My read on it is that they were worried about ESD damage. I’m sure the external ports have ESD diodes to protect the SWIM, while this approach would be a direct, unprotected connection to the SWIM. Fine if you’re careful, and don’t hot-plug anything. Not so fine otherwise…
Might also be worth checking those socketed parts, see if the contacts need to be cleaned or de-oxidized. Seems like flexing could cause them to seat in a way that does or doesn’t make contact properly, and I know others have had problems with sockets on other boards.
Edit: Or the SIMM sockets...
I have a vague recollection of someone on this board having a problem like that which was related to the SCC and serial ports - that earlier System versions didn’t test the SCC, but later versions did.
I think the intent of the screw was as a low-security method of keeping people from taking the cover off - basically no protection, but at least an inconvenience. (I’ve always imagined it was to keep kids in schools from poking around inside).
I just did a build and install of Netatalk 2.2.10 on a fresh Ubuntu 2022.04 install, and it went really smoothly. I had an existing set of post-install config files from a prior install, so that helped with the configuration, but the actual build/install process was pretty smooth.
Edit: I’m...
Did you ever post any notes on the EEPROM swap? I followed your 540c rebuild thread but don’t recall seeing it. I apologize if I missed it! I have a 520c with what I think is an intact (but dead) battery that is love to get going again.
@LaPorta (I think) identified this as the modern version of the grease originally used on these drives. I’ve used it in a few drive rebuilds, and others swear by it:
Molykote EM-30L
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CAYWNCW