
Olimex UEXT-CH390 SPI to Ethernet module targets Raspberry Pi and ESP32 MCU boards running ESPHome
Olimex has introduced the UEXT-CH390, a compact open-source hardware module that adds 10/100 Mbps wired Ethernet connectivity to microcontroller boards through an SPI interface.
The UEXT-CH390 module is based on the WCH CH390 Ethernet controller and features both standard UEXT and smaller 1.0mm-pitch pUEXT connectors. Measuring just 50 x 21 mm, it provides a compact solution for adding wired networking capabilities to devices that lack native Ethernet support.
Technical specifications
The module includes 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet with auto-negotiation and Auto-MDIX support for automatic cable detection. It features built-in 16KB SRAM for packet buffering and comes with a factory-programmed MAC address, eliminating the need for external configuration.
Target applications
The UEXT-CH390 is supported in both Arduino IDE and ESPHome firmware, making it particularly suitable for wired IoT sensors and Home Assistant devices. Its design addresses scenarios where WiFi connectivity is unreliable or undesirable, providing a stable networking alternative for embedded systems.