20D batterygrip?

[elbirth]

One of my friends has been getting me to post process her modeling photos (home-done stuff, nothing very high quality) for a while, and is becoming unsatisfied with the quality after having seen what my 20D can produce :P 8) :D

Anyway, her and her cousin want to have a small photoshoot (still nothing all fancy, but want some good quality photos) and want me to take the pictures myself and do any necessary post-processing.
I'm thinking about using my 50mm, but would really like a battery grip so I can more easily hold the camera on its side without having to end up with a cramp in my hand or something.

I've wanted to get one but don't necessarily have the money at the moment (unless I were to get one for Christmas or get enough money from family/friends to buy one)... I've also been kind of wary of the grip since I've heard people making a few negative comments about it, and I had heard it was possible Canon might remove them from the shelves.

My question is, what is it that's been the cause of the complaints, is it going to be "fixed" and what would anyone suggest as far as me getting a grip or otherwise for the above situation (and any future shoots where it'd come in handy)?

[drisley]

I've wanted to get one but don't necessarily have the money at the moment (unless I were to get one for Christmas or get enough money from family/friends to buy one)... I've also been kind of wary of the grip since I've heard people making a few negative comments about it, and I had heard it was possible Canon might remove them from the shelves.
I had the grip with the 300D, but now that I have the 20D I have postponed getting the grip for the exact same reasons you mention.

[rojo]

have the girl and her cousin pay for it. tell them it will help out in the photo shoot, wich it will. and that way you are at least getting paid for the gig.

[JTEFX]

I have the grip and I don't suffer from any of the mentioned problems from previous threads.

I think it may have to do with a quality control issue from Canon. I know of others who do not have any problems either.

[CoolToolGuy]

First of all, let me say HOORAY, potn.net is back online!!!

I have the grip, but I waited several weeks after I got the 20D before getting it. Mine goes on just fine, and I haven't had any problems with it. I don't know if there was a change or not, but so far so good for me.

Have Fun,

Rick

[soccerbyron]

I picked up a 20D + battery grip this week and I have no problems with the fit.

[elbirth]

Yay, the forum is back online!!

have the girl and her cousin pay for it. tell them it will help out in the photo shoot, wich it will. and that way you are at least getting paid for the gig.

haha, excellent idea. I don't mind doing it as a friend, especially since she's quite attractive.
I'll have to run that by them, though :)

BTW, does anyone know what the issues are people have been saying they've had with the grip, though? I've heard about "problems" with it, but nothing in particular as to what these problems are

[kawter2]

When I have a 550ex attached and I shoot portrait with the 20d and the bg-e2 I always am checking the screw dial because it feels like the thing is loose!!!!


I know i need a strobo frame, but My elan7ne never had this problem, IMO the batery grip is a poorly designed and manufactured pile of plastik!!


I think canon does not want the 20d + grip to subsitute for someone buying a 1 serries camera, but just something to give your more "power options" (power as in electricity)

[elbirth]

When I have a 550ex attached and I shoot portrait with the 20d and the bg-e2 I always am checking the screw dial because it feels like the thing is loose!!!!


I know i need a strobo frame, but My elan7ne never had this problem, IMO the batery grip is a poorly designed and manufactured pile of plastik!!


I think canon does not want the 20d + grip to subsitute for someone buying a 1 serries camera, but just something to give your more "power options" (power as in electricity)
Hmm, interesting. It becoming loose could definitely pose a problem. I wonder why it seems to happen only when you're using the external flash? And I'd hope the "poor" design of it wasn't intentional on Canon's part to keep people moving on up to the 1 series cameras.....

[cmM]

I bought it with the camera, no problem putting it on and seems to work just fine... don't know about it coming loose though, haven't shot much with the 20D yet.

[thomascanty]

I bought the grip with my 20D. I've had them both for almost two weeks now, and about the only problem I've noticed is that the grip does indeed seem to work its way loose pretty often. I find I'm always thumbing the wheel to tighten it up. I almost always have the flash bracket mounted, so I haven't noticed if it also gets loose without that on it.

[evilenglishman]

I have the grip (I bought it 2-3 weeks ago) and have had no problems with it using the 70-200 f4 which is fairly heavy

[mbsevans]

Greetings all...I just received my 20D and I have noticed that even with fresh AA alkalines the camera will not function properly. I get maybe one or two releases and then display shuts down and I get the dead battery indicator flashing.
I tried two different sets of fresh alkalines! Damn! Reason I bought this grip is to have that fall back ability when lithiums go dead!
Anyone else encountering this?

[CoolToolGuy]

I have noticed the thumbwheel on the grip loosening over time as well. I'm not sure what would cause that, but now I find myself playing with the thumbwheel, back and forth to make sure it is tight.

I read on another forum that Canon moved the placement of the screws that secure the top plate of the grip - from adjacent to the tripod socket (like they were on the 10D grip) to some distance left or right (I haven't had time to verify this), and the flex could be because of that placement. Hmmm...

I also wonder whether a small application of Loctite to the thumbwheel threads would solve the loosening problem.

Have Fun,

[dhbailey]

I believe that even in the literature about the grip it says not to expect many releases on AA.

Better to buy a third or fourth battery and charge them all before going on a shoot.

[thomascanty]

Better to buy a third or fourth battery and charge them all before going on a shoot.

Rechargable NiMH AA batteries will probably last a little longer than alkalines. You could also keep a set of those Energizer lithium AA's in your camera case for emergencies. Those should last a bit longer than alkalines, too.

[mbsevans]

Well here's the deal. It states right in the battery grip instructions..."Lithium batteries cannot be used, since they do not operate in this camera."So...what gives? LOL Very strange...
So I would not go the AA lithium route at all...according to Canon anyway.
But my concern is this...it says quite clealy everywhere else in the world...that AA Alkaline batteries (Duracell, Energizer etc) will work fine...YES I realize NOT for millions of shots...but maybe 40 or 50. The instructions say about 80 without flash.
So...unless its just bad batteries I have...there is another problem.

On the note of sparec 511A's...anyone have any recommendations? I have heard that aftermarket units are much cheaper than Canon and more milliamps too?

[elbirth]

On the note of sparec 511A's...anyone have any recommendations? I have heard that aftermarket units are much cheaper than Canon and more milliamps too? Yes, the ones you can get on ebay are great. I've got 2 of them (as well as a little charger that came with them) for like $12 total and they work fantastic in my 20D and G3. If I ever decide to go through with getting a grip, I'm sure they'll work great in there as well.

And as far as that... although it apparently has an issue with coming loose or something, does anyone know if Canon has made plans to try to correct this, and/or do you think it's still worth it to get one? The main reason I would like to get one is for the extra shutter button so I won't have to rotate my hand for vertical shots, but being able to get much better battery life overall is also a big plus...

[mbsevans]

Well I will have to look into those cheap 511's. I wonder who Canon of course justifies $150 bucks Canadian for originals, if these ones work fine.

Regarding the battery grip...I have big hands and got very used to the feel of my old A1 with a motor drive...so I had to have the grip. But I see VERY little wrong with the fit of the battery grip. If it starts to loosen I will fine some way of fixing it. If Canon doesnt first. Sometimes with situations like this...a very small O-ring around the base of the stud can help too.

Does anyone recommend one seller over another for those cheap 511's?

Thanks.

[Toogy]

I just got my 20D grip yesterday and tried all sorts of things to have it loosen up or cause problems and so far it seems to be just as tight as the grip on my old 10D.

