Editorial Technical Reference

Network Interface Card

This page explains how Network Interface Card is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A hardware component that enables a computer to connect to a network and communicate with other devices.

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Network Interface Card

Definition
Within a User Interface Station, the Network Interface Card (NIC) serves as the critical communication interface that allows the station to connect to local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or the internet. It facilitates data transmission and reception between the station's central processing unit and the network infrastructure, enabling access to shared resources, servers, and other networked devices essential for the station's operation. The NIC is a component typically installed in a PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, or x16) and features an RJ45 connector for 8P8C modular cabling. It supports data rates of 10/100/1000 Mbps with auto-negotiation, conforming to IEEE 802.3. The card operates in a temperature range of 0–70°C (industrial grade -40–85°C optional) and can be stored at -40–85°C. It operates in non-condensing humidity of 10–90% RH. Typical power consumption is 2.5 W, and the mean time between failures (MTBF) is 100,000 hours at 25°C, per Telcordia SR-332. The card measures 120×70×20 mm and weighs 50 g. It includes a low-profile bracket. Compliance references include CE, FCC, and RoHS (Class B). The NIC converts data from the computer into electrical signals suitable for transmission over network cables according to specific network protocols (e.g., Ethernet). It receives incoming signals, converts them back into digital data the computer can process, and manages data flow to prevent collisions and ensure reliable communication. For procurement, verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
The NIC converts data from the computer into electrical signals suitable for transmission over network cables (or radio waves for wireless NICs) according to specific network protocols (e.g., Ethernet). It receives incoming signals, converts them back into digital data the computer can process, and manages data flow to prevent collisions and ensure reliable communication. The card uses a printed circuit board (PCB) with integrated circuits (ICs/chips) and a connector (e.g., RJ-45) to interface with the network medium. It handles data encapsulation, addressing, and error detection, ensuring that packets are correctly transmitted and received. The NIC operates at the data link layer of the OSI model, providing a physical and logical connection to the network.
Common Materials
Printed Circuit Board (PCB), Integrated Circuits (ICs/Chips), Connector (e.g., RJ-45)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Data Rate10/100/1000 MbpsAuto-negotiationIEEE 802.3
Bus InterfacePCIe 2.0 x1Compatible with x4, x8, x16 slotsPCIe Base Spec
Connector TypeRJ458P8C modularIEC 60603-7
Operating Temperature0–70 °CIndustrial grade -40–85 optional
Storage Temperature-40–85 °C
Operating Humidity10–90 % RHNon-condensing
Power Consumption2.5 WTypical
MTBF100000 hAt 25°CTelcordia SR-332
Dimensions120×70×20 mmLow-profile bracket included
Weight50 g
ComplianceCE, FCC, RoHSClass B

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Controller Chip
    Manages data transmission, protocol handling, and communication with the computer's bus.
    Material: Semiconductor (Silicon)
  • PHY (Physical Layer) Transceiver
    Converts digital data to analog signals for cable transmission and vice-versa.
    Material: Integrated Circuit
  • Boot ROM Socket Part
    Holds firmware (e.g., for PXE boot) that allows network-based startup.
    Material: Plastic, Metal Contacts
  • LED Indicators Part
    Provide visual status for link activity and network speed.
    Material: LED (Light Emitting Diode), Plastic Lens
  • Printed Circuit Board
    Carries and interconnects the controller, PHY and connector.
  • Network Connector
    The RJ-45 socket the network cable plugs into.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

User Interface Station
View system integration details
DICOM Interface Module
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Compute Nodes
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Data Server
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Rackmount Industrial Server
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Device Server
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Industrial Edge Computing Node
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: N/A (electronic component)
other spec: Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing, Power: 3.3V/5V DC ±5%
temperature: 0°C to 70°C (operating), -40°C to 85°C (storage)
Media Compatibility
✓ Standard Ethernet networks (Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a) ✓ Fiber optic networks (SFP/SFP+ modules) ✓ Industrial Ethernet protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP)
Unsuitable: High-voltage electrical environments without proper isolation
Sizing Data Required
  • Network speed requirement (e.g., 1Gbps, 10Gbps, 25Gbps)
  • Interface type (PCIe generation/slot type, form factor)
  • Network protocol compatibility (TCP/IP offload, RDMA support)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Thermal degradation
Cause: Excessive heat buildup due to poor ventilation, dust accumulation, or high ambient temperatures leading to solder joint failure, component warping, or semiconductor breakdown.
Electrical overstress
Cause: Voltage spikes from power supply issues, electrostatic discharge (ESD) during handling, or improper grounding causing damage to integrated circuits, capacitors, or connectors.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Intermittent or complete loss of network connectivity despite functional cables and switches
  • Abnormal LED behavior (e.g., no lights, constant flashing when idle, or mismatched activity/status indicators)
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular cleaning of card slots and heatsinks using compressed air to prevent dust-induced overheating and corrosion
  • Use ESD-safe procedures during installation/replacement and ensure proper chassis grounding to protect sensitive electronics from static discharge

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO/IEC 11801: Information technology - Generic cabling for customer premises ANSI/TIA-568.2-D: Balanced Twisted-Pair Telecommunications Cabling and Components Standards CE Marking (EU Directive 2014/35/EU) for Low Voltage Equipment

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Connector Pin Alignment: +/-0.15mm
  • PCB Trace Width: +/-10% of nominal value
Quality Inspection
  • Signal Integrity Test (Eye Diagram Analysis)
  • Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Radiated Emissions Test

Manufacturers of Network Interface Card

1 company lists this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Shenzhen STHL Technology Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Heavy Copper PCB, Connector / Cable Assembly, PCB Assembly and 9 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the data rate of this NIC?

The NIC supports data rates of 10/100/1000 Mbps with auto-negotiation, per IEEE 802.3. The actual rate depends on the network infrastructure and cable quality.

What is the operating temperature range?

The standard operating temperature is 0–70°C, with an optional industrial grade of -40–85°C. Storage temperature is -40–85°C. Verify the specific model's rating with the manufacturer.

What is the power consumption?

Typical power consumption is 2.5 W. This is a typical value; actual consumption may vary with network activity and configuration.

What compliance standards does it meet?

The NIC references CE, FCC, and RoHS compliance (Class B). These are procurement references; confirm certification status with the supplier.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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