Is PCI Slot Cover Needed For Grounding?

[lxskllr]

I need to troubleshoot a modem for a friend, and I have a couple laying around the house. The problem is the one most likely to work is out of a slim Dell Optiplex. I could put the card in, but I'd have to take the PCI slot cover off. Will there be any issues doing this?(other than having to be careful not to knock it out of the slot)

 

[Blazer]

no you wont have any issues if just for testing, i wouldnt leave it that way though.

 

[lxskllr]

no you wont have any issues if just for testing, i wouldnt leave it that way though.

Great, thanks :^)

I haven't worked with dialup in awhile, and I'm having issues getting a dial tone. Trying a different modem will help narrow the problem down.

 

[RebateMonger]

In theory, the covers are there for two reasons:

1) To minimize RF radiation from the case
2) To control the air flow path through the case

People have been running PCs without rear slot covers for decades now without apparent ill effect.

 

[lxskllr]

In theory, the covers are there for two reasons:

1) To minimize RF radiation from the case
2) To control the air flow path through the case

People have been running PCs without rear slot covers for decades now without apparent ill effect.

I guess my phrasing wasn't the best. I was drawing blank on what to call it last night, but I guess it's really a mounting bracket; the part of the card that screws into the case.

 

[RebateMonger]

To fully answer your question, no, those mounting brackets aren't required for grounding of the card. If it's a small card and is tight in the slot, it should be fine.

 

[corkyg]

Those are backplane slot covers. As was said, their main function is air flow control and to keep dust out. Theyhave nothing to do with grounding. I have boxes of them in my junk closet.