Canon PowerShot G1 User manual

SERVICE MANUAL
SERVICE MANUAL
CANON DIGITAL CAMERA
CANON DIGITAL CAMERA
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Digital Imaging Products Service Dept.
Digital Imaging Products Service Dept.
ENGLISH EDITION
ENGLISH EDITION

SERVICE
MANUAL
PowerShot G1 C83-1004

Application
This manual has been issued by Canon Inc. for qualified persons to learn technical theory,
and repair of products. This manual covers all localities where the products are sold. For
this reason, there may be information in this manual that does not apply to your locality.
Corrections
This manual may include typographical errors or technical inaccuracies due to
improvements or changes in the products. When changes occur in applicable products or in
the content of this manual, Canon will release service manual reports as the need arises. In
the event of major changes in the contents of this manual over a long or short period, Canon
may issue new editions of this manual.
The following paragraph does not apply to any countries where such provisions are
inconsistent with local law.
Trademarks
The product names and company names described in this manual are the registered
trademarks of the individual companies.
Copyright
This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual
may not be copied, reproduced or translated into another language, in whole or in part,
without the written consent of Canon Inc..
Copyright © 2000 by Canon Inc.
CANON INC.
Digital Imaging Products Service Dept.
30-2, Shimomaruko 3-Chome, Ohta-ku,
Tokyo 146-8501, Japan
First published Oct. 2000

GENERAL
INFORMATION
1 Product Strategy..................................G1
1-1 Background to commerciarize..........G1
1-2 Product Objectives...........................G1
1-3 Product Concept ..............................G2
2 Overview .............................................G4
2-1 Features ..........................................G4
2-2 Design Concept .............................G15
3 Exterior .............................................. G16
3-1 External Photos .............................G16
3-2 6-dimensional Views ......................G17
3-3 Nomenclature and Functions .........G18
4 System ..............................................G20
4-1 Product Diagram ............................G20
4-2 Connection Diagram ......................G21
5 Specifications ....................................G22
5-1 Specifications.................................G22
5-2 System requirements ..................... G27
5-3 Main accessory specifications .......G30
6 Operation Procedures .......................G33
6-1 Operation Procedures.................... G33

G1
1. Product Strategy
1-1 Background to commerciarize
The compact digital camera market got a big break and reached a major plateau with the emergence of 2-megapixel
models. The market is expected to henceforth divide into two major directions: High-end models with more pixels and
more sophisticated features, and popular models with around 2-megapixels and more refined features.
Meanwhile, the top-tier digital camera makers are offering a complete range from low-end to high-end models with short
product cycles. Their blanket strategy hinders Canon from catching up.
In order for Canon to join the top tier (in terms of market share) from the year 2000, it is essential for us to expand our
product line-up in the two directions described above to compete head-to-head with the other makers.
We have to incorporate specifications that would satisfy advanced amateurs such as SLR camera users who demand high
image quality and high-end features and commercial users who require pro-level specs. At the same time, we must in-
crease our market share in the market segment favoring flat-profile and ultra-compact models which have been Canon’s
specialty. In these ways, we must completely fend off rival companies.
Amid this market background, we developed the PowerShot G1, a 3-megapixel, full-featured camera with a 3x zoom lens
and high image quality.
1-2 Product Objectives
The PowerShot G1 has 3 megapixels which is expected to be the top pixel count for compact digital cameras in 2000.
With its high pixel count and many features, the G1 has been designed to be at the top of the high-end group of compact
digital cameras. It is a higher-levelmodel than the PowerShot S20. It is the start of a series of top pixel models to help
secure Canon’s market share in the high-end, compact digital camera market.
Even if the pixel race reaches the 4-megapixel level from 2001, the PowerShot G1 can still serve as the base model for
higher pixel models. This minimizes the development costs of future high-end models.
Canon Company O
Company F
High-pixel,
High-pixel,
zoom model
zoom model
High-pixel,compact,
High-pixel,compact,
singlefocal-length
singlefocal-length
model
model
Medium-pixel,
Medium-pixel,
compact,
compact,
zoom model
zoom model
Medium-pixel,
Medium-pixel,
compact,single
compact,single
focal-length model
focal-length model
High-pixel,
High-pixel,
SLRmodel
SLRmodel
High-pixel,
High-pixel,
zoom model
zoom model
Medium-pixel,
Medium-pixel,
zoom model
zoom model
High-pixel,compact,
High-pixel,compact,
singlefocal-length
singlefocal-length
model
model
Highzoomratio
Highzoomratio
and IS
and IS
Top-pixel and
Top-pixel and
full-featured
full-featured
Ultra-compact
Ultra-compact
Flat-profile with
Flat-profile with
retractable lens,
retractable lens,
stress-free
stress-free
Standard compact model
Medium-pixel,
Medium-pixel,
compact,
compact,
singlefocal-length
singlefocal-length
model
model
High-end model
Special Features
Ultra-compact
PowerShot G1
Low-pixel,
Low-pixel,
compact,single
compact,single
focal-length model
focal-length model

