Canon PowerShot A85 Digital Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Canon PowerShot A85 digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camera and retain it for future reference.

The Canon PowerShot A85 is a 4.0-megapixel digital camera featuring a 3x optical zoom lens, a 1.8-inch LCD monitor, and various shooting modes for versatile photography.

2. Camera Components

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot A85 digital camera. This image displays the camera's silver body, the central lens assembly with 'CANON ZOOM LENS 3x' marking, the built-in flash, and the 'PowerShot A85' branding on the grip. The '4.0 MEGA PIXELS' indicator is visible on the lower right.

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your camera:

• Lens: The optical element that captures light to form an image.
• Flash: Provides additional illumination in low-light conditions.
• LCD Monitor: A 1.8-inch color display for framing shots, reviewing images, and navigating menus.
• Control Buttons: Various buttons for menu navigation, playback, zoom, and other functions.
• Battery Compartment: Located on the side/bottom for inserting AA batteries.
• Memory Card Slot: For inserting a CompactFlash Type I memory card.
• USB Port: For connecting the camera to a computer.

3. Setup

3.1. Installing Batteries

1. Open the battery compartment cover, typically located on the side or bottom of the camera.
2. Insert four AA-size batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

3.2. Inserting a Memory Card

1. Open the memory card slot cover.
2. Insert a CompactFlash Type I memory card into the slot with the correct orientation until it clicks into place.
3. Close the memory card slot cover.

3.3. Initial Power On and Date/Time Setting

1. Press the power button to turn on the camera.
2. If prompted, set the date and time using the navigation buttons and confirm your selection. This ensures correct timestamping of your photos.

4. Operating the Camera

4.1. Basic Photography

1. Turn the mode dial to the AUTO mode for general point-and-shoot photography.
2. Frame your subject using the LCD monitor or the optical viewfinder.
3. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The camera will beep, and the focus frame will illuminate when focus is achieved.
4. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture.

4.2. Using Shooting Modes

The mode dial allows you to select various shooting modes for different scenarios:

• Automatic: Camera automatically sets optimal exposure and focus.
• Portrait: Blurs the background to make the subject stand out.
• Landscape: Ensures sharp focus for both near and distant subjects.
• Sports: Uses a faster shutter speed to capture moving subjects.
• Special Scene Modes: Includes settings for specific conditions like night scenes, indoor, or beach.

4.3. Zoom Function

Use the zoom lever (typically around the shutter button) to adjust the focal length:

• Optical Zoom (3x): Adjusts the lens physically for higher quality magnification.
• Digital Zoom (3.6x): Electronically magnifies the image, which may result in some loss of quality.

4.4. Flash Modes

Press the flash button to cycle through available flash modes:

• Auto: Flash fires automatically when needed.
• On: Flash fires with every shot.
• Off: Flash is disabled.
• Slow Synch: Combines flash with a slow shutter speed for balanced exposure in low light with background detail.

4.5. Movie Mode

The PowerShot A85 can record VGA-size (640x480) video at 10 frames per second, with a maximum recording time of 30 seconds per clip.

1. Turn the mode dial to the movie camera icon.
2. Press the shutter button to start recording.
3. Press the shutter button again to stop recording.

4.6. Reviewing Images and Videos

Press the playback button (usually indicated by a play icon) to view your captured photos and videos on the LCD monitor. Use the navigation buttons to scroll through your media.

4.7. Connecting to a Computer and Printing

Connect the camera to your computer using a USB cable. The camera should be recognized as a removable storage device, allowing you to transfer files. The camera also features a Print/Share button for direct printing to compatible Canon printers.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning the Camera

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens, use a lens brush or a blower to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and solution if necessary. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
• Clean the LCD monitor with a soft, dry cloth.

5.2. Battery Care

• Remove batteries when the camera will not be used for an extended period.
• Use high-quality alkaline or NiMH rechargeable AA batteries for optimal performance.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place.

5.3. Memory Card Handling

• Always format new memory cards in the camera before first use.
• Avoid removing the memory card while the camera is writing or reading data.
• Store memory cards in a protective case to prevent damage.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your camera, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Camera does not power on: Check if batteries are inserted correctly and fully charged. Try new batteries.
• "E18" error message: This error often indicates a lens malfunction. Try turning the camera off and on again. If the problem persists, contact Canon service.
• Poor image quality (noise, blur): Ensure adequate lighting. Use a tripod in low light. Check shooting mode settings. Clean the lens.
• Red-eye in photos: Use the red-eye reduction flash mode or adjust flash settings.
• Cannot transfer photos to computer: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected. Check if the camera is in the correct connection mode (refer to camera menu). Try restarting both camera and computer.
• Memory card error: Ensure the memory card is inserted correctly. Try formatting the card (this will erase all data). If the error persists, the card may be faulty.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product at the time of purchase or visit the official Canon website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region.

8.2. Customer Support

If you require further assistance, technical support, or service, please visit the official Canon support website or contact Canon customer service in your region. You can find contact details and FAQs on the Canon website.

Online Support: www.usa.canon.com/support