Re: GS front panel and additional LEDs

[Rubywand <rubywand@swbell.net>]

Herbert Fung writes ...
> 
> In <19990603000636.28401.00000361@ng37.aol.com>, supertimer@aol.com (Supertimer) writes:
> 
> >However, unless you turn on your unshielded IIGS in an airplane or
> >something, removing the case should cause no problems.  I do not
> >notice any interference with either my Windows 95 unit (in the same
> >room) or my television (in a different room).
> 
> Well a few years ago I used my GS as a TV as I didn't have one with me
> when I moved. I bought a VCR for a tuner and used my Video Overlay Card
> and a pair of desktop speakers for a TV. Everytime I turned on my GS there
> were signs of interference. I could tell because sometimes I'd tape a program
> when I'm not home and watch the taped program later and definately notice
> better reception. Nowadays I have a few more items, but I don't use my GS
> because it doesn't work. When I get my new CPU I'll be sure to check it out.
> 
 ....

     Computers are just plain going to cause some interference on some frequencies
on any nearby radio or TV. The computer, display monitor, mouse and KB cables, and
practically any other peripheral attached to the computer are all going to radiate
RF. Our PC (in a metal tower case) causes some interference; so did our GS before
the shielding was removed. It still causes some interference.

     If a computer in a plastic case must have shielding, the way to do it is a
conductive inner coating such as is employed in the IIc+. The metal shielding
inside the IIgs is a dangerous shorting hazard which also tends to slice up cables
passed through the back, trap dust, and restrict air flow. 

     Portable radios and TV's powered by an 'AC adaptor' seem to be fairly immune
to RF present on the AC line. Sometimes, powering ON a particular piece of
equipment (like a printer) gets you an RF shunt effect which reduces interference.

     Sure, in some places and for some frequencies, the metal shielding is likely
to help. Whether it helps enough to put up with the problems it creates is
something you'll have to decide. In general, the best cures for R/TV interference
from a computer are distance and being plugged into some other AC power circuit
than the one used by the computer stuff.



Rubywand