When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn What Does Blank-Off Plate Mean?
A blank-off plate is a small, metal plate usually found on the back of computer cases. It provides a cover for the openings for expansion slots used for devices such as external cards, video cards, sound cards and network drivers. Although the most frequent application of blank-off plates are in computer systems, they can be also used in other capacities. In fact, blank-off plates can be useful for any machine that accommodates external components.
Blank-off plates are also known as face plates or filler plates.
Techopedia Explains Blank-Off Plate
Blank-off plates close off spaces that would otherwise be open, and prevent contaminants from getting into a machine and potentially damaging internal components.
Some of the industries where blank-off plates are most frequently used are computer hardware, engineering, construction and manufacturing. In addition to use over openings for expansion ports, blank-off plates commonly provide covers for openings unoccupied by devices such as disk drives, USB ports or hard drives on computer systems; blank-off plates such as these are usually made of acrylic.
Blank-off plates are made in different configurations and dimensions depending on the device or machine on which they are to be used. There can be different procedures for removing blank-off plates from different systems. In certain systems, they are removed by removing a screw, while others may require pushing a button or simply punching the blank-off plate out of position.
