Digital Cameras and X-rays?

[Site Man]

OLD FORUM POSTS

Posted by Raymond Chapman on December 30, 2002

Recently I finally broke down and bought me a digital camera. When I travel I plan on putting the camera in my luggage. The question is: will the security x-ray at the airports damage the camera?

Rick Sacks

They say NO. It has not hurt mine in any noticable way.

Carol

If you're concerned, can't you just remove the "smart card" and carry on separately? That way any images you have could be protected.

Kent Smith

Unlike film, digital cameras and storage media are electronic. They typically would be more effected by microwaves or radio waves as well as other electronic impulses such as magneitc sensors used to detect metal objects. Xrays expose conventional film media including polaroid films similar to light exposure but they are not effected by electronic impulses. Some film is effected by magnetic although it does not completely expose the film. Bottom line, send the camera through the x-ray but don't take it near the metal detectors including the hand-held wands.