SPIDER Automation ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module | Raspberry Pi Zero Interface
Description
SPIDER Automation ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module is an essential hardware expansion board designed to bring reliable wired networking capabilities to compact single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi Zero and Zero W. While wireless communication is popular, wired Ethernet remains the gold standard for secure, interference-free, and high-speed data transmission in critical environments.
Driven by Microchip’s standalone ENC28J60 Ethernet controller IC, this module features a built-in MAC and 10Base-T PHY, handling complex network protocols directly on the hardware level. The board integrates seamlessly with your setup, providing a robust HR911105A RJ45 port, a stable 25MHz crystal oscillator, and clean power regulation pins to ensure uninterrupted network access for headless computing and automation projects.
Key Features
- Microchip ENC28J60 Controller: High-performance standalone Ethernet controller featuring integrated MAC and 10Base-T physical layer.
- Standard RJ45 Network Port: Equipped with a high-grade HanRun HR911105A magnetic network interface jack for secure cable latching.
- Full and Half-Duplex Support: Accommodates flexible network communication protocols with automatic collision detection and retransmission.
- Hardware Packet Filtering: Programmable automatic rejection of erroneous packets and hardware CRC generation to ease host processor loads.
- Onboard 25MHz Crystal Oscillator: Provides precise clock signals required for stable, error-free packet transmission and reception.
- Optimized SPI Communication: Interfaces cleanly with microcontroller and single-board computer SPI pins using minimal wiring.
- Clean 3.3V Power Regulation: Designed to operate efficiently on standard 3.3V DC power supply lines compatible with Pi logic levels.
- Compact Form Factor: Precision-built dimensions measuring 66mm × 28mm × 5mm for seamless physical alignment.
- Lightweight Construction: Weighs only 17 grams, adding virtually no physical burden to portable or enclosure-mounted rigs.
Benefits
- Adds Wired Reliability: Overcomes wireless dropouts and signal interference by introducing secure wired network connectivity.
- Cost-Effective Expansion: An economical hardware solution for outfitting compact Zero-series boards with full network ports.
- Reduces Host Processing Overhead: Hardware-level MAC and packet handling free up CPU cycles for your core application scripts.
- Secure Local Communication: Ideal for isolated networks where Wi-Fi access is prohibited or restricted for security reasons.
- Plug-and-Play Integration: Clean pin layout ensures fast mounting and straightforward software driver configuration.
Applications
- Headless IoT Gateways: Establishing stable, long-term network connections for remote environmental monitors and data loggers.
- Industrial Automation Nodes: Interfacing factory floor Raspberry Pi Zero units into secure local area network (LAN) architectures.
- Smart Home Control Servers: Running local automation hubs and home assistant bridges requiring uninterrupted uptime.
- Embedded Network Testing: Portable diagnostic and network monitoring rigs built on lightweight single-board computers.
- Educational Computing: Teaching students network protocols, SPI communication, and low-level hardware interfacing.
Package Includes
- 1 x ENC28J60 Ethernet Network Module for Raspberry Pi Zero / Zero W
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Brand / Manufacturer | SPIDER Automation Component Line |
| Product Category | Electronic Communication & Network Modules |
| Item Type | Ethernet Interface / Network Adapter Board |
| Model / Series | ENC28J60 Internet Module for Pi Zero |
| SKU Identifier | SKU-SPIDER-ENC28J60-PI-ZERO |
| Primary Controller IC | Microchip ENC28J60-I/SO Standalone Ethernet Controller |
| Network Port Hardware | HanRun HR911105A RJ45 Magnetic Jack |
| Clock Oscillator Source | 25 MHz Crystal Oscillator |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V DC (Standard Logic Supply) |
| Physical Dimensions (L × W × H) | 66.0 mm × 28.0 mm × 5.0 mm |
| Net Weight | 17.0 grams |
| Compatibility | Raspberry Pi Zero, Raspberry Pi Zero W, and 3.3V SPI Systems |
