Lens on DSC-W1 doesn't retract makes noise & screen says turn on & off. It doesn't do nothing.

Lens is out of alignment slightly. Was it dropped recently? If you aren't able to clear the error, you can try gently, and I do mean GENTLY pushing against the lens with the PALM of your hand as you turn it on, it may cause it to depress back into the camera and reset. If that doesn't work, and you can't reset it or turn it on/off several times, then you may have to send it in for a repair estimate.

Be advised, however, that if it's out of warranty, it may cost more to repair than it is really worth. The rule of thumb is that if the estimate for repair is north of 50% what you paid for it, you're better off taking that money and buying a newer and upgraded model.

Also check your batteries for being underpowered or near dead.

Thanks James. I noticed the lens is slightly out of alignment. I tried your sugestion but it didn't work. A relative of mine dropped the camera. I know that the lens can be removed to be able to put a VAD-WA lens adaptor to install a telephoto lens. If I can remove the lens, maybe I can solve the problem. My next step will be to get the repair manual before I buy another camera. I would appreciate if there is a repair manual that I can use.
Thanks a Million!

I had the same problem. The lens would not retract and turning the power off and back on didn't help. I tried pushing gently on the lens as I turned the camera on. After a couple of trys, the camera functioned normally. Thanks

I had at the same problem has B.Pack. Persistant pushing and turning off/on worked.

Everything you need to repair your DSC-W1 (W12) camera and to clean the CCD (the original Sony repair manual + many other documents and instructions regarding the DSC-W1_W12):

http://d.turboupload.com/de/1803136/vk01w2c77h.html

The password is " Sonysucks! " (pay attention to the " S " and the " ! ")

...good job,

Hal9000