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An I/O plate—also called an I/O shield or motherboard I/O shield—is the panel around a motherboard’s rear ports where they pass through the back of a computer case. It closes the opening around the connectors. Depending on the motherboard, the shield may be a separate piece fitted into the case or a part integrated with or pre-installed on the board.
What does an I/O plate do?
The plate surrounds the motherboard’s external connectors, such as its USB, audio, and network ports, at the case’s rear opening. It covers the remaining gap around those connectors. Lenovo describes this as helping keep dust, debris, and foreign objects out; it is not a dust-tight seal. A removable or integrated shield can also contact the case—commonly metal—which Intel describes as providing grounding.
Despite the occasional use of “backplate,” an I/O plate is not the CPU-cooler backplate. The I/O plate is at the rear case opening around the ports; a cooler backplate is a separate component associated with mounting the CPU cooler.
Are I/O plates removable or built in?
Some motherboards come with a separate shield that fits into the case’s rear opening. Others have an integrated or pre-installed shield. For example, MSI lists a pre-installed I/O shield on its PRO B850M-P product page. Check the motherboard itself and its manual before trying to install a loose plate; the board may already have one.
#1 Best Overall
- Did you get a motherboard without IO shield? IOmesh is all that you need to make a new replaced custom motherboard back plate.
- Why is IOmesh universal backplate so special? It is very easy to work with her. It is made from plastic that why can be very easily cut and no sharp edges on the end that can damage your PC.
- In just 5minutes you can have a new custom IO backplate that will fit with your motherboard IO ports and all tools that are needed are wire pliers.
- For some PC motherboards can be hard to find a replacement IO port shield.
- The Package includes 2 pieces of IOmesh blank universal IO shield backplate that can be used for two completely different motherboards.
How do you install a separate I/O plate?
- Check the motherboard and case manuals to confirm the shield is separate and to identify the correct orientation.
- Before mounting the motherboard, fit the shield into the case’s rear I/O opening, as directed by ASUS’s installation guidance and Supermicro’s motherboard installation instructions.
- Lower the motherboard into the case and align its rear ports with the plate’s openings, while also lining up the board’s mounting holes.
- Follow the case and motherboard manuals to secure the board. If the ports do not line up, stop and check the shield’s orientation and compatibility rather than forcing the board into place.
How do you identify or replace a missing I/O plate?
First, check whether the motherboard already has an integrated or pre-installed shield. If it does not, look for a replacement listed for the exact motherboard model. The openings must match that board’s rear-port layout; the sources do not establish a universal shield that fits all motherboards. Lenovo’s I/O plate overview also emphasizes matching the shield to the motherboard layout.
If a loose shield appears to cover a port or prevent the board from sitting correctly, do not press or screw the motherboard down. Recheck the orientation and the motherboard manual, then confirm that the plate is intended for that exact board.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This product is about 16x5cm, part number: PRIME B560M-A, is compatible with MSI PRO B650-P motherboard.
- Reserved openings for commonly used ports such as USB, HDMI, and audio provide positioning and protection for easy connection.
- Made of metal with smooth edges and a lightweight design.
- For rear mounting on the motherboard's I/O area, suitable for desktop case assembly and motherboard replacement.
- Please carefully confirm that our product's openings meet your requirements.
Rank #4
- Made of high quality material which is durable and long time to use.
- Light weight and easy to install.
- Suitable for manufacturing/creating any DIY custom i/o shields.
- The size is approx. 163mm X 49.5mm.
- Package includes: 2 X I/O Shields.
Rank #3
- Compatibility: Compatible with ASUS PRIME B760M-A AX ATX.
- Measuring 4.8cm wide and 16.2cm long, the I/O board features precise card holes for easy installation.
- Made of metal, it is resistant to bending and rust, and durable.
- It features a built-in positioning clip; simply press to secure it. The product is lightweight and easy to replace a lost or damaged baffle.
- Please carefully check the pictures and applicable models to ensure that our product is completely consistent with your motherboard.
Rank #2
- 【YIMATEECO Provides】2 x 172 * 58mm I/O Shield Motherboard Backplate (PVC) + 2 x 170*50mm cutting template.
- 【UNIVERSAL IO SHIELD】For some PC motherboards can be hard to find a replacement I/O port shield. YIMATEECO PVC I/O Shield Plate can be cut to any and is suitable for all PC motherboards. Equipped with a hole template to make cutting more precise and easy to cut.
- 【HIGH QUALITY PVC MATERIA】YIMATEECO I/O Shield Plate is made of high-content PVC material, which does not deform at high temperatures, is flame retardant, and durable.
- 【EXCELLENT DUSTPROOF、GOOD VENTILATION】I/O Shield Plate has a mesh aperture of 0.5mm and has excellent dust-proof performance, easily blocking tiny dust, mosquitoes, pet hair, etc. Good ventilation and excellent heat dissipation.
- 【AFTER SALES SERVICE】If you are not satisfied with the I/O Shield Plate, Please contact us by email. YIMATEECO will provide you with help within its capacity and strive to give you a good shopping
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