---
title: Introduction to M.2 HAT Board
description: "## Basic Overview The **M.2 HAT** is a versatile interface board designed for connecting M.2 modules and sharing data over USB. While it follows the Raspberry Pi pinout for seamless integration, it can also be used as a **standalone board**…"
url: "https://eicut.com/wiki/raspberry-pi/hats/introduction-to-m-2-hat-board/"
updated: "2026-07-25"
category: Raspberry Pi / HATs
---

# Introduction to M.2 HAT Board

## Basic Overview

The **M.2 HAT** is a versatile interface board designed for connecting M.2 modules and sharing data over USB. While it follows the Raspberry Pi pinout for seamless integration, it can also be used as a **standalone board** or with other similar platforms. In addition, processor interface pins allow direct control of the M.2 module.

## Feature List

- SIM card socket
- Powerful 3A regulator for reliable M.2 module power supply
- Status LEDs for module activity indication
- USB Type-C connector for power input
- USB 3.0 Type-A socket for data sharing
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Class 4 circuit compliant with IEEE 802.3af/at standard, providing up to**25**.**5 W** of power to the board through a single Ethernet cable

## Board Resources

### Function Description

The main component and interface placement of the evaluation board is shown in the following figure:­

![Top Layout of M.2 HAT Board](https://eicut.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Introduction-to-M.2-HAT-Board.webp)
Top Layout

![Bottom Layout of M.2 HAT Board](https://eicut.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Introduction-to-M.2-HAT-Board-2.webp)
Bottom Layout

The detailed assignment of the peripheral interfaces on the evaluation board is as follows:

| NO. | Name | Comment |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **1** | Raspberry Pi Socket |  |
| **2** | M.2 Socket |  |
| **3** | LED Guide |  |
| **4** | USB Type-C | Only for Power |
| **5** | Micro SIM Card Socket |  |
| **6** | USB 3.0 |  |
| **7** | POE Connector |  |

The main pin placement of the evaluation board is shown in the following figure:

![M.2 HAT Board Pinout](https://eicut.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Introduction-to-M.2-HAT-Board-3.webp)
M.2 HAT Board Pin Mapping

## Board Dimensions

![Dimensions of M.2 HAT Board](https://eicut.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Introduction-to-M.2-HAT-Board-4.webp)
Board Dimensions

## FAQ

    What is the M.2 HAT?

A versatile interface board designed to connect **M.2 modules** and share data over USB. It follows the Raspberry Pi pinout for seamless integration but can also be used as a standalone board or with other platforms.

    Is it compatible with Raspberry Pi?

Yes — it uses the standard **Raspberry Pi HAT pinout**, allowing direct stacking on Raspberry Pi boards. Processor interface pins also enable direct control of the M.2 module.

    Can it be used as a standalone board?

Yes — the M.2 HAT works independently without a Raspberry Pi, making it suitable for custom platforms or standalone M.2 module testing and deployment.

    What power options does the board support?

• **USB Type-C** (power input only)
 • **Power over Ethernet (PoE) Class 4** — IEEE 802.3af/at compliant, delivering up to **25.5 W** through a single Ethernet cable

    Does it have a SIM card slot?

Yes — it includes a **Micro SIM card socket**, making it ideal for cellular M.2 modules that require a SIM for network connectivity.

    How does data sharing work?

The board provides a **USB 3.0 Type-A socket** for high-speed data sharing between the M.2 module and a host computer or other devices.

    What power capacity is available for the M.2 module?

A powerful onboard **3A regulator** ensures reliable and stable power supply for demanding M.2 modules.

    Are there status indicators on the board?

Yes — dedicated **status LEDs** provide visual feedback on module activity and board status.

    What is the main purpose of this board?

It simplifies the integration of M.2 cellular, storage, or other modules into Raspberry Pi projects or custom systems by providing power, SIM support, USB data interface, and optional PoE powering.

    Does the USB Type-C provide data connectivity?

No — the **USB Type-C connector is for power input only**. High-speed data sharing is handled through the separate USB 3.0 Type-A socket.