1. Getting Started: Camera Setup
1.1. Battery and Memory Card Installation
Before using your camera, ensure the battery is charged and a memory card is inserted. The camera uses an NB-5L rechargeable lithium-ion battery and supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.
- Open the battery/card compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert the battery with the contacts facing as shown in the diagram, pushing until it clicks into place.
- Insert the memory card with the label facing the back of the camera until it clicks.
- Close the compartment cover securely.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS camera. The battery and memory card compartment is located on the bottom.
1.2. Initial Power On and Basic Settings
After installing the battery and memory card, power on the camera and set the date and time.
- Press the ON/OFF button located on the top of the camera.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to set the date, time, and time zone. Use the directional buttons and FUNC./SET button to navigate and confirm selections.
2. Operating Your Camera
2.1. Basic Photography Modes
The mode dial on the back of the camera allows you to select various shooting modes. Rotate the dial to choose your desired mode.
Figure 2.1: Back view of the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS camera, highlighting the mode dial on the right.
- Smart AUTO (Auto Mode): The camera automatically detects the scene and selects optimal settings from 32 predefined situations. Ideal for point-and-shoot simplicity.
- P (Program AE): Allows access to advanced exposure compensation features while the camera mostly handles automatic settings.
- Av (Aperture-priority AE): You set the aperture to control depth of field, and the camera selects the appropriate shutter speed.
- Tv (Shutter-priority AE): You set the shutter speed to control motion blur, and the camera finds the appropriate aperture.
2.2. Video Recording
The PowerShot SX230 HS can record Full HD 1080p videos with stereo sound. A dedicated movie button simplifies recording.
- To start recording, press the dedicated Movie Button (red dot icon) on the back of the camera.
- Press the button again to stop recording.
- The camera supports optical zoom during video recording. Dynamic IS (Image Stabilization) helps keep footage steady.
2.3. Zoom and Image Stabilization
The camera features a 14x optical zoom lens and Optical Image Stabilizer (IS) for clear images across various focal lengths.
- Use the zoom lever around the shutter button to zoom in (T) or out (W).
- The Optical Image Stabilizer automatically compensates for camera shake, especially useful at longer zoom settings or in low light.
2.4. Special Shooting Modes and Effects
Explore various creative modes and effects available through the mode dial or the FUNC./SET menu.
- Movie Digest Mode: Records a short video clip before each still image and compiles them into a daily video.
- Portrait: Blurs the background to emphasize the subject.
- Kids & Pets: Optimizes settings to capture fast-moving subjects.
- Smart Shutter: Automatically takes a photo when a smile, wink, or new face is detected.
- High-speed Burst: Captures a rapid sequence of photos.
- Toy Camera Effect: Simulates photos taken with a toy or pinhole camera, adding vignetting and contrast.
- Monochrome: Offers Black-and-White, Sepia, or Blue single-tone effects.
- Miniature Effect: Applies a blur to the top and bottom of the image or video, creating a diorama-like effect.
- GPS: Records location data for photos and videos.
3. Maintenance
3.1. Cleaning the Camera
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
- For the lens, use a lens brush or blower to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning solution if necessary. Avoid touching the lens surface directly.
- Clean the LCD screen with a soft, dry cloth.
3.2. Storage
When not in use, store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove the battery if storing for extended periods.
4. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your PowerShot SX230 HS.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. | Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted. Check if the battery contacts are clean. |
| Images are blurry. | Check focus settings. Ensure Optical Image Stabilizer is active. Use a faster shutter speed or tripod in low light. |
| Memory card error. | Reinsert the memory card. Try a different, compatible memory card. Format the card (this will erase all data). |
| Flash does not fire. | Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash is not set to "Off" or "Flash Off". The flash may not fire if the battery is low. |
5. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Effective Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
| Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 14x |
| Digital Zoom | 4x |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Video Resolution | 1080p Full HD |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Display Type | LCD (PureColor System) |
| Connectivity | HDMI, USB |
| Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| GPS Functionality | Built-in GPS tracker and logger |
| Weight | 0.49 Pounds (approx. 222g) |
6. Warranty and Support
This Canon product is covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions, including the warranty period and coverage details.
For technical support, service, or additional information, please visit the official Canon support website or contact Canon customer service. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
- Online Support: Visit usa.canon.com/support (or your regional Canon support website).
- Customer Service: Refer to your product documentation for regional contact numbers.
