This is how the viewfinder on my Sony DSC-F717 appeared after the CCD sensor failed. A substantial number of cameras using Sony CCD sensors manufactured between October, 2002, and March, 2004, have failed. If your camera viewfinder either looks as above or is blank after you turn it on, contact the maker about possible repair. The sensors of my F717 and V1 cameras failed several years ago. Sony replaced the sensors for free and both cameras continue to take great pictures.

For more information about the problem, I suggest you read www.dpreview.com/news/0510/05100701sony_ccds.asp.