WALRAM WiFi 6 AX1800 Wireless PCIE Adapter Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The WALRAM WiFi 6 AX1800 Wireless PCIE Adapter is designed to provide high-speed wireless connectivity and Bluetooth functionality to your desktop computer. Featuring Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, it supports tri-band operation (2.4GHz and 5.8GHz) and Bluetooth 5.4, offering enhanced speed, efficiency, and security for your network and peripheral connections.

Figure 1: WALRAM WiFi 6 AX1800 Wireless PCIE Adapter

Key Features:

• Tri-Band Connectivity: Supports 2.4GHz (up to 574Mbps) and 5.8GHz (up to 1200Mbps) for a combined theoretical speed of 1800Mbps.
• Bluetooth 5.4: Enables seamless connection with a variety of Bluetooth peripherals.
• PCIe Interface: Compatible with PCI Express (PCI-E 1X/4X/16X) slots.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): Offers improved speed, energy efficiency, and WPA3 security.
• MU-MIMO & OFDMA Technology: Enhances network efficiency and throughput.
• High Gain Dual Antennas: Provides better signal reception and coverage.
• Dedicated Heatsink: Ensures stable and reliable continuous operation by enhancing heat dissipation.
• Operating System Support: Windows 10/11 (64-bit only).

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in the package before proceeding with installation.

Figure 2: Package Contents

• WALRAM WiFi 6 AX1800 Wireless PCIE Adapter
• Packaging Box
• Instruction Manual
• Mounting Screw
• Bluetooth Cable (9-pin USB)
• Low-profile Bezel (if applicable, for smaller cases)
• High Gain Dual Antennas

3. Installation Guide

Follow these steps carefully to install your WALRAM WiFi 6 AX1800 Wireless PCIE Adapter.

Figure 3: Product Installation Steps

1. Prepare Your Computer:
   • Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
   • Open the side cover of your computer chassis.
   • Locate an available PCI Express slot (PCI-E 1X/4X/16X) on your motherboard.
2. Insert the Adapter:
   • Carefully insert the PCIE adapter into the chosen PCI-E slot. Ensure it is seated firmly and evenly.
   • Secure the adapter with the provided mounting screw to the chassis back baffle.
3. Connect the Bluetooth Cable:
   • Connect the 9-pin (black) end of the Bluetooth cable to an available 9-pin USB 2.0 header on your motherboard.
   • Connect the 4-pin (white) end of the Bluetooth cable to the corresponding socket on the PCIE network card interface. This connection is essential for Bluetooth functionality.
4. Install the Antennas:
   • Screw the two high-gain antennas onto the connectors on the back of the installed PCIE adapter.
   • Adjust the antennas for optimal signal reception.
5. Close and Power On:
   • Close the computer chassis side cover.
   • Plug in the power cord and turn on your computer.
6. Driver Installation:
   • Upon booting into Windows 10/11, the system may automatically detect and install basic drivers.
   • For full functionality and optimal performance, it is recommended to install the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website. Separate drivers are required for WiFi and Bluetooth.

Compatibility Notes:

• This adapter is designed for desktop computers with PCI Express slots. It is not compatible with IBM/Lenovo/HP version desktops.
• Only supports Windows 10/11 (64-bit). Linux is not officially supported with provided drivers.
• If your desktop has built-in WiFi, disable it in Device Manager or BIOS before using this adapter to avoid conflicts.
• For some AMD motherboard computers, you may need to enter the BIOS and set the PCIe speed to Gen3 (or Auto, Gen 1, Gen 2) for proper recognition and functionality.

4. Operating Instructions

WiFi Connectivity:

1. After successful driver installation, navigate to your Windows network settings.
2. Select 'Wi-Fi' and turn it on.
3. Choose your desired network from the list of available networks and enter the password if prompted.
4. The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands. Your computer will automatically connect to the optimal band based on your router's configuration and signal strength.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

With the Bluetooth cable correctly connected and drivers installed, you can pair various Bluetooth devices.

