While nrf24l01 is plugged into nano(chinese!) computer doesn't recognize board

An Uno/Mega has a dedicated 3.3volt/150mA regulator, but 3.3volt of a Nano comes from the USB<>serial chip.
Transmit current spikes >30mA of the radio are likely going to crash (or damage) that chip.

Use an external 3.3volt regulator breakout board (ebay).
Leo..