[louiea]

I have problems with the battery grip.
1. it gets loose quite easily
2. there seems to be an imbalance between the first and second battery slot. the first slot from the right (with the back facing you) seems to make the battery appear to run out of power quickly. for example, it take shots, prematurely the camera stops with the indicator blinking telling me that the battery has lost power. If i put the battery to the second slot, there is still power and i am able to take quite a number of shots. at least this is what happens in mine.
3. i have also experienced that the battery pack does not equally share the power from both batteries. i have several times experienced the indicator blinking telling me that there is no more power and that i should put new batteries. if i only take out the battery in the second slot and replace it with a new battery, the camera does not detect the power from the new battery.
4. the first battery slot consumes the power more quickly than the second. there have been several occassions that when a partially used battery is placed in the first slot, it runs out of power after two to three shots. But when i take it out and place it in the second slot, i am able to take many more shots. This i notice when i only have one battery in the grip.
5. my battery grip seems to make the battery lose power more quickly or makes it appear that the battery loses power more quickly. a freshly charged BP-511A lost power after only 223 shots. Yet when I tried to charge the battery, the charger indicated it was full in thirty minutes only meaning there was still a lot of power. I don't know if this is the grip or the camera. but i suspect it is the grip.

I don't know if its the camera or the grip but I have been having problems with batteries. Even if fully charged and brand new they seem to run out of power quickly. The camera dies with indicator flashing no more battery. I take battery out. Put in another one. A few minutes later I put in the previous battery and it has power again to last many shots. I have had to replace my batteries four times within a whole afternoon shoot of a little over 400 shots.

I didn't have this problem with my 10D and its grip. I guess I have to test if its the grip or the camera. But for sure, i know there is a problem with the grip based on what i mentioned earlier. the second battery slot is more efficient.

[Jon]

I bought the grip with my 20D. I've had them both for almost two weeks now, and about the only problem I've noticed is that the grip does indeed seem to work its way loose pretty often. I find I'm always thumbing the wheel to tighten it up. I almost always have the flash bracket mounted, so I haven't noticed if it also gets loose without that on it.
Yeah, if you've got a flash bracket screwed into the base, I wouldn't be terribly surprised if it worked to lever the grip loose from the camera, especially if it's a big bracket.

[benamen]

The grip works fine while hand holding. Once I try and use my monopod shuts the camera down. It seems that the contact will not allow any flex between the body and the grip. I would guess that a long lens may cause the same problem but I haven't experimented too much yet!

[ingenus]

Guys
I'm surprised that you all don't know about the ongoing probelm with the grip. If you look at dpreview or robgalbraith, you will see many many people that just cannot use the grip on the 20D.
The problem is easy to replicate. Set your 20D to show the menu, pull quite hard on the end of the grip that goes into the camera, and you will see the menu disappearing. Basically, if you use the grip/20D in portrait mode with a heavy lens, eg 70-200 IS 2.8, especially with a tripod, the camera loses power temporarily. This means that your buffered shots are at risk, and a lot of users cannot afford to lose these if they are at an important shoot - wedding, sports etc.
Canon UK will not accept that there is a problem despite me pointing to many threads showing the opposite.
I don't know what can be done about this. People have said that Canon USA, Canada and Germany are aware, and are considering a recall, but who knows.
All I know is that it has to be sorted out.
Iain

[drisley]

I think the only thing that might get Canon off their butts to rememdy the situation is if everybody just stops buying the grip.

[mbsevans]

Just to alleviate any further concerns regarding the battery grip. I put 6 fresh off the shelf Duracell Ultras into the grip today and was firing the flash and shutter to beat hell! No problem...just lame batteries. I also received a call from Canon tech service and they assured me I need good batteries if you are going to use AA's in an emergency...I installed the Ultras as we talked. I am pleased.

I guess most alkalines dont state their mAh output...but from what I know in the past 800mAh is about what the pump out. Maybe...1000mAh in the case of Ultras.

The lithium AA's like Energizers probably pump out more along the lines of NiMH rechargeables, but they are throwaways. The strange thing is still the line in the battery grip instructions that even the Canon tech couldnt explain. This line being something about camera will not operate with AA lithiums. Oh well...I now know good quality AA alkalines will work in a pinch.

But I am still going to order some spare 511's.

Thanks.

[tonyt]

I bought the grip at the same time as the 20D, about three months ago. I have had no problems with the grip at all. It does make the camera easier to hang onto and with two batteries installed, gives the camera a better weight, acting as a counterbalance to a long, heavy lens. I would recommend it highly as the extra cost is well worth the advantages. Get the leather hand strap too for a really comfortable and secure hold.

[thomascanty]

The strange thing is still the line in the battery grip instructions that even the Canon tech couldnt explain. This line being something about camera will not operate with AA lithiums.

I have a hard time believing that one, too. I have a four-pack of the lithiums in my backpack (I use them in my GPS receiver). I'm going to go get another one so I can give them a try in the grip and see what happens.

[Toogy]

Well I might have spoken too soon about my grip being fine. I have been able to get it to lose power with the camera. By pulling down on the grip right where it goes into the camera, it will flex enough and lose power to the camera, whether or not this will happen in a real world situation, I don't know.

Have read a few things on how to fix this, I am going to try those fixes and report back.

[cmM]

Have read a few things on how to fix this, I am going to try those fixes and report back.Care to share some of those "things" ? :p

[Toogy]

Here is one thing I am going to try

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1019&message=11121017

The others involve taping down the little pin inside the camera.

[RDKirk]

I read on another forum that Canon moved the placement of the screws that secure the top plate of the grip - from adjacent to the tripod socket (like they were on the 10D grip) to some distance left or right (I haven't had time to verify this), and the flex could be because of that placement. Hmmm...
Have Fun,

That would be me. The 10D grip has about 46mm of unsupported metal on the top plate around the attachment screw. The 20D grip has about 56mm of unsupported metal--right at the point of greatest stress. It's right here that the top plate flexes, and that flex results in about 1.5mm of gap at the right end of the camera. There, it unloads the "door open" microswitch in the camera battery compartment, which momentarily shuts down the camera.

This happens a lot to wedding photographers who hang weighty flash brackets from the grip. It happens to me when I have the camere oriented vertically on a tripod and I rest my hand on the camera. Some people report it happens whenever they turn the camea with a weighty lens (like the 24-70) to vertical position on a tripod. When the camera shuts down, it loses any unwritten images. If all a user ever does is hold the camera, he may never notice it.

This is not a "batch" problem or a quality control problem. It's basic bad design. Canon will have to relocate the screws back to the 10D location. I've removed the plates, and I've seen that there is no reason for Canon not to redesign them back.

[kevin_c]

Greetings all...I just received my 20D and I have noticed that even with fresh AA alkalines the camera will not function properly. I get maybe one or two releases and then display shuts down and I get the dead battery indicator flashing.
I tried two different sets of fresh alkalines! Damn! Reason I bought this grip is to have that fall back ability when lithiums go dead!
Anyone else encountering this?


I have exactly the same problem - Only bought the 20D and grip on Friday (2 days ago) and although the Canon Li-ion works fine in either position I have yet to get any AA's working for more than 2 shots!! I have tried both Ni-mih and ordinary alkalines of different brands (not mixed). Is this a known issue I wonder?

Also just like to say Hi to everyone - As I have said above, I only picked up my 20D 2 days ago, but so-far I am very impressed. I have just 'jumped ship' from N*k*n - got fed up waiting for a good quality mid-range/semi-pro model to come out!

