Canon 7D Problem

My Canon 7D (not Mark II), purchased new February 2011, is exhibiting an intermittent problem in that it won't power up.

I think the problem is the switch in the battery compartment - the problem exists whether using a battery or the battery grip. If I can get the camera to power up, all works well.

I just shot video with it earlier this morning, but now it won't power up again.

I know the camera isn't worth sending to Canon for repair - anyone else experienced the problem and have a DIY fix?

Thanks,
Jim

Do you have several different batteries to try ?

Just one thing to check; but, it could be that either the battery terminals themselves are not gripping the little copper tabs in the battery socket(s) tight enough to make firm contact; or, one or the other or both has a film of residue that is preventing good contact.

You can get aerosol cans of electrical contact cleaner --- don't spray it in the camera, but, spray some on a Q-Tip or swab of sorts and use that to scrub the little copper contacts in both the camera and the grip.

Spray some on one of those strong "shop" paper towels and work it back and forth between the little contact clips on the battery --- shoe-shine style.

Does your grip have a battery cartridge or a big door where you insert the batteries ?