Sharp VE-CG30U

My relatively new camera suddenly shut off (with lens still extended) while I was shooting, and won't turn back on even with new batteries or adapter. Still covered under parts warranty (but not labor). The service center said this is a fairly common problem with this camera. I have to pay like $30 to have shipped back and forth from service center and fixed under an additional $80 flat rate--over $100 to fix! Secondly, the software is not fully compatible with Windows 2000 or 98. The software is missing a USB driver: usbntmap.sys for Win 2000. According to on-line groups and Microsoft, this is also a common problem, and I found that it's not worth the hassle to try to fix. Sharp's software glitches can necessitate use of a (fortunately cheap) card reader to transfer photos to your computer. Sharp customer service claims that it's Microsoft's fault; however, the problem is unique to this camera model and appears to be Sharp's deficiency. Thirdly, the camera is very slow, it takes awhile to power it up and take photo. I had to get used to removing the lens cap before powering up, and, press the shutter button well before target enters the moment I want captured due to bad shutter lag. Viewfinder is not aligned very well with lens. Subject often moved on or blurred by time of actual "shutter release" (or image transfer to SD card). Also sucks up battery juice really quickly. I have to remember to always carry 4 AA (rechargeable) battery spares when using this camera. I thought I was getting a good deal at first, with its nice Canon zoom lens, 3.2 MP, lovely LCD, many accessories, and pro-features. But after it stopped working and all the hassle I go thru hauling around the spare batteries and camera (no neck strap), and investing in a memory card and rechargable battery kit, I am thinking about calling it a loss of $200. I feel that it may be better to invest in a more recognized manufacturer of digital still cameras (i.e., Canon, HP)-- apparently this is only 1 of 2 models that Sharp produced before giving up on the digital still camera market (but maintaining its devotion to camcorders).

lovely LCD, 3.2 MP, Canon zoom lens, accessories, price

defective and limited warranty, software glitch, battery sucker, shutter lag, viewfinder alignment

HP 320, Canon Powershot S20

Phone menu rather drawn out, but Sharp staff are friendly enough if a bit ignorant