GIGABYTE WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 PCIe Expansion Card User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your GIGABYTE WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 PCIe Expansion Card. This card integrates the Intel WI-FI 6E AX210 module, offering tri-band wireless connectivity (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz) and Bluetooth 5.2. It is designed to enhance your desktop's wireless capabilities with high-speed connections and ultra-low latencies.

Package Contents

• GIGABYTE GC-WBAX210 WiFi/Bluetooth PCIe Card
• AORUS High-Performance 2Tx2R Antenna with magnetic base
• USB Header Cable (for Bluetooth functionality)
• User Manual (this document)

Image: The GIGABYTE GC-WBAX210 WiFi 6E PCIe card, its external antenna, and the internal USB header cable.

Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to install the GIGABYTE GC-WBAX210 into your desktop computer.

1. Prepare Your System: Power off your computer and unplug all cables. Open the computer case.
2. Install the PCIe Card: Locate an available PCI Express x1 slot on your motherboard. Carefully insert the GC-WBAX210 card into the slot until it is firmly seated. Secure the card with a screw to the computer case.


Image: Step-by-step visual guide for installing the PCIe card into a motherboard slot and connecting the internal USB cable.

3. Connect the USB Header Cable: Connect one end of the provided USB header cable to the USB port on the GC-WBAX210 card. Connect the other end to an available F_USB connector (typically a 9-pin USB 2.0 header) on your motherboard. This connection is essential for Bluetooth functionality.
4. Attach the Antenna: Connect the two antenna cables from the AORUS antenna to the corresponding connectors on the back of the GC-WBAX210 card. Tighten them securely. Position the magnetic antenna base in a location that provides optimal signal reception, typically on top of or to the side of your computer case.


Image: Visual guide for connecting the external antenna cables to the WiFi card.

5. Close Case and Power On: Close your computer case, reconnect all external cables, and power on your system.
6. Driver Installation: For Windows 10/11, drivers may install automatically upon booting. If not, download the latest drivers from the official GIGABYTE website for the GC-WBAX210 model.

Operating Instructions

Connecting to Wi-Fi

1. After successful driver installation, click the Wi-Fi icon in your system tray (usually in the bottom-right corner of the screen).
2. Select your desired Wi-Fi network (2.4GHz, 5GHz, or 6GHz band).
3. Enter the network password and click "Connect".

Using Bluetooth

1. Ensure the USB header cable is correctly connected for Bluetooth functionality.
2. Go to your computer's Bluetooth settings (e.g., Windows Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices).
3. Turn on Bluetooth and click "Add Bluetooth or other device" to pair with your devices.

Maintenance

• Keep drivers updated by regularly checking the GIGABYTE official website for the latest versions.
• Ensure the antenna is positioned optimally for the best signal reception. Avoid placing it behind large metal objects or in enclosed spaces.
• Periodically clean your computer's interior to prevent dust buildup on the card, which can affect performance and cooling.

Troubleshooting

No Wi-Fi Connection

• Verify the card is securely seated in the PCIe slot.
• Ensure antenna cables are properly connected and tightened.
• Check if Wi-Fi drivers are installed and updated in Device Manager.
• Restart your computer and your wireless router.

Bluetooth Not Working

• Confirm the USB header cable is correctly connected to both the card and the motherboard.
• Check Bluetooth settings in your operating system to ensure it's enabled and discoverable.
• Update Bluetooth drivers from the GIGABYTE website.

Slow Speeds

• Ensure you are connected to the appropriate Wi-Fi band (6GHz for fastest speeds, if available and supported by your router).
• Check for interference from other wireless devices or physical obstructions between your antenna and router.
• Update your router's firmware to the latest version.
• Verify your internet service provider's speed and ensure it meets your expectations.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please visit the official GIGABYTE website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims and product registration.

GIGABYTE Official Website: www.gigabyte.com