This is usually normal, because

* The board is longer than average, with a large surface area which can 
  block the air-flow inside the computer case.  
* In the case of the Pinnacle Project Studio (PPS), there are also two 
  daughterboards attached (Digital I/O and the HOMAC) which contribute 
  heat and further block air circulation. 
* The Pinnacle is a multi-layered board (six layers!). As a result, the 
  inner layers dissipate heat to the outer layers, making it harder to 
  cool off than a “thinly” insulated board with fewer layers.  
  Note: The card is intentionally designed this way to provide better 
    insulation from inherently noisy computer components, resulting in 
    quieter overall performance.   

This should not present a problem under normal circumstances.  However, if 
the system is crowded with other cards that run hot in addition to the
Pinnacle, or the system provides poor ventilation, following one or more 
of the following steps can help cool the system: 

1) Do not place the computer near any heat-generating appliances (such as 
   a radiator). 

2) Make sure that all fans are working properly (fans tend to fail after 
   a while without a warning). 

3) Make sure the fans are not blocked by any obstacles. 

4) Consider upgrading to a full-tower case.  Full-tower cases provide more 
   room and thus keep things cooler than mid-tower or desktop cases.

5) Verify there are enough fans in the system (it may be necessary to check 
   with the computer manufacturer).  Typically, two fans are required to 
   create a good air flow - one in the front of the case sucking fresh air 
   in, and another in the back blowing heated air out. 

6) Keep the adjacent slots to the Pinnacle empty, if possible. 

7) Swap the Pinnacle with another card seated in a slot that receives 
   better ventilation.

8) Consider replacing smaller inefficient fans with larger more powerful 
   ones.  If you are unsure how to do this, ask a qualified technician or 
   contact the computer manufacturer.

9) Add a third fan blowing directly towards the Pinnacle, if the chassis 
   structure allows for it. Again, please consult with a qualified 
   technician.

10) Avoid over-clocking the processor.  Overclocking can give better 
    short-term performance but is not recommended or supported by chip 
    manufacturers, as it can be detrimental to the computer and/or 
    Pinnacle card.  

11) If NONE of the above is an option, keep the case uncovered. 
    Do this ONLY if the CPU is mounted in a rack case, keeping it 
    safe from accidents.  
    WARNING: Be careful not to spill any liquid or drop objects inside 
      the computer.  This is extremely dangerous, and can cause major 
      damage to the system and can result in electric shock.