Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your EDUP Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Card. This high-performance M.2 CNVio2 network adapter offers tri-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz) and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, designed for compatible laptops and systems. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Safety Information
When handling internal computer components, always observe the following safety precautions:
- Ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the power source before beginning any installation.
- Discharge any static electricity from your body by touching a grounded metal object (e.g., the computer chassis) before handling the card. Consider using an anti-static wrist strap.
- Handle the wireless card by its edges to avoid touching the gold connectors or components.
- Keep small parts, such as screws, away from children.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Card
- 1 x Small Screwdriver
- 1 x Mounting Screw
- 1 x Metal Bracket (if included for specific models)
Image: The package contents of the EDUP Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Card, showing the card itself, a small screwdriver for installation, a mounting screw, and a metal bracket.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | Intel AX211NGW |
| Interface | NGFF (M.2) CNVio2 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Frequency Bands | Tri-Band (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz) |
| Max Speed | Up to 5400 Mbps (574Mbps @2.4GHz + 2400Mbps @5GHz + 2400Mbps @6GHz) |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Operating Systems | Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows 11 (64-bit), Linux (Kernel 5.2+), Chrome OS |
| Compatibility | Requires 12th Generation Intel CPU and M.2 CNVio2 protocol motherboard. Not compatible with AMD CPUs. |
| Dimensions | Approximately 1.18 x 0.86 inches (M.2 2230 form factor) |
| Item Weight | Approximately 1.76 ounces (0.05 Kilograms) |
Image: A visual representation of the Wi-Fi 6E module AX211NGW's speed capabilities across its tri-bands, highlighting its maximum theoretical speed of 5374Mbps.
Image: The physical dimensions of the Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Card, presented with a US quarter for size comparison, indicating its compact M.2 2230 form factor.
Setup and Installation
Compatibility Check
Before installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:
- CPU: Your laptop or desktop must have a 12th Generation Intel CPU or newer. This card is not compatible with AMD CPUs.
- Motherboard: Your motherboard must support the M.2 CNVio2 protocol. This is crucial for the card to function correctly.
- Operating System: Compatible with Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows 11 (64-bit), Linux (kernel 5.2 or above), and Chrome OS.
Image: A visual guide to the system requirements for the Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi card, indicating its compatibility with Linux, Windows 10 (64-bit), and Windows 11 (64-bit), and the necessity of a 12th generation or newer Intel CPU and an M.2 CNVio2 interface.
Image: An illustration detailing the M.2 CNVio2 interface of the AX211NGW card, explicitly showing which M.2 key types (Mini PCIe, Key M, Key A) are incompatible and confirming compatibility with the Key E slot.
Physical Installation
- Power Off: Shut down your computer completely and disconnect it from the power outlet.
- Access Internal Components: Carefully open your laptop or desktop case to access the M.2 slot. Refer to your computer's service manual for specific instructions on how to open the chassis and locate the wireless card slot.
- Remove Old Card (if applicable): If replacing an existing wireless card, gently disconnect the antenna cables from the old card. Unscrew the retaining screw and carefully slide the old card out of the M.2 slot.
- Install New Card: Align the notch on the Intel AX211NGW card with the key in the M.2 slot. Gently insert the card into the slot at a slight angle. Once fully seated, press the card down and secure it with the provided screw.
- Connect Antennas: Carefully reattach the antenna cables to the corresponding connectors on the new card. Ensure they are securely snapped into place. Typically, the main antenna connects to 'MAIN' (or '1') and the auxiliary antenna to 'AUX' (or '2').
- Reassemble: Close your computer case and reconnect the power.
Driver Installation
After physical installation, drivers must be installed for the card to function correctly. It is recommended to download drivers before installing the card, as you may not have internet access immediately after installation.
- Download Drivers: Visit the official Intel website or the EDUP website (szedup.com/search/AX210) to download the latest drivers for the Intel AX211NGW. Ensure you download both the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drivers.
- Install Drivers: Run the downloaded driver installation files. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
- Reboot: Restart your computer after driver installation.
- Verify Installation: After rebooting, check Device Manager (Windows) or network settings (Linux/Chrome OS) to confirm that the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters are recognized and functioning properly.
Operating Instructions
Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Intel AX211NGW supports Wi-Fi 6E across three frequency bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz. Your operating system will automatically detect available networks.
- Connecting to Wi-Fi: Access your operating system's network settings. Select the desired Wi-Fi network from the list of available networks and enter the password if prompted.
- Tri-Band Advantage: The card will automatically connect to the optimal band (2.4GHz for wider range, 5GHz/6GHz for higher speeds and less interference) if your router supports band steering. For manual selection, ensure your router broadcasts separate SSIDs for each band.
- WPA3 Security: The card supports WPA3 encryption for enhanced network security. Ensure your router is configured to use WPA3 for maximum protection.
Bluetooth 5.3 Functionality
Bluetooth 5.3 offers improved latency, stronger anti-interference capabilities, and better power efficiency compared to previous versions.
- Pairing Devices: Enable Bluetooth on your computer and the device you wish to pair (e.g., headphones, mouse, keyboard). Go to your operating system's Bluetooth settings, search for new devices, select your device, and follow the pairing instructions.
- Enhanced Experience: Enjoy seamless connection with various Bluetooth peripherals, including earphones, audio devices, gamepads, printers, cell phones, tablets, and more.
Image: A visual representation of the Bluetooth 5.3 features of the AX211NGW card, demonstrating its ability to connect to a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices for speed and stable connections.
Maintenance
The Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi card is designed for long-term reliability and requires minimal maintenance. However, consider the following:
- Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly check the Intel or EDUP website for the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drivers to ensure optimal performance, security, and compatibility with new operating system updates.
- Cleanliness: If you open your computer case for other maintenance, ensure the area around the wireless card is free of dust buildup, which can affect cooling and performance. Use compressed air if necessary.
- Physical Inspection: Periodically check that the antenna connections are secure and the card is firmly seated in its M.2 slot.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi card, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Wi-Fi/Bluetooth After Installation:
- Ensure the card is correctly seated in the M.2 CNVio2 slot and the retaining screw is tightened.
- Verify that the antenna cables are securely connected to the card.
- Confirm that the correct Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drivers are installed. Re-download and reinstall them if necessary.
- Check Device Manager (Windows) for any error symbols next to the network adapters.
- Slow Wi-Fi Speeds or Frequent Disconnections:
- Ensure you are connected to the appropriate Wi-Fi band (5GHz or 6GHz for higher speeds, 2.4GHz for better range).
- Update your router's firmware.
- Check for interference from other devices or networks.
- Ensure your drivers are up to date.
- Bluetooth Device Not Pairing:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both your computer and the device you are trying to pair.
- Make sure the device is in pairing mode.
- Remove any previous pairings of the device from your computer and try pairing again.
- Update Bluetooth drivers.
- Compatibility Issues:
- Double-check that your CPU is 12th Generation Intel or newer and your motherboard supports M.2 CNVio2. This card is specifically designed for this architecture and will not work with older Intel CPUs or AMD platforms.
Warranty and Support
EDUP provides a one-year warranty for the Intel AX211NGW Wi-Fi card. Additionally, lifetime technical support is available to assist you with any issues or questions you may have regarding the product.
For technical support or warranty claims, please visit the official EDUP website or contact their customer service through the contact information provided on their website.
