Sigma SD9: Potential battery problems
By
Mike Tomkins
(Sunday, December 29, 2002 - 20:19 EST)
Sigma Japan has identified a problem with charge level detection on certain SD9 digital cameras.
The problem occurs only when using NiMH AA batteries; with a Lithium Ion CR-V3 disposable battery the camera will operate as normal. The fault lies in the battery 'tray' supplied with the cameras (the batteries are loaded into the tray, which is in turn inserted into the camera).
Cameras with serial numbers in the range of 1000251 - 1000425 may have faulty trays, which cause an incorrect reading of battery life remaining on NiMH batteries. It isn't yet clear whether the problem is confined to cameras sold in Japan only; none of Sigma's other websites currently have any information posted related to the matter. Our review unit was in this range, however it is quite possible that review units were taken from the production batch made for the Japanese market, so this doesn't necessarily confirm that the problem will affect US cameras. Once we receive confirmation either way, we'll update this item...
In Japan, the problem is being resolved by a straight swapout of the faulty battery trays. SD9 owners whose cameras are affected are asked to send their trays with postage payable by the recipient to Sigma's Tokyo office, and a new battery tray will then be sent back to the customer.
|