G2
1-3 Product Concept
The PowerShot G1 is the top-of-the-line PowerShot camera standing on the five pillars of full features, high image quality,
operation ease, system accessories and application software. It is a high-end, compact digital camera targeting advanced
amateurs and semi-professionals. (The reference pages are in brackets.)
Full Features
-Manual settings (aperture-priority AE, shutter speed-priority AE, manual focus, manual exposure, flash
exposure compensation, exposure compensation) [New! p.G4]
-12 EOS-based picture-taking modes (Auto, Creative Zone, Image Programmed Control Zone)
[New! p.G5]
-Movie recording and playback with sound [New! p.G6]
-Slow shutter speed mode up to 8 sec. (With noise reduction) [New! p.G6]
-Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) [New! p.G6]
-Built-in flash with five control modes [New! p.G6]
-Macro mode allows close-up photography up to 6cm at the wide-angle end, 20cm at telephoto end.
[New! p.G7]
-Wireless controller [New! p.G7]
-AE lock/FE lock
-Center-weighted averaging metering and spot metering
-Digital tele-converter feature (2x/4x)
-Image enlargement during playback (2.5x/5x [New!])
-Continuous shooting (approx. 1.7 images/sec.)
-Self-timer shooting
High Image Quality
-High resolution, 1/1.8-inch CCD with 3.34 million pixels [p.G7]
-High-resolution, 3x zoom lens [New! p.G8]
-Wide range of ISO equivalent settings (Auto/ISO 50/100/200/400 equivalent) [New! p.G8]
-High-precision white balance with five position preset white balance and Custom white
balance function [New! p.G8]
-New RAW mode [p.G9]
-Dedicated digital signal-processing IC for high-precision processing

G3
Operation Ease
-Vari-angle LCD monitor [p.G10]
-New UI for easy-to-read controls (Omni selector, stacked two mode dials, large display panel)
[New! p.G10]
-Switching between picture-taking and playback [New! p.G10]
-Switchable AF mode (Continuous/Single) [New! p.G10]
-Switchable video output format (NTSC/PAL) [New! p.G10]
- Optical viewfinder with dioptric correction [p.G11]
-Shutter-release sound like a film-based camera [New! p.G11]
-Digital signal-processing IC + Buffer memory for stress-free operation [p.G11]
-Higher capacity Li-Ion battery [New! p.G12]
-High-speed fast forward playback
-Compatible with CompactFlash Type II media for high-capacity storage
System Accessories
-Wide converter lens, tele-converter lens, close-up lens [New! p.G12]
-Compatible with EOS-dedicated EX-series Speedlites mode for EOS cameras. [p.G12]
-New power source [New! p.G13]
Application Software
-ZoomBrowser EX 2.4/ImageBrowser 1.4 featuring improved operation ease. [New! p.G13]
-Photorecord 1.2 for easy layout and printing of many pictures. [New! p.G13]
-PhotoStitch 3.1 for creating panoramic pictures. [p.G14]
-RemoteCapture 1.1 for remote picture-taking with a PC. [New! p.G14]
-RS-232C TWAIN Driver 3.4/USB TWAIN Driver 3.4/Plug-in Module 3.4/ZoomBrowser EX 2.4/
ImageBrowser 1.4 for adjusting image quality parameters. [New! p.G14]
-Reputable third-party applications [New! p.G15]
Adobe Photoshop LE 5.0 (Image-editing)
Apple QuickTime 4.1 (Video playback/QVTR file creation)

G4
2. Overview
2-1 Features
[Full Features]
-Manual settings
<Aperture-priority AE and shutter speed-priority AE>
For the exposure control, the PowerShot G1 has the aperture-priority AE and shutter speed-priority AE modes. With
aperture-priority AE, you set the desired aperture and the camera sets the shutter speed automatically to match the subject
brightness. Setting a large aperture increases the background blur which better isolates the subject in the foreground.
Setting a small aperture attains greater depth of field to make subjects both in the foreground and background look sharper.
The farther you zoom in to your subject, the better the background blur. With shutter speed-priority AE, you set the
desired shutter speed and the camera sets the aperture automatically to match the subject brightness. A fast shutter speed
can freeze the subject’s movement, and a slow shutter speed can blur the subject to give the impression of motion.
<Manual focus>
Manual focusing is possible with the PowerShot G1. In sports or wildlife photography, you can set a specific focusing
distance previously and take the shot when the subject comes into focus.
Manual focus is also effective when autofocusing is not possible in the following cases:
-Extremely low-contrast subjects
-Near and far objects overlaid at the same position
-Severe backlit conditions or highly reflective surfaces
-Extremely bright objects ata the center of the composition
-Very low-light scenes
The focal point can be moved manually by holding down the MF button and pressing the Omni Selector. The MF indicator
is shown on the LCD monitor as a reference for the focal range.
Fig.2-1 MF indicator
MF indicator

