# RouterCore Module and RouterCore Nano: NAT, port expansion, dimensions and connectors

**URL:** <https://forum.botblox.org/t/routercore-module-and-routercore-nano-nat-port-expansion-dimensions-and-connectors/659>\
**Category:** BotBlox Hardware\
**Tags:** routercore\
**Created:** [October 20, 2026, 5:00pm UTC](https://forum.botblox.org/t/routercore-module-and-routercore-nano-nat-port-expansion-dimensions-and-connectors/659 "2026-10-20T17:00:50Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![botblox\_admin](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex027/user_avatar/forum.botblox.org/botblox_admin/32/1_2.png) [@botblox\_admin](https://forum.botblox.org/u/botblox_admin)\
**Post date:** [October 20, 2026, 5:00pm UTC](https://forum.botblox.org/t/routercore-module-and-routercore-nano-nat-port-expansion-dimensions-and-connectors/659/1 "2026-10-20T17:00:50Z")

</div>

Here are answers to common integration questions about [RouterCore Module](https://shop.botblox.com/routercore-module/), [RouterCore Nano](https://shop.botblox.com/routercore-nano) and their baseboards.

## Do they support NAT, and what software do they run?

RouterCore Module and RouterCore Nano support NAT and run OpenWrt. [Rugged SOM](https://shop.botblox.com/rugged-som) also supports NAT. Routing runs on the module; the baseboard provides the interface breakout.

## What if I need more Ethernet ports?

RouterCore Nano provides eight Gigabit copper Ethernet ports and two 10G-capable interfaces. Two RouterCore Nano modules can be connected over a 10G link, particularly when placed on the same custom baseboard. At that point, you’re essentially building the architecture RouterCore Module already provides.

RouterCore Module provides 16 Gigabit copper ports and three 10G-capable interfaces. On the standard RouterCore BaseBoard, the three high-speed interfaces are exposed as SFP+ ports, so the 19-interface total does not mean 19 copper ports.

## What are the dimensions?

Approximate dimensions from the available CAD:

- RouterCore Module chassis: 67.5 × 47 × 33.2 mm, excluding the baseboard and lower surround.
- [RouterCore BaseBoard](https://shop.botblox.com/routercore-baseboard/) Rev A, populated: 65 × 57.65 × 17.35 mm, including modeled connectors and SFP cages, excluding RouterCore Module. Bare PCB: 65 × 52 × 1.6 mm.
- [Puck Pro](https://shop.botblox.com/puck-pro/) preliminary chassis: 71 × 61 × 54.6 mm. This design is not yet frozen.

## Which Ethernet connectors does RouterCore BaseBoard use? Are they locking?

The published Rev A design uses Molex Zero-Hachi 2147210081: eight-pin, 0.8 mm-pitch Ethernet headers. These are not positive-locking connectors.

## Can I omit the SFP cages or use different connectors?

Yes, through a custom carrier design. The [RouterCore BaseBoard design files](https://github.com/botblox/RouterCoreCore-Baseboard-Designs) are open source and can be adapted for suitable locking connectors or a layout without SFP cages. RouterCore Nano can also be integrated onto a custom carrier.

## Can I remove the RouterCore Module chassis?

The chassis forms part of the mechanical structure and heat-dissipation arrangement, so it should be retained rather than treated as an optional cover.

## What should I check for a rugged installation?

Assess the complete assembly’s thermal path, mounting, connector retention and required shock/vibration profile. A component’s temperature rating alone does not qualify the finished system or establish waterproofing.