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I've flown with sketchy looking computers in pelican cases a few times. The only time it was a problem was when I mentioned that the batteries in the box were

I've flown with sketchy looking computers in pelican cases a few times. The only time it was a problem was when I mentioned that the batteries in the box were scooter batteries. Apparently you can fly with any size lead-acid batteries you want, but "scooter batteries" are on a list of specifically banned items. The security folks aren't applying any judgement, they're just looking for things on a list of stuff that's not allowed. As long as big-ass servers aren't on the list and they fit in the carry-on size limit, it's all good. I had a similar experience with lithium-ion batteries: I flew from Canada to the US with a backpack full of equipment that was 99% battery, 1% rfid reader by volume. On the x-ray, it looked like battery packs and that wouldn't have been allowed. But I told them it was rfid readers, and that made it okay.

vidarh 7y ago
Not just security people. Easy way of avoiding it if the gate staff want to tag your carry on bag and put it on the hold: be very willing,take their receipt that points out there shouldn't be batteries in there,then very apologetically point out you have devices with batteries in there. So far it's worked every time - not once have they asked if I could take them out; probably not so much that they're clueless as that they're just looking for the easiest way of getting their assigned task done.