Free Digital Camera Software: Upgrade Your Canon

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I am a fan of the Canon Digital Cameras, but not such a fan of their software. Whappo sent me an email to let me know about an open-source program called CHDK, which can be used to update the software for your Digital Camera.

CHDK is a firmware enhancement that operates on a number of Canon Cameras. CHDK gets loaded into your camera’s memory upon bootup (either manually or automatically). It provides additional functionality beyond that currently provided by the native camera firmware. It resides completely on the memory card, so it cannot harm your actual camera.

Here is just a sampling of the things you’ll be able to do with your Canon camera after you begin using CHDK:

• Save images in RAW format
• Ability to run “Scripts” to automate the camera
• Live histogram
• Zebra mode (blinking highlights and shadows to show over/under exposed areas)
• An “always on” full range Battery indicator
• Ability to turn off automatic dark-frame subtraction
• a higher compression movie mode
• a depth-of-field (DOF)-calculator
• File browser
• Text reader
• Calendar
• Some fun tools and games

Wow! Imagine, being able to do this much with your camera, without even having to pay for extra upgrades? This is why I love open-source, folks!

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