I was once ordered to check a Surface keyboard in my carry-on by a (very rude and unintelligent) CATSA agent. I was worried about the potential placement of Li-Ion batteries within the keyboard. When the SD was made aware of this he was profusely thankful and had my bag brought up to the cabin to stay.

I really should have submitted a formal complaint to CATSA, especially as this wasn’t the agent’s only breach of policy.

Bottom line, don’t check batteries, and don’t try to get even slightly damaged electronics past the KGB CATSA. FWIW, the damage was a loose touchpad. Like a loose key. No issues with this in ZRH and MUC later in the trip.