I've had a Canon S3IS camera for approximately 2 years (I bought it new). In the past few weeks, the camera has failed to operate at least 4 times, giving me a "change batteries" message.
I use rechargeable Energizer AA batteries. All batteries were fully charged. After I got the “change batteries" message, I switched the batteries for 4 other fully-charged batteries. After a few shots (4-5), I again received the "change batteries" message. The next day I purchased new rechargeable Energizer AA batteries, charged them with a new charger, and inserted them into the camera. After 10-12 shots, the camera again shut-down, briefly displaying the "change batteries" message.
Today, with the previously recharged batteries, the camera seems to be working fine.
I am at a loss as to why the camera repeatedly failed. I have lost faith in its reliability. What other steps can I take to make this camera work and be reliable?
Thanks.
Mike Sawchak
Your problem may be due to corrosion on the battery contacts inside the camera which can prevent the full power of the batteries from flowing into the camera. Try this free fix before you do anything else: remove the batteries and wipe the camera contacts firmly with a dry cloth (heavy corrosion may require cleaning with a wire brush, steel wool, or sandpaper). Remove any residue that may have fallen into the battery compartment during cleaning, then wipe both ends of the batteries and place them back in the camera. This cleaning clears the problem about 90% of the time. If it doesn't work for you, the camera may have a problem that requires professional repair.
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