2.5G Ethernet Card StarTech PCIe Network Adapter

Description

Product Overview

The StarTech 2.5G Ethernet Card (model PR12GI-NETWORK-CARD) is a high‑performance PCI Express network adapter designed for modern desktop and workstation builds. Powered by the Intel I225‑V chipset, it supports NBASE‑T (802.3bz) and delivers up to 2.5 Gbps over existing Cat5e/Cat6 cabling, eliminating the need for costly fiber upgrades. The card features a built‑in heat sink, LED link‑status indicators, and robust LAN transformers to minimize EMI, ensuring stable operation even under heavy traffic. Dimensions are 4.8 × 3.5 × 0.6 inches and it weighs just 1.28 oz, fitting easily into standard and low‑profile cases.

Usage

Designed for professionals who require high‑speed, low‑latency networking, this card excels in office environments, content creation studios, and gaming rigs. It supports Windows, Windows Server, VMware, and Linux, making it ideal for mixed‑OS deployments. The Intel vPro technology enables remote management, PXE boot for OS deployment, and 9K jumbo frames for reduced packet overhead. Whether you are streaming 4K video, transferring large design files, or running virtual machines, the card provides the bandwidth and reliability needed.

Why Choose Us

StarTech is known for rigorous quality testing and durable components. This network card includes a custom‑molded heat sink that keeps the controller chip within optimal temperature ranges, extending lifespan. The LED indicators give instant visual feedback on link speed and activity, while the included low‑profile bracket ensures compatibility with compact chassis. Backed by a solid warranty and a 4.4‑star rating from 20 verified customers, you can trust its performance and reliability.

Key Features

• Intel I225‑V chipset delivers up to 2.5 Gbps over standard Cat5e/Cat6 cabling.
• Auto‑negotiation supports 2.5G/1G/100M/10M speeds for flexible network environments.
• Built‑in heat sink and LED status indicators for optimal thermal management and easy monitoring.
• Intel vPro remote management, PXE boot, 9K jumbo frames, VLAN and Wake‑on‑LAN support.
• Low‑profile bracket and robust LAN transformers reduce EMI and fit compact cases.

FAQ

Will this card work with my existing Cat5e cable?

Yes, the card is NBASE‑T compatible and can operate at 2.5 Gbps on Cat5e or higher cabling, providing a cost‑effective upgrade path.

Is the card compatible with Linux distributions?

Absolutely. Drivers for the Intel I225‑V are included in the mainline Linux kernel, ensuring plug‑and‑play functionality on most modern distributions.

Can I use this card for remote management of my workstation?

Yes, Intel vPro technology enables remote diagnostics, firmware updates, and power‑on management via compatible management consoles.

What is the warranty period?

StarTech offers a limited three‑year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Do I need a special slot for this adapter?

The card uses a standard PCIe 2.0 x1 slot, which is available on virtually all desktop motherboards released in the last decade.