Sony DCR-HC40E faults

[barnabydog]

There is a battery fault that has been well documented on a USA based camcorder forum. In essence the unit discharges the battery when switched off, usually characterised by the memory stick lamp flashing. There are also other related issues, such as the mode change switch misbehaving.

I cannot find any reference to this fault on this forum - has anyone any experience of this? Is it a generic fault that is known to Sony UK?

Regards

 

[Peter Brereton]

Connections between the mode switches and the main circuit panel are made using flexible print. This consists of a flexible plastic base with “painted” tracks that carry current. Problems arise when these tracks shed microscopic conductive particles causing current to leak between adjacent tracks, this usually happens where there is contact between the “painted” tracks and other moving parts i.e. switches and socket connections. Manufacturers have implemented various changes to the design of this type of flexi-print to reduce the effect of this shedding but none seem to be 100% effective. This problem has been around for at least 10 years and seems to “flare up” on particular cameras such as the HC40.

Peter Brereton

 

[barnabydog]

It sounds like you are aware of the issue surrounding the HC40 - or are you speculating based on other similar faults?

 

[Peter Brereton]

The switch contact assembly is moulded into the cabinet, so it is very difficult to determine exactly where these conductive paths form, however measurement with a resistance meter proves that conductive pathways have formed between tracks. I don't believe that every Sony DCR-HC**E camcorder is prone to this fault, there may be other environmental factors involved in the formation of these conductive tracks such as humidity and static, and of course the amount of use.

Peter Brereton