Anyone ever taken their Mac Mini on an airplane?

[DeadLily]

I don't want to stick mine in my luggage. Does security make you plug it in and turn it on? Without a monitor, all they can make it do is chime.

[redwudz]

Yes, they likely could want you to turn it on and show them that it's what it appears to be if you put it in your carry-on.

What's wrong with the luggage method? I've had my laptop, PDA, film and electronic cameras xrayed with no damage several times, if that's your worry. There's nothing in a computer that is subject to damage from the equipment and methods they use. (Except for baggage handlers, and that risk I can understand being worried about )

[DeadLily]

Actually, yeah, it's the handlers that I'm specifically concerned about. A mystery box would practically guarantee they inspect the contents of the bag, not to mention all the throwing the bag is likely to endure. I had a well-sealed box of pennies last year that they opened and poured out, leaving a fine mess for me to dig through when I got home.

[frankiec]

I would pack it up with lots of cushion and check it.

[AntnyMD]

They dont make you turn on computers anymore. Take it in carry-on, as its the only way you be assured it will turn up at your destination. Putting valuables in checked luggage is basically like asking to be robbed.

[frankiec]

The previous burger-flippers working for the TSA might be completely confused by the mini and make you turn it on. You people might be very surprised that *most* people have never seen the mini or anything like it.

Try it and report back. I'd be very surprised if you got through without an annoying incident.

[AntnyMD]

If they dont know what it is, what would prompt them to ask to have it turned on? We all know former burger flippers can't read.