Potential damage of HDD by the TSA Options

[LocrianGroove]

I recently transported a new internal HDD in its anti-static bag and carefully wrapped in my checked suitcase. When I unpacked, I saw a TSA notice of baggage inspection, and my HDD was just sitting in the corner of the suitcase. Since the TSA agent wasn't kind enough to wrap the HDD as I had done when packing, the drive must have been banging against the piece of hard plastic reinforcement in the corner of my suitcase. Due to the abuses my bag undoubtedly went through during transportation, I would wonder what kind of effect the air travel had on my new HDD. I could run some diagnostics on the drive, but I would probably never feel as if it could have the same life-span as it would have, had it not been tampered with. I don't know what kind of recourse I would have with the TSA, but I would love for them to replace it.

If anyone can share their experience with the TSA on damaged electronics claims and/or can help me determine the extent of damage to my HDD, I'd greatly appreciate it. I'd also like to understand if there is a type of mechanical damage that will go undetected by software, but will increase the chances of an early failure.

[kwanbis]

Ah, but the error was sending the hdd on the checked luggage.