You can easily shield electromagnetic parts of your device by using copper shielding tape. Typically, this tape is used to control cavities. It is UL-recognized for flame retardancy. It can be sliced to desired lengths and widths with scissors. Run a strip lengthways up the side of the cavity or across the floor. You can also use solder to join two strips together.
There are many uses for copper foil tape, including electrostatic shielding, cable wrapping, and stained glass. Available in standard and custom widths, copper foil tapes are also available with conductive or non-conductive adhesives. They have multiple applications in electronics design and production. Copper foil tapes can be found in electronic parts manufacturing, including circuit boards, and in tiffany lamps. Copper shielding tape is an excellent solution for problems caused by electrical interference (EMI) leaks.
Before shielding a guitar, you will need to remove its output jack cover and pickguard. If your guitar has an output jack, you can also shield the output jack cavity. Shielding the output jack cavity may be unnecessary. However, it is important to protect all electrical components from interference. This is the primary reason why shielding is important in this case. Whether it's a guitar or a humbucker, the shielding tape will make a difference in the sound.
In addition to shielding electronic components, copper shielding tape also helps to protect guitars from electromagnetic interference. Copper foil tapes provide a Faraday cage around the pickups and reduce the noise caused by mobile phones and hum. Copper shielding tapes can also be used to line guitar pickguards and control cavities. Whether you're playing acoustically or using a mobile phone, copper shielding tape can reduce interference to the signal and increase amplification.
The most effective method to shield an electric guitar is to use copper shielding graphite paint or aluminum tape. Some guitars already have conductive paint in the cavity. However, it's expensive and requires several coats to achieve continuity. Copper foil tape is sharp and can cause problems when used on a guitar. Its sharp edges can cause scratches and breakage. But the benefits outweigh any potential risks. This method is effective and is recommended by the electrical engineering industry.
To install copper shielding tape on a guitar, first, remove the pickguard. Most Strats have aluminum foil grounding plates that provide only limited shielding and don't come close to a Faraday cage. To fix this, lay 50mm wide copper tape across the pickguard lengthways. The tape should overlap by 5mm. If necessary, cut the strip to the desired length and shape. Make sure that the copper shielding tape is flat and has no tears.
