This article covers Intel(インテル) i226-V ギガビット 2.5G イーサネットサーバー NICカード.

Overview

The youyeetoo Intel i226-V 2.5G M.2 A+E Ethernet NIC Card is a compact expansion board that adds wired network connectivity through an M.2 slot. It is powered by the Intel i226-V controller, supporting 10/100/1000/2500 Mbps multi-gigabit speeds. This card is designed for single-board computers like the youyeetoo X1, mini PCs, and embedded systems that have an M.2 A+E key slot. It comes with a 30cm ribbon cable, allowing flexible placement of the NIC away from the M.2 slot for better thermal management or chassis fit.

Connectivity & Compatibility

Interface: M.2 A+E Key (PCIe 1x) Form factor: 2230 size (standard), flexible placement with included ribbon cable Network standard: IEEE 802.3 10/100/1000/2500BASE-T Compatible devices: youyeetoo X1, any SBC or mini PC with an M.2 A+E slot supporting PCIe protocol Important: The M.2 slot must support PCIe (NVMe) protocol. SATA-only or USB-only slots will not work. Driver requirement: Intel Ethernet Adapter Complete Driver Pack must be installed before first use.

Product Info

Release: Late 2024 Price: Approximately ¥5,999 on Japan (tax included) Warranty: Covered by youyeetoo (check product page for details) In the box: i226 2.5G M.2 A+E Ethernet card with 30cm ribbon cable ×1 (development board not included) * Market position: Entry to mid-range. The Intel i226-V is a widely adopted consumer 2.5GbE controller, and this module brings that capability to devices lacking built-in multi-gigabit LAN. It is a practical upgrade for SBC enthusiasts and compact PC builders.

Best Use Cases

youyeetoo X1 users: Ideal for adding multiple wired LAN ports to the X1. Simply insert into the M.2 slot for instant 2.5GbE connectivity. For other boards, verify PCIe protocol support first. SBC enthusiasts: Great for Raspberry Pi alternatives or other single-board computers with an M.2 slot. Enables high-speed wired networking where onboard Ethernet is limited to 1Gbps or absent. Compact PC builders: Useful for Mini-ITX builds or thin laptops that lack sufficient onboard LAN ports. The ribbon cable allows flexible placement of the NIC module. Not for: Users who need a standard PCIe x1 NIC for a desktop PC — a conventional PCIe card is simpler. Also not suitable for motherboards with SATA-only M.2 slots.

Things to Consider

Verify your M.2 slot protocol: Only PCIe (NVMe) slots are compatible. SATA or USB-only slots will not detect the card. Driver installation is mandatory. Download the Intel Ethernet Adapter Complete Driver Pack from Intel's official site before first use. Linux support is available. The package includes only the NIC card and ribbon cable. You need to provide the host device (e.g., youyeetoo X1) separately. To achieve 2.5Gbps speeds, you need a compatible switch/router and at least Cat5e cabling. ## FAQ
Q: Can I use this in a standard desktop PC? A: Yes, if your motherboard has an M.2 A+E key slot. However, most desktop M.2 slots are M-key (for NVMe SSDs) and have a different physical keying. An adapter may work but compatibility is not guaranteed. Q: Will I get the full 2.5Gbps speed? A: The Intel i226-V is capable of 2.5Gbps. With a compatible switch, Cat5e+ cable, and a 2.5GbE-capable peer, you can achieve near-wire speed. However, the PCIe lane bandwidth from the M.2 slot may impose a limit in some implementations. Q: Where can I download the driver? A: From Intel's official download center: search for 'Intel Ethernet Adapter Complete Driver Pack'. It supports Windows, Linux, and FreeBSD. The quick-start guide included with the product also lists the URL.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: youyeetoo
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B0DPHMSV15
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.