Hardware Can I take off the metal cover on a USB connector?

[HomebrewingNeko]

I am looking at trying to make a custom USB drive for myself. When I am looking however, I cannot seem to find any good options for a slim connector (ones that look like this). I then realized that I could theoretically remove the metal USB cover from a standard USB drive. Would this be feasible?

 

[Hayato213]

No, The shield serves two purposes, (1) To protect from over-the-air ESD events, and (2) to shield internal high-frequency noise from being emitted out and meet emission regulations for EMI levels.

 

[HomebrewingNeko]

I don't fully understand your point. Do you mean yes, I could remove it, but it would be a bad idea? Also, if that 2nd point was the case, wouldn't that make the thin ones online illegal?

 

[Hayato213]

You shouldn't remove it, it has it purpose.

 

[LostRabbit]

Hah, i read "metal cover" and thats why im here. need to get some coffee, hahah

Uhmm, why you wanna have a slim connector? Doesnt seem like a common thing to do. Yea, i guess it serves some purpose, not sure about removing that and if it really matters much. Never really liked those slim connectors tbh, are there advantages?