I will be using the following components and show you how to install the IO shield the correct way:
–PC Case:NZXT H510 ELITE
–IO Shield: FromASUS ROG STRIX B550-I GAMINGandMSI PRO B760M-E DDR4 motherboards
You’ll have no problems installing any IO shields after going through this guide.
Align IO Shield With the Motherboard Ports
Interestingly, an IO shield can fit into your PC case even if you face it upside down. As you may see, here’s the IO shield from one of my mini-ITX motherboardROG STRIX B550-I.
I have just placed it the opposite way. Still, it fits correctly into my PC case. But that’s not how it is supposed to sit.
If placed incorrectly, the holes on the shield won’t align with your motherboard. And you’ll only need to go through the extra effort of taking it apart and reassembling it.
In most cases, you may know the orientation just bylooking at the labelson the shield. The holes foraudio portsoften lie at the bottom of the IO shield. Similarly, the USB, HDMI, or PS/2 holes, generally, lie at the top.
Nevertheless, if your IO shield does not have labels,align it with themotherboard portsand find the correct orientation.
Bend the Prongs on the Rear of the IO Shield
Alright! I believe you have now found the correct direction for installing the IO shield. But hold on! Don’t rush installing it yet. There’s one more thing you should consider beforehand.
If you look at the rear of the IO shield, you’ll find a lot of “pointed bits” there. Often referred to as prongs. Here are the prongs on myMSI PRO B760M-E DDR4IO shield.
Let me quickly tell you that these prongs are responsible for grounding motherboard ports. They help pass the excess current on the mobo through thegrounded PSUand safeguard your system. That’s why they should always be kept intouch with the ports.
Having said that, there are also some shields, like the one on myROG STRIX B550-I. Take a peek below and you’ll see that it doesn’t have prongs. Rather, they have foam padding that performs the same function as the prongs do.
Install IO Shield Into the PC Case
Okay! Let’s move towards the installation part now. Before that, check if there are anymotherboard standoffsor case fansthat will interfere with the process.
Should the case fan come into your way while installing the IO shield, consider removing them. If you don’treally need case fans, take them apart.
My NZXT H510 Elite mid-tower case had a standoff near the IO shield compartment so I had to remove it. Yet, you are good to go if that does not interrupt you.
Finalize the Installation
If you’re here, I believe you have installed the IO shield correctly into its place. Let’s finalize the installation then.
