S5 IS flash won't fire

Hello everyone:
I just purchased an S5 IS and cannot get the flash to fire - before you ask, I have read (and reread) the manual) used the setting in the menu, used the flash button, reset back to defaults, etc .... is there anything else I can try before taking it back to the shop? Am I missing something?

Any help will be greatly appreciated by this noob to digital.

greyswan

Stupid question, but.... Did you pop up the flash? You have to do it manually. (sorry, I have to ask)

yep - as I said, I read the manual. So I guess it's defective.

Thanks for replying.
Greyswan

Sorry to hear (read) that!

At least you read the manual (a lot of people don't do it).

yep I think I'm one of the three people in the world who actually reads manuals and instructions -before using product! (I may get help for that...)

Cheers for trying, mate!
Greyswan

I know on my S5IS the pop up flash can take a bit to charge up the first time you're going to use it in any particular shoot. Have you popped up the flash, waited 10-15 seconds and then tried hitting the shutter?

I don't have one, but the only other thing I can think of it to try switching your focus mode. An slr won't fire a flash in ai servo (focus tracking). I am not sure if the S5IS has an equivalent to that, but it's worth checking and trying.

sorry to take so long answering - I only get online on the weekends.
Thanks to you both for your replies - I will try your suggestions and let you know what happens.

Cheers, Greyswan