-- Kevin C --

[charlesu]

Greetings all...I just received my 20D and I have noticed that even with fresh AA alkalines the camera will not function properly. I get maybe one or two releases and then display shuts down and I get the dead battery indicator flashing.
I tried two different sets of fresh alkalines! Damn! Reason I bought this grip is to have that fall back ability when lithiums go dead!
Anyone else encountering this?

Given that I am getting 600 to 1200 shots per battery and generic replacements (backups) are about $20, why would you worry about alkalines? They won't run the camera more than a few shots anyway. Especially with IS, flash, image review, etc. Just carry a spare.

[Moses]

Since this thread was started back in December, has Canon done anything to fix the problems with the grip?

[drisley]

Apparently they have.
And if you have an old one, you can send it in for "fixing".

[elbirth]

interesting.... if we were to go buy one (either from a store or online) how would we know if it's a newer fixed model?

[drisley]

It has something to do with the serial number.
For example Camera Canada states on it's website they have the new batch.
What the serial number is exactly, I can't say.
There was a rumour that the new grips had a red dot on the battery door, but according to Camera Canada, that is not the case. Serial number is the only way to tell.
One thread states that all grips with serial # 05xxx or later are the fixed grips.

[Tom Barnett]

Greetings all...I just received my 20D and I have noticed that even with fresh AA alkalines the camera will not function properly. I get maybe one or two releases and then display shuts down and I get the dead battery indicator flashing.
I tried two different sets of fresh alkalines! Damn! Reason I bought this grip is to have that fall back ability when lithiums go dead!
Anyone else encountering this?


LOL, I know what you mean.

6 cheap batteries = 0 shots
6 fully charged NIMH batteries (very pricey) = 1 shot

It's quite possibly the dumbest thing every created.

[Toogy]

So has it been confirmed anywhere that Canon has actually redesigned the grip and are now selling a slightly different model?

[drisley]

So has it been confirmed anywhere that Canon has actually redesigned the grip and are now selling a slightly different model?

Yes. I think the redesign may be just the matter of adding a washer or something to prevent disconnects. 2 camera stores I have talked to (camera canada being one) have confirmed this. The third store I talked to had no idea there was any problem.
As far as the AA battery thing is concerned, I think that was more of a marketing gimmic. It had to be since I haven't heard anybody getting more than 3 shots with AA's.

[froman98]

On the note of sparec 511A's...anyone have any recommendations? I have heard that aftermarket units are much cheaper than Canon and more milliamps too?

I just noticed this was posted back in December. Aside from that, I strongly recommend Sterlingtek for batteries. I got 2 of them for 12.99 (or 11.99, can't remember) and overnight shipping for 33 bucks. They're 1800 mAH and I haven't lost power to a single one of them yet inconviently. I fill up my memory cards before I loser power to them.

[cactusclay]

I don't really get the battery grip deal, unless it helps with the longer lenses or something, but the batteries last a long time and backups can be had for about twelve bucks. I could see it when it was a motor drive on a F3 or somthing, because then it did something, but now the motordrive is built in and you shoot something like the equivelent of twenty five rolls of film on one battery. Is it because people think it looks cool, or they just like to carry around extra weight?

[CyberDyneSystems]

Cactus,. I don't have or want the B-grip for my 20D as the whole "more weight = better balance" thing escapes me..

However there is a VERY good reason to want a battery grip and that s for shooting in portrait mode.

Twisting your wrists is fine for the occasional 90* portrait shot,. but if your doing a prolonged shoot like an event etc.. where most of your shooting will be done vertical,. the grip becomes a must have...

For that reason,. now that the bugs are ironed out of the 20D B-G,. I may reconsider it.

[elbirth]

I don't really get the battery grip deal, unless it helps with the longer lenses or something, but the batteries last a long time and backups can be had for about twelve bucks. I could see it when it was a motor drive on a F3 or somthing, because then it did something, but now the motordrive is built in and you shoot something like the equivelent of twenty five rolls of film on one battery. Is it because people think it looks cool, or they just like to carry around extra weight?


You've got part of it with the extra weight. However, it's not that people just like having the extra weight, it's that with heavier/longer lenses, it counterbalances the camera, making it feel more evenly weighted. Also, the vertical shutter release is reason enough by itself to get a grip, and the primary reason I want to get one (yes, even though I made this thread in December, I've yet to get one). And sure the batteries last a LONG time... but with a grip, you can get double that, along with the other things I've mentioned.

[picture-this]

Same here was worried about getting one, but the one I have has no problems and fits great.

[terogew]

I have the Canon Rebel Digital 300d and I just bought the 20D the batter grips are different, has anybody tryed to use the BG-E1 grip on the 20D by trying to modify it? let me know if it will work hate paying for something twice and why would Canon make a battery grip with a change so early?

[drisley]

Yes, the grips are different terogew. I doubt you could modify the BG-E1 to fit the 20D.
Oh, and get this, the new 350XT uses another COMPLETELY different grip as well, the BG-E3!

[drisley]

Well, I just recieved mine.
It's supposed to be the new batch, the serial number is #067xxx.
This is what it looks like. Anybody with an old one notice a diff in the pin?
I tried flexing the grip from the camera very, very hard, and there was no power disconnect. :)
Btw, I forgot how heavy a camera is with the grip!:shock: I'm with CDS... I dont see the added weight as a plus, but I do need the grip because I shoot most things in portrait mode, probably 80% of my shots.

http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/IMG_6155.jpg

[Toogy]

Here's a pic of mine that I was set to exchange tomorrow, wondering if there is a point? They look identical. My serial number is #030149
http://www.digitaliso.ca/IMG_0859.jpg

[mbze430]

seriously, holding a long L lens without the grip felt really "off-balance". The grip really give you that extra grip when holding a long heavy lens

[drisley]

Have a look at this:
http://www.pbase.com/mriffle/bge2

seriously, holding a long L lens without the grip felt really "off-balance". The grip really give you that extra grip when holding a long heavy lens
Mbze430, I agree, having that extra grip room is great, but it's the extra weight that everybody wants that doesnt make sense to me.

[Toogy]

I will let you know, mine flexes enough that I am able to disconnect power.

[drisley]

Ah yes, if you look at that link I posted above, apparently the fix is just 2 washers that are underneath the metal plate, so the only way to know for sure is to open it.
But, since my grip is from the freshest batch the store had, and since I can't get it to lose power, I must have a fixed grip.

[elbirth]

Well, I just recieved mine.
It's supposed to be the new batch, the serial number is #067xxx.
This is what it looks like. Anybody with an old one notice a diff in the pin?
I tried flexing the grip from the camera very, very hard, and there was no power disconnect. :)
Btw, I forgot how heavy a camera is with the grip!:shock: I'm with CDS... I dont see the added weight as a plus, but I do need the grip because I shoot most things in portrait mode, probably 80% of my shots.

http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/IMG_6155.jpg

I was under the impression that any changes made would be on the end with the portion of the grip that goes up into the battery compartment... so looking at the end you've got posted here, you won't notice any differences since this end of it didn't get changed.

[Charlton Heston's Brain]

New topic from a fresh ignoramus. 'Scuse the interrupt.