Figure 4: Bluetooth 5.4 Peripheral Connectivity

1. Go to Windows Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
2. Ensure Bluetooth is turned 'On'.
3. Click 'Add Bluetooth or other device' and select 'Bluetooth'.
4. Put your Bluetooth peripheral device into pairing mode.
5. Select your device from the list and follow any on-screen prompts to complete pairing.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your adapter:

• Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly check the manufacturer's website for the latest WiFi and Bluetooth drivers to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.
• Ensure Proper Airflow: The adapter features a specially-designed heatsink for heat dissipation. Ensure your PC case has adequate airflow to prevent overheating, which can affect performance and stability.
• Antenna Positioning: Periodically check that the antennas are securely attached and positioned for the best signal. Avoid placing large metal objects directly in the line of sight between your computer and your wireless router.
• Cleanliness: Keep your computer's interior, including the adapter, free from dust buildup. Dust can impede heat dissipation and affect component lifespan.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your adapter, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

Bluetooth Not Working:

• Check Cable Connection: Ensure the 9-pin USB cable is correctly connected from the motherboard's USB 2.0 header to the adapter's Bluetooth socket. This cable is crucial for Bluetooth functionality.
• Driver Installation: Verify that the Bluetooth driver has been installed correctly. Remember that WiFi and Bluetooth drivers are separate.

WiFi Not Working or Slow:

• Driver Check: Open Device Manager. If you see a network controller with a yellow exclamation mark, install or update the WiFi driver. Right-click, select 'Update driver', and manually point to the driver file path if needed.
• M.2 Hard Disk Conflict: Check if there is an M.2 hard disk on the motherboard that might be causing a hardware function conflict. If so, try unplugging the M.2 hardware in the parallel channel.
• Antenna Connection: Ensure the antennas are securely connected to the adapter.
• Built-in WiFi Conflict: If your desktop has built-in WiFi, ensure it is disabled in Device Manager or BIOS.
• AMD Motherboard BIOS Settings: For some AMD motherboards, you may need to enter the BIOS and set the PCIe speed to Gen3 (or Auto, Gen 1, Gen 2) to ensure proper recognition.
• Speed Expectations: Maximum wireless signal rates are theoretical. Actual throughput can vary due to network conditions, router limitations (must support 802.11ax, 160MHz for 1200Mbps on 5.8GHz), environmental factors (building materials, obstacles), and traffic density. Try different PCIe slots if experiencing slow speeds.
• 5.8GHz Availability: Note that 5.8GHz Wi-Fi is primarily available for Windows 11 or Windows 10 Dev version.

General Issues:

• Adapter Not Recognized: Ensure the adapter is firmly seated in the PCI-E slot. Re-seat it if necessary.
• Operating System: Confirm you are running Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit). Other operating systems are not supported.

7. Specifications

8. User Tips

Maximize your experience with these helpful tips:

• Optimal Router Placement: For the best WiFi signal and speed, ensure your wireless router is centrally located and free from obstructions.
• Driver Management: Always download drivers directly from the official WALRAM support page or the chip manufacturer's website (e.g., Intel) to ensure compatibility and stability.
• Bluetooth Cable is Key: Remember that the small 9-pin USB cable is absolutely necessary for Bluetooth functionality. Without it, Bluetooth will not work.
• Disable Old Adapters: If upgrading from an older WiFi card, disable it in Windows Device Manager to prevent potential conflicts and ensure the new AX1800 adapter is the primary network device.
• Gaming Performance: For competitive gaming, a stable 5.8GHz connection is generally preferred due to less interference, though range might be shorter than 2.4GHz.

9. Warranty and Support

For any technical assistance, warranty claims, or further inquiries, please contact WALRAM customer service. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and contact information.

When contacting support, please have your product model (PCIE-AX1800) and a detailed description of your issue ready.