Digital Camera Repair Problem #2 - Broken Lens

Digital camera lens repair is as common as LCD repair, but it's #2 on my list because it's harder to repair and there are so many different types of lens problems whereas a broken LCD is a broken LCD no matter how you look at it.

Here are some basic tips to avoid breaking your lens:

- Do not leave the batteries in your camera in the camera bag. The power button can be pressed accidentally causing the lens to extend and get jammed because it cannot open properly inside the bag.
- Try not to drop the camera with the lens extended.
- Don't ever pull or twist on a lens that is not working 100% properly, you will just break it.

I would have to write a book to fully explain lens problems fully (hmm.. maybe a good idea!) so I will try and keep it simple and informative.

The lens is made up of many different parts... Let's start with the several pieces of glass referred to as the lens elements.

The outer lens element is prone to being scratched and scuffed, and usually has a special coating on it that you DO NOT want to clean off with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), or Windex or something similar. It's not the end of the world, and don't worry about it if it's missing. Just keep the lens clean (why are there fingerprints on your lens anyway??) and scratch free.

The inner-most lens element is responsible for the fine focus and resides directly in front of the CCD. When you press the shutter button half way down to focus, this part moves forwards and backwards till it's in the correct position and your image is in focus. You won't be messing with this part of the lens... unless you feel like removing the lens from the camera and then tearing down the lens to get at it's 'guts'. It's kinda fun the first time, but uh... I wish you luck getting it back together properly. The tearing apart stuff is fun, the putting it back together is a drag!

The lens has two small motors with their own gears that connect to the two main parts of the lens. The larger motor drives the lens barrel in and out when zooming. The smaller motor drives the fine focus element mentioned above and controls the focus. If you get ONE GRAIN of sand in these gears, they will jam and the lens will "error out" as we like to say. Open it up and clean it out if you like, but it's not easy. Typically the main motor of the lens has 5-6 different gears that must be set and aligned properly to function. But hey, your lens is already jammed, why not see how it works, right?

Then there is the CCD, "charge-coupled device" which translates the light that enters the lens into a digital signal that the camera can record.

There was a very large CCD recall by Sony over the past few years that covers many manufacturers and not just Sony, as Sony provided the CCDs to many others for their cameras. The defective CCD's cause the camera to take solid black photos, or purple/pink "dripping paint" photos, or they have repeating white horizontal or verticle lines on the images. If your camera does this, call the manufacturer and tell them you want a repair under the CCD recall no matter how old your camera is! IF it's on the list, you might get your camera repaired for free.

Got spots on your images that get bigger and smaller as you zoom in and out? Most likely there is a spec of dust on your CCD. You will need to remove the lens and then remove the CCD from the back of the lens and clean it off. Don't lose the gasket that goes around the CCD, don't get any other dirt inside the lens and don't leave any fingerprints! Tall order I know, sorry, I'm demanding. =)

Let's see... what else? Your lens is part way out, stuck at an angle becuase the camera was dropped while turned on. Now please read that carefully; the lens must be stuck part way out or all the way out, and one section of the lens MUST be stuck at an angle. The lens must not move freely at all for this section to apply, and you may follow this advice AT YOUR OWN RISK. The following repair trick works, but I am not repsonsible for your actions or anything you do to your camera.

Ok, it's stuck at an angle. Hold the camera with the angled part of the lens resting against the edge of a table, and the rest of the camera hanging over the side. Do not place the camera facing down with the "Canon Zoom Lens..." chrome ring section flat on the table. The rounded edge of the lens must be what makes contact here. Now... here is the tricky part... press the angled part of the lens back into alignment by pushing down on the lens on the edge of the table. Put your fingers on the LENS below the angled part to support it and press firmly but still gently (how do I do that? I don't know.. you just do it) and the lens will either POP!! back into place and work perfectly or it won't budge and no harm will be done, -OR- one of the "guide pins" that run inside a small track in the lens barrel will break off and you have just destroyed the lens.

I told you it was at your own risk!! Camera repair is fun... right?

Ok, how are we feeling about lenses? I think we have covered most of the basic problems, and I hope this helps you to get your camera repaired more quickly and cheaply!



October 23, 2009
By Thomas Drayton
I own a digital camera repair and parts business in the St. Paul MN area: http://www.darntoothysam.com

Lens Cleaning

Your Digital Camera And Water Do Not Make A Happy Couple

There are so many technologically challenging gadgets that we need today and are certain that we could not make do without. Our cell phones, digital cameras, blackberries, and laptops are such treasured items that we usually do not like to leave home unless we bring a few of them with us. Actually, the wonder of all these gadgets is that you are allowed carry them with us wherever you travel to. With all the transporting around that they are subjected to, the chances of them being stolen, lost, or damaged is a real threat.

