ethernet-hexpansion
ethernet-hexpansion
WIZnet - W5500
x 1
PoE Ethernet Hexpansion for Tildagon
W5500-Based Wired Networking Extension for the Tildagon Ecosystem
Overview
The PoE Ethernet Hexpansion is a compact expansion board designed for the Tildagon badge platform, adding reliable wired Ethernet connectivity through the WIZnet W5500 Hardwired TCP/IP Ethernet Controller.
Unlike traditional Ethernet solutions that require complex MAC/PHY integration, the W5500 provides a complete TCP/IP stack with an integrated Ethernet MAC and PHY, allowing the entire networking interface to be connected over a simple SPI bus. This makes it particularly suitable for compact embedded expansion systems such as Tildagon’s Hexpansion interface.
The board is designed not only for Ethernet communication, but also with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability in mind, enabling both network data and power delivery through a single RJ45 cable.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ethernet Controller | WIZnet W5500 |
| Interface | SPI-based Ethernet |
| Network Speed | 10/100 Mbps Ethernet |
| Platform | Tildagon Hexpansion |
| Power | PoE-ready design |
| Expansion Type | Plug-in modular Hexpansion PCB |
| MCU Compatibility | ESP32-S3 via Tildagon |
What is “Hexpansion”?
The name Hexpansion is derived from:
- Hex → Hexagonal Tildagon badge shape
- Expansion → Modular hardware extension
Tildagon uses a hexagonal mechanical design with expansion connectors located on each edge of the badge. These connectors allow users to attach hardware modules called Hexpansions.
This modular architecture enables developers to create specialized add-on boards such as:
- Sensor modules
- LED panels
- Input devices
- GPS modules
- Ethernet networking boards
The PoE Ethernet Hexpansion extends this ecosystem by adding stable wired networking capabilities to the platform.
Introducing Tildagon
A Reusable Modular Badge Platform
Tildagon is an open hardware badge platform developed for EMF Camp 2024. Unlike traditional one-time-use event badges, Tildagon is designed as a reusable embedded development platform with modular expansion support.
At its core, Tildagon combines:
- ESP32-S3 processing
- Wi-Fi and BLE connectivity
- Circular display
- Battery management
- Motion sensing
- USB-C connectivity
- Multi-side expansion interfaces
The platform encourages community-driven hardware and software extensions through its Hexpansion ecosystem.
Why Ethernet Matters for Tildagon
Although Tildagon already supports Wi-Fi and BLE, wired Ethernet provides several unique advantages:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Stable Connectivity | Reliable communication in crowded RF environments |
| Low Latency | Deterministic wired networking |
| Reduced Wi-Fi Congestion | Useful during large maker events |
| PoE Capability | Single-cable power and networking |
| Infrastructure Integration | Easier connection to existing LAN systems |
The PoE Ethernet Hexpansion transforms Tildagon from a wireless badge platform into a compact network-connected embedded system.
