Do magnets and electronics mix?


Ever since Kurt Vonegout first wrote about magneticly suspended furniture I have been in love with the idea. When S.A.P. came out with the relaxa isolation base ($500) My interest was rekindled. My first thought was that I could make my own for about $100. The only thing that bothers me is what effect rare earth magnets will have on the electronics... tubes in particular. I can not believe it would not fowl a stream of electrons. Perhaps the exponential decay of force over increased distance is enough buffer. Any thoughts, fella's? I like the idea of zero contact under my components. I wonder how many magnets would be required to lift my 200+ lb altec vott's and what havoc that would wreak.
shiitakexxx

Showing 1 response by herman

The idea of isolation and "zero contact" is wishful thinking. The force that pushes the magnets apart is just as real as the force that holds up a component on any other type of footer. It isn't a magic carpet that just floats there.

Even though they aren't physically touching the two pieces are still coupled together by these forces just as if they were. Moving one will exert a force on the other. If the magnets in the base vibrate for whatever reason, this will move the magnetic field and cause the "floating" piece to vibrate as well, and vice versa..