Atheros AR9485 Drivers – The Atheros AR9485 may not impress with its high-end specs, but this 802.11n Wi-Fi card is a discreet and reliable choice for older laptops or devices that prioritize stability. With support for up to 150 Mbps speeds in the 2.4 GHz band, this adapter is suitable for basic activities such as browsing, streaming standard-resolution video, or sending emails. Its compact design integrates well into the motherboards of most entry-level laptops while low power consumption maintains battery life. Even though it does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi or the MU-MIMO feature, the AR9485 is still an economical solution for users who do not need extreme speeds.
In practical testing, the Atheros AR9485 showed impressive consistency at close to medium distances (10-15 meters) from the router. The connection remains stable for 720p YouTube videos or Zoom conferences with no significant lag, provided there is no heavy frequency interference from other devices. However, in network-dense areas (such as apartments with multiple routers), performance is vulnerable to interference due to the limitations of the 2.4 GHz band. Average download speeds range from 40-60 Mbps—enough for household needs but inadequate for large file transfers or responsive online gaming. Its main advantage is minimal heat, even after hours of use.
One of the attractions of the AR9485 is its compatibility with various operating systems. Official drivers are available for Windows 7 through 10, while Linux support (including the latest kernel) makes it popular among open-source users. Unfortunately, some users report difficulties installing drivers in Windows 11, although workarounds with older versions of drivers can still be done. The card is easy to install for custom-built devices via a PCIe mini slot, but it is less suitable for upgrading modern laptops that rely on the M.2 interface. Its flexibility as an OEM component makes it widely found in used or refurbished laptops at affordable prices.
Atheros AR9485 proves legacy technology is still relevant in the secondary market. With a second purchase price of under $10, this adapter is ideal for reviving an old laptop or as an emergency backup. Although it is inferior in speed and features compared to Wi-Fi 5/6, its stability and power efficiency deserve a thumbs up. Suppose you’re looking for a wireless connection without drama for light tasks. In that case, the AR9485 is worth considering—as long as you’re prepared to compromise on technical limitations and possible driver issues in the latest operating system. For heavy users, upgrading to a dual-band adapter is still recommended.
the specifications for the Qualcomm Atheros AR9485 WiFi adapter
Standards Supported: 802.11b/g/n
Frequency: 2.4 GHz
Max Data Rate: 150 Mbps
Transmit Power: 20 dBm
Antenna: Single-chain, 2 antennas
Interface: PCI Express
Operating System Compatibility: Windows, Linux, macOS
Dimensions: 13.5 x 10.5 x 1.5 mm
Qualcomm Atheros AR9485 Wireless drivers for Windows 8 32/64bit Windows 7 32/64bit, Ven_168C&Dev_0032
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Ven_168C&Dev_0032- Qualcomm Atheros AR9485 Wireless drivers for win 8 32/64bit– 35.41 MB
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Ven_168C&Dev_0032- Qualcomm Atheros AR9485 Wireless drivers for win 7 32/64bit –21.50 MB
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