Quick Answer Needed
 

I'm getting on a plane in about six hours and it suddenly dawned on me that I've never taken my XL-1 through security before. Does the X-ray machine damage videotapes?

Thanks for any help.

Nope. No harm to DV cassettes, or video electronics. Been through those X-ray machines with tapes many times recently; not a problem. You might (that is maybe) have to fire up the XL1 to prove it's a camcorder, so have a fresh battery on it. Hope this helps,

That helps, Chris. Thanks.

Off the DV topic but still on the x-ray machine topic. The machines have been tested with all kinds of film/tape. I can't remember where I found the results, maybe Fuji, but they said that film below ASA800 was safe, 800-1000 not recomended, 1000 and above, big no no.

I still put all my film in x-ray bag though

Just got back from my trip...no problem with the X-ray as you said. Customs gave me a bit of a hassle, though. If you ever travel out of the country with your camera, I recommend you register it with customs before you leave home.

FYI - I was able to break down my XL-1 so that it, with the 3X lens, the mic with Equalizer and Mini-mount, extra batteries, and tapes all fit in my Kata Banana10 bag. I couldn't believe it myself until I saw it.

If you need a really compact case for certain types of travel, check out the Banana 10. When you look at the camera outside of the bag, it seems almost impossible to get it in such a small bag.