Another look at the Asus Eee PC (tiny laptop computer)

Hello everyone,

A while ago I had been wondering on one one these lists about the possibility of using a "netbook"; a miniaturized laptop, instead of a regular PC, oreven regular laptop, speculating that they'd be healthier to use - lower power, smaller, battery operated, less emissions of all EMR, etc.

I was informed recently that someone who has major sensitivities is fine with a 10" Asus Eee PC. It looks like Asus has upgraded the models, so the processors aren't too slow unless you're doing serious CPU heavy work. The screen is...well, it's small at 10" (going from this 24 inch LCD might be ashock at first), but I think it's something that could be adjusted to.

I've been told that, using an AM radio to pick up high frequency noise (a test I've yet to do on this computer, before deciding anything, though I'll have my radio soon), the Asus Eee PC doesn't have any distinct tones on theAM Radio, just a bit of static, implying a general lack of irritating or unhealthy frequencies. That in itself sounds encouraging.  

There's a fan inside, somewhere under the keyboard - the motor could be a problem, and I've heard these ones can be crazy-loud; I've also read of people who've disconnected them without problems, or curtailed their function through a software controller. Maybe the new ones are quieter.

Anyway, one thing I found interesting, while searching for how to disconnect the fan was a step by step instruction, showing how you can remove the keyboard. It showed that under the keyboard, there is an almost solid slab of metal. I don't know if this is similar to other laptops, but I thought it was cool, because it might mean that a lot of the emissions from the computer's circuitry are contained (reflected) within...all the more so if one of the models has an all aluminum case (I think one does).

Here:

http://forum.eeeuser.com/viewtopic.php?id=7509

What also crossed my mind is that maybe, if there's space, you could use very thin magnetic shielding foil from lessemf.com ontop of this metal for a further magnetic and rf shielding effect. Maybe - I don't know if this would interfere with something. Thoughts?

Now, I can't see (in those pictures) what the underside of the keyboard unit itself looks like. I'm assuming there's circuitry there, so I don't knowwhat kind of stuff that puts out, or how easy it would be to mod it. But then again, the AM radio results I was told of do sound encouraging - I'd have something to compare against once I check this computer. Maybe a sparekeyboard unit could be ordered, to disassemble and fiddle around with...hmm.

Ohh- and of course, the WiFi/Bluetooth would have to be disabled. There's meant to be a function for this, but I don't know if that means total disablement of them.

Anyway, I'm still considering this - I don't do hardcore computing, and would gladly trade in this big noisy machine for something less EMF-ish, nevermind highly portable at this time; a custom modded monitor and fanless mini-itx system sounds great, but that might be something for the future. I can't afford all that right now - but if I sold what I have, I could easily afford an Eee PC.

Anyway, something to think about, and if you all have thoughts on it too, I'd be happy to hear them.

Cheers,

R.