WiFi 6E (Intel AX210) Antennas

[KOhrn]

Hi:

I'd like to install an Intel AX210 (WiFi 6E) into an existing new Dell laptop, to replace an Intel 9560.

Will the existing antennas work correctly with WiFi 6E (802.11AX) running on 6GHz spectrum?

[n_scott_pearson]

I am hearing conflicting things about this.

One source is saying that the answer is No - that you really need to run what is essentially a tri-band configuration that has a separate antenna for the 6GHz band.

Intel, on the other hand, is releasing the AX210 card with hookups for only two antennas - which would seem to indicate that the answer is Yes.

Hopefully, Intel Customer Support can get us a quick and definitive answer from the Networking team.

...S

[Maria_R_Intel · Accepted solution]

Hello KOhrn,

Thank you for posting on the Intel* Community.

The Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX210 (Gig+) design is Antenna2x2, so we can say that will work with only two antennas. Unfortunately, the full compatibility and installation will depend on the Original Equipment Manufacturer's design, meaning the motherboard/system manufacturer.

In your case, since you want to install the wireless card into a Laptop, you should check if the setup will work. Your laptop may not recognize new hardware when you install an Intel® Wireless Adapter for several reasons.

• Manufacturer limitations: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) may limit the computer to only specific wireless adapters, causing an installation error when booting with a different, previously installed wireless adapter. We recommend contacting the manufacturer, vendor, or place of purchase about availability and support for Intel Wireless Adapter upgrades. Laptop manufacturers must meet regulatory requirements to determine if you can install the Intel Wireless Adapter in your system.
• Regulatory issues: We do not recommend installing or upgrading the various Intel Wireless Adapters. Replacing an adapter associated with specific wireless software and a different adapter type may cause connection issues or software error messages. For example, if you replace a Wi-Fi/WiMAX adapter with a Wi-Fi adapter, you may receive WiMAX error messages and lose connectivity to the WiMAX network.
• Driver limitations: Your computer manufacturer can customize drivers and software to enable or alter features or provide improved operation on your computer. Contact the manufacturer for the latest updates and technical support information.

If you need any additional information, please submit a new question as this thread will no longer be monitored.

Best regards,

Maria R.

Intel Customer Support Technician