Who invented the camera lens?

Lens Error with Canon Powershot S3 IS Camera?

• I have a Canon Powershot S3 IS Camera that is giving me a Lens Error. I've already done a fair amount of research online and this is apparently a common and infamous problem with this model. However, my specific issue doesn't seem to match most of the other problems/solutions offered online. First, there doesn't seem to be anything actually wrong with the motor or blockage in lens at all. In shooting mode, the lens will extend just fine, the zoom works without any problems and the camera takes perfect pictures. However, in playback mode, the lens will fully extend, then close again and "Lens Error, Restart Camera' will appear on the screen. This same error has also started occurring at odd times. For example: If I remove and replace the batteries, the camera will randomly turn on and give me this error message. Previously, it would not turn on at all unless I used the 'on' button. This same thing happens if I remove and then replace the memory card. I can also no longer plug my camera directly into my computer with the USB cable. This was previously my standard method for transferring photos from the camera to the computer. When I plug it in now, it turns on, the lens fully extends then retracts and it gives me the 'Lens Error, Restart Camera' error. There is no reason the lens should extend at all for this, but now it does it automatically and will not allow me to access the memory card at all. Fortunately, my newest laptop has a memory card port. So I am still able to access the files on the card by fully removing it from the camera and plugging it directly into the laptop. I have already done the tricks of removing the batteries completely for a minute to 'reset' the camera, and using canned air around the lens. I have not gone so far as to take the camera apart yet as I suspect that wouldn't be the right solution. This seems to be more of a computer glitch than a physical problem. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

• Answer:

  This camera is like 8-something years old. The newest version of the S3 is called the SX40. Buy it and that'll fix your problems.