X-ray systems used at airport check-in have long been found to have no effect on magnetic tape media. But, customer uncertainty regarding what effect the new sophisticated Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) might have, prompted Sony to conduct a preliminary test to determine if more extensive testing was warranted.

Based on a controlled test using a variety of Sony magnetic tapes with varying degrees of susceptibility to erasure (i.e. values of coercivity), it was found that the EDS in use at one airport did not impact the magnetic recording on the tapes tested.

Unfortunately variations in the design of security x-ray scanning equipment (i.e.: positioning of the electric motors that power the conveyer belt; radiation intensity & frequency; speed of the conveyor belt; length of time the material is x-rayed; equipment used outside the U.S.) make it impossible to definitively determine what effect, if any, these new scanners might have on magnetic tape recordings.

Although it is highly unlikely that these new EDS’ will affect your magnetic recording, as a safeguard it is recommended that you consider the following guidelines:

1. Carry-on valuable recordings and submit them for hand inspection at security
   checks.
2. Allow yourself some extra time in the event there is any question.
3. Carry along a sample tape that can be put through the normal inspection, if necessary.
4. Avoid mailing magnetic tape through the United States Postal Service, or the like, unless it can be arranged for these mailings to be exempted from being x-rayed.
5. If it is unavoidable for your tape to be subjected to x-ray security, try to avoid multiple passes.
6. If possible, make a back-up copy before you embark on your travels.