Camera complains of empty batteries when they are new

[lunchbox]

My latest cheapo Kodak has just gone the same way as my previous Nikon. Both complained of no battery regardless of wether the batteries were new or not, both after around 10 months. Shame...as they took good pictures for the price.

The problem almost seems software based...is there any way to flash the camera firmware or something?

[gingerpaul]

I've got a little Sony camera that started doing that. It's about 4 or 5 years old but it was brilliant as a camera for taking to parties. It takes about 10 pictures on a fresh pair of batteries and then won't work again. Like you, I suspect it's just a software thing.

[BigMansZetec]

The other day I noticed that my new cheapy compact (Samsung) has the option of selecting what type of batteries you are using, Alkaline or Ni-mh. Not sure if your camera has that option, but could make a difference if you are on the wrong setting?

Just an idea.