Can we put our digital camera and the memory card through an x-ray machine or could that wipe out memory on the card or damage the camera? We are going on a trip and don't want to lose valuable memories if our camera gets x-rayed at the airport.

Thanks in advance.

 

It might make you feel better to put the memory cards in their holder and keep them in your shirt pocket when you go through the scanner.

If anything would damage a memory card it would be the x-ray and not the personal scanner.
This has been my belief in the past and I did a quick Google check on the subject and there is little concrete proof that x-rays from an airport check will damage anything.
If you are going to put the cards in your pocket make sure they go in the holder or sleeve because sliding them into your pocket without protection could wipe the card from static.
Also, do not put them in a purse as purses are often x-rayed.

 

A good read on protecting your Digital equipment when traveling.

http://www.digicamhelp.com/learn/cam...ravel-tips.htm

I would have thought the hand held magnetic unit would pose very little problems also but that's the one you have to watch out for.

PS: Ask if they ( The Airlines ) honor the Special hand check only service for your Photogrophy Equipment agreement they made to please their customers.
Some Airlines will:
"if requested by passengers, their photographic equipment and film packages shall be inspected without exposure to an X-ray machine."

 

I have never had any problems from xrays and have sent my digital cameras thru them many times, including the memory cards. I've always been under the impression that there is no danger to digitals.

 

I have gone through quite a few x-ray machines with my digital camera and not once have I had a problem. I would not worry at all abou tit.

 

My camera gear has seen countless X-rays from airports and Pres. Clinton's security detail (they also LOOK through every single lens in the case...) They ONLY thing I have ever asked for visual inspection was rolls of 1600 ASA film. NEVER a problem with any of the digital gear, including Hitachi Microdrive CF II cards.