Normally, warranties on these items will not cover any of these events. We are pretty much on our own as far replacement or restoration. Many of these things might be saved if they are damaged by water. For a digital photo camera or digital video camera, saturating water damage could spell their certain death. There may be a slim chance they can be fixed, but not much. Even the repair services that will endeavor to repair digital cameras of any kind that have been wet by water, will usually charge you a non refundable fee up front, it might be fifty dollars or more, and may not guarantee repair. With odds like that, you may be throwing away more money on it and still not have the digital camera restored the way it was.

The smartest thing to do is avoid getting it wet in the first place. Preventions are not that trying if you just make use of them from the beginning. First of all, you should not allow little children and pets around them. Almost anything children or pets get near may end up getting wet, by one way or another. Slobber is normally not that destructive, except perhaps to digital cameras. When you are brave enough to take your camera close to hot tubs, spas, lakes, pools or any other source of water, for Pete's sake put it in a waterproof container.

A sealed plastic bag may help, but may not be enough. Put it in a sealed plastic bag or into an air tight container. Extra precaution is defiantly not ridiculous, especially if you invested $500.00 dollars or more in it. Even when you are not close to water, your camera can be beyond use if the viewing panel is broken, although this might be restored. An airtight plastic container will also help keep it from being smashed as easily, as well as protecting it from spills.

Water damage aside, digital items can be touchy and the more prevention used with them, the better. We will not miss our new high tech toys so very much as when they get destroyed!



October 5, 2009
By Jim Corkern
Jim Corkern is a writer and promoter of Boston Water Damage Restoration and Chicago Water Damage Restoration Which are Certified IICRC Water damage and mold remediation contractors.

The Must-Know Basics Of Digital Camera Repairing

Possessing a high-end and sophisticated gadget like digital camera can be a pride in itself, but repairing it can be daunting. A digital camera is a 100% electronic device with many delicate circuits inside it. Adequate knowledge about the delicate device is essential for the technician for repairing who must handle the device with extra care. It needs specialized testing equipments to diagnosis the very problem. That is, perhaps, the reason why digital camera repair is expensive.

There are some minor defects in your digital camera that you can fix yourself. Of course, that depends on the type or the model of camera that you are using. Here, another noteworthy thing is you should have precise idea about what exactly is wrong with it.

Things You Can Fix Yourself:

The common problem that can be detected and fixed without much hassle is the digital camera lens. Most of the time it is due to careless handling or improper setting that the lens ceases to function leaving you baffled over the matter. Most of the time, it is due to the improper alignment of the lens. You will encounter system error messages on the LCD. In such circumstances the camera is not able to focus and the result is worse pictures. You can simply realign the lens or reset the zoom barrel guide pins and you will find your digital camera working as usual.

There are some other minor and common problems such as broken battery cover, broken hinges on memory card doors, cracked LCDs, etc. But if you are not sure about the problem, it is wise not to handle it. Rather you can take your digital camera to an authorized repairing center.

However, before visiting any repairing center or technician you must take check certain common things. There may be some minor problems that you can identify yourself such as:

1 - Sometimes, it is very likely that you might have hit the wrong button or have changed the menu for which the device does not work properly.

2 - If the battery of your digital camera is running out of power, it is most likely that the digital cameras will not work. Ensure if thing improves when a fully charged cell is inserted into the digital camera.

3 - Sometimes, it is necessary to reset the camera through the menu or by removing the battery for 24 hours.

4 - The camera may not turn on if the memory card is full.

These common problems can not be really considered as a serious problem for the digital camera. But a novice user of the gadget may find it difficult them troubleshoot.

Selecting Repairing Service Station:

If the small efforts are not enough to fix your camera, visit an authorized service station in stead of asking any ordinary technician. The technician in the service station should have experience of fixing several brands and models of digital camera.

Moreover, both the user and the technician should have the ability to distinguish between marginal repair and quality repair. A little bit of confusion in this regard may cause damage to your precious digital camera.

Each model of digital cameras requires special tools to fix the errors and reliable service centers have these specialized tools and skilled technicians to properly service and safeguard the digital camera. Efficient diagnosis and repairing of digital camera depends largely upon specialized tests, appropriate equipments and expert technician.

The high-end and sophisticated device like digital camera requires a lot of concern and careful handling which is of paramount importance for longevity of the digital camera. However, the repair process of digital camera also needs the same amount of care and attention. You need to have adequate knowledge of handling digital camera to avoid any kind of trouble.

If possible gather information from the Internet about handling and repairing. A digital camera is a valuable possession and worth caring.

(ArticlesBase ID #52347)



September 14, 2009
By Robert Sedycias
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for www.polomercantil.com.br
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/electronics-articles/the-mustknow-basics-of-digital-camera-repairing-523473.html

Dont Repair Your Digital Camera Get Professional Support

With the advancement of latest technology, every thing has gone digital. The cameras are no exception to this. The digital cameras are all the rage these days. Almost every one wants to own a digital camera for the simple fact that they provide you better and clearer pictures. Not only this the digital cameras enable you to do the editing part your self. Believe me, it is really a fun to edit your own film or a still.