G5
-12 EOS-based picture-taking modes (Auto, Creative Zone, Image Programmed Control Zone)
The PowerShot G1 provides Creative Zone modes and Image programmed Cntrol Zone modes in addition to Auto. It
enables advanced amateurs and semi-pros to obtain the desired results with their pictures. With Creative Zone modes, you
can set the exposure, shutter speed, etc., manually. And with Image Programmed Control Zone modes, you can select the
mode that best matches the subject.
In the Auto mode, you can change the recording pixels and the JPEG compression rate to better suit your needs.
Table 2-3 Creative Zone modes and Programmed Image Control Zone modes
Description Effcets
Manual Usersets both aperture and shutterspeed. The userhas complete control.
Av Usersets the aperture (camera sets the shutterspeed). The depth of field can be controlled.
Tv Usersets the shutter speed (camera sets the aperture). The subject's motion in the picture can be controlled.
Program Camera sets both aperture and shutter speed. Easy picture-taking with a suitable aperture and shutterspeed set.
(User sets almost parameters)
Auto Camera sets allparameters. Prevents the userfrommaking any errors in the camera settings.
(Usersets recording pixels and JPEGcompression only)
Pan Focus Fixed focallength (wide-end)used formaximumdepth offield. Since AFis not executed, the picture can be taken faster.
(Effective at 65cm[wide-end] to infinity) (At the wide-end only.)
Portrait A largeraperture is used. To obtain better background blur fora portrait.
Landscape A smalleraperture is used. Both the foreground and background are in sharp focus.
Night Scene Backgound exposure is correct A suitable exposure is obtained fora subject in front
since flash with slow sync speed is used. ofa sunset ornight scene.
B/W The color gain is set to 0. Makes any text information more readable or gives a nostalgic B/W look.
StitchAssist An aid forcreating a panoramic photo with a PC. Makes easy and high precision stitch on PhotoStitch.
Movie 320x240 video clips at 15 frames/sec. (max. 30 sec.). Ideal for studying the subject's movement or to record a sequence.
Image Creative
Table 2-1 User interface and AE/AF Control
Exposure Focus
Normal Locks at SW1. Locks at SW1.
Unlocks when SW1 is released. Unlocks when SW1 is released.
Manual Locks at SW1. Locks with MF button.
Focus Unlocks when SW1 is released. Unlocks when MF button is pressed again.
Focus Locks at SW1. Locks at SW1.>>Unlocks when SW1 is released.
Lock Unlocks when SW1 is released. Locks at SW1 and keep to lock at MF button>>
Unlocks when MF button is pressed again.
AE Locks with AE lock button. Locks at SW1.
Lock Unlocks with any operation except SW1. Unlocks when SW1 is released.
FE Locks with FElock button. Locks at SW1.
Lock Unlocks with any operation except SW1. Unlocks when SW1 is released.
<Focus Lock>
The camera’s auto focus system brings the object into focus, then the focus is locked by pressing the MF button. This
allows the user to release his or her finger from SW1.
<Manual exposure>
The PowerShot G1 provides manual exposure as one of the exposure control modes. Manual exposure enables the user to
set the aperture manually. The user can take pictures as he or she desires, with no automatic exposure adjustments from the
camera. This mode is suitable, for studio photography or taking pictures of fireworks, for example, since exposure control
can be set as the user intends. Also, by using the manual
exposure and the manual focus modes together, you can
greatly reduce the time lag between SW1 and SW2.
<Flash exposure compensation>
If the brightness between the subject and background is
very different and flash is used, underexposure or over
exposure may result. To prevent this, the PowerShot G1
enables you to set flash exposure compensation up to +/-2
stops in 1/3-stop increments.
Table 2-2 Sample correlation between aperture and shutter speed.
(at ISO 100 equivalent)
At EV 10
Aperture (F) 2.8 4.0 5.6 8.0
Shutter speed (S) 1/125 1/60 1/30 1/15

