Dear NG,

As far as I know, the older Canon Powershot models have had an issue
with CCD sensors. In Asia, a free service was available for these
Canon digicams. But unfortunately there is no such service for people
who own these cameras in Europe.

Because of high humidity in some parts of Asia, the CCD problem was
more of an issue. I live now in Germany, and I bought my Canon
Powershot A70 here. I had no problem with the CCD sensor until I
travelled a few times in Asia (Philippines, India and Thailand). In
Thailand I began experiencing blank or black screens but when I
returned to Germany the camera functioned  normally. But the problem
came again on my second asian trip and now its done for.

I'm not sure what Im supposed to do with it now! Is anyone here around
Germany who has had this problem and who has a suggestion for me? The
nearest big city to me which has a Canon representative is Munich. I
have read in some German forums that people were asked to pay for the
repair service.. I am thinking of opening the camera on my own and
repair the CCD myself, but before I do that I would like some
suggestions from here.

Sincerely,
Jose Capco