Sigma UC Zoom 28-70 causes error

Recently, I accidentally left my camera bag in a field. It was gone by the time I realized it and went back. Among other things was the kit lens that I bought with the Rebel XT. Instead of replacing it with the same lens, I quickly bought a Sigma UC Zoom 28-70 lens on Ebay for a great price. Problem is, this lens causes an error in the camera, mainly in low light situations. It's practically unusable. Any ideas why this is happening and what I can do about it?

On another note, I've finally decided to purchase a 50mm fixed lens, and judging by what I've read here and elsewhere, the 1.4 is the one to get. Now I see that Canon is coming out with a 1.2 in November. Should I wait for it? How much do you suppose it will cost?

This is a great group. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

-Phyllis

Your Sigma lens probably needs to be rechipped. Sigma will rechip certain lenses for free, but I don't know if your particular lens is still serviced.
The 50mm f/1.2L will be retailing for $1,599: http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …SA&addedTroughT​ype=search

Thanks for the speedy reply.

> The 50mm f/1.2L will be retailing for $1,599

Ouch! Too bad my budget won't allow it. Pardon my ignorance, but can someone check the link below and let me know if this lens will work on my Digital Rebel? According to the post, it's for a film camera. Is this the 50mm lens I want?

http://cgi.ebay.com …em=160041746966​&rd=1&rd=1

-Phyllis

Get the Canon 50mm 1.4 for about $320.00 new or from the link.

It'll work. You might want to consider getting one new, however. B&H lists it for $295 after the current rebates. That way you get a full year's warranty.

Lani is correct. If it's an older Sigma lens it may not be able to be rechipped.

From the description ("mainly in low-light situations") this doesn't sound like the typical Sigma ERR 99; those usually happen when stopping down, not wide open, and I'm assuming that "low light" means he's trying to use it wide open.

Just from experience, I had an older film based Sigma 70-300 that wouldn't work wide open or on anything but the dreaded...............​GREEN SQUARE

Actually, I was mistaken about the "low-light situation" thing. The problem is exactly as you state. I called Sigma service, and the guy I spoke to was very knowledgeable about my lens. He explained how the shutter WILL work in low-light situations, but not in bright light, and the reasons why this is so. He also told me that my lens was manufactured in the 1980s and discontinued in the early 1990s. So, even though the lens is "brand new," it's quite old. Guess I should be glad it works in any kind of light!

I will take the consensus advice and opt for a new 50mm rather than buy the one on Ebay. Thanks again!

-Phyllis