Connectivity
When it comes to connectivity, you have complete support. The device includes two Ethernet RJ45 2.5Gb ports, along with integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth capabilities.
In terms of Wi-Fi performance, we got an average speed of about 600 Mbps when tested at a distance of roughly 1 meter from our Banana Pi R3 router, which does not meet our standards. On a positive note, the integrated Wi-Fi support features an Intel CNVio2 M.2 module that supports the Wi-Fi 6 standard, and it could potentially be upgraded in the future to a more advanced model if needed.
Is the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module upgradeable?
Yes, but it’s not compatible with the standard M.2 cards you are familiar with. Compatibility is exclusive to other Intel CNVio/CNVio2 modules. This CNVio2 M.2 slot (socket) is not a full PCIe/USB interface, as it is a proprietary Intel interface that anticipates a partial Wi-Fi module in which the MAC/PHY logic resides within the CPU/chipset. In layman’s terms, it is not electrically compatible with standard PCIe M.2 PCIe cards.That said, on an even more positive note, you can find such compatible cards on Amazon and AliExpress at relatively low prices.
Back view of the board: CNVio/CNVio2 module slot with Wi-Fi/BT module