Just got the outstanding 20D. Love it. Shoot generally in RAW format for higher res and greater editing possibilities for my art directors. However, when I load the images onto my Sony Vaio, each file comes up as two files - one 1-3MB jpeg that I can view and alter easily and one 5-7MB CR2 RAW image impossible to view at all and seemingly in need of some software that I ain't got. Question: how do I make it so that all the files just pop up as one simple large JPEG to make my life easier? Second, I burned CDs of all these files and sent them to various mags. They can't read them either, MAC or PC. Question: How can I burn the CD in order to make sure all images are copy-able and modify-able by all art directors on Earth? Third, I loaded the DPP program onto my Vaio and tried CR2-to-JPEG Batch Edits. It seems to do it just fine, but then I reopen the file afterwards and nothing has changed so far as I can see - all of the CR2 RAW files are still Microsoft Photo Editor-iconed and impossible to open. All of this started happening when I had to switch out my old 60GB hard drive when it fried itself recently. The new hard drive is good stuff, but my old simple CD-burning program didn't seem to make it into the software re-load. It's now Roxio Easy CD and DVD Creator 6.0. Help wanted urgently please.

[elbirth]

New topic from a fresh ignoramus. 'Scuse the interrupt.

Just got the outstanding 20D. Love it. Shoot generally in RAW format for higher res and greater editing possibilities for my art directors. However, when I load the images onto my Sony Vaio, each file comes up as two files - one 1-3MB jpeg that I can view and alter easily and one 5-7MB CR2 RAW image impossible to view at all and seemingly in need of some software that I ain't got. Question: how do I make it so that all the files just pop up as one simple large JPEG to make my life easier? Second, I burned CDs of all these files and sent them to various mags. They can't read them either, MAC or PC. Question: How can I burn the CD in order to make sure all images are copy-able and modify-able by all art directors on Earth? Third, I loaded the DPP program onto my Vaio and tried CR2-to-JPEG Batch Edits. It seems to do it just fine, but then I reopen the file afterwards and nothing has changed so far as I can see - all of the CR2 RAW files are still Microsoft Photo Editor-iconed and impossible to open. All of this started happening when I had to switch out my old 60GB hard drive when it fried itself recently. The new hard drive is good stuff, but my old simple CD-burning program didn't seem to make it into the software re-load. It's now Roxio Easy CD and DVD Creator 6.0. Help wanted urgently please.

This really should have been it's own thread, not an addition to this one... but:

1- The CR2 files are the RAW files you're shooting. You have it set to shoot RAW and JPEG, not just one or the other. Change it to either just RAW to get only RAW files, or choose a JPEG mode, most likely Large Fine.
2- To view the RAW files (CR2) you need to either get the updated file from Adobe to open it in Photoshop, use the included software from Canon, or buy some other software: Phase One Capture One is a great choice. Any good photo editor should be able to open your RAW files.. if not, then well... they're not that great :p
3- When you use DPP to convert the RAW to JPEG, you now use the JPEGs, not the CR2 files. Keep the CR2 files for later usage, but you are not going to open them... you just want them for any future editing needs. Your CD burning software should be fine, that's not the issue. You just need to learn what the difference is in the files and which to burn and how to open them.

[drisley]

I was under the impression that any changes made would be on the end with the portion of the grip that goes up into the battery compartment... so looking at the end you've got posted here, you won't notice any differences since this end of it didn't get changed.
The post I made immediately before this post explains what has been done.
The change is not visible as the washers are under the metal plate.

[london]

I've been using the batterygrip on my 20D for about six months without any problems. I swear by it. Not only do you get the extra battery in there, doubling your shooting time, but you also have the option of using regular batteries in a pinch. Then there is the added convenience of being able to shoot verticals without straining your arm -- in fact, it makes portrait shooting almost effortless. Finally, I like the added grip and weight. The camera just handles so much easier with it on. For me, it was a no-brainer.

Scott.

[Marshall]

Had my grip since October,no contact problem's & no loosening problems so it appears it was sorted way back then , at least as far as the U.K. market is concerned.

[SENster7]

Well, I just recieved mine.
It's supposed to be the new batch, the serial number is #067xxx.
This is what it looks like. Anybody with an old one notice a diff in the pin?
I tried flexing the grip from the camera very, very hard, and there was no power disconnect. :)
Btw, I forgot how heavy a camera is with the grip!:shock: I'm with CDS... I dont see the added weight as a plus, but I do need the grip because I shoot most things in portrait mode, probably 80% of my shots.

http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/IMG_6155.jpg

UPS should be delivering mine today according to the tracking information. Hopefully I am getting the fixed grip. Funny that the both of us finally decided to get the grip right around the same time. I can recall when the 20D was first announced last year, we were both furious with regards to the buffer capacity regarding RAW images :)

[Toogy]

Just got back from Camera Canada with my new grip. The guy at Camera Canada says that the fix is indeed the additional washers as previously stated. Apparently all this is un-official as Canon has not admitted to anything.
PS, tried out the 10-22mm while I was there, and MAN, that is a slick lens!

[elbirth]

if I can ever find a really good deal on a new grip, I think I may finally be going on and getting one... ~$160 is a bit steep for me at this point (yeah, yeah, I know I spent nearly $1600 on the camera/lens, but come on :p)

[drisley]

Senster, yeah, I remember us complaining about the 20D when it came out *l*
Great minds think alike I guess, and that is why we both are getting the grip now.
I shoot portrait style so much, it was getting hard on my wrist. And like Toogy said, Camera Canada said they had the new batch. That is where I got mine.
When I was shooting bball last weekend with people seated beside me, I got tired of elbowing the person to my right, as I'm sure they got tired of it too :)

[SkipD]

I have a new grip for my 20D - about two weeks old now. The serial number is 05xxxx.

When I would pull the grip (intentionally) away from the body on the right end (the battery end of the body), I could cause the body's battery compartment switch to think the battery compartment was open. That, of course, would cause the camera to shut down. I solved the problem forever with a little piece of fairly dense foam rubber that has a sticky surface on it. I put that on the little post (part of the grip) that actuates the switch. The foam piece is about 3/32" square and not quite 1/16" thick. It can deform around the switch actuator so it won't hurt it, and now I can pull the grip away from the body and nothing happens.

[drisley]

Skipd, I just tried what you said, I pulled the right end of the grip away from the body, and sure it enought the camera last power. It didnt take much effort either, and my grip is a new #68xxx grip from Camera Canada. There is definately alot of play there.
Can you post a picture of what it looks like?
This grip just does not feel tight on the camera.

[Toogy]

I concur, my new grip isn't a whole lot better than the one I had before. I can get it to lose power by doing the above procedure as well.
I would appreciate picks of this as well.
Overall it is still not even close to the grip on my old 10D.

[drisley]

Toogy, does it feel slightly better?
I tried with a moderately heavy lens, 135F2L, and I shook the hell out of it, and it didnt lose power. So, I dont think i real world use it will be a problem, but it's stll annoying to see that bit of space between the camera and grip at the top.
They should have put a little latch on the right side of the grip that locked in when the grip was in place, much like the little door latch on the grip's battery door.

Toogy, call Camera Canada tomorrow and let them know. I will also give them a call since I got my grip there too. Maybe that will make them complain to Canon or something.

[Toogy]

Will do.
It really isn't THAT bad, but it really isn't any better than the one I had before. In the real world, it might not be an issue, but it still sucks that the 20D is such a great camera and the grip is crap.