G6
-Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB)
The PowerShot G1 provides Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) which takes three shots bracketed automatically within the
set range. The three bracketed shots are taken with a single shutter release.
If there is a large difference between the light levels of the main subject and the background, or if a highly reflective object
is in the scene, it is often difficult to obtain a proper exposure value, making exposure compensation necessary. With this
feature, the camera automatically takes three pictures with three different exposure settings, so it is not necessary for the
user to repeatedly shoot the same subject with different exposure settings himself. The framing of the picture also remains
virtually the same during AEB shooting.
The shots can be bracketed up to +/-2 stops at 1/3-stop increments. The bracketing sequence is normal, - compensation,
and + compensation.
If exposure compensation is also set, the bracketing range will center on the exposure compensation amount and it can be
set up to +/-2 stops at 1/3-stop increments.
Note: In using flash, AEB is not available.
-Built-in flash with five control modes
In addition to the auto flash, auto red-eye reduction, manual flash, and flash off modes, the PowerShot G1 also provides
the manual red-eye reduction mode. Previous models only had auto red-eye reduction, so the red-eye reduction light
would only emit when necessary. But with the manual red-eye reduction mode, you can emit the red-eye reduction light at
will.
-Movie recording and playback
The PowerShot G1 can record a QVGA (320X240 pixels) video clip (with audio) at 15 frames per second up to approxi-
mately 30 sec. The movie can be played back on the built-in LCD monitor or on a TV monitor. The movie is ideal for
studying the subject’s movement or to record a sequence. The movie is compressed with Motion JPEG and saved as an
AVI file. Motion JPEG compresses each frame of the video in JPEG format.
Note:
- If the unoccupied capacity of the CF card is less than the capacity the buffer memory, movie recording is restricted to
the capacity of the CF card.
- When the buffer memory becomes full while a movie is being recorded, the data is written to the CompactFlash card. During the
writing to the CF card, the movie recording cannot proceed further.
- The focal length, exposure setting, white balance, and lens zoom position set for the first movie frame are used for the rest of the
video clip.
-Slow shutter speed mode up to 8 sec. (With noise reduction)
In the shutter speed-priority AE and manual modes, a slow shutter speed up to 8 sec. long is possible. It is useful in low
light when flash cannot be used.
Normally with a CCD, long exposures tend to create noticeable noise. The PowerShot G1 therefore executes noise reduc-
tion for shutter speeds 1.3 sec. or longer.
The method can be described as follows: After the user takes a picture, the camera itself takes a picture, with the aperture
closed, for exactly the same length of time. This results in only noise data, and the camera subtracts the amount of that
noise data from the user’s image, producing a noiseless image.
Note: When noise reduction is executed, some extra time is required while the black data is taken.
Example 2: Exposure compensation of 2/3 stop
(For +2/3-stop exposure compensation)
-4/3 -3/3 -2/3 -1/3 0 1/3 2/3 3/3 4/3 (EV)
Fig. 2-2 AEB.
1st shot
2nd shot 3rd shot
-4/3 -3/3 -2/3 -1/3 0 1/3 2/3 3/3 4/3 (EV)
Example 1: Exposure compensation of 1 stop
(For a standard exposure)
1st shot
2nd shot 3rd shot

G7
[High Image Quality]
-High resolution (2,048 (H) X1,536 (V)) with 1/1.8-inch 3.34M pixel CCD
Using photo ink and the smallest ink droplets possible (4 pl), the Canon BJ printers BJ F850 (BJC-8200/BJC-8200Photo)
offers 1,200 dpi, a quality sufficient enough to reproduce A4 print size (8"X10") photo quality images. The PowerShot
S10 (on sale Fall 1999) and IXY DIGITAL (on sale May (June) 2000), both employ a 2.11-megapixel CCD, achieving a
resplution of 4.7 lp/mm, adequate for postcard-size prints when printed out on the 300-dpi dye-sublimation CD-300
Digital Printers. This resolution is not sufficient for A4-size prints.
Images taken with the PowerShot G1, having a 3.34-megapixel CCD, can be printed with the BJC-F850 for acceptable
print quality A4-size (8” X 10”) prints.
Note: lp/mm (line-pair mm) : Resolving power is expressed in the number of pairs of black and white lines per milimeters.
-Macro mode allows close-up photography up to 6cm at the wide-angle end, 20cm at telephoto end.
PowerShot G1 allows you to perform close-up photography up to 6cm from the subject at the wide-angle end. The
maximum shooting area is 82X60mm at the wide angle end and 84X62 mm at the telephoto end.
If you attach the optional close-up lens with macro mode, the shooting area is 50X38 mm at the telephoto end.
-Wireless controller
The dedicated wireless controller can be used to operate the PowerShot G1. Press the DRIVE button to set the camera to
the Self-timer mode. Then you can use the wireless controller to take still pictures, zoom the lens to the wide or telephoto
end (Movie is shooting operation only) and display button, operate the Omni Selector (image forward and scroll), movie
playback, display button, switch between single and multiple image playback and enlarge the image during playback.
Note: When you use the wireless controller to take pictures, the picture is taken about 2 sec. after you press the wireless controller’s
shutter button. This delay is provided in case you are also to be in the picture.
Table 2-4 The shooting area maximum magnification.
The shooting area
maximum magnification (mm)
PS G1 PS S20
IXY DIGITAL
82X60
(Wide angle end, 6cm) 102X76 (Wide angle end, 10cm) 76X57
(Telephoto end, 12cm)
50X38
(Telephoto end, 12cm)
PS G1
(in attaching 250D 58mm)
Acceptable level of pixel count (3.5lp/mm)
*Conventional photo's level of pixel
count (7 lp/mm)
Approx.
1.1M pixels Approx.
1.5M pixels Approx. 3.1M pixels Approx.
3.15M pixels
(Recording pixels)
BJ-F850
Approx.
4.4M pixels Approx.
6M pixels Approx. 12.4M pixels
PS G1
Postcard size 5” X 7” 8X10 inch (A4)
Fig. 2-3 Optimum pixel count for print size

