Cameras have different designs and features, but the underlying structure is similar. A stuck lens is a problem that can happen on most cameras. It is not specific to a Minolta Z3. Digital cameras with automatic focus can be prone to lens issues such as failure to retract. Fixing the lens requires you to troubleshoot the problem.
Reset the Camera
Setting the camera back to the factory defaults can sometimes cure odd little glitches. To do this, you need to remove the power source and the memory card. The battery compartment on the Z3 sits on the bottom side of the device. You will also find the slot for the memory card there. Once you open the door, remove both the batteries and card. Unplug the camera from the AC adapter as well. Leave all items out for a few minutes and then reassemble your camera. Turn it on and then off again to see if the lens retracts.
Batteries
Camera lenses that extend and retract automatically have a motor that requires power. Even if your camera turns on, the batteries may be too weak to work the motor. Installing a fresh set of batteries will boost the power. The Dimage Z3 takes four AA alkaline batteries. To ensure you get full power to the camera, replace all four at once. Once you have new batteries in place, turn the camera on to see if the lens retracts. If not, turn it off again. Powering down may trigger the lens to close. As an alternative, try plugging the AC adapter into the camera to power the motor.
Damaged Lens
The lens on a camera is sensitive to damage. If you have bumped or dropped the camera recently, examine the lens. The lens extension may appear crooked or out of place. This would indicate the lens has come off the track that moves it back and forth. If the lens appears out of place, grab it around the sides with your fingers and see if you can maneuver it back into position. Odds are that you will probably need to get service for your Minolta. There may be a crack or a piece broken that you cannot see.
Motor
The worse possible scenario is a burned-out motor. The Minolta Z3 is a mechanical device. As with all such devices, the parts can break down. If all other options fail, you'll have to take the camera in for service. A technician will be able to test the motor and determine if it needs replacing. A camera is a sensitive piece of equipment -- unless you are experienced at camera repair, trying to replace the motor on your own is not recommended.
Tags: camera sensitive, lens retracts, memory card, your camera
