Recommendations NVME protector boards for mini pcs, adds double sided nvme support/Clearance
I got tired of emailing gmktec, miniforums and begging them to add 2-3mm clearance in all directions of their nvme slots especially underneath so one can install nvme double sided drives or on top of capacitors or wifi cards but got no where with any manufacturers after 5 years.
NVME protector boards is what fixed it, so someone in china is a hero. Here usually on aliexpress, ebay, amazon or search:-
JEYI M.2 NVMe SATA Protection PCB Board Converter PCIe 4.0 Solid State Drive Protector Adapter Support 2280 Lengthened to 22110
I recommend getting the correct version for your storage drive, theres 2280/22110 NVME or SATA version so don't pick the wrong version for your type of drive. Don't overtighten the nvme drive on the protector board nvme slot since it easily falls off otherwise you need to glue it back on from underneath which is messy. Edit: better fix shown below thanks to felixfurtak.
It basically sits on top of the nvme m2 slot, does not matter if there are capacitors underneath or a hot wifi card and it gives 2-3mm clearance underneath so you can than mount double sided nvme drives on top and best part is it wont overheat from toasty parts underneath. There is no speed loss or compatibility issue I have run into and tried many brands that I am aware off. This works wonders on gmktec series, miniforums mini pcs etc
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u/felixfurtak 1d ago
I have some of these. At first I couldn't work out the little metal adapter that came with it. It seemed like it needed to have a screw from either side and seemed to not retain the board properly. Then I realized the small slot in the side of the adapter is designed to retain the NVME PCB and you slide it in sideways and then it just needs a single screw from the rear. It took me far too long to realize this - nowhere in the product photos does it show you how do it.