StarTech.com 1 Port 2.5Gbps PoE Network Card, PCIe Ethernet Card w/RJ45, 30W 802.3at PoE NIC for Desktops/Servers, Network PoE LAN Adapter w/Low-Profile Bracket, NBaseT, Windows/Linux - TAA

Overview

The StarTech.com ST1000PEXPSE is a PCI Express network card designed to add a high-speed 2.5 Gbps Ethernet connection with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities to desktops and servers. It features a single RJ45 port that supports multiple speeds including 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps, and 10 Mbps, while delivering up to 25.5 W of power over a single Cat5e or better cable. This combination allows you to power devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, or VoIP phones without needing a separate power source, making it a practical upgrade for both standard and small form-factor systems.

Key features

• Delivers both data and up to 25.5 W of power through one Ethernet cable, simplifying device placement and reducing cable clutter
• Supports multiple network speeds to ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices and network environments
• Equipped with the Realtek RTL8125B chipset, enabling advanced features such as VLAN tagging, jumbo frames up to 16K, Wake-on-LAN, PXE boot, and Audio-Video Bridging for enhanced network management and performance
• Includes both full-height and low-profile brackets for easy installation in various desktop and server chassis
• Compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems, providing flexibility across different IT setups

Key specs

• Network speeds: 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps, 10 Mbps
• Power over Ethernet: up to 25.5 W via IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards
• Interface: PCIe 2.1 x1 slot
• Chipset: Realtek RTL8125B
• Jumbo frame support: up to 16,000 bytes
• Operating system compatibility: Windows and Linux
• Brackets included: full-height and low-profile

Connectivity and compatibility

This network card uses a single RJ45 port that supports multi-gigabit Ethernet speeds, making it suitable for upgrading existing network infrastructure or adding PoE capabilities to devices that require both power and data over one cable. It works well with Cat5e or better cabling, ensuring reliable connections in modern network environments. The card’s support for VLAN tagging and Audio-Video Bridging helps optimize traffic management and quality of service in complex setups.

Installation and setup

Installation is straightforward, requiring a PCIe 2.1 x1 slot in your desktop or server. The inclusion of both full-height and low-profile brackets means it fits a variety of chassis sizes, from compact small form-factor PCs to standard towers and rack-mounted servers. Once installed, the card’s features like Wake-on-LAN and PXE boot facilitate remote management and network booting, which are valuable in enterprise and lab environments.

Ideal uses and environments

This network card is a strong choice for IT professionals looking to add PoE support and multi-gigabit speeds to workstations or servers without extensive rewiring. It fits well in environments where powering devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, or VoIP phones is necessary but power outlets are limited. Its compatibility with Windows and Linux makes it versatile for various network setups, including home offices, small business networks, and testing labs.