Originally Posted by
xyzzy
I think I've seen this in action. At IAH the other day they were ETDing every computer that came through the checkpoint. Literally every third bag resulted in a call of "Bag check!" The TSAers seemed rather unhappy about it all.
I carry pretty much the same stuff +/- a few blank DVDs and notice that sometimes the laptop bag gets the treatment, sometimes the carryone (packed with an computer equipment) gets the treatment, and sometimes both get the treatment. Inconsistent at best and annoying when they yank a cable out from under something on top (good way to ruin an expensive cable).
As far as this being 'random' (reading off of a form) it isn't. Randomizing anything requires a lack of human intervention, except for perhaps pressing a button for a go/no go indication.