A backplate is an important part of any graphics card. It’s what attaches the card to your motherboard and provides a mounting point for the cooler. Without a backplate, your graphics card would be easily damaged by heat.
This article will examine what a backplate does and how it can improve your graphics card experience. We will also explore some popular backplates and which ones are the best for different types of builds.
So whether you’re looking to beef up your graphics card or protect it from accidents, read on to learn more about backplates and how they can help you.
What is a backplate, and why do GPUs need one?
A backplate is a heat sink that sits on top of a graphics processing unit (GPU). GPUs are notorious for getting extremely hot, and a backplate helps to dissipate that heat.
Without a backplate, the GPU could overheat and fail. GPUs also often use thermal pads to help dissipate heat, but these pads can wear out over time. A backplate also protects the PCB from damage to last longer overall.
How does a backplate work?
GPU backplates are pieces of metal or plastic that attach to the back of a graphics card and protect it from damage. They usually come in pairs, one for each side of the card.
A backplate first stops components on the graphics card from hitting each other and causing damage. Backplates can also provide extra cooling for the graphics card by absorbing heat from the GPU.
Types of backplates and their benefits
GPU backplates are a popular way to improve the cooling performance of graphics cards. They’re made of a material that absorbs heat from the GPU, and they’re often mounted on the back side of the card.
There are a few different types of backplates, and each has its benefits. For example, Heatpipe Backplates transfer heat more effectively than traditional thermal paste, which can lead to increased performance and decreased noise levels.
Thermal pads are another backplate often used in esports settings because they provide quick heat dissipation.
Whatever type of backplate you choose, thoroughly research it before making your purchase. Choosing the wrong type could reduce cooling percent or damage your graphics card.
What are the benefits of a backplate for a GPU?
A backplate is a specialized piece of hardware that sits on top of a GPU and helps to protect it from damage. In addition to protecting the GPU from physical impacts, backplates can also provide thermal insulation and improve airflow over the GPU.
Backplates are particularly important for graphics cards with high-end features, like a dual fan or water cooling. These cards can generate a lot of heat, and a backplate can help to keep the GPU cooler and more stable during intense gaming sessions.
Backplates can also improve airflow over the GPU, reducing temperatures by up to 5 degrees Celsius (9 degrees Fahrenheit). Backplates could be especially beneficial for users who experience problems with their graphics card overheating.
Overall, backplates are an important part of GPU protection and should be considered if you own a high-end graphics card. They offer many benefits, including thermal insulation, improved airflow, and increased stability during gaming sessions.
How to choose the right backplate for your GPU
There are a few things to remember when choosing the right backplate for your GPU. The first is weight and size. Make sure the backplate isn’t too heavy or bulky, as it will increase the overall weight of your system. Second, ensure the backplate’s design fits well with your system’s aesthetics.
If you want a flashy backplate, ensure it matches your gaming rig’s colors and style. Last, consider how much protection the backplate will offer your GPU. A good backplate should protect your graphics card from scratches and other damage, making it a valuable investment for long-term use.
How do I install a backplate on my GPU?
If you want to add extra protection to your graphics card, a backplate may be the solution. A backplate is a piece of hardware that sits between your graphics card and the PC chassis, and it helps protect the card from scratches, dings, and other impacts.
There are a few different ways to install a backplate on your GPU. You can buy one pre-installed on your graphics card or have an expert install it.
If you want to install a backplate yourself, there are a few things you need to know before getting started. Here’s a guide on how to do it:
- Remove the graphics card from the PC case.
- Measure and mark the position of the screw holes on both sides of the graphics card with some painter’s tape or marker.
- Insert screws into marked holes, then screw them in until they’re tight (but avoid over-screwing).
- Mark and drill new screwholes where needed using a hole saw or drill bit appropriate for your screws.
- Replace Graphics Card in Case!
How does a Backplate Protect Your GPU?
A backplate is a metal or plastic plate that attaches to the back of a graphics card, typically covering the PCI Express slot and extending up over the cooling fins.
The purpose of a backplate is to protect the GPU from damage, including falls and shocks. Backplates are usually designed to prevent laptops from being able to open or remove the graphics card without damaging it and protect it from scratches and other debris.
Backplates can be made from various materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic. Steel backplates are generally heavier than other types of backplates and are more durable, but they also tend to be more expensive.
Aluminum backplates are lighter than steel but less durable, while plastic backplates are cheaper but less sturdy.
Backplates must be fitted carefully to ensure they fit correctly and do not interfere with the airflow around the GPU. If a backplate is not fitted correctly, it can cause instability issues with the graphics card and could even lead to damage.
Conclusion
A backplate is a basic feature on any graphics card and is essential for protecting your investment. A backplate helps protect the GPU from damage that may occur when you overclock or abuse it in some other way.
It also helps keep the heat out of the graphics card, prolonging its life and improving performance. If you want a new graphics card, check out our backplate selection and find one that fits your needs.
