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Old August 23rd 05, 01:46 AM
Al Dykes
 
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In article ,
Ron Bean wrote:

writes:

I'm looking for a solid desktop (either pizza-box or mini-tower)
computer case that has an all-metal exterior for shielding RFI. This
is for use around radios etc. I realize that SVGA monitors, mice, and
keyboard leak too, but right now I'm looking mainly at the PC box.


I know this is an old thread, but I have a related question:

Quite a few people are building their own PC cases these days--
for example, http://www.mini-itx.com (follow the links on the right side
of the page).

As far as I can see, none of these has *any* RF shielding at all. And I
have yet to hear of them causing any problems (these are not ham radio
operators). The only RF problems I've heard of recently (with consumer
electronics) are microwave ovens interfering with some kinds of cordless
phones.

I'm thinking maybe the only kind of RFI "the masses" are worried about
is TV, and they all have cable...

So I'm thinking of building a computer case for a specific use, and
I'm wondering if I should bother to worry about shielding (evidence
suggests maybe not).



What are you worried about? Ham and short wave fans have a legit
issue, and I guess people doing *very* high quality audio do also.

If you don't fit in a special catagory try taking the top of a
standard PC and hold an AM and an FM radio right next to the running
PC and listen for the noise. You won't hear much. Try it again with
the lid on.

PC cases are built to FCC and European specs for radio emissions. They
are fairly tightly sealed.

The vast amount of emmisions that *do* come out go over all the wires
connected to the PC.

Pick up an ARRL handboox about sheilding and RF interferance
if you want to learn more.

http://www.arrl.org/


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