Dottymo,
1. When was the last time you used the machine for anything?
2. Have you tried unplugging the machine and then plugging it back in?
3. Is your foot pedal plug pushed in all the way?
4. My dealer is really good about walking me through issues...have you called yours?
5. Try the Yahoo! Janome 9700 group. Someone on there may have the answer.
Good luck?