Expert: John Oliverio - 9/9/2009

Question
Hello, my nikon d70 is displaying an error message on the top display screen (where the remaining buffer space should be) when i go to take a picture. it will not let be take a picture. it also displays it when i press any botton. do you have an idea of what might be the problem and possible ways to fix it? i've tried different cards, fresh batteries, under cam reset... and its out of warranty

Answer
Ronald,

Here are some things you could check:

-If you have a lens that has an aperture ring, make sure it is locked at its max aperture.
-Check for bent pins in the memory card slot.
-Clean contacts on lens and lens mount. A pencil eraser works great, just don't get any eraser bits in the camera.
-If you have a second lens, try it to make sure the first isn't the problem.
-Be sure lens is locking in place.
-Try shooting in program or manual so the flash doesn't want to pop up.  If the flash is bad and can't come up when it wants to, the camera will freeze.

If these things don't work, it is probably a mechanical or computer problem you won't be able to trouble shoot without test gear.  It will need to go to the shop.  I personally wouldn't suggest putting any money into a camera that old.  I know it doesn't seem that old, but for a digital camera it is.  But you could send it for an estimate to find out what it would cost.

John