StarTech.com PR12GI-NETWORK-CARD 1-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card - Intel I225-V Chipset - Low-Profile Bracket
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This 2.5Gigabit Ethernet adapter implements the 802.3bz NBASE-T standard, supporting variable speed operation at 2.5G, 1G, 100M, and 10M with auto-negotiation. The Intel I225-V chipset enables advanced management features including Intel vPro compatibility for remote troubleshooting and PXE boot support for centralized OS deployment.
The card incorporates built-in thermal management with a heat sink to maintain optimal controller temperature during sustained operation. LED indicators provide visual feedback on link status and connection speed, while integrated LAN transformers ensure signal quality and reduce electromagnetic interference for stable network communications.
Relevant factors for this section include Chipset Manufacturer, Chipset Model, Host Interface, Total Number of Ports. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This network card delivers enterprise-grade features in a compact, reliable package. The combination of 2.5Gbps throughput with existing cabling infrastructure makes it a cost-effective upgrade path for organizations needing higher bandwidth without complete rewiring.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Management Capabilities, Build Quality.
Management Capabilities
Intel vPro integration enables remote management and troubleshooting, while PXE boot support streamlines operating system deployment across networked systems.
- Remote system monitoring
- Centralized OS updates
- Network boot functionality
Build Quality
Engineered for continuous operation with built-in heat dissipation, LED status indicators, and EMI-reducing transformers for consistent performance in demanding environments.
- Thermal management
- Visual status feedback
- Signal integrity protection
Deployment / Use Cases
This 2.5G PCIe network card is ideal for desktop workstations, servers, and systems requiring higher network throughput than standard gigabit Ethernet provides. The low-profile bracket option makes it suitable for small form factor PCs and compact server installations where space is constrained.
Common deployment scenarios include media editing workstations transferring large video files, virtualization hosts requiring additional network bandwidth, and database servers benefiting from reduced network latency. The card's compatibility with existing Cat5e/Cat6 cabling allows organizations to upgrade network performance without replacing infrastructure.
Desktop Workstation Upgrade
Add 2.5Gbps connectivity to existing systems for faster file transfers and reduced network bottlenecks during data-intensive tasks.
Server Network Expansion
Provide additional network bandwidth for virtualization hosts, storage servers, or application servers requiring reliable high-speed connectivity.
Physical Profile
The black network card features a low-profile bracket design that accommodates both standard and compact chassis. Measuring 0.60 inches in height and 3.50 inches in width, the card maintains a minimal footprint while delivering full 2.5Gbps performance. The lightweight construction at 3.50 ounces ensures easy installation without placing excessive strain on PCIe slots.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: Low-profile, 3.50" (88.90 mm), 3.50 oz (99.22 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 3.50" (88.90 mm)
- Height
- Low-profile
- Weight
- 3.50 oz (99.22 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes everything needed for installation and immediate use.
Package contents include 2.5Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 1 x Low-profile Bracket, 1 x Quick-start Guide. These included items support setup, installation, and immediate deployment without needing to source the core bundled accessories separately.
Highlights
- Intel I225-V controller chip for reliable 2.5Gbps performance
- PCI Express 2.0 x1 interface with low-profile bracket included
- NBASE-T compatible (802.3bz) with auto-negotiation from 10M to 2.5G
- Intel vPro support for remote management and troubleshooting
- PXE boot enabled for network-based OS deployment
- 9K jumbo frame support reduces packet overhead
- Built-in heat sink maintains optimal operating temperature
- Compatible with Windows, Windows Server, VMware, and Linux
- LED indicators for link status and connection speed
- 2-year warranty with 24/5 multi-lingual technical support
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | PR12GI-NETWORK-CARD |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 2.5Gigabit Ethernet Adapter |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | 2.5Gigabit Ethernet Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Chipset Manufacturer | Intel |
| Chipset Model | I225-V |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express 2.0 x1 |
| Total Number of Ports | 1 |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 1 |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 2.50 Gbit/s |
| Network & Communication | |
| Network Technology | 2.5GBase-T |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Bracket Height | Low-profile |
| Height | 0.60" (15.24 mm) |
| Width | 3.50" (88.90 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.50 oz (99.22 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 2.5Gigabit Ethernet Adapter 1 x Low-profile Bracket 1 x Quick-start Guide |
| Device Supported | Computer,Server |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the maximum data transfer rate of this network card?
The StarTech.com PR12GI-NETWORK-CARD supports a maximum data transfer rate of 2.50 Gbit/s (2.5Gbps). This represents a 2.5x increase over standard gigabit Ethernet, providing significantly higher bandwidth for data-intensive applications while maintaining backward compatibility with existing network infrastructure.
Which operating systems are compatible with this 2.5G network card?
This network interface card is compatible with Windows operating systems, Windows Server editions, VMware virtualization platforms, and various Linux distributions. The broad driver support ensures reliable operation across different computing environments, from desktop workstations to enterprise servers and virtualized infrastructure.
Does this card include a low-profile bracket for small form factor systems?
Yes, the package includes a low-profile bracket alongside the network card. This allows installation in both standard desktop cases and compact small form factor systems where space is limited. The low-profile design maintains full 2.5Gbps performance while accommodating constrained chassis dimensions.
What management features does the Intel I225-V chipset provide?
The Intel I225-V controller chip enables Intel vPro technology for remote management and troubleshooting capabilities. It also supports PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) boot for network-based operating system deployment, Wake-on-LAN for remote system activation, VLAN support for network segmentation, and 9K jumbo frames for reduced packet overhead in high-throughput applications.
What type of network cabling does this card require for 2.5Gbps operation?
This NBASE-T compatible card works with existing Cat5e or Cat6 twisted pair cabling to achieve 2.5Gbps speeds. The 802.3bz standard allows multi-gigabit operation over previously installed cabling infrastructure, providing a cost-effective upgrade path without requiring complete rewiring. The card auto-negotiates between 10M, 100M, 1G, and 2.5G speeds based on cable quality and connected equipment.
What warranty and support does StarTech.com provide for this product?
StarTech.com backs this 2.5G network card with a 2-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Additionally, the product includes free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance, providing expert support during business hours across different time zones. This comprehensive support package ensures reliable operation and quick resolution of any technical questions.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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