Olympus SP-310 Problem

Question

I am having problems with my SP-310 Olympus Camera. When I power up the camera the amber and green led lights flicker and a "Battery Empty" error immediately appears in the LCD even with fresh batteries installed. Sometimes the lens will extend but most times it does not. No camera functions are available ie. picture taking/picture review/menu access etc. After a short time the camera beeps and shuts down. I have sent the Camera to Olympus for repair and they have supposedly done a "Firmware Upgrade" but when it was returned I am still having the same problems so I am reluctant to resend it for repair again. Any ideas as to what the problem may be
Thanks Lou