[SENster7]

Just got my grip from B&H today, and the serial number is 041XXX. When I put two fully charged batteries in the grip power shows full so that is a good sign. I did some shooting earlier with only a 28mm f/2.8 which is light as feather, no issues yet with the camera shutting off. I'm going take some shots with the 70-200 and see what happens. I can't really notice any play in the grip as of yet, seems on pretty tight, but with my luck I probably do have one of the bad grips since I don't have a serial number higher than 05XXXX :(

Maybe our minds aren't so great after all drisley!

[drisley]

Toogy,
Yes, I will definately call them tomorrow, although there isn't a whole lot Camera Canada can do about it I guess.
At first I thought the grip was tight, but I was looking near the center.
However, there does seem to be a few mm of space and movement on the right side of the grip (the top of the grip when you hold the camera by the grip).
I shook the camera hard with the grip and it didnt lose connection with the 135F2L.
But, if you push the camra away from you very fast and stop, I have had the grip lose connection and power.
Once I am done with it this weekend, I might send it to Canon to look at. Or, I might just outright return it, but I really do like the vertical ability.
Senster, our minds are still great, but the grips just arent that good.

[SkipD]

I'm not in a position to do a decent photo of the grip and body right now - too many other things going on. However, this link shows the parts: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1019&message=11121017

The fellow who did this article used a ty-wrap to take up the space. I felt that was potentially too rough on the switch, so I used a little piece of dense rubber foam with a sticky side to it. I stuck it on top of the post that is part of the grip.

[drisley]

Hmmm, I just tried the grip with the 420EX attached, and sure enough, even a slight shake caused the camera to lose power. Argh!
No I have to decide whether to return it, or send it to Canon.

[drisley]

Addendum:
After reading the various fixes, I decided to try my own.
I had some 3M Self Stick Rubber Pads lying around, so I cut a strip off and stuck it to the little plastic piece on the grip that pushes in the "power connected" button.
I can now add a flash, shake the camera, and pull on it hard with no problems or disconnects.
WHY didn't Canon just make that little plastic piece slightly longer. As others have mentioned, how do the engineers and tester miss this?

Image #1 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/IMG_6165.jpg)
Image #2 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/gripfix.jpg)
Image #3 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/gripclose.jpg)

[SENster7]

Addendum:
After reading the various fixes, I decided to try my own.
I had some 3M Self Stick Rubber Pads lying around, so I cut a strip off and stuck it to the little plastic piece on the grip that pushes in the "power connected" button.
I can now add a flash, shake the camera, and pull on it hard with no problems or disconnects.
WHY didn't Canon just make that little plastic piece slightly longer. As others have mentioned, how do the engineers and tester miss this?

Image #1 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/IMG_6165.jpg)
Image #2 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/gripfix.jpg)
Image #3 (http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/gripclose.jpg)

Well I put the 420EX on with my 70-200 f/2.8L non IS(still heavy)fired off a few shots, shook the camera and I still couldn't get it to shut down. I can't be this lucky to actually get a good grip, my luck usually sucks!

Time will tell, I'm sure eventually it will give me problems

[drisley]

Weird!
With my flash attached, even a slight shake from side to side and I can get a disconnect (b4 my fix).
I wonder if this is related to the camera more than the grip? I have an early model camera, bought when they came out in september. Maybe the little pin on the bottom of the camera that pushes in and out to tell the camera there is a connection is longer on newer 20Ds?
Senster, what happens if you try to pull the grip away from the camera near the top of the grip, where the shutter button is? Now with my "fix" I can pull as hard as I want and it doesnt disconnect. But before, even a moderate strength pull would cause the power disconnect.

BTW, Senster, do you have the LCD on so you can tell when the camera temporarily powers down? Because when the camera loses connection, it will power back up imediately once the connection is established again. So unless you have the LCD on, or you are looking thru the viewfinder with the shutter half pressed, you wouldnt know if quickly powered down and back up.

[SENster7]

Weird!
With my flash attached, even a slight shake from side to side and I can get a disconnect (b4 my fix).
I wonder if this is related to the camera more than the grip? I have an early model camera, bought when they came out in september. Maybe the little pin on the bottom of the camera that pushes in and out to tell the camera there is a connection is longer on newer 20Ds?
Senster, what happens if you try to pull the grip away from the camera near the top of the grip, where the shutter button is? Now with my "fix" I can pull as hard as I want and it doesnt disconnect. But before, even a moderate strength pull would cause the power disconnect.

BTW, Senster, do you have the LCD on so you can tell when the camera temporarily powers down? Because when the camera loses connection, it will power back up imediately once the connection is established again. So unless you have the LCD on, or you are looking thru the viewfinder with the shutter half pressed, you wouldnt know if quickly powered down and back up.

Drisley, When I pull the camera away near the top of the grip, guess what? Yep, the power disconnects! I knew I wasn't so lucky. I too bought my camera back in September, but it looks like this grip is a piece of crap! I need to get some sleep, when I get home for work I'll be applying your fix! Thanks!

[drisley]

Sorry for that Senster. :(
Isn't ignorance truly blissfull?
I was initially thinking if I hadnt read these threads I probably wouldn't have known... that is, until I attached the 420EX and the camera lost power with even minor shaking of the camera while holding it vertically.

The fix I used does work. Unless you pull REALLY, REALLY hard at the top, it wont lose power. HOwever, it still does not feel as tight as I would like. And I dont like that gap between the camera and grip at the top when the flash is attached.

I'm still debating whether or not I should send it in to Canon. Hmmm. I will see. But atleast I can use my grip for the show I have to do this weekend. After that if I have to go without the grip for a couple weeks, I don't mind.
Actually, I think I WILL send it in, and then I can report to you guys what happens.:idea:

I have heard that people out there have sent their grips in and recieved them back and they couldnt cause a disconnect no matter how hard they pulled.

[Toogy]

I am going to try and implement a similar fix tonight.

[drisley]

Toogy, I called Camera Canada today and left a message on their answering service.
Even though this "fix" helps the disconnect problem, I think I still will send the grip in to Canon next week to look at. THe only unfortunate thing will be the shipping $.

[drisley]

Update:
I JUST got off the phone with Canon Canada Tech Support.
They said they are aware of the flexing problem, and all I have to do is send it to their Calgary depot, and they will apply the fix and send it back out with a quick turn around. :)

[Toogy]

What number did you call? I assume you have to pay for all shipping? Did you get an RMA number?

PS did you tell them you already have the 'new batch' that was supposed to be already fixed?

Thanks

[drisley]

Toogy, the number is 1-800-828-4040.
The tech guy told me that they would replace something, but wasnt exactly sure what. He did briefely mention something about a switch or connector, but I'm sure he was guessing.
Interesting thing is, not only had he heard of the disconnect problem, he had seen it first hand many times.
No RMA was needed. He just gave me the address of the Calgary Depot, and told me to send it in with a copy of the reciept, and an explanation of the problem, and that the turn around should be very fast.
I did mention that I had one of the new batch, but he said that wouldn't guarantee a perfectly working grip. It almost sounded as if Canon isn't making changes to the grip in factory, but if the consumer notices a problem, they have a fix ready. Either that or it's just a quality control problem.

[McGinnis]

Okay, So.......
Is it really worth the money to buy a grip? I just bought a 20D I have not received it but after holding the one at the store I'm kinda worried about it being too big for my hands. I shoot in portrait about 99% of the time. And my hand gets cramped on the rebel and elan. I have VERY small hands, I mean when I shoot portrait most of the time half my arm is in the air just to be able to reach the other side. If it is....what is the best place to buy one? Thanks so much.

