A field device that communicates in accordance with Ethernet signaling is provided. The field device is powered by virtue of its Ethernet connection. The field device preferably includes a feature board that includes an Ethernet network connection and a field device connection. The feature board is configured to power the field device with power received through the Ethernet network connection. The feature board interacts with the field device using a process industry standard communication protocol. A method of operating a field device is also provided.