Recognised & Supported by
The Waveshare PCIe to M.2 E Key HAT+ (D) for Raspberry Pi 5 provides a convenient expansion solution for adding compatible M.2 wireless network cards to your Raspberry Pi 5.
PCIe Expansion: Connects through the Raspberry Pi 5's 16-pin PCIe interface.
M.2 Compatibility: Supports compatible 2230-size NGFF M.2 E Key and A+E Key wireless modules.
WiFi Upgrade: Enables wireless networking using compatible WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 modules.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth communication through a USB connection.
Wireless Module Support: Compatible with selected RTL8822CE, AX200, AX210 and BE200 modules.
High-Speed Interface: Supports PCIe ×1 Gen 2 and Gen 3 operating modes.
Flexible Integration: Suitable for Raspberry Pi development, IoT projects, embedded systems and wireless networking applications.
Note: Wireless modules and antennas are not included unless explicitly mentioned in the selected package.
The Waveshare PCIe to M.2 E Key HAT+ (D) for Raspberry Pi 5 is a compact wireless networking expansion board designed to connect compatible M.2 NGFF wireless network cards to the Raspberry Pi 5 through its 16-pin PCIe interface. It provides a practical hardware solution for developers, embedded engineers and IoT professionals who want to expand the wireless connectivity capabilities of their Raspberry Pi systems.
The adapter supports compatible M.2 E Key and A+E Key wireless network modules in the 2230 form factor. Depending on the installed wireless card, users can add WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 connectivity.
In addition to wireless networking, the board supports Bluetooth signal transmission through a USB connection. This allows compatible wireless modules to provide both WiFi and Bluetooth functionality.
The expansion board is particularly useful for embedded computing applications, wireless communication development, IoT gateways, industrial monitoring systems and Raspberry Pi-based computing projects.
This expansion board provides an interface between the Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe connection and an M.2 wireless networking module.
The hardware architecture is designed around three main components:
1. PCIe Interface
The board connects to the Raspberry Pi 5 using a 16-pin PCIe cable. This interface provides the communication pathway between the host computer and the installed wireless network card.
2. M.2 Wireless Module Interface
The M.2 connector accommodates supported 2230-size wireless network cards. It supports compatible E Key and A+E Key modules.
3. Bluetooth USB Connection
Bluetooth functionality is provided through a USB connection. The Bluetooth signal from the installed wireless module is transferred to the Raspberry Pi through the USB interface.
This architecture enables wireless networking expansion without requiring a separate external USB WiFi adapter.
The adapter uses a PCIe ×1 interface and supports Gen 2 and Gen 3 operating modes.
PCIe provides a high-speed communication pathway between the Raspberry Pi 5 and the installed wireless networking module.
M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a compact interface standard used for internal expansion devices.
The board supports compatible M.2 wireless modules with E Key or A+E Key interfaces.
Depending on the selected wireless module, the adapter can support:
WiFi 5 for wireless networking.
WiFi 6 for improved network efficiency.
WiFi 6E for compatible 6 GHz wireless networking.
WiFi 7 for next-generation wireless connectivity.
Actual wireless performance depends on the installed module, antenna configuration, operating system, driver support and network environment.
The Bluetooth functionality uses the USB interface to communicate with the Raspberry Pi.
Bluetooth availability and supported versions depend on the installed wireless network card.
The adapter operates by connecting a compatible M.2 wireless network card to the Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe interface.
The working process involves the following stages:
The expansion board connects to the Raspberry Pi 5 through its 16-pin PCIe connector.
A compatible M.2 wireless network card is installed in the expansion board.
The Raspberry Pi communicates with the wireless module through PCIe.
The operating system loads the appropriate wireless drivers.
WiFi functionality becomes available when the module is correctly recognised and configured.
Bluetooth functionality is enabled through the additional USB connection.
This arrangement provides an integrated wireless expansion solution for Raspberry Pi 5 development environments.
Designed specifically for Raspberry Pi 5.
16-pin PCIe connection.
PCIe ×1 Gen 2 and Gen 3 support.
Compatible with selected M.2 E Key wireless cards.
