Hi, I am wondering if it is required to keep the Video Card bracket attached in the Studio XPS 8100. Not the one on the back but the long silver one inside the case that attaches over the side on the Video Card (I have the Radeon 5770). I only ask because that thing blocks airflow big time and would really rather not leave it on if I don't have to. The bracket in the back of the case is the one that physically holds the card up so I don't see the point of the one on the side.Any advice on this would be greatly appreciated.
Here is the part in question.
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/studio8100/en/sm/graphics.htm#wp1216535
Sometimes the card gets slightly loose from the PCI-x16 slot and the system will hard freeze. Thats why that part is there, I wish it was actually a bit tighter. I have the same card but an XPS 8300, so I would advise keeping the part installed.
Philip Yip
Although I am a Dell Community Rockstar I am not a Dell or Microsoft employee.
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If the PCI slot is empty, you could install a PCI card "slot fan" to increase circulation. They cost from ~$4, and up.
Most slot fans use a Molex power connector. I believe the power supply in the XPS 8100 has SATA output connectors, so you'd also need a SATA>Molex power adapter to go between the PSU and the fan, ~$1-$2.
If I've solved the problem, please mark my post as "Verified Answer".
Ron
Forum Member since 2004
I am NOT a Dell employee
Thank you for the reply folks. I play alot of games on my PC so good cooling is extremely important to me and I get paranoid about any blockage of airflow. I really wish Dell would, at the very least add a front intake fan to the Studio XPS's to keep it a little cooler. That is one upgrade this line of computers needs in my opinion.