X5 problems

My X5 has developed a problem with memory cards. It will only recognize one card. If I try to insert a new card, memory card error comes up on the rear screen. I have checked the write protect switch etc, but whichever card I insert I get the error message. Any ideas anyone, please?

Michael

SD, SDHC or SDXC?

May be worth formatting a card in camera to see if that works.

The card that it recognises is an 8GB SDHC. The cards that I am trying are all SDHC 8GB. Illogical or what?

Are your new cards formatted to Fat32 or exfat?
8gb are best formatted to FAT32

FAT32

Have you checked all the memory cards on a computer? All OK and same folder structure?

Steve

Yes. I also reformatted the cards on computer. All worked OK on my K5. I even tried formatting on a K5 and then inserting in the X5. All rejected. As things currently stand I can save pics to the card that is in the X5 but if that fails, I will be left with a camera shaped doorstop!!

When all else fails, remove battery for a while, insert battery and try again. If that doesn't fix it, try a factory reset.

Did the problem start with the onset of hot, dry weather? If so, static electricity might be the cause. The user manual for my K3 says "In rare cases, the camera may not operate correctly due to static electricity. This can be remedied by taking the battery out and putting it back in again."

Good luck!

Steve

I have tried battery removal to no avail. This morning I examined the working SDHC card under a stereoscopic microscope to see if there were any obvious physical defects. I then compared the only working card with each that are indicating card error. Nothing obvious. I checked the problem cards for warping - negative. Cleaned the card contacts with alcohol. Still got the same problem.

So thanks everyone for all of the helpful advice. I am just resigned to using the X5 with the one and only acceptable card until that gives up the ghost.

Best wishes

Michael

Factory reset?

Steve

Steve
Yes! I tried that too. Still no change to the situation. I tried a card that works fine in my Olympus - nothing seems to work. I just cannot get my head around the fact that one card works yet none of the other cards do. I am not trying anything larger than 8 Gb!!!

Michael

All the above confirms why I so like this site. Question asked by someone who clearly knows his stuff but is 'stuck'. Various answers and insightful suggestions provided. I have no doubt there will be more. All done in a friendly, supportive way. (See first sentence.)

I had this problem with my K1 II. It needed a new circuit board. Hope this isn't your problem as it cost me £750 to have a new one. Best of luck.

Highly doubtful that parts still exist for the X5, I have emailed one possible camera repairer and am waiting for them to get back to me. If they quote £750 I think it might be cheaper to buy a new (hate to say it) non Pentax bridge cameras!!!