Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Plugable AX1800 WiFi 6 USB 3.0 Wireless Adapter. Please read this guide thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and a stable wireless connection.
What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Plugable AX1800 WiFi 6 USB 3.0 Wireless Adapter, you should find the following components:
- Plugable USB-WIFIAX WiFi 6 Adapter: The main wireless adapter unit.
- USB-A 3.0 Cradle: A desktop stand with an integrated USB cable for flexible placement and improved signal reception.
- USB-A to USB-C Adapter: For connecting the wireless adapter to USB-C ports.
- Quick Start Guide: A printed guide with initial setup instructions.
Image: The Plugable AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter and its accessories, including the main adapter, the USB-A 3.0 cradle with its cable, and a small USB-A to USB-C adapter.
Setup
1. Driver Installation
Driver installation is required for the Plugable USB-WIFIAX adapter to function correctly. Please follow these steps:
- Download the latest drivers from the official Plugable website. The Quick Start Guide included in the box provides the website address or a QR code for direct access.
- Navigate to your downloads folder.
- Right-click on the downloaded compressed (ZIP) file and select the 'Extract All' option to decompress the contents.
- Open the newly extracted folder and launch the
setup.exefile. - Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the driver installation. If your computer is disconnected from Wi-Fi, you may see a SmartScreen pop-up message. This is a precautionary message; the file is safe. Select 'Run' to proceed.
- Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Video: Official Plugable Technologies guide on how to install the USB-WIFIAX driver.
2. Connecting the Adapter
After driver installation, connect the adapter to your computer:
- Direct Connection: Plug the USB-WIFIAX adapter directly into an available USB 3.0 (blue port) or USB-C port (using the included adapter) on your desktop PC or laptop.
- Using the Cradle: For optimal signal reception and flexible placement, insert the USB-WIFIAX adapter into the USB-A 3.0 cradle. Connect the cradle's integrated USB cable to an available USB 3.0 or USB-C port on your computer. The 45-inch (115 cm) extension cable allows you to position the adapter away from potential interference.
Image: Demonstrates connecting the adapter directly to a laptop and using the included extension cable with the cradle for better signal reception.
Operating Instructions
Once the drivers are installed and the adapter is connected, your computer should recognize the device and allow you to connect to a wireless network.
- Open your computer's Wi-Fi settings (e.g., in Windows 10/11, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi).
- Ensure Wi-Fi is turned On.
- Select your desired Wi-Fi network from the list of available networks.
- Enter the network password (if required) and click 'Connect'.
- The adapter supports dual-band connections (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for optimal speed and range. Choose the appropriate band based on your router's capabilities and your proximity to it.
Image: Illustrates the adapter's ability to provide a stable Wi-Fi connection across extended ranges and in various environments.
Compatibility
The Plugable AX1800 WiFi 6 USB 3.0 Wireless Adapter is designed for specific operating systems:
- Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 and newer systems (including Windows 11).
- Unsupported Operating Systems: This adapter is not compatible with macOS or Linux.
Image: Visual representation of the adapter's compatibility with Windows 10/11 and various PC brands.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Number | USB-WIFIAX |
| Product Dimensions | 6.2 x 4.4 x 1.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 5.9 ounces |
| Hardware Interface | USB, USB Type C |
| Color | Black |
| Data Link Protocol | USB |
| Data Transfer Rate | Up to 1201 Mbps (5GHz), 573.5 Mbps (2.4GHz) |
| Antenna Design | 2x3dBi Omni Directional Antenna |
| Security | WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) |
Troubleshooting
- Adapter Not Detected / Not Working:
Ensure drivers are correctly installed. Refer to the 'Driver Installation' section. Try plugging the adapter into a different USB port or using the included cradle. Verify that your operating system is Windows 10 or 11, as macOS and Linux are not supported.
- Slow Speeds / Frequent Disconnections:
Position the adapter using the USB cradle and extension cable to find a spot with better signal reception, away from obstructions or other electronic devices that may cause interference. Ensure your router supports Wi-Fi 6 (AX) for optimal performance. Connect to the 5GHz band if available and you are in close proximity to the router, as it offers faster speeds. The 2.4GHz band provides better range but lower speeds.
- Cannot Connect to Wi-Fi Network:
Double-check your Wi-Fi password. Ensure your router is powered on and broadcasting a signal. Try restarting your computer and router.
Warranty & Support
Plugable is committed to providing reliable products and excellent customer service.
- Warranty: This product is backed by a 2-year coverage, certified to exceed industry standards.
- Support: Plugable offers North American Lifetime Support from their expert engineers. For assistance, please refer to the contact information provided in your Quick Start Guide or visit the official Plugable website.
