Subwoofer and HDD

R1obbo · 08-25-2005, 11:01 AM

hi, I just got my computer all set up in the car, and everything seems to be going ok at the moment.
Its currently under a front seat, and I'm going to relocate it to the boot.
I'm currently designing a boot build, of which the computer will be in, as will a subwoofer.

My question is, what precautions should I take to the HDD like this? Is it ok to have them close? Will the magnets from the sub destroy the HDD? what about shock from the sub?

just dont want to put them right next to each other and wipe out the HDD after so long setting it up!

w143r · 08-25-2005, 01:00 PM

The magnets of the sub WILL NOT affect the HD any. There are WAYYYY stronger magnets in the HD than you can imagine. What you should be worried about is the vibrations from the sub and would that affect the HD

kiltjim · 08-25-2005, 02:53 PM

w143r has a point. However, no one has ever gotten a completely trusted answer on this. Alot of people say don't do it, alot of people say it should be fine without any problem.

I say don't do it, if you have any alternative. My hard drive is about 8-10" away from my 8" subs. They are rarely used, since they sound like crap. But I have never had any magnetic related problems.

R1obbo · 08-25-2005, 02:57 PM

thanks for reply, its a 80GB PC (not laptop) type one if that makes any difference, i was going to support it in elastic bands, across 2 beams to take the vibrations, I'll keep it out of the subs way as far as possible for extra precaution then.

w143r · 08-25-2005, 03:07 PM

There are more platters in PC HDs then on laptop ones with creates more chances that the spindle head will scratch the surface. What I would suggest is a foam housing (not complete enclosure due to heat and ventilation) instead of elastic bands. It would minimize movement. Short and non volitile vibrations to the drive is ok, just nothing harsh like a speed bump or MEGA BASS.

kiltjim · 08-25-2005, 07:41 PM

I second that. You wanna minimize vibration, not allow it to float. A semester of vibrations showed that for sensitive electronics, you don't want it to be bouncing around. You actually want it in something more like jello that a rubber band. Some foam, or rubber pads would be a better idea.

Of course, there are some people that would say that you don't need to wory about vibrations. The prefered method is to mount the HD on its side. You just want to prevent the heads from scratching the platters. I have an 80GB maxtor drive, and I don't have any method of vibration control.

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