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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Canon S2 IS battery problem
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Showing posts 26 - 49 of 49, (reverse)
AuthorThread
 11/24/2007 10:53:41 AM · #26
I tried resetting the count, but still get same behaviour. - not so smart for a camera just over 1.5yrs old.
worth a try though. I'll have to try a repair centre, see what they have to say.

Message edited by author 2007-11-24 10:54:16.
 12/15/2007 02:32:39 PM · #27
Hello,

I, too, am having the same problem with the Canon S2 IS, and for me, also, it occurred after the camera had been working fine for a long time.

My symptoms are exactly the same as the original poster (with the exception that the problem has not gone away). Unfortunately, I was at first convinced that my some of my NiMH rechargeables were at fault and I threw away some of them away.

I came to this conclusion because I put a multimeter on each battery, and, as has been suggested on this thread, the batteries were in different states of discharge. Some were fully charged, others were completely drained, and still others were very low.

After some experimentation (not yet complete), I decided that the camera may be doing this, so I stopped throwing away batteries (I threw away a fairly new set of 2650mAh batteries -- ouch!).

I'm going to do some more testing, and see if I can figure out a pattern. One guess I have is that the internal battery may not be holding its charge, and is therefore drawing down the current of one or more NiMH batteries to try to keep itself charged. This theory at least seems consistent with the pattern of the problem -- the camera works fine for the first year or more, then suddenly this problem occurs. Since it is the responsibility of the AA batteries to keep the internal battery charged, if it should begin to fail, this would make sense. I will need to investigate how to take this battery out and test it with the multimeter, or test it in place.

I will post anything new that I learn about this; hopefully if someone else has new information, they will post it.

Tom Friend
 12/15/2007 03:55:27 PM · #28
Well,

Some more information.

First, I found that the Date/Time battery is a replaceable lithium battery (CR1220), and so, at least in theory, does not drain the AA batteries. In my camera, this battery is currently very low, and I do not know if this might be a part of the problem. I will replace it when I can find a replacement (I'm in Buenos Aires, so it might take me a little while). This battery is managing to keep the date and time correctly, so I suppose that it should be considered a low probability for the moment.

Second, and more significantly, I discovered that the AA batteries that face down in my S2 IS have been drained significantly since yesterday, while the two batteries that face up have no significant discharge. I still have no idea why this is the case (yet, at least), but it must surely be related directly to the problem. It is probably why swapping the batteries around works for some, at least for a time.

By the way, I am not measuring voltage with the multimeter. I am measuring amperage. This is the number that must be measured to see the true drain of the battery.

It is still quite a mystery as to why this occurs suddenly, and after a significant period of ownership for everyone that reports this problem. It is reported widely across the net (along with dozens of useless suggestions for each report of this problem, making it difficult to try to find any real information).

I think it was on this thread that someone mentioned formatting the memory card having made a difference. Since some memory cards do consume current, maybe formatting or changing the memory card may make a difference.

There is no firmware update for the camera.

Since there are so few variables that can be altered, I suppose I will change the date/time battery and experiment with the memory card to see if I can come to any definite conclusions.

By the way, just taking out the date/time battery had the effect, in my case, not only of requiring me to reset the camera date and time, but it also caused the "replace memory card" message to appear; the camera had been operating just prior to doing this.

Tom Friend
 12/15/2007 04:18:49 PM · #29
Originally posted by gr8always:
I think the hint on this stupid problem occurs at 10K and 20K just gave me an idea to Toggle the file number reset option and voila it works. Please propogate this fix to Canon S2 IS lovers and mail those Canon programmers to fix it :-)


Did this not fix your problem?
 12/15/2007 05:47:26 PM · #30
Hello,

The notion of this problem occurring at every 10K photos taken seems unlikely, and in my case, it is impossible, as with this camera, I'm only at 3K photos taken.

But I want to ask you, when you say that "toggling the file number reset option" fixes the problem, what do you mean by that?

