Stylus Epic freaking out

[fourfa]

Hi there, I have a beloved Stylus Epic P&S (fixed, no zoom). Lately

it has a problem - open the case and instead of moving the lens out

once and turning on, it moves in and out three times. Then the rear

display comes on but it won't take a picture or respond in any way.

Also won't respond to mid-roll rewind (I had to remove the film in a

dark box). The battery is good, no obvious corrosion or foreign

particles inside anywhere. Hasn't been damaged or dunked in water.

I've had it for about a year, much of which it lived in my pocket most

of the day. Never had a problem before this.

 

Anyone heard of this failure mode? Is it toast? Is there something

to open up and clean? I know a new one is only $70, but I'm fond of

this guy... thanks

[henricus]

I don't know that it is toast, but it is malfunctioning. Olympus has a really good service department and I wouldn't hesitate to send it to them. They'll either fix it and send it back with no charge or they'll fix it for a nominal charge. Either way, you're better off sending it to them.<p>Here is their Customer Service toll free telephone number: 1-800-622-6372 or you can email them at <a href="mailto:cpgwebmail@olympus.com">cpgwebmail@olympus.com</a> and here is the <a href="http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/cpg_servicerepair.asp">Service and Repair webpage</a><p>Best,<p>Henry Chavez

[fourfa]

thanks, that was very helpful. Sounds like minimum $53 to service it (out of warrantee) versus $69 for a new one.

[henricus]

Great, plus you get to keep your baby instead of buying a stranger. :o)

[carl smith]

sounds like a good time to buy a new one to me. Sorry to hear that, my cameras been a real trooper for the couple years I've had it, and that includes 6 foot falls on to hard floors.