Canon PowerShot SD500 7.1MP Digital ELPH Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the Canon PowerShot SD500 7.1MP Digital ELPH Camera. This compact digital camera features a 7.1-megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, and a 2.0-inch LCD display. It is designed for capturing high-quality still images and video clips. Please read this manual thoroughly to understand the camera's functions and ensure proper use.

2. Initial Setup

2.1. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital Camera
• Lithium-Ion NB-3L Battery
• Battery Charger
• SD Memory Card
• USB Cable
• A/V Cables
• Wrist Strap
• Software CD

2.2. Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

The camera uses a Lithium-Ion NB-3L battery and stores images on an SD/MMC memory card.

1. Locate the battery/card compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
2. Slide the cover release latch and open the cover.
3. Insert the battery with the contacts facing the correct direction, as indicated inside the compartment. Push until it clicks into place.
4. Insert the SD memory card into the designated slot until it clicks.
5. Close the compartment cover securely.

Figure 2.2.1: Bottom view of the Canon PowerShot SD500 camera, illustrating the battery and SD card compartment cover. The cover has a latch for opening and closing, and a tripod mount is also visible.

2.3. Charging the Battery

Before first use, fully charge the battery using the supplied charger.

1. Insert the battery into the battery charger.
2. Plug the charger into a power outlet.
3. The charging indicator light will show the charging status. Once charging is complete, remove the battery.

2.4. Attaching the Wrist Strap

Attach the wrist strap to the camera to prevent accidental drops.

1. Thread the thin end of the wrist strap through the strap mount on the side of the camera.
2. Pass the larger end of the strap through the loop you just created and pull tight.

3. Operating the Camera

3.1. Powering On/Off

To turn the camera on or off, press the ON/OFF button located on the top of the camera.

Figure 3.1.1: Top view of the Canon PowerShot SD500, highlighting the ON/OFF button and the shutter button with the zoom lever.

3.2. Basic Photography

Figure 3.2.1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot SD500 camera, displaying the lens, flash, and viewfinder.

1. Select a Shooting Mode: Use the mode dial (if present, or navigate via menu) to select your desired shooting mode (e.g., Auto, Manual, Special Scene).
2. Frame Your Shot: Use the 2.0-inch LCD screen or the optical viewfinder to compose your image.
3. Zoom: Use the zoom lever around the shutter button to adjust the 3x optical zoom.
4. Focus: Press the shutter button halfway down to allow the camera to focus. The autofocus system will use 9 points to achieve focus.
5. Capture: Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.

3.3. Advanced Shooting Features

The PowerShot SD500 offers various features to enhance your photography:

• My Colors: Access this menu to apply creative color effects before capture. Options include:
  • Color Accent: Select one color to remain in the image, converting all other colors to monochrome.
  • Color Swap: Exchange two selected colors within the image.
  • Positive Film: Enhances blues, greens, and reds for a vivid, rich look.
• Special Scene Modes: Choose from 9 preset modes like Portrait, Snow, and Beach for optimized settings in specific environments.
• Stitch Assist: For creating panoramic images, this mode helps align multiple shots.
• Flash: The built-in flash has 6 modes, including Auto and Red-eye Reduction, with a range of up to 4.8 meters (at ISO Auto).
• Continuous Shooting: Capture approximately 2 shots per second.

3.4. Recording Movies

The camera can record high-quality video clips.

• Record VGA (640x480) video at 30 frames per second (fps) with audio.
• Record up to one minute at 60 fps for smooth slow-motion playback.
• Digital zoom is available during video recording.
• For email-friendly clips, use 'Compact' mode to record up to 3 minutes of 15 fps, 160x120 resolution files.

3.5. Reviewing and Managing Images

Figure 3.5.1: Back view of the Canon PowerShot SD500, featuring the 2.0-inch LCD screen and various control buttons, including the Function/Set button and menu navigation.

To review your captured images and videos:

• Press the Playback button (often indicated by a play icon).
• Use the directional buttons to navigate through your photos and videos.
• The JUMP function allows for faster navigation through many images.
• Images taken vertically will automatically rotate for correct viewing.
• The QuickBright function can temporarily increase LCD brightness for outdoor viewing.

3.6. Printing and Sharing

The PowerShot SD500 supports direct printing and easy file transfer.

• PictBridge: Connect the camera directly to a PictBridge-compatible printer using the USB cable to print photos without a computer.
• Print/Share Button: Use this button for one-touch uploading to a computer (Windows or Mac) or direct printing.
• Software: The camera comes with software like ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac) for viewing, managing, and archiving images. PhotoStitch and PhotoRecord are also included.

4. Maintenance

4.1. Cleaning the Camera

• Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water.
• Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth. Avoid touching the lens with your fingers.
• LCD Screen: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.

4.2. Battery Care

• Always use the genuine Canon battery and charger.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

4.3. Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area, preferably in a protective case.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Canon PowerShot SD500, refer to the following common solutions:

6. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital ELPH Camera:

• Effective Still Resolution: 7.1 Megapixels
• Optical Zoom: 3x
• Digital Zoom: 4x
• Lens: 37-111mm (35mm equivalent), f/2.8-f/4.0
• Image Sensor: 1/1.8-inch CCD
• Image Processor: DIGIC II
• LCD Screen: 2.0-inch TFT color LCD, 118,000 pixels
• Storage Media: SD/MMC Card
• File Formats: JPEG, RAW (for stills), MPEG-4 (for video), WAV (for audio)
• Video Resolution: 640x480 at 30 fps, 320x240 with audio, 160x120 at 15 fps (Compact mode)
• ISO Sensitivity: Expanded ISO Minimum 50, Expanded ISO Maximum 400
• Shutter Speed: 15 seconds to 1/2000 seconds
• Flash: Built-in, 6 modes, range up to 4.8 meters (ISO Auto)
• Connectivity: USB 2.0 High-Speed, A/V Out
• Battery: Lithium-Ion NB-3L
• Dimensions (approx.): 2.24 inches (H) x 1 inch (W) x 3.33 inches (L)
• Weight (approx.): 7.04 ounces
• Special Features: Orientation Sensor, My Colors, PictBridge support

7. Warranty and Support

7.1. Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or warranty information, please contact Canon customer support. Refer to the documentation included with your product for specific contact details or visit the official Canon website.

7.2. Software and Online Resources

Your camera includes a software package to help manage your photos and videos:

• ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) / ImageBrowser (Mac): For viewing, organizing, and archiving images.
• PhotoStitch: For combining multiple images into panoramas.
• PhotoRecord: For printing and layout options.
• ArcSoft PhotoStudio: For photo editing.
• Canon iMAGE Gateway: Register your camera to access 100MB of online storage space for sharing photos and videos. You can also download custom camera functions like shutter sounds and startup images.

Please note that due to ongoing hardware and software updates, compatibility with current or future computer systems, tablets, or phones cannot be guaranteed. Always check the latest compatibility information on the Canon support website.