The HP Photosmart M417 is a 5.2-megapixel digital camera released by Hewlett-Packard in 2006. Most digital cameras will, at some point, function incorrectly or produce low quality images, and the M417 is no exception. Before sending the camera away for repair, try troubleshooting the M417, though, as you may be able to fix common issues with the camera.
Camera Does Not Take Pictures
There are several reasons why the M417 may not take a picture when you press the shutter button. First, make sure you are pressing the shutter button fully. When the shutter button is pressed halfway on the M417, the camera will focus on the subject and adjust the exposure. The sounds made by the camera during these functions can be confused with the sounds the camera makes when recording a picture. To ensure you have taken the picture, press the shutter halfway, allow the camera to focus, then press it fully to take the picture.
Next, check that the memory card has space for additional photographs. If you have taken a lot of pictures, particularly if they are at the highest quality, the memory card may be full. To free space on the card, delete any pictures you may not want or transfer them to a computer.
Finally, the M417 needs to recharge the flash and save the last picture taken to memory before another picture can be taken. Wait a few seconds for the flash to charge and to allow the camera to store the last picture taken.
Blurry Images
There are several reasons why your photographs may appear blurry when using the M417. First, check that the subject is well lit and, if needed, use the flash. Low light environments cause the camera to lengthen the exposure, making it more susceptible to camera shake. By adding additional light, including the flash, you shorten the exposure time and reduce the effects of camera shake.
Even if an environment is well lit, camera shake may create blurry photographs. In these instances, you should consider using a tripod or placing the camera on a steady surface. This will greatly reduce camera shake and the resulting blur in your photographs.
Camera Reset
You may find that the M417 does not respond to your commands even when the camera is receiving adequate power. In these instances you should reset the camera to the factory defaults to clear any errors in the camera. To reset the M417, make sure the camera's power is off. Remove the memory card from the memory card slot. Remove the batteries from the camera and disconnect any AC power supply. Let the camera sit for at least five seconds, and reinsert the batteries or connect the AC power. Turn on the camera and use the camera without the memory card. If the camera works without the memory card, reinsert the memory card and use the camera. If you get no response again, then you need to replace the memory card. Otherwise, the reset cleared the error and you can use the M417 normally.
Tags: memory card, camera shake, picture taken, shutter button, allow camera, card camera