To be more specific:

1. Did it magically fix the problem for you immediately, instantly? Without changing or charging the batteries that you were using? (My measurements with the multimeter suggest that this is impossible, as battery drain is suddenly occurring and measurable.)
2. If you did replace the batteries, and then never encountered the problem again, were you encountering the problem frequently prior to that, just as the many posters here have described?
3. Have you received feedback from others confirming that doing this has truly fixed the problem for them?

Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to criticize you or shoot down your solution, and I will try it as one of the steps in my testing process, but it doesn't fit what is happening to me.

Separately ------------------------------------------------------

I noted in an earlier post that the date and time are kept by a lithium battery. However, I have since realized that the shooting settings can be saved, and I have not found any information about how the settings are saved, but removing the date/time battery resets the date/time, but the saved camera settings "stick." Given that a battery is used for date/time, one might expect that this same battery would also keep the camera settings, but this is obviously done in a different way. It is unlikely that the camera settings require power to maintain them, it is always a possibility, and could be indirectly causing the sudden battery drain that people are experiencing.

As the next step in my tests, I did a camera reset, as described in the manual. This seemed a good step at this point If something got "glitched" (including maybe this "number reset" option), a camera reset may help fix it.

The problem with doing these tests is that I usually have to wait one or two days for the camera to drain the batteries enough to see if what I tried worked.

For most tests, I need to do the tests one at a time, or, If I manage to get lucky and find the cause, I won't know which test was the one that fixed the problem.

Next things to try:

- Reformatting the memory card, since someone reported that this seems to have worked for that person. (The problem with this one is that I've been using the same memory card, without removal, reformatting, or other change, without any problem since long before the problem began.)
- Changing the memory card. (This has the same problem as above.)
- Toggling the "file number reset" option. (The problem with this is explained at the start of the post.)
- Changing the "Power Savings" setting in the camera. The manual states that when using this feature, the camera continues to use a small amount of power, even after it has shut the camera off. (The problem, again, is that I was using this setting -- and it is the default camera setting -- long before this problem began.)
- Changing the date/time battery, when I can find one. This, at least, with very low power, has the posibility of causing some type of change in the camera, even though there does not seem to be any obvious connection. Of course, if the solution to this problem was obvious, we would all know it.

Many people have described the exact same symptoms for this problem. The camera works perfectly for an extended period of time, and then suddenly, the camera quickly begins to lose power. My tests of the batteries show that indeed, the batteries are being drained -- two of them, the ones facing down. This argues against all of the "check the contacts" nonsense that everyone does right away anyway. This is a real problem. Hopefully we can find a real solution.

I listed all of these things to provide information, and to help myself keep a record of the things I've tried and the things I have yet to try.

I am trying to proceed in a scientific manner so that I have a reasonable chance to isolate this problem to a specific cause.

Tom Friend
 12/19/2007 01:23:25 PM · #31
Hello,

I have come up with a solution to this problem which has worked for me and at least one other person, so it is worth trying. I was posting information in the Canon forum on dpreview.com, where there is more traffic, but now that I've got something that has worked, I'm posting my solution here as well.

Following is copied from my post on dpreview.com:

--------------------------------------------------------------

My S2 IS has now been working for 2 days with a second set of batteries with which it had been failing (getting a "change batteries" message) before.

My camera now appears to be working normally again.

For those with an S2 IS who have the "change batteries" problem, try the following instructions. There is one other reported success following these instructions, so this solution works for at least some S2 IS cameras.

Please note an important addition from the steps listed in the "Progress Report" post. Someone created a thread because of a similar problem with an S5 IS. She noted that she tried the steps in the "Progress Report" post, and based on her description of what she tried, I realized that I omitted an important step. You must recharge the batteries or put in a freshly charged set of batteries as part of the process. (Thank you to FotoSteff for giving a detailed description of what you tried.)

Steps to try to correct the "change battery" problem with S2 IS camera:

1. Reset the camera, according to the instructions in the manual.
2. Remove the date/time battery for a minute.
3. Important: Insert freshly charged batteries into the camera.

Note:

It is likely that only step 1 or step 2, above, is required. However, both were done at the same time before retesting the camera, and the camera now works, so I cannot now narrow this down to one step or the other. Fortunately, however, both steps are simple and quick.

