Memory Card Error-Won't take Pictures

posted by momincali on Nov 21, 2007

Report abuse

My camera turns on, but shows the message Memory Card Error and will not take a picture. I purchased a new card (compact flash) and I still get the same message and cannot take pictures. Stumped and don't know what to do? Please help.

I have the same problem Post a new problem

Best Solution

posted on Nov 24, 2007

engrgirl

Rank:

Apprentice
Rating: 96%, 4 votes

Hi momincali - I posted a solution for someone that seemed to have the same problem as you. If you didn't see it, this is what I wrote:

I had the same problem on my PowerShot S400 as well as I couldn't reformat the compact flash when using the feature on the camera. The solution that worked for me was reseating a small battery (about the size of a watch battery) in side the camera. To get to it you have to take the case apart.
I found this solution by googling and typing:
powershot S400 E50 error
I'm not sure if this site will allow me to add the web link - but this link had a picture of the camera and where the battery is located.
http://www.pinoyhack.com/2006/09/14/canon-powershot-s400-fix/

I decided to try it, since I figured I had nothing to loose, becaues otherwise I'd be looking for buying a new camera. To my surprise it fixed my problem, but I do not know if this is a permanent fix. If you do try this - take note of where each of the screws come from. There were 4 different size screws around the case.

There seem to be a lot of complaints about this problem though.

Good luck.

Comment by engrgirl, posted on Nov 24, 2007

Hi momincali - (I posted this update to another user who seems to have the same problem).

***UPDATE ***
I also went to Canon's website and there is a service notice for this problem as well, so if you don't feel comfortable with manually doing anything to your camera I suggest you contact them.

Here was the link I found:
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=PgComSmModDisplayAct&fcategoryid=223&modelid=8777&keycode=2112&id=27465

If the link doesn't work here is what they say:

A CF Card communication problem has occurred in some PowerShot S400 Digital Cameras. We would like to convey the details and our service policy.
When communication problems with CF cards occur in the this product, the following messages are displayed during use:

"Memory Card Error"
"Corrupted Data"
"Unidentified Image"
"E50"
"E51"

The display of such a message, however, does not necessarily indicate the existence of the CF Card communication problem that has been identified.
If it is determined by Canon USA that your PowerShot S400 camera is exhibiting the CF Card communication problem that has been identified, the camera will be repaired free of charge, regardless of whether the camera is still under warranty. In addition, a refund of a previously paid repair will be made if it is determined by Canon USA that the repair of your PowerShot S400 was prompted by the CF Card communication problem that has been identified.
We have implemented a plan to assist those of our customers whose S400 cameras have exhibited the CF Card communication problem that has been identified. Repair service will be performed free of charge. U.S. residents are asked to contact the Canon Customer Support Center for assistance at 1-800-828-4040.
Support hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 12:00 midnight; and Saturday, 10:00AM to 8:00PM (all times EST). Alternatively, if electronic support is preferred, please send your e-mail 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.

Was this solution helpful? Show your Appreciation by rating it:

Inappropriate Thanks for Trying Helpful FixYa!

Thank You!

Was the solution helpful?

Show your appreciation by commenting on Memory Card Error-Won't take Pictures:

Suggest a new solution for this problem