Haywire Canon digital camera (A75)

[[XC] serlv]

I have a Canon A75 (3.2 MP) camera that has taken to malfiunctioning. The LCD on the back and the image in the viewfinder are very "static-ky" and distorted ( kind of electrified and highly discolored ).

I've heard this is a known problem, over time, with this series of Canon's and that they'll be replaced, by Canon, free of charge due to it being a shorting-out problem and a manufacturer's defect.

Has anybody here had this issue come up? And is it true Canon is "taking care" of it by replacing the units?

Kinda sucks to be without a digital camera. I've always liked Canon, but not so sure I'd even look at them when it comes time for an upgrade if they don't handle this in the right manner.

Let me know your experiences. :) Thanks.

[xytrius]

Yep, known manufacturer defect with problem symptoms exactly as you described it. I apologize for the late reply; I did see your thread much earlier but somehow forgot to reply. :)
I have seen the problem on the A70.

You are right that Canon has issued a free service recall, and here is the link:

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=PgComSmModDisplayAct&keycode=2112&fcategoryid=221&modelid=8776


It has come to our attention that the vendor-supplied CCD image sensor used in certain Canon digital cameras and digital video camcorders may cause the following malfunction: When the product is used in recording or playback mode, the LCD screen and/or electronic viewfinder may exhibit either a distorted image or no image at all. While reports of this malfunction have been rare in the United States, we have determined that it may occur if the product is exposed to hot and humid environments.

Affected products:

- Camcorders: ZR60, ZR65 MC, ZR70 MC, ZR80, ZR85, ZR90, ELURA 40 MC, ELURA 50
- Digital Cameras A60, A70, A75, A300, A310, S230, SD100, SD110, A40(*), A80(*), A85(*), A95(*), S1 IS(*), S60(*), S200(*), S330(*), S400(*), S410(*), S500(*)

Malfunction:
It has been confirmed that the connecting parts of the internal wiring of the CCD used in affected products may become disconnected, especially if the affected products are stored or used in high-temperature and high-humidity environments. If this occurs, the signal is not output from the CCD normally in Shooting Mode, which may cause a distorted image or the absence of an image. This malfunction can be confirmed on the LCD monitor screen during shooting. The same malfunction also appears on the recorded image.

Canon's Response:
Effective immediately, and regardless of warranty status, Canon will repair, free of charge, the products listed above exhibiting the above-mentioned malfunction if Canon determines that the malfunction is caused by the CCD image sensor. Canon will also cover the cost of shipping and handling in connection with this repair.

U.S. residents are kindly directed to contact the Canon Customer Support Center for further assistance at 1-800-828-4040. Support hours are Monday thru Friday - 8:00 AM to 12:00 midnight; and Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (all times EST). Alternatively, if electronic support is preferred, please send your email to carecenter@cits.canon.com

This information is for residents of the United States of America and Puerto Rico only. If you do not reside in the USA or Puerto Rico, please contact the Canon Customer Support Center in your region.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by this issue, and appreciate your understanding in this matter. Thank you for your support and patronage of Canon products.

I do not having anything to do with Canon, but I must say that I have found Canon products and service to be excellent across the spectrum of products that they make. I would suggest buying your next camera on merit and not exclude Canon; they do seem to have made amends. :)

[Oklahoma Wolf]

Ah, the infamous CCD issue. I have an A75 in a box here with the same problem, except mine is totally dead. No picture at all.

[xytrius]

Ah, the infamous CCD issue. I have an A75 in a box here with the same problem, except mine is totally dead. No picture at all.

Why don't you just send it in? WCS they'll charge you S&H. :)

[Oklahoma Wolf]

Because I took it apart and they apparently didn't like that ;)

I actually got mine for free - already had a Nikon 3700 at the time, and was just getting ready to buy my Fuji S700. I didn't need the Canon, in other words. So, it sits in a box to likely never be used again.