A little more than a month ago, I lamented my Konica Maxxum 7D because it began showing blank screens after each shot. The first-frame-black (FFB) and aperture magnet failure are well-known fatal defects with the 7D and Maxxum 7 film cameras. Thus, when my camera showed black frames, I mourned it appropriately, then consigned it to the shelf. About three weeks ago, I read a post on the Minolta Collectors Facebook group where a member recounted his 7D behaving just as mine had. However, he revived his camera by charging the internal battery using the 7D power cable that came with the camera.
The 7D was released in 2003 and did not sell in huge quantities, so power cords are scarce. My 7D came from a Goodwill auction, so finding a power cord from 23 years ago seemed like a lost cause. However, gear archaeology has taught me that many expeditions can succeed. In this case, I found a seller who insisted that he had a 7D-compatible power cord. Even better, it was less than 20 bucks!
Following the procedure found on the Facebook group. I plugged the power cord into the 7D and let it charge. Simultaneously, I charged my only 7D battery. A few hours later, hoping for the best, I disconnected the power cord, attached a lens, and took a few shots. The camera worked as before!!!
From the Facebook discussion, I learned that the internal battery has to be charged for proper functioning. It seems my external battery is too weak to charge the internal battery, even when the external battery is fully charged. I wonder how many 7D owners assumed their 7D’s black frames were a fatal fault when all that was required was a fully charged internal battery.
Another interesting finding is that every-frame-black and FFB are apparently two separate issues. My Maxxum 5D has had the FFB issue since I’ve had it. When a black frame appears, I turn the camera off and on, and after a few cycles, the 5D will take a few frames before the issue reappears. Charging the 5D with the power cord did not resolve the FFB issue. Here are a couple of shots using the AF 10omm f/2.8 macro lens.
My Maxxum 7D is back in action! Live and learn…
I wish every camera issue was a simple yet overlooked solution! Glad to hear your 7D rides again
Thanks! Yeah, if only things could always be that simple.