RF emissions

[burat]

Does anyone know how a steel case compares to an all-aluminum case (such as the Lian Li) in regards to RF leakage?

Also, what is the big deal with RF emissions from inside a typical PC; are they potentially harmful to one's health (as with the concerns over cell phones), or are they just a source of potential/annoying interference for other elctrical devices?

 

[MissingLinc]

I have no direct lab testing experience on this... but I was once working on a computer at work, and when I left the case cover off of the P2-400 with all SCSI, including 10kRPM LVD Cheetah, I noticed some RFI (RF interference) with the FM radio sitting nearby (about 2 yards away). The noise went away when I put the cover on and came back when I took the cover off. I guess the most likely culprits are the processor, the video card (ATI-based professional card), or the HDD.

Ever since, I have been more conscious of leaving covers off constantly. Small holes should not make a significant difference and you do have to make allowances for cooling air and such.

As far as aluminum vs. steel, I do not think there would be much of a difference (I imagine if you were talking about a 100dB screen room you would worry about materials).