DIY Camera and Camcorder Repairs - Error Messages
It can happen in the middle of a video shoot, or you haven't used the camera for a while.
The camera starts beeping, doesn't accept tape or disc, or not even ejects the media inside.
The use of the camera is very limited.
Perhaps just enough to display a message or error code on the LCD screen.
The remedy suggestions from the user manual often don't work, which means the camera needs to be booked in for a camera repair.
Why does an error message show up? Cameras and camcorders are fully computer controlled.
Sensors and other feedback devices in lens, video circuit and media compartment update the computer constantly.
If this feedback is interrupted or the sensor does forwards an error, the computer shuts the camera down completely or just allows very limited use.
This prevents any further damage to the camera, media or battery.
That's the theory anyway.
What does the message mean? Depending on camera brand or model the displayed error message is a code or even words.
The principle is the same; it tells the technician and user in which part of the camera a fault occurred.
Although causes could be different and therefore remedy, parts and camera repair prices to rectify the problem.
Can I do anything about it? One of couple of things could have happened: 1.
A genuine problem in which case the camera needs to be dismantled and repaired.
2.
An issue with media or battery, which may have caused an unrelated error message.
What you should do in any case and perhaps avoid a camera repair: - Reset - disconnect and reconnect battery.
- Disconnect battery and work from the AC power adapter.
- Eject the media and use a different one.
- In case of picture distortion, playback a pre-recorded tape which may wipe off residue from the heads.
- Check tape - open flap and inspect.
- Never open camera and remove tape by hand! - Do not overuse cleaning tapes.
Only use them when you experience picture and sound distortion in playback.
Having said that, use it sparingly (once or twice) and refer to the cleaning tape literature.
Most of these tapes are very abrasive and can cause damage to the video heads if overused.
If this wasn't helpful, you may take advantage of the 'Free Online Camera Advice' section in our blog.
The camera starts beeping, doesn't accept tape or disc, or not even ejects the media inside.
The use of the camera is very limited.
Perhaps just enough to display a message or error code on the LCD screen.
The remedy suggestions from the user manual often don't work, which means the camera needs to be booked in for a camera repair.
Why does an error message show up? Cameras and camcorders are fully computer controlled.
Sensors and other feedback devices in lens, video circuit and media compartment update the computer constantly.
If this feedback is interrupted or the sensor does forwards an error, the computer shuts the camera down completely or just allows very limited use.
This prevents any further damage to the camera, media or battery.
That's the theory anyway.
What does the message mean? Depending on camera brand or model the displayed error message is a code or even words.
The principle is the same; it tells the technician and user in which part of the camera a fault occurred.
Although causes could be different and therefore remedy, parts and camera repair prices to rectify the problem.
Can I do anything about it? One of couple of things could have happened: 1.
A genuine problem in which case the camera needs to be dismantled and repaired.
2.
An issue with media or battery, which may have caused an unrelated error message.
What you should do in any case and perhaps avoid a camera repair: - Reset - disconnect and reconnect battery.
- Disconnect battery and work from the AC power adapter.
- Eject the media and use a different one.
- In case of picture distortion, playback a pre-recorded tape which may wipe off residue from the heads.
- Check tape - open flap and inspect.
- Never open camera and remove tape by hand! - Do not overuse cleaning tapes.
Only use them when you experience picture and sound distortion in playback.
Having said that, use it sparingly (once or twice) and refer to the cleaning tape literature.
Most of these tapes are very abrasive and can cause damage to the video heads if overused.
If this wasn't helpful, you may take advantage of the 'Free Online Camera Advice' section in our blog.
Source...