1. Product Overview
The NICGIGA 5Gb Base-T Network Card, featuring the Realtek RTL8126 Controller, is designed to provide high-speed network connectivity for desktop computers, workstations, and servers. This PCIe Ethernet adapter supports speeds up to 5Gbps, ensuring stable internet access and efficient local data transmission. It is backward compatible with 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, and 100Mbps connections and includes features like Wake-on-LAN (WOL) for remote system management. The card is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server, and Linux.
Figure 1.1: NICGIGA 5Gb Base-T Network Card with included brackets.
Figure 1.2: Key components of the NICGIGA 5Gb Network Card, highlighting the heat sink, Realtek RTL8126 chip, 5G RJ45 port, and gold-plated PCIe fingers.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1 Pre-installation Checklist
Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the following:
- NICGIGA 5Gb Base-T Network Card (Model: NIC-5G)
- Standard or low-profile bracket (included)
- Small screwdriver and screws (typically included with the network card)
- An available PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 slot on your motherboard
- Compatible operating system: Windows 10/11, Windows Server, or Linux
2.2 Hardware Installation
Follow these steps to install the network card into your computer:
- Power Off and Disconnect: Completely shut down your computer and disconnect the power cable from the wall outlet.
- Open Computer Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the motherboard.
- Identify PCIe Slot: Locate an available PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 slot on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard's manual for slot identification.
- Remove Slot Cover: Carefully remove the metal slot cover corresponding to the chosen PCIe slot on the back of your computer case.
- Install Network Card: Align the network card with the PCIe slot and gently press it down firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the gold-plated contacts are fully inserted into the slot.
- Secure Card: Use a screw to secure the network card's bracket to the computer case. If installing in a small form factor PC, replace the standard bracket with the included low-profile bracket before installation.
- Close Case: Replace the computer case side panel and reconnect the power cable.
Figure 2.1: Step-by-step hardware installation process.
Figure 2.2: The NICGIGA 5Gb Network Card is compatible with PCIe x1, x4, x8, and x16 slots.
2.3 Driver Installation
After physical installation, you may need to install or update the network card drivers for optimal performance. The card utilizes the Realtek RTL8126 controller.
- Automatic Installation: In most modern operating systems (Windows 10/11, recent Linux distributions), the driver may be automatically detected and installed upon system startup.
- Manual Installation: If the driver is not automatically installed or if you wish to ensure you have the latest version, it is recommended to download the official drivers directly from the Realtek website. Search for drivers compatible with the RTL8126 chipset.
- Driver Update: Regularly check for updated drivers from Realtek to ensure the best performance and stability.
Figure 2.3: The network card supports Windows 10, Windows 11, and Linux operating systems.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Network Connection
Once the network card is installed and drivers are in place, connect an Ethernet cable from your router or network switch to the RJ45 port on the network card. The card will automatically negotiate the highest possible speed with your network device, supporting 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, or 100Mbps connections.
Figure 3.1: The network card supports various speeds, with a maximum of 5Gbps.
3.2 Wake-on-LAN (WOL) Functionality
The NICGIGA 5Gb Network Card supports Wake-on-LAN (WOL), allowing you to remotely power on your computer over the network. This feature is beneficial for centralized management and accessing your system remotely.
- Enabling WOL: WOL typically needs to be enabled in your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings and within the network adapter's properties in your operating system's Device Manager.
- Usage: Once enabled, you can use a WOL utility or a network management tool from another device on your network to send a 'magic packet' to wake up your computer.
Figure 3.2: Wake-on-LAN allows remote power control of your computer.
4. Maintenance
The NICGIGA 5Gb Network Card is designed for durability and stable performance. Minimal maintenance is required.
- Dust Removal: Periodically inspect your computer's interior and the network card for dust accumulation. Use compressed air to gently clean the card and its heatsink to ensure optimal heat dissipation.
- Temperature Management: The card features an excellent heatsink to manage its temperature. Ensure proper airflow within your computer case to prevent overheating, especially during prolonged high-speed data transfers.
- Driver Updates: Keep your network card drivers updated to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NICGIGA 5Gb Network Card, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Network Connection:
- Verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the network card and your router/switch.
- Check the network status lights on the card and your router/switch.
- Ensure the network card is properly seated in the PCIe slot. Try re-seating it.
- Confirm that the drivers are correctly installed and enabled in Device Manager (Windows) or network settings (Linux).
- Slow Connection Speed:
- Ensure your router/switch and Ethernet cable support the desired speed (e.g., 5Gbps).
- Update to the latest Realtek RTL8126 drivers from the official Realtek website. Out-of-the-box drivers may not provide full performance.
- In Windows Device Manager, go to the network adapter's properties, then 'Advanced' tab. Look for settings like 'Speed & Duplex' and ensure it's set to 'Auto Negotiation' or the highest supported speed (e.g., '5.0 Gbps Full Duplex').
- Check power management settings for the network adapter in Device Manager. Disable options like 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power' and adjust 'Energy Efficient Ethernet' or similar EPA features to 'Disabled' for maximum performance.
- Card Not Recognized by OS:
- Ensure the card is fully inserted into the PCIe slot.
- Try installing the card in a different PCIe slot if available.
- Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure the PCIe slot is enabled.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | NICGIGA |
| Model Number | NIC-5G |
| Hardware Interface | PCI Express x1 (Compatible with x4, x8, x16 slots) |
| Data Link Protocol | Ethernet |
| Data Transfer Rate | 5 Gigabits Per Second (Backward compatible with 2.5G, 1G, 100M) |
| Controller Chipset | Realtek RTL8126 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop PCs, Workstations, Servers |
| Operating System Support | Windows 10/11, Windows Server, Linux |
| Special Features | Wake-on-LAN (WOL), Excellent Heat Dissipation |
| Item Weight | 4.2 ounces (0.12 Kilograms) |
| Package Dimensions | 5.75 x 5.08 x 1.06 inches |
| UPC | 790885828744 |
7. Warranty and Support
NICGIGA stands behind the quality and reliability of its products.
- Technical Support: Every NICGIGA 5G NIC is rigorously tested. We provide lifetime technical support for this product.
- Return Policy: This product is typically eligible for a 30-day return policy for refund or replacement, subject to the retailer's terms and conditions.
- Contact Support: For technical assistance or warranty inquiries, please visit the official NICGIGA brand store or contact NICGIGA customer service through the platform where the product was purchased.
For more information and to explore other NICGIGA products, visit the NICGIGA Store.