G8
Fig. 2-4 PowerShot G1 lens configuration.
-High-resolution zoom lens with advanced optical technologies
The PowerShot G1 is equipped with a 7 - 21mm 3X zoom lens (equivalent to 34 - 102mm in 35mm format) that is suited
for a wide range of picture-taking, from landscapes to snapshots. Also, the maximum aperture is f/2.0-2.5 which is the
largest for a digital still camera. The iris-type aperture can give excellent
background blur for portraits.
The lens consists of 8 elements in 7 groups (Fig. 2-4). Two glass-molded
aspherical elements with a high refractive index are positioned for maxi-
mum effect in correcting aberrations. Also, in conjunction with the 3.34
M pixel CCD’s fine pixel pitch (3.45 micro-millimeters), group 3 has an
cemented element to correct the chromatic aberrations (throughout the
entire focal length range) that the aspherical element is unable to correct.
As a result, high optical performance is attained with only a few lens
elements making it suitable for a retractable lens.
Also, by adjusting the CCD’s tilt, the image is focused evenly through-
out.
-Wide exposure sensitivity range
Film-based cameras enable you to freely set the film speed to suit the picture-taking condition. There is a close correlation
between the film speed and image quality. Normally, a slow-speed film results in high image quality (fine grain). High-
speed film enables faster shutter speeds (to prevent blur) and smaller apertures (for greater depth of field) to be used.
In the PowerShot G1’s Creative Zone modes, you can select the exposure sensitivity as with the film speed with film-
based cameras. You can select Auto, ISO 50, 100, 200, or 400 to suit the picture-taking condition. The ISO 50 setting has
been added for still subjects when you can use a slow shutter speed or for bright scenes when you can use a faster shutter
speed for minimal noise.
At the Auto setting, the camera selects the optimum exposure sensitivity automatically within ISO 50 to 100.
-Auto cannot be set in the Manual mode.
-High-precision white balance (5 preset white balance + Custom white balance)
For PowerShot G1’s high-precision white balance control, the image is divided into 100,000 blocks and white is searched
and calculate.
In addition to the usual white balance settings (daylight, overcast, tungsten, and fluorescent light), the new “flash” setting
has been added to optimize the color temperature of flash pictures. White balance is improved when flash is used. Also,
as with camcorders, the custom white balance feature enables you to set the desired standard white with a sheet of white
paper under a specific light source. The custom white balance setting is then stored in the camera. This feature is useful
when you have special lighting conditions or two or more different light sources and the Auto or preset white balance
setting cannot obtain the white balance you want. The custom white balance setting is retained by the camera even after the
camera is turned off.

G9
-New RAW mode
Canon has greatly improved the RAW application employed in the PowerShot A series, developing the PowerShot G1’s
New RAW mode. The advantage of RAW modes is that they allow users to obtain original image data, since image data
is recorded to memory from the CCD without any image processing. With RAW mode images, users can process images
as they desire, setting and changing the parameters, “developing”*1 the RAW data into an image., setting and changing
the parameters. We adopted the reversible image compression*2 method for the PowerShot G1, so now RAW images
require only approximately 60% the amount of memory necessary for the PowerShot A Series. The PowerShot G1 also
enables playback of images on the LCD monitor or an external monitor. (Currently, the only digital cameras capable of
this are the EOS D30, PowerShot G1 and the PowerShot Pro90.)
The RAW image data is processed by ZoomBrowser EX 2.4, ImageBrowser 1.4, TWAIN Driver 3.4 and Plug-In Module
3.4 application software, which are bundled with the PowerShot G1. Users can adjust image parameters such as white
balance, contrast, sharpness and color saturation. The adjusted image data is stored in TIFF format (TIFF is the default
format, but users can also choose among BMP, JPEG, and others.).
While some competitors’ models use TIFF format as a high image quality mode, most of these models record images as
8 bit data after processing white balance, ganmma-compensation, etc. Files of this type (RGB TIFF format) are four times
*3 the size of the new RAW mode type files.
Moreover, image quality declines when these images are processed on PC’s using retouch software, because image
processing is carried out twice.
*1 In the process of developing, RGB signals are created from RAW data.
*2 In this method, original image data can be completely restored, as opposed to non-reversible compression methods such
as JPEG, whose original data cannot be restored.
*3 A comparison of data file size between RAW and TIFF
-PowerShot G1’s number of recording pixels: 2048X1536
RAW data file size: 2048X1536X10 (quantization of each pixels)X0.61 (data compression) 8 (convert to byte) 2.5 MB..... 1
TIFF format filesize :2048X1536X 8 (quantization of each pixels)X 3 (separate to RGB) 8 (convert to byte) 9.4 MB...... 2
12 = 1/3.76 1/4
Table 2-5 Comparison of each file format.
Fig. 2-5 New RAW and TIFF developing.
ZoomBrowser/ImageBrowser
TWAIN/Plug-In
Thumbnails
RAW
Camera
window
Displayed in
thumbnails
Download
Display
Image editing
(WB, contrast, etc.)
File conversion
TIFF (Default)
BMP/JPEG/
Flash Pix
Application
File conversion
TIFF/BMP/JPEG…
Browser
area
Developing
Image editing
(WB, contrast, etc.)
Developing Acquire
-A/D conversion
-Reversible
compression
Processing by camera
Recording
as RAW
Recording
as TIFF
RAW data
from CCD
TIFF
New RAW
Retouch by
application
Processing by user (PC)
(The images are created by user)
Processing by camera
(The images are created by cameras.) Processing by user (PC)
-A/D conversion
-Developing
RAW data
from CCD
File format Image quality File size Compatibility Playback with camera Features
RAW (old) X- X X(Thumbnail only) High image quality, however impossible to set to parameters of image quality
RAW (new) XOPossible to set parameters of image quality to original data.
Super Fine OOHigh image quality, however not reversible compression/
impossible to set to parameters of image quality
Fine OOO O Small file size, however not reversible compression
TIFF XO O High image quality, however large file size./impossible to set to parameters of image quality

