M.2 Thermal Pad

[PCnoob51]

My current mobo does not have heatsinks for the M.2 slots, I got a used Hero XI wifi that does. Being the genius I am, I took of the thermal pads and threw them out. I guess I thought they would insulate them and it didn't even cross my mind that they might be on there for a reason lol. I would hate to by new pads and understand that the heatsinks aren't really necessary. Is it okay to install them without the pads or will it short out the M.2 and I should leave them off entirely? Any help would be much appreciated. 

[Skiiwee29]

You will be fine. Thermal dissipation is only really needed if you're running the drive at 100% load for long periods of time. 

[ZeouLs]

without the pads the contact surface will probably suck anyway so might aswell just leave it off

[PCnoob51]

Seeing as how I'm clumsy and forgetful, is there any harm in installing them just so they don't get lost?

[19_blackie_73]

35 minutes ago, PCnoob51 said:

Seeing as how I'm clumsy and forgetful, is there any harm in installing them just so they don't get lost?

I wouldn't, direct metal to hardware contact is a bad idea

Even if they are anodized or whatnot, it's very easily scratched and then they probably short something

[Skiiwee29]

44 minutes ago, PCnoob51 said:

Seeing as how I'm clumsy and forgetful, is there any harm in installing them just so they don't get lost?

Dont, just store the cover in your motherboard box. 

[PCnoob51]

Thank you all for the help