CNVi

CNVi ("Connectivity Integration", Intel Integrated Connectivity I/O interface) is a new proprietary connectivity interface by Intel for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios to lower costs and simplify their wireless modules. [1] In CNVi, the network adapter's large and usually pricey functional blocks (MAC components, memory, processor and associated logic/firmware) are moved inside the CPU/chipset combo (Platform Controller Hub). [2] Only the signal processor, analog and Radio frequency (RF) functions are left on an external upgradeable CRF (Companion RF) module which, as of 2019 comes in M.2 form factor. (M.2 2230 and 1216 Soldered Down).

CNVi requires chipset and Intel CPU support to use M.2 CNVi Wi-Fi 6 cards, otherwise the Wi-Fi + Bluetooth module has to be the traditional M.2 PCIe form factor. Intel claims that CNVi Wi-Fi 6 modules will offer better performance and lower cost. CNVi was introduced on desktop platforms in 2017 with the launch of Gemini Lake and on mobile Intel platforms in 2018 with Coffee Lake. CNVio 2 (Wi-Fi 6 AX201) was introduced on desktop platform with Comet Lake and on mobile platform with Ice Lake.

The AC 9560 family of wireless (Wi-Fi + Bluetooth) modules are the first generation of CNVi modules. Instead of the traditional scheme of exposing Wi-Fi through PCI-E and Bluetooth through USB, CNVi puts both into one CNVio link.[3]

References
  1. What Are the Intel® Integrated Connectivity (CNVi) and Companion RF (CRF) Module?
  2. Examining Intel's Ice Lake Processors: Taking a Bite of the Sunny Cove Microarchitecture
  3. "567240–1.0 Intel® Wireless-AC 9560 / 9560NGW (Jefferson Peak) External Product Specification (EPS)". 2017.
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