G10
-Switching between picture-taking and playback
When you switch quickly between picture-taking and playback with the PowerShot G1, the lens does not retract. Since
the lens retraction time is eliminated, you can switch between picture-taking and playback instantly. Right after taking
pictures, you can playback the pictures on the monitor and delete the unwanted ones. Then you can go back to taking
pictures.
Note : The lens will not retract if the Main Dial is changed from camera mode to playback mode via the off position within 0.8
seconds.
-Continuous AF (in using LCD monitor only)
With the PowerShot G1, you can select either single AF (operates at SW1) or continuous AF (the default) for the AF
mode. In the continuous AF mode, autofocusing operates even when you are not pressing the shutter button.
The LCD monitor thus always displays a focused image which makes it easier to identify the subject on the monitor.
To respond to changes in the subject’s position and to enhance AF precision, the focusing information at SW1 is used and
the focusing is rescanned within a narrow range centering on SW1. This makes autofocusing more precise and faster than
in the single AF mode.
Note : AF mode is fixed to Single AF when LCD viewfinder is OFF.
-Switchable video output format (NTSC/PAL)
The PowerShot G1 provides the setting menu to set the video output format to either NTSC or PAL. This enables you to
playback the images on a TV monitor in various countries.
Note :
-For areas using SECAM (such as France), playback is possible in the PAL format. However, the image will be in black and white.
-The language options (five NTSC languages and ten PAL languages) remain the same regardless of a change of video format.
[Operation Ease]
-Vari-angle LCD monitor
Like the PowerShot Pro70, the PowerShot G1 is
equipped with a vari-angle LCD monitor (1.8-inch)* .
The monitor can be rotated so you can shoot from
various angles.
Also, when the LCD monitor is rotated toward
the front (for self-shooting), the monitor displays
a mirror image so you can see yourself correctly.
* The PowerShot Pro70 uses a 2.0-inch monitor.
-New UI for easy-to-read controls
The PowerShot G1 has many features such as manual settings in addition to
Image Programmed Control Zone modes. To make camera operation easy
even with all these features, the PowerShot G1 has the Main Dial and Mode
Dial stacked together and an on-screen menu that does not have a deep
hierarchical structure. You can therefore quickly set the desired mode or
setting. The Main Dial below the Mode Dial provides the power OFF, cam-
era ON, playback, and PC mode settings. The Mode Dial is for setting seven
Image Programmed Control Zone modes, Auto, and four Creative Zone
modes. Also, frequently used features such as exposure compensation, the
macro function, etc., have their own buttons, and there is a Omni Selector
(which was well received on the PowerShot S10 and S20). The user interface is thereby quick and simple.
A large Display panel is provided to make it easy to check the camera’s status at a glance (refer to p.G19).
Fig. 2-6 Sample uses of the vari-angle LCD monitor.
Shooting sports
or documentaries.
Normal
shooting.
Shooting children
or indoor shooting.
Shooting small
subjects.
Fig. 2-7 Mode Dial.
Image Programmed
Control Zone
Creative Zone
AUTO mode
Main Dial

