[melliandra]

For some reason my digital camera has developed a weird problem.
It is only allowing me to take 1 picture before telling me that the batteries need replacing.
I have changed the batteries, tried rechargeable, ordinary duracells, same problem.
I have owned and used this camera for the past couple of years with no problems at all, the batteries lasted ages.
Anyone have any ideas before I commend the damned thing to the dustbin?
It's a Canon Powershot A40
I just tried taking out the memory card and now it wont even switch on.
Memory card put back in camera and still no life at all from the camera.

[slipe]

The contacts could be corroded. Clean the contacts inside the battery door and try to get inside with a pencil eraser and clean the contacts inside.

If that doesn’t help I would glue some fine sandpaper or emery cloth to the tip of the eraser and try that before discarding the camera.

[briealeida]

Try taking it to a camera repair shop or calling the manufacturer. They can give you an estimate (usually for free).