Laptop through X-ray at airport

Is it safe to put a laptop through the airport x-ray security? My boss did this and now his hard drive is gone, along with all his files. Could this be the problem?

This question was answered on October 9, 2001. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

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Hi! This could be a problem especially if all your work is on your laptop But, passing a laptop computer through a security X-ray machine won't harm the laptop's hard disk To be safe, ask for a hand check anyway You'll be asked to switch on your computer, the security force wants to see the DOS prompt and the memory check to prove that nothing is amiss It's usually easier to operate your laptop from its battery source, so be sure in advance that your batteries are charged Some airports will also swab the laptop and test the cotton for chemical residue With today's tighter security don't worry about losing your hard drive when they scan your laptop but if you're worried ask for a hand check

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Posted by Jeffrey of Chandler-Gilbert Community College on October 9, 2001

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