G11
Fig. 2-9 Shutter release time lag and shooting interval
-Digital signal-processing IC for stress-free, quick picture-taking.
The PowerShot G1 uses a Canon-developed digital signal processing IC. Despite the camera's high pixel count, the digital
signal processing is quick response due to this IC. The PowerShot G1 also has a buffer memory where the captured image
is temporarily stored. As the digital signal processing IC and buffer memory work in tandem, a short shooting interval of
approx. 1.8 sec. is achieved.
The PowerShot G1’s buffer memory capacity is approximately four times that of the PowerShot S20, enabling high
performance continuous shooting. Approximate 10 images at Large/Fine mode can be taken, with a maintained shooting
speed of 1.7 images per second.
Moreover, operations such as camera start-up, high-speed search mode (during playback), image enlargement, and image
scrolling which normally require a lot of processing time can be executed swiftly, thanks to the digital signal processing
IC’s high-speed compression and decompression operations.
-Optical viewfinder with dioptric correction
Usually, a camera’s viewfinder diopter is set to match the nearest and farthest distances that the eyes of most people can
clearly see. However, for near-sighted, far-sighted, and presbyopic users, dioptric correction is necessary to see such
objects clearly.
The PowerShot G1’s optical viewfinder enables dioptric correction to suit various eyesights of users.
-Shutter-release sound like a film-based camera
The PowerShot G1 provides a shutter-release sound after the picture is taken (when the exposure ends). The subject can
thereby hear when the picture is taken even in noisy environments. The shutter sound is based on the WAVE format. The
sound volume can be adjusted from 0 to 5 as necessary when in noisy areas.
Note : The beep sounds at the end of shooting, if users set shutter sound to OFF.
Shutter release time
Shooting interval
using EVF
Approx. 0.07sec.
Approx. 1.8sec.
using OVF
Approx. 0.04sec.
Approx. 2.4sec.
-The above times will vary depending on the subject.
-The above does not apply to special techniques such as
slow speed shutter.

G12
[System Accessories]
-Wide converter lens, tele-converter lens, close-up lens
To meet diverse user needs, a full line-up of optical accessories is
available for the PowerShot G1. The Wide Converter WE-DC58
converts the focal length by about 0.8x and the total focal length of
28mm at the wide-angle end in 35mm film format. Tele-converter
TC-DC58 converts the focal length by 1.5x and the total focal length
of 153mm at the telephoto end in 35mm film format. And Close-up
lens 250D enables shooting as close as 12 cm (from the front of the
lens) at the telephoto end in macro mode. The resulting shooting
area is 50X38mm. However, there are a few restrictions when using
these accessories and a flash together, as shown in Table 2-7. And
there is possiblity of vignette when you use the optical
finder despite attaching these conversion lenses to the cameras. Also,
there is a possiblity of vignette when you take a picture other than
wide angle end with Wide Conversion Lens and tele-photo end with
Tele-conversion lens.
Note: The Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58 (sold separately) is required
to attach the WC-DC58, TC-DC58, or 250D 58mm to the camera.
-Compatible with EX-series Speedlites mode for EOS cameras
With its high pixel count and many features, the PowerShot G1 will likely to be used by advanced amateurs and pro users
for creative shooting. Although it has a built-in flash, its maximum range is only 3.6 meters (ISO 100 equivalent) for
telephoto shooting. This is inadequate for these users.
A hot shoe for external Speedlites (220EX, 380EX, 420EX, 550EX) has therefore been provided on the camera. An
external Speedlite enables autoflash control.
Note: The flash will fire at full strength in Manual mode. The flash without above models will fire at full strength.
<Available Flash Features>
-Auto flash (550EX must be set to E-TTL mode.) -FE lock (except for Manual mode)
-Fill flash -Slow sync speed
-Flash exposure compensation (When using the 550EX, the LCD panel’s flash range scale value will not appear correctly.
Besides, you must execute flash exposure compensation with the camera when using the 550EX.)
-Autozoom (except for 220EX)
<Maximum sync speed>
-Speedlites (220EX, 380EX, 420EX, 550EX) : 1/250 sec.
-others : 1/125 sec.
Table 2-7 Relation between each accessories and flash
*There is a possibility of full-flash.
WC-DC58 (Wide angle end)
TC-DC58 (Telephoto end)
250D 58mm (Telephoto end)
Built-in
Vignette
Vignette
Vignette
External
Auto flash*
Auto flash*
Auto flash*
-Higher capacity Li-Ion battery
The PowerShot G1 utilizes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (BP-511). This lithium battery has about the same capacity,
yet half the weight per volume as the nickel-hydride battery used by the PowerShot A-series and S-series cameras. And it
has no memory effect.
As the BP-511 is already being used in other
products such as the EOS D30 and the
PowerShot PRO90 IS, as well as two of Canon’s
camcorders (the FV-2 and FV-10) so can be in-
terchanged among all of these products. Table 2-6 Battery comparison
Model
Item
Voltage/Capacity
Volume
Weight
PowerShot G1
Li-Ion
7.4V/1100mAh
Approx.43.9cm3
Approx.70g
IXY DIGITAL
Li-Ion
3.7V/680mAh
Approx. 17.1cm3
Approx. 29g
PowerShot A/S
Ni-MH
6.0V/650mAh
Approx. 70g

