I am having trouble with my Nikon D70. It will quite often think that the CF card is not formated when it is. I have replaced both cards and it still happens on both. It also will scramble the file names and make the file on the card unreadable without recovery software.

My question is do you think it is worth having Nikon look at it for possible repair?

The camera has been around the block quite a bit, and has served me well but I wonder if it is worth put the money into it or investing in a newer model (too many lenses and other options to switch brands). If I upgrade I would like to sell it but wouldn't consider it with the way it is working.

 

Hmm... my impression is that the problem may actually be with the CF cards, though you mentioned "both cards" so looks like the problem is not isolated with 1 particular card and that makes the camera itself a bit more suspect.

However, I still think it is more likely the cards are the problem. So let me ask you more about the "both cards" you mentioned. Are those 2 cards of roughly the same age and usage cycles? If 1 of them is brand stinking new and you formatted it fresh on your D70 and the scrambling still happened, then it points more to camera problem... you see what I am getting at? Hope this helps you troubleshoot.

 

Both cards are the same brand, age and about the same usage. They were replaced because the same problem was happening with the precious cards. Those cards were different brands and age. When I replaced the cards the problems continued to happen. As time goes by it seems to get worse.

This is why I suspect the camera.

 

Given that history... the camera memory card read/write components are very likely suspect. Since it's a D70, it must be of some years of age and out of warranty. If I was in such situation, I would do these:

- Check at some reputable local cameras shops for their idea on what kind of repair $ something like this will cost
- Check with Nikon (via web or 1-800 #) to ask them if a repair $ estimate can be made
- Check around for newer Nikon models and be rubbing my hands for a chance to shop and upgrade From a D70, if you are not thinking to go fullframe then the D90 or D300s would be great upgrade choice IMHO

 

Check for a bent pin in the camera where you insert the memory card this is the most common cause of these issues and one I have experienced myself.

 

On formatting, make sure you use the camera's format function, not a PC's. But I'll bet zzzippyy is right. Too many issues with two cards.

 

I checked the pins and they are pristine! I really want to upgrade but just hate to spend the money right now. I am going to give Nikon a call tomorrow and see what they say.

I have recovered the pictures from the card so nothing was lost but it is still a PITA.

 

A semi-random thought... have you done any firmware update?

 

Firmware is up to date. I talked to Nikon today and was informed that there is a technical bulletin out for a similar problem. I am sending it to them tomorrow. If that is the same problem they will fix it for free. If not they will check it over and give me the repair price.
In the mean time I have bought a Coolpix S8000 to use. I have family coming to town and I can't be without a camera.

 

good luck with the free repair! Keep us posted