If anybody who has this problem with his/her S2 IS tries this solution, please post your results.

Thank you,

Tom Friend
 02/20/2008 12:10:51 PM · #32
I've had the same problem and was just about to toss the camera. I tried the reset/remove date/time batteries fix. I'll let you know if it works.
 02/24/2008 10:13:07 PM · #33
f-amazing. It worked!!!!

Thank you, Thank you Thank you!
 02/28/2008 09:07:19 AM · #34
I have been having the exact same problem for a couple of months now. Figured I would look into it before I tossed the camera. I have already ordered a DSLR, but will only have a basic lens for awhile, so it will be nice if I can get my old S2 working again, especially for the zoom capabilities.

I will let you know when I have tried the fix. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Amy
 03/16/2008 12:51:56 PM · #35
This worked for me: I just bought Rayovac Hybrid batteries and put them in.

Like the others, my S2IS had worked ok then suddenly gave a "change batteries" message about every 3 photos. I tried several different rechargeables in there before trying the Rayovac Hubrid [as recommended on another forum]. Now I have done 20 flash photos and still have not received the "change batteries" message.

Gary MN

Message edited by author 2008-03-16 12:53:37.
 05/02/2008 06:44:35 PM · #36
i tried to fix as you posted but it did not work
meanwhile i have found this:

after fixing it, i can test it again only tomorrow, when batteries are fully charged
 05/10/2008 11:53:23 AM · #37
i took so many pictures in the past week and batteries are still ready. Almost never happened before!

I must conclude that i patched my camera, the issue was on the battery door as posted above. I will put a tear of super-attack to keep the plate in order.

Message edited by author 2008-05-10 11:53:55.
 08/25/2008 12:04:02 AM · #38
I just found another 'solution' on dpreview that worked for me, at least for now, can't speak to longevity yet.
Go to view your pictures, go through a few of them left and right on the selector, then switch it to taking pics. batteries that would not work for 3 weeks suddenly came to life. I took 12 pics then put it away for the night. I'll let you know if this is any kind of long term solution.

Much thanks to Daniel aka 'danfok' on dpreview!
 10/24/2008 08:24:59 AM · #39
Hi. I've had the same problem for quite a while.. and just ignored it and simply didn't use the camera for a long time. Now, I started thinking of buying a new camera, but thought i'd check this problem before i do so.

One of you posted a solution that said:

1. Reset the camera, according to the instructions in the manual.
2. Remove the date/time battery for a minute.
3. Important: Insert freshly charged batteries into the camera.

I can't find the manual. Can you please tell me how to reset and how to remove the date/time battery? I don't know where it is. Thanks. And now that I think of it, is it possible the battery of the date/time is almost empty and that's why we get this message?
 10/24/2008 09:17:10 AM · #40
It's ok. I finally found the manual online:
//www.retrevo.com/support/Canon-S2-IS-Digital-Cameras-manual/id/200dj083/t/2/
02/09/2009 08:32:36 AM · #41
My sister had the same problem with canon A710 IS. And my girlfriend with canon A560...
Batteries are OK, card as well. I deleted all settings, date, picture counter, changed memory card,
changed batteries, cleaned batteries contact... and problem still exists.

It's look like common manufacturer fault...
 03/02/2009 11:49:57 AM · #42
Hi guys.

Few days ago i put into my camera just loaded batterries, these ones (but 2500 mAh):
//www.pentagram.eu/products/infinity_power/accumulators/pentagram_infinity_eternal_2000_aa

I made few photos and "Change battery" :-/
I bought brand new regular battery - and the same problem.

Looks like problem from this topic!

Is this hardware or software problem?

