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Old February 2nd 04, 12:31 AM
C J Campbell
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Default Can GPS memory get wiped by Airport X-Rays?


"David" wrote in message
...
| I have just returned from USA and find my Flightmate Pro GPS has lost
| all User Defined Waypoints. I thought it would be safest to carry in
| hand luggage, which I've done in the past without a problem. The GPS
| must have gone through the X-rays about 9 times.
|

It could in theory be wiped by X-rays, but it is unlikely. More likely your
memory was wiped by magnetic interference from the electric motor on the
conveyer belt taking your GPS through the X-ray machine. These motors are
notorious for erasing the memories of all kinds of electronic equipment.
Metal detectors will damage your electronic equipment, too.

The problem is easily solved, though. The motor is located at the front end
of the belt. Just put your bag as close to the opening as possible and it
should be far enough from the motor to be safe.