McGinnis

[drisley]

Mcginnis,
You stated the exact reason I finally broke down and got the grip... I shoot portrait most of the time, and it is very awkward without the grip.
Unfortunately, the grip does make the camera rather heavy and bulky, but shooting portrait orientaion is much nicer.
So, for people shooting mainly vertically, like you and me, the grip is definately worth it.
But, for those who don't the added bulk and weight is not worth it imho.

[SENster7]

On my way home from worked I picked up a pizza and some Reclosable Fastners made by Scotch. Looks like velcro but stronger. I wonder if I should even bother putting this on my grip, or just send it back?

[drisley]

If you are like me, and need the grip for something important this weekend, then by all means do it.
Otherwise, I would just send it back. Mine is going to Canon on Monday with diagrams, and a detailed explanation.

[SENster7]

Well I cut a small piece of the reclosable fastner that I picked up tonight, and added to the post on the grip as per drisley's quick fix recommendation. Drisley's quick fix works like a charm, it takes an extremely hard pull to cause the camera to shutdown, a pull that more than likely not simulated from normal usage. All of a sudden though my camera is now reporting low battery power on the inidcator light and I have two fully charged batteries in the grip.

I think eventually I'll send my grip into Canon, but for now I'll live with the quick fix and the false battery indicator. Love my 20D, but the BG-E2 obviously was made in a hurry with a totally lack of QA. I guess it could be worse though, we could all own Nikon D70s with no grip since one was never made for it...

[drisley]

SENster, I'm glad the "fix" is working, although I can not take credit at all.
But definately send it back since it has the low battery power indicator problem.
I'm interested to see if mine does the same tomorrow.
Apparently, a few people have said the the low battery indicator problem was due to mixing a BP511 and a BP511a together, and that by using 2 BP511a's the problem went away.
However, I dont think it should really matter, or atleast Canon should say outright not to use 2 different maH batteries together.

[SENster7]

Well Drisley I give you the credit for helping me find the fault in my grip, and motivating me to apply the fix. I've read several other fixes and they were all ridiculous, but yours made the most sense, and was easy to apply and I thank you for that. I do have a mixture of a BP511a and a BP511 currently in the grip, and if that truly causes the power indicator problem then this is grip is truly JUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNK, oh wait I already said that :)

[drisley]

Funny thing is that a local store was selling a BG-E2 kit which included a new BP511a and a gadget bag for less than the price of a BG-E2 and a new BP511a.
If mine gives me the same indicator problem, I might have wished I bought the kit.
However as you said, you should not have to do this.
I almost wouldnt mind using one battery at a time to reduce weight, but this grip was so much more expensive than the 300D grip, and built the same, so you shouldnt have to make any consolations.

[SENster7]

With my DRebel I always had 1 battery in the grip, because if I left the two I would always forget to recharge em lol. I just need to remember now to charge my batteries after so many shots if I continue to keep the 2 batteries in the grip. No real need to really keep two in for me since 1 battery lasts so long, I'll fill my cards up first before killing the battery.

[Toogy]

I only use 1 battery in my grip all the time, the way the grip works is that it uses both batteries at the same time, so you will end up with two dead batteries when it is done, this way when my battery is dead I just swap in another.

[SENster7]

Yep, I did with my DRebel, and I think I'm going to do that with my 20D.

[drisley]

The good news is that the 20D batteries last so long, I've never had one die on me in the field :)
It's so hard to fathon how great a camera the 20D is, and how bad the 20D's grip is.

[Toogy]

I know, the one and only thing I miss about my old 10D was the grip, SO much nicer.

[SENster7]

Perhaps this is all another Canon marketing scheme for us to sell our 20Ds and get a 1D Mark II since the grip is built in :)

I was searching the other day and found quite a few used 1D Mark II on Ebay going between $3000-$3300, when that baby dips into the 2k range that is going to be a hard bargin to pass up! Like I will be able to afford it, yeah right here I go dreaming again :(

[drisley]

Good news, I used my BG-E2 tonite for a bodybuilding show.
4 1/2 hours almost non-stop, and no problem with the battery indicator.

[elbirth]

was that with just 1 battery, or 2 of similar/different mah?

[SENster7]

Good news, I used my BG-E2 tonite for a bodybuilding show.
4 1/2 hours almost non-stop, and no problem with the battery indicator.

Glad to hear, and I assume no problems with losing connection either after your fix? After I noticed that I started having the battery indicator issue, I noticed that I had the BP511a in the second battery compartment for the grip. I switched it putting the BP511a in the first compartment, and a regular BP511 in the second compartment and the indicator was fine showing full. JUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNK!

[RJSorensen]

I see a half full (half empty) sign on mine and I think the batteries are charged and should be good . . . is this one of the problems? Or is it something else.

[drisley]

was that with just 1 battery, or 2 of similar/different mah?
I was running a BP511 in compartment 1, and a BP511A in compartment 2. No problems.
It was nice shooting vertically with the grip again. It really saved my wrist.
But the grip is still going back monday to fix the losing power issue.

[OviV]

I just got 2 new grips from B&H. I order them so that I can have controls for vertical shooting specially when shooting baseball. I also ordered them because it is the only way I can use the Stroboframe anti-twist plate. I know, I spent $169 in order to use a $11 item but we use the bracket every Saturday and the anti-twist was becoming really important. The cork just doesn't cut it. Both of my grips have the problem. I put a little piece of foam tape on the pin and that took care of the power loss for the most part but the grip loosened on my wife one time by itself. This thing is poorly built. The one on my old Digital Rebel felt alot more solid. If you don't need one, wait.

[drisley]

I just talked to Camera Canada about the problem.
I heard a "sigh" on the other end when I mentioned the problem. The woman said that they have had nothing but problems with that grip, and they are actually losing money on all the RMA shipping costs. Initially Canon denied any problem, but after dozens and dozens of returned BG-E2 grips, Canon FINALLY admitted there was a problem, and took back their old stock.
Camera Canada was told by Canon that the new batches were fine, but obviously they are not because they are still having people return them. In the end I felt so bad for them, I said I wouldnt bother with returning it to them. This was also because the chance of the replacement having the same problem was very good.
Since Canon already told me on the phone that the serial# doesnt guarantee you wont have a problem, and that returning it to Canon for service would provide a quick fix, I will just send the grip in to Canon directly.
Honestly, if I owned a camera store, I would refuse to carry the BG-E2.
I wonder if the new grip, the BG-E3 for the 350D, will have similar problems?

[Toogy]

For the record I returned my grip to Canon Canada in Mississauga today after talking to them on the phone. They told me they are going to make a 'small adjustment'
Whatever that means?

[drisley]

I'm sure they will just add the washers. That is what both Camera Canada, and Canon Canada hinted at when I talked to them.
Well, atleast you and I can be proof to others that the problem still exists, and that, if successful when returned from Canon, there is a fix.
Btw, did you have a problem with the battery indicator? Mine didnt.

[Toogy]

My first grip didn't have a problem with the battery, but this one seems to show that my battery is wearing down. If I take off the grip and put the same battery in the camera it shows a full charge.
Oh well, I will wait for it back from Canon and hope for the best.

[tbfoto]

Just got my grip from B&H. Connected to camera and turned it on. Turned the camera over to take my first vertical shot and and all the power went out. Took it off the camera, put back into box. Sent e-mail to Canon. This is soooo poor of them. This sucks!

