NShi AQC113 M.2 B+M 10 Gbps network card

Compact 10 Gbps M.2 Adapter

The NShi AQC113 converts an M.2 B+M slot into a 10 Gbps RJ45 Ethernet port. It targets builders of mini PCs, NAS units or compact workstations who need high-speed wired networking without using a full-size PCIe slot. The card auto-negotiates down to 5 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps and 100 Mbps for broad network compatibility. Drivers are available for Windows 10, 11, Server 2022, Linux and Mac OS.

Thermals, Noise and Power Draw

The adapter is described as energy efficient with low power consumption, helping to reduce system load through TCP, UDP and IP checksum offloading. No active cooling is present, so operation is silent and thermal output depends on the host chassis airflow. The eSATA bus interface and IEEE 802.3 compliance ensure standard power delivery without extra connectors. Advanced features such as VLAN tagging and jumbo frames further optimise network efficiency.

Build Quality and Daily Use

The M.2 B+M form factor saves expansion slots in space-constrained builds, but requires a compatible keyed slot on the motherboard. A single RJ45 connector provides a familiar copper Ethernet link for Cat6a or better cabling. Compliance with IEEE 802.3 and Energy Efficient Ethernet standards supports reliable interoperability with switches and routers. Buyers whose boards lack an M.2 B+M slot or who need multi-port connectivity cannot use this adapter.