I want to read whole topic, but I'm not good in English...
Could somebody explain me in simple words - is any tried and true solution of our problem?
Did Canon knows about this bug?
 04/10/2009 03:19:47 AM · #43
Guys
I think I have resolved it.. I just removed the date time battery from my Camera.. took about 500 shots after that.. its perfectly fine..!
Please report if anyone else gets it resolved.
Cheers
Vivek
 04/15/2009 03:23:50 PM · #44
Like many of you here and on other forums as well, I have tried several things to resolve my battery drain issue on my Canon S2 IS. I tried brand new rechargeables (Rayovac Hybrids). Resetting the camera, pull the date/Time battery, etc. While on a recent trip, with a freshly charged set of batteries, I got the dreaded message. Then I remembered what one other poster had done, he slapped the camera, lens first (with the cover on), into the palm of his hand! Now this doesn't sound like an ideal way to treat a camera, but if you are considering replacing it anyway, what's the harm? So I did it, and it worked! I hit the switch and it powered up just fine!

So here's my theory: as the camera ages, the mechanical parts become less lubricated and the drain on the battery to extend the lens (and fire up all the other electronics) brings the batteries momentarily below the threshold allowed so the camera indicates it needs fresh batteries. Slapping it seems to jar something out of it's 'parked' (and perhaps slightly stuck) position. Allowing it to power up.

So, the questions is, how hard is too hard? I don't know exactly, for me it was somewhat less than trying to get Ketchup out of a bottle. By the way, the pictures I took look fine, I am concerend about the optics getting damaged by using this method. I'm thinking about seeing if a camera repair shop may be able to lube the lens mechanism.

Also, if you try CHDK, not only will you have improved camera abilities, it has a much more precise battery meter that provides some interesting clues as to what is going on with battery usage.
 05/11/2009 06:52:28 AM · #45
found a solution !!!

have a look at:

//coolgeekystuff.blogspot.com/2009/05/canon-s2-is-change-batteries-problem.html
07/16/2010 03:43:47 AM · #46
This has been hurting my head for 6 months, so many thanks to the guy who worked out this gremlin. Whilst the 4 x 2.6Ah AA NiMH batteries were recharging I removed the date / time cell, reassembled it all 2 hours later and WOW - it worked. That was 3 days and >200 shots ago, many with flash.

Wonderful fix - thanks again! Phil, Lincoln UK.
 02/20/2011 03:28:18 AM · #47
CHANGE or ROTATE AND CLEAN THE CLOCK BATTERY. We had the same exact issues. It had nothing to do with the type of AA's we used, even lithium batteries would last 10 pictures then mysteriously need replacing. My battery tester would sometimes show all my batteries as good or one as totally depleted. We almost bought a new camera. Then I read through these forums. Simple. The camera was fine, our rechargeable batteries were fine. It was just (for us) the contact with the clock battery. I have a new one as a spare in my camera case, along with my spare, trusty, light-weight lithium batteries as backups. I use my rechargeables just like I used to, not having to charge them before every use.
 04/26/2011 06:32:21 AM · #48
I have had this problem for years now. My camera ended up sitting in a drawer for the last two years without much use because of this silly change the battery message that kept popping up. Trying to prevent simply purchasing another came (as i really liked the photos this camera takes, they always turn out fantastic) I tried the suggestion of changing the clock battery and purchasing some Eneloop rechargable batteries (as suggested in the blog link above) ... so far so good.. it all seems to be working really well so far, with no message and i've used the camera on a few day trips now too.. all without the message popping up. I now have a spare lithium battery in my case, and i'm finding these Eneloop abtteries seem to hold the charge really well.

Give that solution a go if your having problems with this camera and the replace battery message. I also noticed int eh manual on the page about the clock batter it says "Please note that the first date battery may appear to expire relatively quickly after you purchase your camera. This is because it is installed in the camera at the point of manufacture, not when you make the purchase." (P166 in the manual) - I know my "change battery message" started about 5-6 months after getting the camera.. and has been intermittant since.. I wonder if the manufacturers lithium batter was a real elcheapo one and really didn't last. Perhaps in alter revisions they discovered this and simply upped hte quality of this battery? - It also mentions in the manual when this battery is low the date/time setting will keep popping up.. perhaps thats incorrect and it simply goes to the "change hte batteries" screen.

10/20/2011 09:53:24 PM · #49
Same change battery notification. I removed the coin battery and left it out. Works great now. No date or time, but otherwise functional.
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