[drisley]

Toogy, did you mention that problem as well to Canon?
tbfoto, welcome to the club. Sucks don't it?

You know I don't see how the washers will help? I tried the "business card" trick, where you put a card or something on the left side of the grip, but that actually makes things worse.

Here is the diagram I made to send to Canon along with the grip.

http://images2.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/miscellaneous/grip.jpg

[drisley]

You know what is interesting, Camera Canada complained about the money they were losing in shipping costs replacing this product.
But, I got an RMA today by email (even though I said I didnt want one), and there was a $16 shipping charge on there! Do they normally charge the customer for shipping both ways on damaged products?
They are closed now, so I will have to call them tomorrow.

[Toogy]

?????
Canon never said anything to me about shipping charges or RMA, They just said to send it in with a copy of my receipt to their service dept and gave me the address.
I boxed it up and shipped it XpressPost for $9
I told them the exact problems over the phone and in a letter I enclosed with the grip. They didn't seem very surprised when I was explaining it to them over the phone.

[drisley]

Toogy,
No, I was talking about Camera Canada.

[Toogy]

Camera Canada, Canon Canada, sound so similiar :)

[drisley]

Yes, I know, I've misread that several times in the posts here :)
But, dont you think it would be ridiculous for CAMERA Canada to charge shipping both ways on a defective product?
I know Simon's Camera for example will actually pay shipping BOTH ways.
I will find out tomorrow. If that is indeed the case, I may have to rethink purchasing from Camera Canada in the future.

[Toogy]

Yes I agree it sounds ridiculous. I guess I am lucky that I only work about 10 minutes away from their retail store.
I thought you were sending it into Canon to get fixed though?

[OviV]

Here is an e-mail conversation I had with Canon. Not happy about how they are handling this:

Me:
-----------------------------------------------------
> Email Support Form Message
> Product Type: EOS 20D
> Product Model:
> IslandData Session:
> INQUIRY: I wish to express my displeasure about one of your products.
I
> purchased 2 BG-E2 Vertical Grips for my 2 Canon 20D. This product is
> badly build. It comes lose by itself, it will flex enough to cause
the
> camera to lose power under certain conditions, primarily when shooting
> vertically with a zoom lens. I found out that there are a number of
> unhappy customers out there about this product (read: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=49908&page=1&pp=20)
> yet your company does not seem to care. I purchased my grips on
> 3/15/2005 from B&H. Given that these were released back in October, I
> would have expected that these problems would have been corrected by
> now. If this is the quality of products that we can expect from Canon
> in the future, we may start looking elsewhere for our equipment.
> Regards,
> Ovidio Verona

Canon:
---------------------------
> Dear Ovidio Verona,
>
> Thank you for your inquiry. We are sorry to learn of any issues you
are
> experiencing with the BG-E2 grips.
>
> Unfortunately, if the issue continues the units will require testing
> internally.
>
> There are two Canon Factories that service this unit.
>
> Factory information is:
>
> Canon Factory Service Center
> 100 Jamesburg Road
> Jamesburg, NJ. 08831
> Telephone Number: (732) 521-7007
>
> or
>
> Canon Factory Service Center
> 15955 Alton Parkway
> Irvine, CA. 92618
> Telephone Number: (949) 753-4200
>
> If the product is still within the warranty period, a copy of a valid
> Proof-of-Purchase (Sales Receipt) will be required for warranty
repairs.
> Check your product warranty card for specific information.
> We suggest that the products be forwarded, properly packaged and
insured
> with a letter describing the difficulties (including your name,
address
> and telephone number). Your equipment will be examined and you will
be
> advised of the findings.
>
> Thank you for choosing Canon.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Todd
> Product Support Representative

Me:
--------------------------------
Unfortunately,

I can not afford to be without the grips for the period of time that
it would take for you to repair it. Furthermore, I have no guarantee
that this will be properly repaired by you. I have implemented my own
method of overcoming the poor design of this product. The point of my
e-mail was simply to express my disappointment with your lack of
response to an issue that is widely known to exist with this product
from its inception. I waited to buy the product in hopes that you
would have corrected the problem by now but obviously your company's
attitude is to deny that there is a problem eventhough countless Canon
users have shown that there is a problem with this product. This is
not an isolated issue. Everyone that I know that has purchased this
product can replicate the problem every time.

Ovi

Canon:
-----------------------------
Dear Ovi Verona,

Your comments are noted and will be passed along to the appropriate
party.

Thank you for taking the time to write.

Sincerely,

Todd
Product Support Representative

[drisley]

Toogy,
I got it all straightened out. Yes, I am sending to Canon Canada for repair.
Oviv, it's good to know that you atleast got a response. I guess there isn't much more they can do than offer to fix yours. But, still, why haven't all the problems been remedied by now as you mentioned?

[tbfoto]

I called Canon today and was told that the grip is an "accessory" and therefor does NOT have any warranty. He said "it didn't come with a warranty card did it?" I then started tell the person that I am aware that they know of the problem and that they are in fact being repaired by Canon. After putting me on hold for a while he came back and told me to send it to them and it would be repaired for free. I am just blown away at the total disregard for their customers and they seem to be happy selling this poor product. So I guess now I have to spend another $10.00 getting it shipped back to them so that they can do what should have be done to begin with. Canon should know better!


Tom

[drisley]

What?! No warranty! That's crazy! I guess that is in fact why there is no warranty card.
Well, this is a defect, and I can't believe they would be that way.
And yes, that is the catch, the consumer, and the retailers, have to dole out extra money for shipping back every one of these defective units (which is still a lot).
The retailer I talked to has lost money on these grips because of the cost to ship out new ones almost every time. They said initially Canon wouldn't admit there was a problem, but when they had dozens and dozens to return, Canon finally took them back. They assured the retailer that this newest batch was fine. But guess what, Toogy and I both got defective units from this newest batch.

[tbfoto]

I heard that you can't tell by the serial number. However just for reference mine is 039xxx. It is junk!


Tom

[tbfoto]

I forgot to mention....after he came back from putting me on hold he asked me to give him the serial number of my 20D and asked when I bought it, then put me on hold again then came back and said it was ok to send the grip back to them. I just thought that was odd.

Tom

[elbirth]

he asked for the serial number of your 20D? Why should that, as well as when you bought the camera itself, matter about sending back the grip?

[drisley]

Hmmm, that is interesting. I had been wondering if the problem with the grip might be related to the cameras themselves. I have an early model 20D, from September. Perhaps it's something to do with the tripod mount.
There is no way in hell I'm sending my 20D to them for weeks. I would just return the grip I think.

[goldstrikn]

Hmmm, that is interesting. I had been wondering if the problem with the grip might be related to the cameras themselves. I have an early model 20D, from September. Perhaps it's something to do with the tripod mount.
There is no way in hell I'm sending my 20D to them for weeks. I would just return the grip I think.

How would you know the manufacture date?, I recently got mine, all I know from the bottom sticker is that is made in Japan, but no manufacture date, altough it shows the latest firmware 1.1.0, so I take it it is at least from this years batch. Care to share how to check for the manufacture date?

[drisley]

I'm not sure. All I know is I bought mine the first week or so that the 20D was available in September.

[Toogy]

For the record I got my 20D in December, and it had firmware 1.05 on it, so it is nothing to do with early model 20D's.

[drisley]

Good to know Toogy.

[elbirth]

yeah, that sounds a little comforting, I was beginning to wonder if my 20D would have been the cause of any issues I might see if/when I ever get a grip...
I got my 20D the first week in October, btw.

