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what do I replace 3165 AC with? What supersedes it?

kuriozprsn
Beginner
3,224 Views

a while ago the board stopped working, barely finding networks.

Currently replaced with an USB wifi dongle which is annoying and lacks BT.

Since it is discontinued, what can I replace it with?

 

Form factor:  M.2 2230, 1216  

 

I'd prefer something N enabled, 2.4/5 dual band

 

Thanks

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4 Replies
AlHill
Super User
3,216 Views

You should consult with you device manufacturer regarding wifi integration and compatibility.

 

Doc (not an Intel employee or contractor)
[Maybe Windows 12 will be better]

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n_scott_pearson
Super User
3,198 Views

To answer the raw question regarding replacement choices, you have three Wireless-AC and two Wireless-AX modules to choose from. Here is a comparison of the features of these five adapters: https://ark.intel.com/content/www/us/en/ark/compare.html?productIds=83635,94150,99445,189347,204836.

Now, a few comments:

  • I agree with Al (but will be less terse), you need to check with your motherboard/laptop manufacturer to see whether/what replacements are possible. First, some vendors use inclusion/exclusion lists in their BIOS to block replacements that *they* don't provide/support. Second, even though Bluetooth has a standardized USB interface, some BIOS cannot (or will not) support Bluetooth keyboards or mice within BIOS Setup if the Wireless module is unknown. Finally, Intel does not support integrations like this and may not support you if you have problems.
  • Based upon past history and recent product discontinuations announced by Intel, the 7265 (Rev. D) and 8265 modules likely have less than a year and the 9260 module less than two years before they are discontinued as well. Discontinuation means three things will (eventually) happen, (1) drivers supporting these modules will be frozen and not updated in new driver packages, then (2) the drivers will be removed completely from new driver packages and finally (3) older driver packages that do have drivers supporting these modules will completely disappear off the Intel download servers. Bottom line, to future-proof yourself as much as possible, I recommend that you step up to one of the Wireless-AX modules -- and, since they are almost identically-priced, I recommend that you jump all the way up to the AX210 adapter (which gets you WiFi 6e support).

Hope this helps,

...S

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kuriozprsn
Beginner
3,190 Views
I am more concetned with physical dimensions, slot and antennae jacks compatibility than drivers
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n_scott_pearson
Super User
3,187 Views

Per the M.2 specification, all of Intel's NGW cards are identical in these aspects: same 22x30mm dimensions, same IPEX MHF4 antenna connectors. See Type of WiFi Antenna Connectors Required for Intel® Wireless Cards for more information.

...S

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