A85 memory card error

Started up my brand new A85 with the CF card that came in the box and it reported a memory card error, formatting causes the camera to shut down with "E50" displayed on the screen.

I bought another CF card but the same problem still happens. Format menu indicates both cards have 3.8MB capacity (supplied is 32, other one is 12.

Pretty sure I've been sent a duff camera, but is there a chance I'm doing something clueless? I've read the "read me first" and sections about formatting CF cards in the manual but it doesn't suggest anything that I've done wrong. Also tried a reset by holding down the menu button for 5 seconds - doesn't solve the problem.

Thanks,
Ian

Sounds like the camera's broken.

Canon A85 CF Memory Card Error Fix

Hi guys,

I've experienced this problem with my beloved old camera and after a while realised, the problem CAN BE EASILY FIXED!

The problem is in a printed circuit-connector, which slipped out from its counterpart due to vibration, impacts or temperature changes.

All you need is a cross-shaped screwdriver and approx 30 minutes of time. The procedure is as follows:

(1)Remove the back lid. This involves removing the battery and the shutter cover, then by opening the rear cover from the bottom up (there are clicks on the top, be careful).
(2)Then you need to remove the front plastic cover. There are just ~3 or 4 screws. It goes easily out by popping out the battery side first, the flash-side follows easily.
(3)Consequently, remove the mode-chooser on the top of the camera (2 screws).

Now you can see the large printed circuit-film from the back. It is attached to the camera's body using little pins and holes, so you can carefuly unclick it from its position. I recommend starting from the bottom (where the two LED's (printer & disp) are) and proceed to the top. Very close to the shutter you realise the film is plugged into a connector – this is the source of the problem!. Don't be affraid to remove the film from the camera completely.

[At this moment, you can see one more very close to the metal sheet (the CF card casing). This ine seemed to be quite solid, so better not to touch it. You may try to push it a little bit in, but bettern don't try to disconnect this one.]

Then, straighten the connector side of the film and slide it carefully back into the connector. Be sure you don't break it, but also doublecheck it is in the correct hole! Followingly, place the entire circuit back onto the camera body onto the correct pins.

After mounting back the mode selector, front and back lid, you realise, your good old camera „magically“ WORKS AGAIN! Problem solved.

Hope this helps!

Ibisek, CZ