[retro]

Yes. I think the redesign may be just the matter of adding a washer or something to prevent disconnects. 2 camera stores I have talked to (camera canada being one) have confirmed this. The third store I talked to had no idea there was any problem.
As far as the AA battery thing is concerned, I think that was more of a marketing gimmic. It had to be since I haven't heard anybody getting more than 3 shots with AA's.

I only read through 3 pages of this thread, but has anyone noticed that when you have 2 fully charged batteries in the grip it still only shows half charged at best? I have not had any power downs or extremely premature battery drains, but this strikes as a pain the a....nkle.

[defordphoto]

I have never had the misreading of the batteries on my 20D.

[retro]

My bad. I have only had this camera for about 2 weeks with a grip and I must not have had fully charged batteries all along. I charged both over dinner and it is reading full again. Whew.

[goldstrikn]

I received my grip, and man..I love it. The camera became way heavy but it has the pro feel and is egornamically sound. I have done the test to make it turn off by pulling it from the right, and you're right as few experiencing this, it does turn off. But in reality will this type of movement ever be an issue? You would have to deliberately force it to shut down doing the pulling method, other than that I don't see it going out on any normal or harsh situation.

On the other hand (here's my negative opinion), placing one BP-511 battery does seem to have a misread, it shuts off after a few shots (10 shots), so I troubleshoot it and found that I need to have both slots with the batteries to have a correct battery reading. I shot for almost a minute straight, mess around with the menus, played with the viewing pictures, and it still showing a full charge, so this is great. By the way I am using BP-511 and BP-511a different type of battery models, and they work without showing battery rundowns. Overall I am happy with this grip.

[drisley]

I have done the test to make it turn off by pulling it from the right, and you're right as few experiencing this, it does turn off. But in reality will this type of movement ever be an issue?

That is what I initially thought... until I attached my 420EX flash. With that extra weight, any sudden movement while holding the camera by the grip would cause a quick disconnect of power. If I had images in the cameras buffer at the time, it would mean "bye-bye" images. Totally unacceptable and that is why I sent it to Canon for servicing. That's $16 in shipping gone :mad:

As far as the battery reading, mine worked fine with 2 batteries, but I never thought about trying with just one battery. If that caused a problem, I would be pretty upset about that too, and back it would go (more shipping costs down the tubes).

[goldstrikn]

That is what I initially thought... until I attached my 420EX flash. With that extra weight, any sudden movement while holding the camera by the grip would cause a quick disconnect of power. :mad:

As far as the battery reading, mine worked fine with 2 batteries, but I never thought about trying with just one battery. If that caused a problem, I would be pretty upset about that too, and back it would go (more shipping costs down the tubes).

I can see where you are coming from. I won't be getting my flash for a few months, so it maybe something to look forward to ;)

Personally I wouldn't send it for repair for the battery issue, at least is not bugging me at the moment, but if you think about One of the purposes of getting the grip is to have a long constant power, so it makes sense to always have two batteries to begin with. But if you strictly bought the Grip for portrait shooting and plan to use only 1 battery then I will be pissed.

[rfreschner]

On the other hand (here's my negative opinion), placing one BP-511 battery does seem to have a misread, it shuts off after a few shots (10 shots), so I troubleshoot it and found that I need to have both slots with the batteries to have a correct battery reading.

I haven't noticed this issue with mine at all - I just have one battery at the moment. I'll keep playing with it and see what happens.

[defordphoto]

Canon will fix these for free.

[drisley]

One advantage to using only 1 battery at a time is slightly less weight.
Another is that it allows you to keep track of which battery needs charging.
RFM you are right about Canon fixing for free, but the shipping costs kind of suck ($16 for me).

[elbirth]

yeah, shipping it back to get it fixed is going to be annoying anyway... we should have a product that works already, not something we buy, send in and get back in working order

[rfreschner]

we should have a product that works already, not something we buy, send in and get back in working order

Agree. I guess that will only happen if enough people send them back to the place they bought them if they have an issue and the retailers then exert the pressure on Canon.

[defordphoto]

Bad designs happen. At least they're making good on it and taking care of their customers.

[rfreschner]

Bad designs happen. At least they're making good on it and taking care of their customers.

True, but they could also take care of it by providing a way to send it in postage paid, especially considering the amount one's already spent on it. Other companies I've dealt with have paid the freight when they realize their product is defective.

[drisley]

Agree. I guess that will only happen if enough people send them back to the place they bought them if they have an issue and the retailers then exert the pressure on Canon.
The company I dealt with said that is exactly what happened to them.
They starting recieving back defective BG-E2's by the buttload, and Canon refused to take them back saying there was no problem. FINALLY, after many months, and much lost $ for the retailer, Canon took them back and issued new "fixed" grips. However, both Toogy and I received a grip from this "new" batch, and it still isn't fixed. Plus the retailer says they are still receiving just as many returned BG-E2's as before.
Only the Canon service people seem to admit there is a problem.
As far as exerting pressure on Canon, I asked the retailer about that. They said "no way, we have to be nice to Canon because we want to become a Canon Pro Retailer". I'm sure it's the same with many other stores, and those who are already Canon Pro rated are probably scared to lose that rating.

[rfreschner]

Too bad. In this day and age, doing the right thing is the easiest way to make your customers happy in a highly competitive marketplace. Canon should try taking lessons from Honda.

[defordphoto]

True, but they could also take care of it by providing a way to send it in postage paid, especially considering the amount one's already spent on it. Other companies I've dealt with have paid the freight when they realize their product is defective.

Some do some don't. Canon doesn't. You pay shipping one way on ALL warranty repairs with Canon.

[CoolToolGuy]

Too bad. In this day and age, doing the right thing is the easiest way to make your customers happy in a highly competitive marketplace. Canon should try taking lessons from Honda.

Are you saying that Honda will pay for your gas and travel costs to get the vehicle to the service center? I don't think so - Every warranty or recall I've had to have done still requires me to get it there at my cost. At least Canon pays the freight one way.

My 2 cents.

Have Fun,

[drisley]

Since this is a known defect (admitted by Canon service) with a "quick and easy" fix, they should fix this in the factory, and not make the customer pay additional $$ to ship an already expensive product, not to mention the weeks without said product.
Oh well, if I get my grip back, fixed, in decent time (before my next bb show in 4 weeks) I will forgive them. I've been lucky enough to have all my other equipment from them be perfectly flawless so far, even my early model 20D :) (knock on L lens).

[dng]

ive just read the two threads regarding the BG-E2 grip and found out that i also have this problem, how crappy. I called Canon Canada and they told me to bring it to there Mississauga Headquarters and they would have a look at my grip and camera.

[drisley]

DNG, let us know how you make out with it.
I will keep everybody informed of my situation.

[jpsimon]

i just ordered the grip last night, ill let you guys know how it is when i get it!

[rfreschner]

Are you saying that Honda will pay for your gas and travel costs to get the vehicle to the service center? I don't think so - Every warranty or recall I've had to have done still requires me to get it there at my cost. At least Canon pays the freight one way.

My 2 cents.

Have Fun,

Maybe not pay for the fuel, but they will give you a free car wash for your trouble! :D

I do understand and have no problem paying postage for warranty repairs under most circumstances. Where I think the company should pay is when it's broken right out of the box, which seems to be the issue with the grip. Either you get a good one or a bad one. Hopefully, mine's a good one!