Do I Need an IO Shield? | Importance of Input/Output Shield in Mobo

The most straightforward answer is it’s better to use one. The IO shield comes with your motherboard for a reason. 

You can efficiently run your PC without installing it with your motherboard. But if you don’t want your PC to accumulate dust or get affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI), you can use it well.

In this post, we’ll share relevant information to help you decide whether you need an IO shield or not.

So, without any further ado, let’s get started!

What an IO Shield Actually Is?

In case, you may hear the name but don’t know what it actually is then let us tell you, it’s a silver metal plate that comes with almost every motherboard. As it’s designed to shield the input and output ports of the motherboard, it’s called the IO shield.

It has to install on the rear panel of the PC case where the rectangular hole is. This hole is for placing the motherboard ports. You need to install the shield before installing the motherboard. 

Otherwise, you must remove the motherboard to install the shield, which is quite a hassle. That’s why it’s better to start with installing the IO shield.

Now back to the question – What’s the necessity of it? Why do you need it? Well, here’s the answer.

The necessity of an IO Shield

Installing an IO shield is necessary to protect your computer from dust and EMI (electromagnetic interference).

1. Protection from Electrical Disturbance

Since your PC case is grounded by the power supply unit, the shield can effectively reduce the chance of getting any EMI or static discharge that’s capable of frying your motherboard or at least its connecting ports. 

2. Protection from Dust Accumulation

The truth is you can’t deny the so common and annoying dust accumulation problem. Without the shield, your PC case will have too much dust. As a result, the air ventilation gets impeded and causes overheating. Ultimately, your motherboard’s lifespan will get reduced beyond your expectation.

The shield prevents dust from accumulating in your PC case, making it cleaner and cooler, and ensuring a longer lifespan of your motherboard. 

3. Protection from Insects

Additionally, the shield ensures that no bug or insect can get inside the case accidentally. Surely you don’t want your PC case to be the grave for them. 

Our Verdict

A true PC enthusiast will never accept any harm to his PC. Now, as you’re aware of the outcome of lacking an IO shield, you can realize its importance. That’s why we’ll highly recommend using one on your PC case. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I mount a motherboard with a pre-installed IO shield?

It’s pretty much easy to do. As your PC case already has a pre-installed IO shield, first you need to check if it’s compatible with the motherboard you want to mount. If so, then simply install the motherboard with the screw. Else, you’ve to remove the pre-installed shield and replace it with a suitable one. 

Where can I get an IO shield?

Usually, the motherboards come with their own IO shields. So, you should check the package to see if there’s one (maybe you didn’t notice at first). But if your package wasn’t contained with a shield or somehow lost it, you can order it online. It may cost around $10.

Conclusion

As you’ve come this far, you should’ve understood that you need an IO shield to ensure good care of your PC. It’ll surely protect your PC from EMI, static discharge, dust, and insects. If you’ve any confusion or other question then don’t hesitate to knock us in the comment section.