Digital cameras 101

[Auntk]

I have DSC-P92.  After I recharge the rechargeables and put them back into the camera, I take a picture and the battery indicator says its drained already. The flash doesn't flash like its suppose too and every other picture seems blurry. Can you tell me what I am doing wrong with camera?

[ShutterbugGail]

They do sound like problems that may be due to low battery power. Have you tried your camera using a brand new set to see if the flash, etc. works properly?

Tell us a few things about the batteries. What type and how old are they? Have you ever conditioned them (ie. totally depleted all the power in the batteries and then fully recharge). Rechargeable batteries need to be conditioned after every 10 or so charges.

Let us know if any of this helps.

[Karen]

The batteries are two years old. How do you condition them?

Another question. Have you heard of any Sony recalls?

[ShutterbugGail]

Rechargeable batteries are good for about 500-1000 charges. Some manufacturers recommend conditioning batteries after every 10 or so recharges. It helps keep the capacity of batteries from diminishing. If you've never conditioned yours in two years, they are probably no longer capable of charging anywhere near their original full capacity.

Condition by draining batteries completely of power, then fully recharge.  For example, keep your camera on until it completely shuts off by itself. If your LCD turns off automatically, shut off the setting so it stays on. If conditioning doesn't improve how the batteries hold charge, it is probably time for a new set!

I do recommend you buy an set of alkaline batteries first and see if things improve. Is so, then you know that low battery power is the root of the problem. Remember, too, that digital cameras drain alkaline batteries fast, so don't expect them to last very long.

btw, some rechargers condition batteries automatically.

Related reading:

Digital camera batteries
http://www.digicamhelp.com/digital-camera-batteries/digital-camera-batteries.htm

Battery rechargers:
http://www.digicamhelp.com/digital-camera-battery-chargers/index.htm

[ShutterbugGail]

Yes, Sony is one of the manufacturers that recently announced service advisories for digital cameras. You can find out if yours qualifies for a free repair here:

http://www.sony.co.uk/view/ShowArticle.action?section=en_GB_Support&articlesection=2&article=1128075116465&site=odw_en_GB

This is from the Sony site in the United Kingdom so contact Sony in the country you live for complete information.

Related reading:
Digital camera service advisories

http://www.digicamhelp.com/digital-camera-service-advisories/index.htm