Supports compatible A+E Key wireless modules.
Supports 2230-size wireless network cards.
WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 module compatibility.
USB-based Bluetooth connectivity.
Supports selected RTL8822CE, AX200, AX210 and BE200 modules.
IPEX 4 antenna connection on compatible wireless modules.
Compact expansion design for embedded applications.
Improved Wireless Connectivity
Add compatible wireless network capabilities to Raspberry Pi 5 without relying exclusively on external USB WiFi adapters.
Flexible Wireless Module Selection
Choose compatible M.2 wireless modules according to the required WiFi generation and connectivity requirements.
Integrated Bluetooth Support
Use the additional USB connection to enable Bluetooth functionality from supported wireless modules.
Embedded System Integration
The compact board is suitable for integration into Raspberry Pi-based embedded computing projects.
Development Flexibility
Experiment with different wireless networking modules for IoT, automation and communication development.
Expandable Computing Platform
Extend the networking capabilities of Raspberry Pi 5 for advanced computing and connected applications.
Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
Brand | Waveshare |
Product Model | PCIE TO M.2 E KEY HAT+ (D) |
Host Platform | Raspberry Pi 5 |
Connection | 16-pin PCIe |
PCIe Interface | ×1 |
PCIe Generation | Gen 2 / Gen 3 |
M.2 Interface | E Key / A+E Key compatible |
Module Size | 2230 |
Wireless Modules | RTL8822CE, AX200, AX210, BE200 |
Bluetooth | USB connection |
Antenna Interface | IPEX 4 |
Wireless Technology | MU-MIMO (module dependent) |
This expansion board is suitable for various development and computing applications.
Raspberry Pi wireless networking projects.
IoT gateway development.
Smart agriculture monitoring systems.
Wireless sensor network development.
Embedded Linux computing.
Industrial automation systems.
Wireless communication experiments.
Robotics and autonomous systems.
Edge computing applications.
Smart home automation.
Remote monitoring platforms.
Research and educational projects.
Suitable for Raspberry Pi-based agricultural monitoring systems, connected sensor platforms and smart farming gateways.
Supports wireless communication expansion for Raspberry Pi-powered robotics and automation projects.
Useful for developing connected devices, wireless gateways and embedded computing platforms.
Suitable for prototyping wireless communication systems and embedded networking solutions.
Useful for engineering students, research laboratories, innovation centres and electronics development teams.
This adapter is designed for:
- Raspberry Pi 5.
The manufacturer lists the following compatible wireless modules:
Wireless Module | Wireless Generation |
|---|---|
RTL8822CE | WiFi 5 |
Intel AX200 | WiFi 6 |
Intel AX210 | WiFi 6E |
Intel BE200 | WiFi 7 |
Wireless capabilities depend on the selected module.
Important compatibility considerations:
Verify the M.2 key type before purchasing a wireless module.
Check the physical 2230 module dimensions.
Confirm operating system and driver compatibility.
Verify antenna connector compatibility.
Bluetooth requires the additional USB connection.
The wireless module is not included with the standalone adapter.
Follow these steps to install the expansion board.
Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Pi
Power off the Raspberry Pi 5 and disconnect its power supply before installation.
Step 2: Install the Wireless Module
Insert the compatible M.2 2230 wireless network card into the expansion board's M.2 connector.
Step 3: Secure the Module
Align and secure the wireless card using the appropriate mounting hardware.
Step 4: Connect the PCIe Cable
Connect the supplied 16-pin PCIe cable between the Raspberry Pi 5 and the expansion board. Ensure the cable orientation is correct.
Step 5: Connect Bluetooth USB
Connect the additional USB interface as required for Bluetooth functionality.
Step 6: Connect Antennas
Connect compatible antennas to the wireless module's antenna connectors.
Step 7: Configure the Operating System
Power on the Raspberry Pi and configure the PCIe interface and appropriate wireless drivers according to the module and operating system documentation.
After installation, the Raspberry Pi 5 can communicate with the wireless network card through the PCIe interface.
The actual WiFi functionality depends on the installed module and the availability of appropriate drivers.
