What is a good microcontroller for doing Ethernet applications? Or do I just need a good Ethernet library to connect with an Ethernet MAC/PHY?
A good microcontroller for Ethernet applications
ethernetmicrocontrollertcp/ip
Related Solutions
The MediaTek RT3050 has what you need.
If this is for a prototype - consider adding a USB ethernet adapter.
If you're building a product, I'd consider an onboard ethernet switch chip. Like this:
http://www.micrel.com/page.do?page=product-info/fastether_sw.jsp
(source: micrel.com)
The ADM6996 may also be an option, if you can find it.
Best Answer
Microchip's PIC18s with built-in ethernet are excellent for this, just add a magjack (or other connector with built in magnetics) and download their TCP/IP stack. You'll be pinging things in no time. For more grunt, the PIC24 and PIC32 also have TCP/IP stacks designed to run with one of the SPI Ethernet MAC/PHY parts they offer (ENC624J600 or ENC628J60).
ST also recently enhanced their ARM Cortex based STM32 line to include on-chip ethernet, but you'll need an external PHY and magnetics. It's an option if you're already looking at the PIC32.