10BASE-T1L vs 10BASE-T1S:Discover differences in Single Pair Ethernet

Introduction : In the evolving landscape of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE), 10BASE-T1L and 10BASE-T1S represent two critical variants defined under IEEE 802.3cg for low speed, efficient networking over single twisted pair. Although both support 10 Mbps data rates, they differ significantly in reach, topology, encoding and target applications.

10Base-T1L

• Data Rate : 10 Mbps (Full Duplex)
• Medium : Single Balanced Twisted Pair
• Reach : Up to 1000 meters ( 1 Km)
• Signaling : PAM3 (3 level Pulse Amplitude Modulation)
• Power : Supports Power Over Data Line
• Target Use : Industrial automation, process control, building systems, and infrastructure networks
• Known by : Long Reach

10Base-T1S

• Data rate : 10 Mbps
• Medium : Single Balanced Twisted Pair
• Reach : Up to 25 meters (Multi drop topology)
• Topology : Supports multi-drop (1.e. multiple nodes on one cable)
• Target use : Automotive, industrial, and embedded systems (short cable runs)
• Known by : Short Reach

Conclusion: Choosing between 10BASE-T1L and 10BASE-T1S comes down to matching network requirements with each standard’s strengths. 10BASE-T1L excels for long reach, point to point Ethernet links up to 1 km. In contrast, 10BASE-T1S supports short distances and multi-drop topologies.