ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module

Overview

The ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module delivers affordable, compact Ethernet connectivity for microcontrollers and embedded systems. Based on the proven ENC28J60 Ethernet controller chip, this module gives Arduino, Raspberry Pi (via SPI hat or MCU), and other microcontroller projects access to wired LAN and internet communication using TCP/IP, UDP, and HTTP protocols.

Key Features

• ENC28J60 Ethernet Chip: Reliable 10/100Mbps capable controller for Ethernet connectivity.
• SPI Interface: Fast Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) connection to microcontrollers for efficient data transfer.
• RJ45 Connector: Standard Ethernet jack for stable wired network connections.
• Low Power Consumption: Energy-efficient design suitable for battery-powered and low-power IoT devices.
• Compact Design: Small footprint that fits easily into embedded systems and prototypes.
• Protocol Support: Compatible with TCP/IP, UDP and HTTP for web servers, sensors, and cloud connectivity.

Specifications

• Ethernet Chip: ENC28J60
• Interface: SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface)
• Connector: RJ45 Ethernet port
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V (module tolerant options available for 5V systems using level shifting)
• Speed: 10/100Mbps Ethernet support
• Dimensions: Approx. 50mm x 28mm x 15mm
• Weight: Approx. 12g

Compatibility and Libraries

This ENC28J60 module is widely compatible with microcontrollers that expose an SPI interface. Popular supported platforms and libraries include:

• Arduino (use libraries like UIPEthernet or EtherCard)
• ESP8266/ESP32 (with appropriate SPI wiring and libraries)
• Raspberry Pi (via SPI on the GPIO header or as part of HAT designs)
• Other ARM and AVR MCUs with SPI support

Typical Applications

• IoT devices requiring stable wired network access
• Home automation controllers and smart hubs
• Remote monitoring and data logging systems
• Networked sensors for environmental, security, or industrial monitoring
• Microcontroller-based web servers and cloud-connected systems

Getting Started

Wiring

• Connect VCC to 3.3V supply (check module variant for 5V tolerance).
• Connect GND to system ground.
• SPI connections: MOSI, MISO, SCK, and CS (chip select) to corresponding MCU SPI pins.
• Optional: Reset and INT pins if present for advanced control and interrupt-driven designs.

Software

• Install a compatible ENC28J60 library (example: UIPEthernet for Arduino).
• Use example sketches to configure DHCP or assign static IP, then test with simple HTTP or TCP/UDP examples.
• Adjust SPI settings and CS pin in code if using non-standard wiring.

Why Choose the ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module

The ENC28J60 module is a cost-effective solution for adding reliable wired networking to embedded projects. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, offers broad library support, and is compact enough for tight enclosures—making it a go-to choice for hobbyists and professionals building IoT and automation systems.

FAQ

• Can it run at 5V? The ENC28J60 chip itself is 3.3V. Some modules include level shifting or regulator circuitry to support 5V systems. Verify the specific module variant before connecting 5V directly.
• Does it support Gigabit Ethernet? No. The ENC28J60 supports 10/100Mbps Ethernet speeds.
• Which libraries should I use? For Arduino, UIPEthernet and EtherCard are popular options. For other platforms, check community libraries compatible with ENC28J60.

Note: Product images are for illustration only. Actual appearance may vary.