Mechanism Retains PCI Express Graphics Cards

The company’s board-level retention mechanism protects PCI Express graphics cards from electrical interrupts and mechanical damage caused by system-level shocks and vibration. A deep slot in the mechanism restrains the card during side-shock events. A flexible arm extends away from the slot and includes a molded post that snaps into a notch on the bottom of the add-in card. The component solders to the motherboard adjacent to the x16 PCI Express card edge connector and engages with the hockey-stick-shaped hook found on the bottom of the card. Two metal fork locks secure the retention device to the motherboard prior to wave soldering. Typical pricing ranges from $0.18 to $0.23 each for minimum order quantities. FCI Electronics, Etters, PA. (800-) 237-2374.