My cousin messaged me for help on his camera (which I have no experience with, much less camcorders). Anyway, I know this place is a great resource, and even if he can get repair suggestions, that'd help.

All I know is he says the viewfinder won't display anything, but the controls light up. He got this free from a friend who was well aware of the issue, just figured maybe he could get it fixed. I suggested maybe something's loose or need a resoldering in there, but I wouldn't touch it (no experience).

He lives in (Appleton) Wisconsin, if that's relevant to any repair suggestions.

Thank you!

Most probably, your friends camera has a faulty flatcable that feeds the viewfinder. Is repairable, but not cheap.