You and Your Laptop: All Aboard
Obviously, there is more focus on security at airports than ever before.
Carry-on items are being checked with incredible scrutiny, and for the
millions of business travelers who have become accustomed to toting
along their laptop computers when they fly, the increase in security has
prompted significant changes in pre-boarding procedures.
To
follow are five simple suggestions for moving your portable computer
equipment through airport security with fewer hassles and less worry:
1) As has always been the case, do not be concerned about putting your
notebook computer through the airports X-ray machine. Even though some
X-ray machines may be more sensitive than they were in the past, any
computer expert you ask will tell you that running your computer through
an X-ray checkpoint will not damage the computer.
2) Do not turn
your laptop computer on before going through airport security, unless
you are specifically asked to do so. Theres no reason to take a chance
that your data could be disrupted or your computers operating features
could be jeopardized simply because the computer is turned on as its
being checked.
3) Be prepared to remove your laptop from its
case. Todays airport security often involves agents physically looking
inside carry-on luggage. Mainly because youll be more careful with your
expensive piece of equipment than an agent is likely to be, its better
that you remove the computer yourself...so remember to keep at least one
hand free to handle your computer.
4) Make sure not to lose sight
of your laptop as it moves through security. Newly expanded security
procedures have resulted in a certain amount of confusion at airport
gates, and that has created opportunities for thieves to steal valuable
computer gear.
5) Identify your laptop and its case clearly,
perhaps by putting a piece of brightly colored tape on each piece of
your equipment. Once again, in the confusion that has been created by
new and more extensive security procedures, some business travelers find
themselves picking up the wrong notebook computer after passing through
a security checkpoint.
