Recent Feedback
Nikon D80. When I turn the camera on I am getting the blinking "ERR" message. If I try to shoot, there will be no focus at all, the "shutter" (I guess the mirror) will click as normal but there will be no photo. I've used the camera very little maybe under 500 exposures. Thanks, Bill
Optional Information: Make: Nikon Model: D80 Already Tried: I don't know of anything to try. I can see the mirror actually work when the lens is off-but no pictures.
Hello, I am Pete, and I'll be happy to assist with your question today.
The blinking "ERR" message usually indicates that there is a problem with the communication between the camera and the lens.
This is usually caused by some dirt or grease on either the camera or lens contacts.
Remove the lens and clean the lens contacts, then clean camera contacts and mount the lens back on the camera.
To clean the contacts, put some alcohol (ethanol) on dry, light-colored microfiber cloth, wrap it around your finger and gently wipe each lens contact in circular motion without touching the glass on the back of the lens.
OK-clean with what?
Alcohol (ethanol) - see above.
The contacts-on the body-is that the metal ring?
And what about the lens?
The contacts on the body are above the aperture - see here:
The contacts on the lens are in a similar location:
Got it the 7 small metallic squares just inside the aperture and those on the lens
Yep, thats them!
OK, I'll give it a try-if this doesn't work, guess it needs to go in for service eh?
Give them a good cleaning, then try taking some more shots. The “ERR” message on the camera should be gone.
If you do still get the ERR message, try a different lens in case the lens is faulty.
If you still experience the problem with a different lens, then the camera has a fault and will need to go in for service.
In 99% of cases, cleaning these contacts works.
OK Pete, many thanks. Have a great sunday.
You too. Have a great day!
Thanks for using JustAnswer :)
Oh btw what is a microfiber cloth?
It's a cleaning cloth made of tiny synthetic fibers - it's better to use one of these than a natural woolen or cotton cloth that will leave lint behind.
You can use any lint-free cloth, really.
And where would one find this cloth-camera store, super market?
Yes, any store should sell them, they are standard household cleaning cloths.
Got it, thanks again.
Glad I could help :)
Experience: 12+ years experience installing and repairing electronics.