New TSA guidelines for batteries on planes

It just got harder to pack up your computer and carry it onboard a flight. The Transportation and Security Administration imposed new rules on Jan. 1 that prohibit travelers from carrying loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. Passengers are allowed to pack two spare batteries in their carry-on bag as long as they're in clear plastic baggies. We can't even imagine how many CIOs this will impact, but since everyone travels at some point in their work cycle, we suspect it will affect everybody. So take note of this new TSA rule that applies to all travelers, regardless of where they are going and what kind of computer they are carrying. Don't worry about the batteries already installed on devices that you are carrying, however. The TSA says it's okay to check items like a laptop or iPhone that already have the batteries installed.

TSA officials hope the new rule will take care of a safety problem. Loose lithium batteries may pose a fire hazard. The National Transportation Safety Board recently said it could not rule out the possibility that lithium batteries started a fire on a plane at the Philadelphia National Airport. There are several other rules. You can only bring batteries that have up to 8 grams of lithium content. Most batteries for cell phones and laptops meet this requirement. And lithium metal batteries, whether loose or installed, are limited to 2 grams of lithium metal. So the next time you fly, be ready and prepared to comply with all the new regulations before you board a plane.

For more on this safety regulation:
- Check out this CNET News.com Article