WisdPi Framework 10G Ethernet Module Performance and USB-C Bandwidth Limitations

The WisdPi 10G Ethernet Expansion Card for Framework computers fails to reach its rated 10 Gbps speeds on many configurations due to the complex bandwidth requirements of the USB-C standard and driver dependencies. To achieve the real-world maximum of 9.4 Gbps, the hardware must support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps) and utilize the official Realtek drivers on Windows.

Hardware Requirements for 10 Gbps Throughput

The WisdPi module utilizes the Realtek RTL8159 Ethernet controller. This specific chip requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps) connection to deliver full 10 Gbps Ethernet performance. If the connection is limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 or USB4, the bandwidth is capped, typically resulting in real-world speeds well under 8 Gbps.

Testing on a Framework 13 with an AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 showed average bandwidth of 7.4 Gbps on Windows 11, despite documentation suggesting support for USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 on certain ports. On a Framework 12 with an Intel 13th Gen mobile CPU, the port was correctly identified as 20 Gbps via lsusb in Linux, but iperf3 tests still only yielded 7 Gbps.

Driver Impact on Performance

Operating system and driver choice significantly impact the throughput of the RTL8159 controller. While the hardware may support the necessary 20 Gbps link speed, the software layer often prevents full utilization.

• Windows 11 (Built-in Driver): Performance mirrored Linux results, capping around 7 Gbps even on Gen 2x2 ports.
• Windows 11 (Realtek Driver): Installing the official Realtek driver enabled the module to reach its peak performance of 9.4+ Gbps.
• Linux (Ubuntu 26.04): Attempts to compile the Realtek driver failed on the Linux kernel 7.x, preventing the module from reaching full speed on this platform during testing.

Thermal Considerations and Safety

The module generates significant heat during high-bandwidth bidirectional tests, with surface temperatures reaching approximately 66°C. WisdPi has stated that these temperatures are in compliance with IEC 62368-1 temperature safety limits, provided the skin is not in contact with the plastic surface for more than 10 seconds.

Because the module is designed for a laptop, these high temperatures pose a risk of "Toasted Skin Syndrome" if used on a lap during heavy network loads. It is recommended to use this module only in scenarios where the laptop is not resting directly on the user's lap.

Comparison and Recommendations

For the majority of users, the standard Framework Ethernet Expansion Card (2.5 Gbps) is recommended due to its lower cost (approximately $40) and lack of thermal issues. The WisdPi 10G Card ($99) is intended for a niche group of users who require high-speed networking without the use of an external USB-C dongle and are comfortable with the specific hardware and driver requirements.