G13
[Application Software]
-ZoomBrowser EX 2.4/ImageBrowser 1.4 featuring improved operation ease.
The ZoomBrowser EX (Windows)/ImageBrowser (Mac) programs were well received with the PowerShot S-series and
improved with the IXY DIGITAL. The programs are now bundled with the PK500 and PowerShot G1.
ZoomBrowser EX 2.4 is for simple retouching such as color and brightness adjustments and cropping. It also enables
slide show playback on a PC, supports e-mail and DPOF editing. By supporting e-mail, the program can set the image
size and compression ratio and create the image according to the required file size. The mailer program starts up auto-
matically, and the image is attached to a new e-mail message automatically. In case the mailer program is not started up
automatically, the image is saved after being resized and it can be attached to e-mail manually.
Like ZoomBrowser EX, ImageBrowser 1.4 also enables simple retouching and slide show playback on a PC, supports e-
mail and editing DPOF editing. The printing feature has been expanded to enable you to set the desired number of copies
to be printed, change the printing sequence of the images, resize or rotate images, and insert text in the image.
* ImageBrowser does not enable automatic attachment of an image to e-mail. It must be done manually.
-New power source
The PowerShot G1 uses a rechargeable lithium-ion
battery (BP-511). Also, with Compact Power
Adapter CA-560 (provided), the camera can be
powered by a household power outlet. And with
the Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit CR-560
(sold separately), the camera can be powered by a
car battery in case you run out of battery power on
the road.
The BP-511 can be charged in the camera body
by using the Compact Power Adapter CA-560. This
eliminates the need to remove the battery from the
camera body.
The PowerShot G1’s internal battery is recharge-
able. As shown in Fig. 2-9, you can use Compact
Power Adapter CA or Charge Adapter/Car Battery
Cable Kit CR-560 to recharge the battery. Use
whichever method that suits your situation.
Fig. 2-10 File size/compression level settings
Current file size
Compression level
File Size
Fig. 2-9 Battery recharging system.
To power outlet
<Recharging the Battery Installed in the Camera>
Battery Pack BP-511
Compact Power Adapter CA-560
< External recharging>
Battery Pack BP-511
Compact Power Adapter CA-560
To power outlet
Car Battery Cable
CB-560 (option)
CG-560 Charge Adapter (option)
To the car’s cigarette
lighter socket
To the car’s cigarette
lighter socket
CG-560 Charge Adapter
(option)

G14
-RemoteCapture 1.1 for remote picture-taking with a PC.
The PowerShot G1 is bundled with the newly developed “RemoteCapture (USB only)” software. This software enables
the camera to be remote controlled by a PC. The following remote control operations are possible with a PC:
-Shutter release (single-frame, interval and test shooting only)
-Lens zooming (excluding electronic zooming)
-Confirming various camera parameters
-Setting White balance, resolution/JPEG compression, macro, flash and exposure compensation
-Setting recording to CF or not
In the PC mode, transferring and deleting image data are possible. In the remote control mode, you can execute picture-
taking functions. In the remote control mode, you can also use the functions available in the PC mode.
Fig. 2-12 Image mapping methods.
-PhotoStitch 3.1 for creating panoramic pictures.
PhotoStitch 3.1 automatically obtains the property information (composition orientation, image sequence, focal length
information, camera model name) of pictures taken in the stitch assist mode. Also, cylindrical imaging (for pasting on a
cylinder) or flat imaging (for pasting on a flat surface) can be selected to easily create high-precision panoramic pictures
with minimal distortion. The picture can also be saved in the QuickTime VR format.
-Photorecord 1.2 for easy layout and printing of many pictures.
PhotoRecord 2.1 (for Windows only) enables text to be inserted anywhere in the image.
You can also select the text frame and easily layout and print out image. And using the
PhotoRecord 1.2 together with the new Extension DDI driver, designed for the new BJ
printer due out, allows for the automatic layout of a user’s images on borderless, perfo-
rated paper* (paper due out at same time as Extension DDI). The user can then easily
print out photo-quality borderless prints with the new BJ printer.
*Glossy Photo Card 4"x 6" and Photo Card Pro 4"x 6" (101.6 x 152.4mm). In Japan, L size,
2L size, DSC size, 8"x 10" size for digital cameras and Glossy Photo Card 4"x 6" are also
for sale.
Fig. 2-11 Automatic layout on borderless,
perforated paper
Flat image
Photographer
With old software version Roll image
Photographer Photographer
Actual image capture
Image-mapping surface