Don N you might try one of these 2 tests to see if it helps if the new cams have the same problem.
1 - If you have any camera shops around you could try picking up a Neutral Density filter or filter gel and tape it in front of the lens. This will cut down the light passing through the lens. These filters are available in differant density ratings (5 I think)
2 - If you don't want to spend the money for the filter gel try to place a fine mesh black nylon screen up close in front of the lens. This should also reduce the light going into the lens and still give you an image.
The above is not a fix for the problem but more like a test. The electronic shutter can't respond to the incoming light is what i think is the problem and by reducing the light may make the electronic shutter work correctly.
Happy Holidays
(http://www.bdshost.com/X10/lpup.gif)---(http://www.bdshost.com/X10/lpup.gif)---(http://www.bdshost.com/X10/lpup.gif)---(http://www.bdshost.com/X10/lpup.gif)---(http://www.bdshost.com/X10/lpup.gif)----KDR