Having tried and failed to get an answer from Singapoer Airlines, Qantas AND the airport themselves, has anyone here flown out through Heathrow since they introduced the policy of turning on electronic devices?
There seems to be confusion as to whether everyone is being asked to turn on electronic devices, or is it a random check, and also over whether this is happening at the gate or at the security/Xray check.
The real issue I need an answer to is - if a laptop has a dead battery, and only works when plugged in with a mains lead, can you take it as hand luggage orwill it be a question of stick it in the hold and cross one's fingers.......

We flew out of Gatwick in August and we were advised to keep all devices fully charged and switched on. My understanding is that you wouldn't be allowed to take any device with a dead battery on the flight full stop.

Thats what I'm afraid of. Did anyone actually check the devices individually?

It's not every device but people will be selected at random. I understand it can happen at security or at the gate. I was 'randomly' selected at the gate although I always seem to be.

Uncharged electronic devices Q&A: How UK airport security changes to smartphones and tablets will affect you - News & Advice - Travel - The Independent

That's what Qantas said, that its random, but they couldn't say whether at the gate or at security. As its an Aus flight not a US one I was hoping that it would be gate checks and thus Aus flights should be OK.
Singapore Airlines just told me to phone Heathrow Airport, and of course all they have is a recorded message they play you. Hence I'm looking for actual personal experiences!
I was also hoping that they might have powerpoints handy so they can see the device is a working laptop, just by plugging it in. New battery is over £100 it seems and wouldn't arrive in time anyway so I think it might have to be a case of packing it inside as much padding as possible and jamming it in the hold.

Just think for a moment how useless the security lot are in general. Do you really think they will have powerpoints or allow you to use them?

Not sure it should be that expensive, or that much time. Compatibles are usually available on Amazon, and they can be quick, if you pay.

As for putting it in the hold, I've put more delicate things in my cases over the years, and they got through. Just remove the hard disk in case the case goes missing and carry in hand luggage (I assume that's OK)

One reason to upgrade to Windows 8. Long wait for Windows 7 to boot.

From my experience at Manchester airport Polly, they randomly picked people out at X-Ray check, they weren't many people picked out. I reckon you're just going to have to try and swing it. Good luck!

I think this would/could run it.... Available from your local Jaycar and you may not have to buy a 100 quid battery. 40 bucks !

Portable Power Bank - 5000mAh - Jaycar Electronics

Take it down there and plug it in.... They'll oblige.

Went in and out of Heathrow last week - just took my tablet out as normal and put it in a separate box. No one was asked to switch anything on.

Probably won't help Polly, but I've packed my laptop in my checked baggage countless times and have never had a problem, that's international and domestic flights. I wrap it in bubble wrap, fold some t-shirts etc around it, and make sure it's packed in the middle of all my clothes.

Good luck and safe journey.

I could fit kilo of gear in the hole where my CD drive used to be and still turn it on. What's the point of all this?

To create the perception that they are actually doing something useful maybe?

All the major security vulnerabilities are airside at airports not passenger side! They see it as important to create the illusion of security methinks.

Yep. If any one was serious digging a hole under the fence could be done with a minimum of fuss

That and also the high turnover of contract cleaners, drivers, food deliveries etc etc