Broadcom M.2 2230 Wifi / BT for Optiplex 3090 Micro?

[gatorback]

The specs indicate 3 flavors of OEM M.2 Wireless LAN modules.

1. Qualcomm QCA61x4A (DW1820)
2. Intel AX201
3. Intel 9462

If these modules will not work, I would like to replace it with a Broadcom M.2 module. Is there any reason I can not use a M.2 Broadcom module, commonly found on eBay, NewEgg, etc in said Optiplex Micro?

 

[Edhawk]

The Qualcomm card won't work. I think you need to use a Dell DW1820A card for macOS.

The two Intel cards are supported by OpenIntelWireless, see the compatibility page linked below:

Compatibility | OpenIntelWireless

Documentation for OpenIntelWireless

openintelwireless.github.io

I tend to use Airportitlwm.kext over Itlwm.kext, as the Airport kext makes the card functional with the built-in Apple WiFi application. Itlwm.kext makes the WiFi appear as a second Ethernet controller, not a WiFi controller, so it requires an additional App (Heliport) to work in macOS.

The Broadcom card you linked would be the best option for compatibility and gaining the Apple WiFi/BT features as it is the closest to a native Apple Airport card.

Have a read of this Dortania WiFi Buyers Guide before you purchase any new card.

M.2 | Wireless Buyers Guide