All-in-one Amiga computers (500, 600, 1200) have metal shielding surrounding the mainboard. It is in two parts, one below the mainboard and one on top. The mainboard is physically linked to the lower part by the hex bolts that are either side of most of the rear I/O ports and the screws that attach the mainboard to the lower plastic outer case. Then the upper part of the shielding attaches to the lower part by bending small metal tabs to hold it in place (a bit like the metal tabs on the back of most types of picture frame).
What are the consequences of not fitting and using the metal shielding? Either no shielding at all, or fitting just the lower shielding and removing the upper part.
I expect that this means that it would probably fail some EMI emissions tests in some countries, meaning that the manufacturer would not get permission to sell the computer. Let's disregard this aspect since the manufacturer is no longer making and selling these computers. What are the practical aspects that I, as a user, would see?
- Would the computer still operate normally with either or both parts of the shielding removed, or is the shielding necessary for operation? (e.g. by connecting electrical ground to different parts that require it)
- Would the computer still be reliable, or would EMI interference cause noticeable effects such as crashes?
- Would other nearby electrical devices be affected in any noticeable way by the Amiga's EMI emissions?