I dropped my Sony Cyber-Shot and it didn't seem to have any damages since the camera turned on. However, the camera lens appears to be stuck; it does not extend or even open--not even when I put it in picture mode. Does someone know how to fix this problem without having to resort to a technician? They are too expensive and my camera is out of warranty...

Bella, January 2009

The camera's lens is bad and should be replaced. The part can be purchased off ebay sometimes. Your broken camera can be sold on Ebay for about $75. There's take it apart photos at

http://fastfixit.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=2&p=31#p31

or

http://fastfixit.com to view the entire forum.

I have heard forcing the lens can realign it or unbind it, so that it retracts easily, but use as last resort.

chinaman4u, January 2009

Sorry cant help, I have exactly the same problem with my DSC H1 and I never even dropped the camera. I think perhaps it may be a common fault with Sony cameras. I am coming to the conclusion that it is no longer worth buying new cameras or camcorders as they seem to have such short lifespans!

Ian, January 2009