ENC28J60/SS

Compact Ethernet controllers with SPI interface and 8KB RAM

Manufacturer: microchip

series introduction

# Introduction to the ENC28J60/SS Product Series

## 1. Overview
The ENC28J60/SS product series represents a significant advancement in the field of Ethernet connectivity solutions. These devices are designed to provide a cost - effective and efficient way to add Ethernet networking capabilities to a wide range of microcontroller - based systems. Whether it's for industrial automation, home automation, smart meters, or other embedded applications, the ENC28J60/SS series offers a reliable and straightforward solution.

## 2. Key Features

### 2.1 Ethernet Connectivity
- **Standards Compliance**: The ENC28J60/SS is compliant with the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard. This ensures seamless integration with existing Ethernet networks, allowing devices using this series to communicate with other Ethernet - enabled devices such as routers, switches, and computers.
- **10BASE - T Support**: It supports 10 Mbps Ethernet communication over twisted - pair cables. This speed is sufficient for many embedded applications where high - speed data transfer is not the primary requirement, and it also simplifies the overall system design by using commonly available Ethernet infrastructure.

### 2.2 SPI Interface
- **Easy Integration**: One of the standout features of the ENC28J60/SS series is its Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI). This interface allows for easy connection to a microcontroller. Microcontrollers with SPI support can communicate with the ENC28J60/SS with minimal additional hardware, reducing the complexity and cost of the overall system.
- **High - Speed Data Transfer**: The SPI interface enables relatively high - speed data transfer between the microcontroller and the Ethernet controller. This ensures that data can be quickly sent and received, minimizing latency in the communication process.

### 2.3 Memory Management
- **Internal Buffer Memory**: The device comes with an internal buffer memory that can store incoming and outgoing Ethernet frames. This buffer helps in handling bursty data traffic and ensures that data is not lost during transmission or reception.
- **Efficient Memory Organization**: The memory is organized in a way that allows for efficient packet handling. The microcontroller can easily access and manage the data stored in the buffer, making it easier to implement networking protocols.

### 2.4 Power Management
- **Low - Power Operation**: The ENC28J60/SS series is designed to operate with low power consumption. This is crucial for battery - powered or energy - sensitive applications. It can enter low - power modes when not actively transmitting or receiving data, helping to extend the battery life of the device.

### 2.5 Hardware Features
- **Built - in MAC and PHY**: The device integrates both a Media Access Control (MAC) layer and a Physical layer (PHY). This integration simplifies the design process as it eliminates the need for separate MAC and PHY chips, reducing the board space and component count.
- **Auto - Negotiation**: It supports auto - negotiation of the link speed and duplex mode. This means that the device can automatically detect the capabilities of the connected network device and adjust its operation accordingly, ensuring optimal performance.

## 3. Applications

### 3.1 Industrial Automation
- **Remote Monitoring and Control**: In industrial settings, the ENC28J60/SS can be used to enable remote monitoring and control of industrial equipment. Microcontrollers connected to the ENC28J60/SS can send and receive data over the Ethernet network, allowing operators to monitor the status of machines, adjust settings, and receive alerts in real - time.
- **Factory Automation Networks**: It can be integrated into factory automation networks to connect various sensors, actuators, and control systems. This helps in creating a more connected and efficient industrial environment.

### 3.

Images for reference

28-SSOP, M28

28-SSOP, M28

28-SOIC

28-SOIC

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related Documents

Datasheets

Partlist

ENC28J60/SS