StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card

Upgrade your IT infrastructure with a reliable, high‑performance 1GbE SFP network controller. This StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card lets you add a dedicated 1‑Gigabit Ethernet port via a standard SFP module to a PCI Express (PCIe) 2.1 x1 (or higher) slot in an IT administrator’s workstation, server backplane, or data center rack. Built around a proven Intel I210 chipset, this card delivers solid, steady network performance, clean signal integrity, and flexible connectivity that scales with your evolving network needs. It’s an ideal solution for administrators who want to extend fiber or copper network access without replacing existing systems, minimizing downtime while maximizing throughput and reliability.

• 1-Port SFP Network Controller enables flexible 1GbE connectivity through SFP modules. SFP modules are sold separately, allowing you to tailor fiber or copper transceiver options to your existing network architecture.
• Intel I210 chipset delivers dependable performance and stable latency for typical Gigabit Ethernet workloads, helping to maintain smooth server and workstation communication under load.
• PCIe 2.1 x1 (or higher) compatibility ensures broad compatibility with modern IT workstations and server backplanes, making deployment straightforward in a range of hardware configurations.
• Simplified, scalable network expansion supports rapid upgrades to fiber or copper networks by swapping SFP modules without reworking PCIe topology or legacy adapters.
• Easy deployment and integration with driver support from Intel and StarTech helps minimize setup time, letting you focus on critical tasks rather than driver trials and compatibility issues.

Technical Details of StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card

• Port Configuration: 1 x SFP port for 1 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
• Chipset: Intel I210 (well‑established, reliable Gigabit Ethernet controller)
• Interface: PCI Express 2.1 x1 (or higher) slot required
• Data Rate: 1 Gbps Ethernet (1GbE) through the SFP module
• Module Compatibility: SFP module required for connectivity; SFP module sold separately
• Form Factor: PCIe add‑in card designed for servers, backplanes, and IT workstations
• Board Power: Designed to minimize power draw while delivering consistent network performance (typical for PCIe NICs with I210)

How to install StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card

• Power down the computer or server and unplug from power. Ground yourself to avoid static discharge before handling the card.
• Open the chassis and locate an available PCIe 2.1 x1 (or higher) expansion slot. Remove the slot cover if needed to provide access for the card bracket.
• Carefully insert the StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card into the PCIe slot, applying firm, even pressure until it sits securely in place. Use a screw to fix the bracket to the chassis for solid mounting.
• Attach an appropriate SFP module to the card’s SFP port, then connect your fiber or copper cabling to the module as dictated by your network design. Ensure the SFP module is fully seated and the connection is secure.
• Power on the system. Install the latest Intel I210 drivers from Intel or StarTech’s support resources, then boot into your operating system. Verify the new NIC appears in Device Manager (Windows) or the equivalent network configuration utility (Linux/macOS), and configure IP addressing, VLANs, or bonding as required by your network.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card? It is a PCIe add‑in card that provides a single 1GbE network port via an SFP module. The card uses the Intel I210 chipset to offer reliable Gigabit Ethernet connectivity for servers, backplanes, and workstations.
• Is an SFP module included? No. An SFP module is required for connectivity and is sold separately. Choose a module based on your network’s fiber or copper requirements.
• What slots does it fit? It fits PCI Express 2.1 x1 slots or higher, making it compatible with a wide range of modern systems.
• What speed does it support? The card supports 1 Gigabit Ethernet (1GbE) through the SFP port when paired with a suitable SFP transceiver.
• Is this card compatible with different operating systems? Drivers are provided by Intel and StarTech, supporting common server and workstation environments. Check the product page for the latest OS compatibility and driver updates.
• Can I use fiber or copper with this card? Yes. The SFP port supports both fiber and copper transceivers, depending on the SFP module you install.
• Is this card suitable for data center use? It is designed for IT administrators and server/workstation backplanes, offering dependable performance for Gigabit Ethernet workloads and scalable network expansion via SFP modules.