What is a PCIe network card? A PCIe network card (also known as a PCI Express card or PCIe-based card) is a type of network adapter that uses the PCIe interface. These cards are designed to fit into PCIe slots on motherboards, typically found in devices like hosts, servers, and network switches. Unlike a bus that handles data from multiple sources, PCIe operates through point-to-point connections via switches, allowing for efficient communication between devices. The different sizes of PCIe cards include x1, x4, x8, x16, and occasionally x32 lanes.

(PRUnderground) June 11th, 2024

What is a PCIe network card?

A PCIe network card (also known as a PCI Express card or PCIe-based card) is a type of network adapter that uses the PCIe interface. These cards are designed to fit into PCIe slots on motherboards, typically found in devices like hosts, servers, and network switches. Unlike a bus that handles data from multiple sources, PCIe operates through point-to-point connections via switches, allowing for efficient communication between devices. The different sizes of PCIe cards include x1, x4, x8, x16, and occasionally x32 lanes.

What are the advantages of using a PCIe network card?

1. Higher Bandwidth: PCIe offers significantly higher data transfer rates compared to older interfaces like PCI or USB. This means faster network speeds and reduced latency.

2. Dedicated Connection: PCIe cards have dedicated point-to-point connections, ensuring efficient communication between the card and the motherboard. This minimizes contention for bandwidth.

3. Scalability: PCIe slots come in various sizes (x1, x4, x8, x16), allowing you to choose a card that matches your needs. You can add multiple network cards if required.

4. Low CPU Overhead: PCIe offloads network processing tasks from the CPU, reducing the burden on the processor. This is especially beneficial for high-speed networking.

5. Advanced Features: Many PCIe network cards support features like hardware acceleration, VLAN tagging, and jumbo frames, enhancing overall network performance.

How do I install a PCIe network card?

1. Power Off First, power off your computer and unplug it from the electrical outlet.

2. Open the Case: Open your computer case to access the motherboard. Locate an available PCIe slot.

3. Insert the Card: Gently insert the PCIe network card into the slot. Make sure it aligns with the slot and the metal contacts are fully seated.

4. Secure the Card: Use the included screw to secure the card to the case.

5. Connect Antennas: If your card has external antennas, attach them to the card.

6. Close the Case: Close the computer case and secure it.

7. Power On Plug in your computer and power it on.

8. Install Drivers: Install any drivers or software provided with the card.

Remember to consult your motherboard manual for specific instructions and compatibility details.

What if my motherboard doesn’t have an available PCIe slot?

If your motherboard lacks an available PCIe slot, you have a few alternative options:

1. USB Network Adapters: Consider using a USB network adapter. These plug into a USB port and provide network connectivity. While they may not offer the same performance as PCIe cards, they’re convenient and easy to install.

2. Ethernet Over Powerline (EoP): EoP adapters use your home’s electrical wiring to transmit network signals. They come in pairs—one connects to your router, and the other plugs into an electrical outlet near your computer. This can be useful if you have limited expansion slots.

3. Wireless Network Cards: If you’re looking for wireless connectivity, wireless network cards (Wi-Fi cards) can be installed in PCIe slots or USB ports. They allow your computer to connect to Wi-Fi networks.

Remember to choose an option that aligns with your specific needs and hardware setup!

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1 Port PCIe Gigabit NIC Adapter Network Card

1 Port PCI Express (PCIe) Gigabit Ethernet Network LAN Card with Low Profile, NIC Server Adapter Network Card, The PCIe Gigabit Network Card adds a 10/100/1000 Mbps compatible RJ45 Ethernet port to a PCI Express-enabled client, server or workstation, providing a convenient addition or replacement networking interface.

Features

The PCIe Gigabit Network Card adds a 10/100/1000 Mbps compatible RJ45 Ethernet port to a PCI Express-enabled client, server, or workstation, providing a convenient addition or replacement networking interface.

Compliant with IEEE 802.3/u/ab standards, and with support for 9.5K  Jumbo Frames, and VLAN tagging, this Gigabit NIC Adapter offers effective network performance

A single 10/100/1000 Mbps compatible RJ45 Ethernet port

Gigabit Speed and Link/Activity LED indicators

Fully Compliant with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3x and IEEE 802.3ab standards

Supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging, and IEEE 802.3x Fully Duplex Flow Control

Full and half duplex support

PXE network boot support

Jumbo frame supports up to 9.5Kbytes

Complies with Microsoft and Linux platforms

Specification

Bus Type: PCI Express 2.1 (2.5 GT/s)

Bus Width: x1 lane PCI Express, operable in x1, x4, x8 and x16 slots

Chipset ID: Intel – I210

Industry Standards: IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.3ab

Interface: 1x RJ45

Power Consumption: 1Gbps – 594mW

Indicators LED Indicators: 1 – 1G Speed LED (Green), 1 – Link/Act (Green)

Humidity: 20~80% RH

Operating: Temperature 5°C to 50°C (41°F to 122°F)

Storage Temperature: -25°C to 70°C (-13°F to 158°F)

System Requirements 

Windows® 7, 8.x, 10

Windows Server® 2008 R2, 2012, 2016

Linux 2.6.x to 4.x

PCI Express enabled computer with an available PCI Express x1 slot

Gen 2.0 or higher (x1, x4, x8, x16)

About Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., Ltd

STC-CABLE is an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance cabling and connectivity solutions. Founded in 2008, STC provides end-to-end connectivity solutions serving a variety of markets–including corporate, digital signage, education, healthcare, home theater, and hospitality.

As a professional cable assembly factory, STC brings a complete portfolio of products and solutions including USB 2.0 Cables, USB 3.0 Cables, USB C Cables, Drive Cables, Network Cables & Adapters, Audio & Video Cables, Serial & Parallel Cables, Audio-Video Products, Computer power Cables internal and so on.

Leo Zhang
Sales Manager
leo@stccable.com
Tel: (86) 0755 2321 4701
(86) 134 2285 3610
www.stc-cable.com
STC Electronic (Hong Kong) Co., Limited
Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., LTD

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