A plethora of companies offer you digital cameras. But some of them have developed a monopoly over the market. The companies like Fuji, Sony and Kodak provide you the best digital cameras in the market today. A part from offering the best manufactured cameras, some leading companies also provide you the aftercare of the camera.

While you purchase a camera, always notice that you get a camera manual with it. Most of the people do not go through the manuals and start using the camera themselves. The reason being, they do not need to go forth the play and record buttons. But a digital camera is much more than these two buttons. A digital camera contains a number of sophisticated keys and systems, you need to learn to handle.

A digital camera includes some software, memory cards and digital sensors. Almost all the companies provide you a warranty period for your purchase. Mostly you get a warranty of about one year. You can get your camera repaired free of cost with in the warranty period itself. All the companies have service centers that facilitate you with their distinguishable services.

The most common camera fix in the sophisticated digital cameras is the repair of buttons. The buttons are most frequently used by a person while using a camera. Your hand is all the time on the play and stop button. It is very much possible that the buttons get stuck or they stop functioning any time. To avoid this trouble, make sure that you use the buttons with a soft hand.

Some amateur photographers keep pressing the record button. Remember that the button once pushed should not be pushed again. The cost of their repair is not much though. You can get the button replaced or repaired with in just $40-$50.

Some digital cameras are not compatible with certain software. For instance, the latest model of Concord Digital Camera is not compatible with the latest version of windows operating system. If you try to use the software, you are obviously going to get some troubles with the digital camera. You may also face the complete black out of the camera. So it is advisable to use the software recommended by the manufacturer.

While having any problem with the software and camera compatibility, consult the repair department of your digital camera company. All the companies have a repair department to facilitate you with troubleshooting of each and every problem.

Apart from the company’s repair centers, you will also come across some other repair services. You have some excellent electronics outlets that proffer you with repair of every electronic item.

The special camera repair centers are a great source for reliable camera repairs. You will find all the leading manufactures of these digital cameras being repaired over there. Camera repairs like driver repair and censor repair demands expertise. So always go to a well-known place for such sophisticated problems.

Never attempt cleaning the sensors yourself. This can cause damage to the sensitive chips of the sensors. Just be a little cautious while using the camera and seek proper advice. Unquestionably, you can get the best digital camera repair facility today.



August 24, 2009
By Dominating Digital Photography
Did you like this article? Curious about Dominating Digital Photography? Well now you can by Discovering this Digital Photography Blog...what are you waiting for?

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/digital-photography-articles/dont-repair-your-digital-camera-get-professional-support-950103.html

Learn How Photo Repairs Can Help Recapture the Past

People take pictures to preserve the memories of a moment in time. Whether it is photos of a wedding, or a baby’s first birthday, the picture allows you to see what was happening, and allows those that were there to relive that time. Unfortunately, over time the quality of the picture fades. Unless the photo was carefully stored in an album it is possible that the photo has tears or cracks in the surface that mar the image. The good news is that photo repair is not only possible, you can actually make image enhancements if you so desire.

Modern digital photography allows photo repair specialists to apply photo restoration techniques that can bring your pictures back to nearly their original condition. In some cases it is even possible to exceed the quality of the original photograph. If the original photo was not in complete focus or the edges are slightly blurred, it is possible to sharpen the edges to make it appear more in focus.

If you have a photo that you are not happy with because of a blemish, you could send your picture to a photo repair specialist and have the blemish removed. If someone in the photo had their eyes closed or were making silly hand gestures, those problems could be fixed as well

Many older photos were shot before colour photography was within the budget of average people. Although the technology might have been available, most people opted for black and white film because it was far less expensive. With today’s technology, one of the image enhancements that is available is the ability to convert black and white to colour photos.

Another image enhancement that is available is the ability to take two separate photographs and make a single composite picture. This is done by taking a portion of one photo, and combining it with a portion of a second photo. You can have a collage of different images, or you can place an image against a different background. You could even take a picture of two people and make it appear that they were together when the photo was taken.

Another enhancement that you might want to consider with your photos is to have them enlarged. In the past enlarging a photo could result in a noticeable loss in the quality of the photo. Now, however providing the original photo is scanned at 300 DPI (dots per inch) or more, it is possible to have your smaller photos enlarged enough to be framed and hung over the mantle if you wanted. The photo you would get looks like it could be an original print.

Having photo repair work done on faded or damaged photos is a great way to help preserve those precious memories. Photo restoration techniques can help even badly damaged photos. Everything from having photos converted from black and white to colour, to getting image enhancements, your photos could be made as good as new, or maybe even better.



May 21, 2009
by sam qam
Source: www.articlebin.com