61000-3-2 / EN 61000-3-3 (electrical compatibility)

This ensures suitability for both industrial production environments and office network applications. Galvanic isolation of the power supply protects against voltage surges and electrical feedback.

Reliability and long-term durability

The Network Extender SPE is designed for continuous 24/7 operation and comes with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty from Wiesemann & Theis. Its robust construction and compact DIN rail design ensure reliable operation even in challenging environments.

Future-proof Ethernet extension for industry and automation

The Wiesemann & Theis Network Extender SPE provides a simple, cost-efficient, and reliable solution for extending Ethernet connections over long distances. Single Pair Ethernet and two-wire communication technology enable versatile integration options — from building cabling to machine networking.

With plug & play functionality, PoE support, and IP transparency, the extender is immediately operational with zero administrative effort. Whether for IoT integration, industrial network extension, or as a retrofit solution for legacy systems — this device combines cost efficiency, performance, and reliability at the highest level.