Users can configure the wireless network through the operating system's network management interface.
For Bluetooth operation, ensure that the USB connection is established and the wireless card is supported by the installed software.
For Linux-based applications, verify that the required firmware and kernel drivers are available.
To maintain reliable operation:
Inspect the PCIe cable periodically.
Check that the M.2 module remains securely mounted.
Ensure antenna connectors are properly attached.
Keep the expansion board free from dust and moisture.
Avoid excessive mechanical pressure on the M.2 connector.
Use a stable power supply for the Raspberry Pi.
Keep operating system drivers and firmware updated.
Disconnect power before changing wireless modules.
Always power off the Raspberry Pi before installing or removing the expansion board.
Avoid connecting or disconnecting the PCIe cable while powered.
Check connector orientation before installation.
Use compatible M.2 wireless network cards.
Avoid electrostatic discharge during handling.
Do not force incompatible wireless modules into the connector.
Ensure proper ventilation inside enclosed systems.
Use antennas compatible with the installed wireless card.
Before purchasing this expansion board, consider the following factors.
1. Raspberry Pi Compatibility
Confirm that your development platform is Raspberry Pi 5.
2. Wireless Module Selection
Select an appropriate M.2 wireless card according to your connectivity requirements.
3. Module Form Factor
Check that the selected wireless module uses the supported 2230 form factor.
4. M.2 Key Compatibility
Verify the E Key or A+E Key compatibility of your wireless card.
5. WiFi Requirements
Choose between WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 based on your application.
6. Bluetooth Requirements
If Bluetooth functionality is required, ensure that the USB connection is properly established.
7. Antenna Requirements
Check antenna connector compatibility and purchase suitable antennas separately if required.
LOFTY AGROTECH supplies electronics, embedded development components, drone hardware, agricultural technology products and engineering solutions.
We support customers working on:
Raspberry Pi development.
Embedded systems.
IoT product development.
Drone electronics and communication systems.
Agricultural automation.
Electronics prototyping and research.
Hardware integration and development.
Our objective is to provide suitable hardware components for engineering, research, industrial and commercial applications.
Customers in Coimbatore, Erode, Salem and other parts of Tamil Nadu can contact LOFTY AGROTECH for product enquiries and availability.
Warranty coverage is subject to the manufacturer's warranty policy and the applicable terms specified by LOFTY AGROTECH at the time of purchase. Physical damage, improper installation, electrical misuse and unauthorised modifications may affect warranty eligibility. Customers should retain the purchase invoice for warranty-related assistance.
It allows compatible M.2 wireless network cards to connect to Raspberry Pi 5 through its PCIe interface.
No. This particular model is designed for Raspberry Pi 5.
No. The standalone adapter does not include a wireless network card. A compatible module must be purchased separately.
The manufacturer lists RTL8822CE, Intel AX200, Intel AX210 and Intel BE200 as supported modules.
Yes. WiFi 6 is supported with compatible wireless modules such as Intel AX200.
Yes. Compatible WiFi 6E modules such as Intel AX210 can be used.
The manufacturer lists Intel BE200 as a compatible WiFi 7 module. Actual operation depends on operating system and driver compatibility.
Yes. Bluetooth functionality is supported through the additional USB connection when a compatible wireless module is installed.
Yes. The board supports PCIe ×1 Gen 2 and Gen 3 modes.
Yes. It is suitable for Raspberry Pi-based IoT gateways, embedded computing, wireless monitoring and automation development.
LOFTY AGROTECH provides Raspberry Pi accessories, wireless networking expansion boards and embedded development components for customers across Tamil Nadu.
Customers in Erode, Coimbatore, Salem, Chennai and surrounding locations can contact our team for product availability, bulk purchase enquiries and technical assistance.
Upgrade your Raspberry Pi 5 wireless networking capabilities with a compatible M.2 wireless expansion solution.
Order from LOFTY AGROTECH for your embedded development, IoT, robotics and engineering projects.
Contact our sales team for product availability, bulk orders and technical enquiries.
For official government agricultural guidelines, scheme updates, and research initiatives, please visit the National Agriculture Portal. Click here →
