Canon's PowerShot A510 compact digital camera combines the simplicity of a family-focused camera, a high resolution three megapixel image sensor and a powerful 4x optical zoom to produce pictures that you can be proud of with the image quality Canon is renowned for. Named for their use of AA batteries, Canon's A-series digital cameras offer comfortably placed controls and feature high image quality in order for consumers to capture, save and share images of meaningful memories, personal milestones and family functions.

Like its 4-megapixel big brother, the PowerShot A520, the PowerShot A510 is 13 percent smaller and 10 percent lighter than previous A-Series models, and is equipped with a longer 4.0x 35-140mm (35mm format equivalent) Canon optical zoom lens for sharp images. Even with its small size, the A520 and A510 sport a large 1.8-inch LCD screen for easy preview and review. It also includes Canon's exclusive DIGIC image processor for fast processing speed, excellent image quality, and crisp, vibrant colors. The camera requires only two AA batteries, while providing the same number of shots (300 with LCD screen on) as previous models that used four batteries, thanks to reductions in power consumption made possible by improvements in key components and circuit design.

The PowerShot A510 is equipped with a nine-point AiAF "Smart" autofocus system and 13 shooting modes. The standard shooting modes are Full Auto, Program, Manual, Shutter-priority, and Aperture-priority with additional modes including Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene, Fast Shutter, Slow Shutter, Special Scene, Stitch Assist and Movie. The Special Scene modes, which helps make it easy for beginners to achieve optimum results in many popular photo opportunities, has been enhanced with the addition of two new settings called Night Snapshot and Kids & Pets. The PowerShot A510 is also capable of recording movies with sound for up to three minutes per clip, making it perfect for capturing memories in motion.

Image quality is enhanced and improved as a result of Canon's proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) image processor. DIGIC combines the roles of image processing and camera function control into one chip, resulting in faster display and write times for each image and lower power consumption, which extends battery life. Moreover, because DIGIC technology was designed specifically for use in digital cameras it is also capable of handling JPEG compression and expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions.

The PowerShot A510 is compatible with a wide variety of optional accessories including supplementary wide-angle (WC-DC52), telephoto (TC-DC52A) and close-up lenses (52mm Close-up Lens 250D). These accessories enhance the new camera's versatility and make it easier to use in specialized applications such as real estate and insurance photography. An underwater housing, WP-DC60, is also available and can be used at depths up to 130 feet. The WP-DC60 housing is great for vacations at the beach, while skiing, or simply to help protect the camera from the elements. When you need more flash output power you can attach the optional High-Power Flash HF-DC1 which operates without need of a connecting cord.

Powershot A510 Features:

• 3 Megapixel CCD imager for up to 2048x1536 pixel images
• Postcard (1600x1200) mode with 3:2 ratio for making 4x6" prints
• 4x optical 35-140mm f/2.6-5.5 zoom, 3.6x digital zoom
• 1.8" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
• Advanced TTL AiAF 9-point autofocus system
• Program AE, Shutter-speed priority, Aperture priority and Manual modes
• Pre-programmed creative scene modes for beginners
• Movie mode w/sound, 640x480 for up to 30secs, 320x240 and 160x120 up to 3 minutes
• 1.9fps Continuous burst capture of Large/Fine images
• Evaluative metering on focus point, Center-weighted or Spot options
• Stitch Assist mode for perfect panoramas
• Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
• White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
• Orientation sensor that automatically detects vertical or horizontal shooting
• Low-light focus assist illuminator
• Light-guide zoom flash, angle changes with focal length
• Optional High-Power Flash HF-DC1
• Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/2000 second
• Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
• Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
• Built-in microphone and speaker
• Powered by two standard AA type batteries
• Direct print and PictBridge Compatible
• USB connectivity for PC and Mac
• Secure Digital memory cards, 16MB supplied

The PowerShot A510 will be in stores March 2005 for an estimated street price of $249.99. The digital camera kit includes a USB cable, audio and video cable, wrist strap, 16MB MultiMediaCard and two AA-size Alkaline batteries as well as the Canon Digital Camera Solution Disc Version 22, featuring the latest versions of Canon's powerful software and ArcSoft PhotoStudio.

Physical Views

The A510 compared to an average CD disc.

The 4-megapixel Powershot A520 and the Powershot A510.