Air flow concern

[MasonV]

So I just got an R9 280x which is a considerable upgrade from my HD 6450. My new power supply is arriving tomorrow, and I've moved the drive cage in my current case to allow for the card to fit in temporarily while I wait to receive my Enthoo Pro which is unfortunately backordered by a bazillion people so could take awhile. 

 

My main concern with temporarily putting the card in my current case is the relatively small amount of space between the fans on the card and the bottom of the case (about 3 inches) which from my inexperienced view wouldn't allow much room for ventilation, especially considering the only place for airflow would be out the back PCI brackets which are removed and have a grill over them.

 

Is this actually enough room to at least do basic tests with the cards or should I consider keeping the side of the case open when I install the card, and what are some general tips on having decent airflow when I do get my new case?

[threadysparrow]

Wait for your new case

[ForsakenLive]

you can always run without the sidepanel until then

[Norman_the_Owl]

I'd just leave the side off, it won't hurt. Pop it back on when you're away from it if you have pets, though.

[MasonV]

I'd just leave the side off, it won't hurt. Pop it back on when you're away from it if you have pets, though.

Didn't even think of this, got a cat, leaving the side off not a good idea

[Norman_the_Owl]

Didn't even think of this, got a cat, leaving the side off not a good idea

let it sticks its tail in a fan once or twice, it'll never do it again...

 

But seriously, if it's putting out warmth, they'll flock towards it.

 

The room i have my PC in is now several degrees warmer than the rest of my house, so my cats are always in here. It's something to keep in mind