The cabling can be used to carry power (Power over Ethernet, or PoE) as well as data, which means one set of wiring can both support the network and energise connected sensors, actuators and other devices, such as cameras.
However, standard Ethernet is not up to the industrial job. The hardware is not designed to operate reliably in the hot, dirty, and vibration-prone factory environment. Also, standard Ethernet protocols are non-deterministic and hence ill-suited to the needs of the factory environment.
Industrial Ethernet brings all the benefits of standard Ethernet, but adds ruggedisation and deterministic software to the mix.
Read the full article in DPA's April issue