Published 12 November 2026
Ethernet Mainboard Review: 168 MHz Gadgeteer Specs
Ethernet Mainboard review: 168 MHz Gadgeteer board with built-in Ethernet, 8 sockets and 8 MB flash explained.
Ethernet Mainboard is a .NET Gadgeteer board with built-in Ethernet for wired prototypes, using a 168 MHz STM32F407 with 192 KB RAM, according to .NET Micro Framework e-shop, accessed November 2026. It combines 1 MB on-chip Flash with 8 MB external Flash for logging, according to .NET Micro Framework e-shop, accessed November 2026. The integrated port means “no separate Ethernet module needed,” as Electronics Datasheets wrote in its part description, accessed November 2026. The listing price was EUR 67.00 excluding VAT as of November 2026, according to .NET Micro Framework e-shop, accessed November 2026, and our hardware testing method weights such built-in interfaces for part-count savings.
What Does the Ethernet Mainboard Provide for Wired Projects?
Ethernet Mainboard provides wired networking plus USB on a 57 x 42 mm board, according to MountaineerETH specification PDF, accessed November 2026. The integrated connector works with an embedded lwIP stack covering HTTP, TCP, UDP, DHCP and ICMP, according to Electronics Datasheets, accessed November 2026. It targets minimal-board Internet-of-Things builds. The related USB Mainboard shows the same family approach without the network jack.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Processor | 168 MHz STM32F407 Cortex-M4, 192 KB RAM, 1 MB Flash |
| Extra memory | 8 MB Flash for logging |
| Sockets | 8 Gadgeteer sockets plus USB and Ethernet connectors |
| Size | 57 x 42 mm |
| Cable | MicroUSB cable included |
Table values for processor, memory, sockets, size and cable come from .NET Micro Framework e-shop and MountaineerETH specification PDF, both accessed November 2026.
Ethernet Mainboard Delivers 168 MHz Control With 8 Sockets
Ethernet Mainboard runs a 168 MHz STM32F407 with 8 Gadgeteer sockets, according to .NET Micro Framework e-shop, accessed November 2026. The package includes a MicroUSB cable, according to .NET Micro Framework e-shop, accessed November 2026. Power comes through USB on the red board. Our Reviews coverage prioritizes boards that work with fewer add-ons.
Who Still Uses the Ethernet Mainboard After 2017 Discontinuation?
Ethernet Mainboard lost vendor support in December 2017, according to Mountaineer Group News, December 2017. The reason given was that Microsoft did not appear to further support NETMF, according to Mountaineer Group News, December 2017. Existing boards remain usable for legacy Gadgeteer maintenance. Context from the seller: “This mainboard is a Mountaineer Group designed and GHI Electronics manufactured .NET Gadgeteer mainboard with integrated Ethernet and USB connectors,” as .NET Micro Framework e-shop wrote in its product listing, accessed November 2026.
Ethernet Mainboard FAQ
What is the Ethernet Mainboard best used for?
The Ethernet Mainboard suits wired Gadgeteer prototypes that need direct network access without an extra module. The board combines USB power with onboard Ethernet for compact builds. It fits legacy maintenance and small sensor hubs.
Does the Ethernet Mainboard need an extra network module?
No, the board connects directly through its built-in Ethernet jack and embedded stack. The design covers common protocols for simple wired links. It keeps part count low for small prototypes.
Is the Ethernet Mainboard still supported?
No, vendor support ended after the platform was discontinued, as stated by the vendor group. Existing units still run legacy firmware for maintenance. Buyers should plan for community resources and spare stock.