[DarylChang]

Recently I can find a small black spot shown both when using the VF and the Live View. Having called the hotline for any possiblity leading to it and I was told it might be some dust and they will charge for $200 for cleaning.

I brought it to Sony in Mongkok in person. At there, I was told they will have to charge $200 for inspection, $200 for cleaning (but no guarantee if successful or not), and $500 for labour charge.

I puzzled if they should have to charge me for the labour charge while my camera is still under warranty which I bought it only in May, this year.

The staff left me a laminated price catalogue having shown all the charges above and leaving her seat for a while.

After turning back, she asked me once again if my camera has expired of it's warranty? I repeated again to her, "no"!

The labour charge will be waived, I was told after inspecting my sales invoice.

I'm new to the DSLR and Sony, too! However, I was using my camera carefully, changing lens indoor and keeping the gears in the electronic dry box which I bought a week after the camera did.

How can it be so easy to get "dust" in it?

Unwillingly, I left my camera for cleaning after paying the $200 for inspection, as I'm not too sure how the "dust" could lead to any serious consequence. The staff then print me a repair order and showing "STAINED FROM CCD". I asked the staff why it shows in this way? She said that the technician can find the CCD very dusty, and possibly scratches on it too! They will quote me the "cleaning" charge if any beyond the said $200 and leaving my camera to them for 4-6 working days.

Oh, no! What an experience!

[marcbee]

unlucky.. i just bought a550 too.... i think i need to take better care of it after reading ur post :(