Computer in the Kitchen. Is putting it next to the microwave going to be a problem?

[oshelef]

Hi all,

So I am planning to put a computer in the kitchen. It will be for primarily, web/email, tv tuning, music playing. However, the best place I can think of putting the computer itself is about 6 -9 inches away from the microwave. Is this a problem? Can I do anything to help?


Thanks


Orie

 

[BA]

Microwaves are supposed to be shielded. I'd be more worried about my balls, if I was using it much. For protection, construct some aluminum foil underpants.

 

[oshelef]

lol...I'm planning to use a wireless keyboard with it....and I wouldn't stand there and use it while the microwave was on, but I might ahve it on playing music of watching tv....

Orie

 

[JasonandBecky]

Hehe I had my system next to the micro a few years back. Turned my monitor green. I did 3 things.
1)Got a new monitor.
2)Moved the computer
3)Threw out the old microwave

 

[oshelef]

hmm....its a relatively new panasonic microwave. and I would be using a relatively old but decent 17inch.... the green is probably from the microwave adjusting the magnetic balance of the monitor... Would some sheilding help? is there a minimum thickness for the shielding to be effective? WOuld I need to ground the shielding?


Thanks again,


Orie

 

[Oyeve]

Id be more worried about grease deposits on or in the PC from the kitchen in general than the microwave.

 

[RSMemphis]

Also, invest in a good smoke alarm - you may forget the turkey in the oven while playing on your computer in the kitchen... ;-)

Seriously though, both the computer and the microwave - especially the microwave - should be shielded well enough. I doubt you will see any problems. And since a microwave does not have strong magnetic fields, it should not affect the monitor too much either.
What still bothers me is when I see how early cell phones affected the picture on the monitor while a call was incoming - that was definitely scary.

 

[Raincity]

I would not run the pc without a good APC unit hooked up to it. Having the compressor on the refrigerator kicking in every twenty minutes causing voltage spikes on the kitchens electrical ciruit will do some nasty damage to the motherboard.

Rain

 

[sharkeeper]

Interference from Microwave ovens is caused by switching power supplies (called inverter technology by some manufacturers) that can wreak havoc with computer power supplies and monitors. If it must be close, a LCD is recommended as a CRT will get a lot of magnetic interference. There have been reports of 802.11b devices malfunctioning when used near microwave ovens as well. This is not due to leakage of microwave energy, but how the power is used on the line side. You could put a line filter between the microwave and the shore power. (plug)

Cheers!

 

[oshelef]

I will try using an APC/UPS there. Although I the UPS complains everytime i use since apparently my apartment, and probably the building aren't well grounded.

Is the monitor is say about 2 feet from the microwave, I should be ok right? The fridge is plugged into a different outlet, but the microwave would not.


Thanks again,


Orie

 

[sharkeeper]

It is important to have a competent electrician test the wiring for a proper ground. If your property is rented, it is the landlord/owner's responsibility to do this. ALL surge arrestors and UPS' rely on a ground for surge protection. Without a decent ground, you're defeating the purpose and you risk electrical shock if a device fails and has a "hot" chassis.

Two feet can be sufficient. It really depends on the microwave and the monitor at that point.

Cheers!

 

[Raincity]

<< The fridge is plugged into a different outlet >>

Does not matter they are all on the same electrical ciruit. I replaced many motherboards that where damaged from the owner setting up and using the beakfast bar platform in their homes as their pc desk.

Rain