Installing and using CHDK

This is part of the NIR camera wiki.

• There is lots of information at the CHDK wiki and the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras after they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed on a bootable SD card, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK. (On Powershots released after 2010, CHDK can work on larger unpartitioned cards.)
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "1.00F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file will be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.
• To get the appropriate file for other cameras, download and unzip the program ACID. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the camera to it, select "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK."

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards see this video (below) with step by step instructions, or follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• These procedures involve using the handy program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.

• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, use SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. If you start the camera and it says "Insufficient space on card" you forgot to swap partitions. Don't forget this because the card will be useless without a computer (e.g., when you are about to tie the camera to a kite line). See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• The program ACID is available for OSX and Ubunto Linux. ACID can determine which version of CHDK you need and download it. The instructions above should work on Macs to get and use SDMinst to install CHDK on an SD card.

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button. On some other cameras, the buttons used are different.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

This is part of the NIR camera wiki.

• There is lots of information at the CHDK wiki and the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras after they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed on a bootable SD card, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK. (On Powershots released after 2010, CHDK can work on larger unpartitioned cards.)
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "1.00F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file will be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.
• To get the appropriate file for other cameras, download and unzip the program ACID. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the camera to it, select "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK."

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards see this video (below) with step by step instructions, or follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• These procedures involve using the handy program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.

• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, use SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. If you start the camera and it says "Insufficient space on card" you forgot to swap partitions. Don't forget this because the card will be useless without a computer (e.g., when you are about to tie the camera to a kite line). See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button. On some other cameras, the buttons used are different.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

This is part of the NIR camera wiki.

• There is lots of information at the CHDK wiki and the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras after they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed on a bootable SD card, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK. (On Powershots released after 2010, CHDK can work on larger unpartitioned cards.)
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "1.00F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file will be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.
• To get the appropriate file for other cameras, download and unzip the program ACID. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the camera to it, select "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK."

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards see this video with step by step instructions, or follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• These procedures involve using the handy program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.
• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, use SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. If you start the camera and it says "Insufficient space on card" you forgot to swap partitions. Don't forget this because the card will be useless without a computer (e.g., when you are about to tie the camera to a kite line). See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button. On some other cameras, the buttons used are different.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

This is part of the NIR camera wiki.

• There is lots of information at the CHDK wiki and the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras after they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed on a bootable SD card, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK. (On Powershots released after 2010, CHDK can work on larger unpartitioned cards.)
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "1.00F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file will be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below. To get the appropriate file for other cameras, download and unzip the program ACID. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the camera to it, select "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK."

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards see this video with step by step instructions, or follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• These procedures involve using the handy program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.
• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, use SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. If you start the camera and it says "Insufficient space on card" you forgot to swap partitions. Don't forget this because the card will be useless without a computer (e.g., when you are about to tie the camera to a kite line). See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button. On other cameras, the buttons used are different.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

This is part of the NIR camera wiki.

• There is lots of information at the CHDK wiki and the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras after they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed on a bootable SD card, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK. (On Powershots released after 2010, CHDK can work on larger unpartitioned cards.)
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file will be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards see this video with step by step instructions, or follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• These procedures involve using the handy program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.
• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, use SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process CHDK (Canon Hack Development Kit) is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button once starts the camera in Preview mode and prevents switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file can be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This involves using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.
• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program can partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, used SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the files and folders from the unzipped a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high and constant (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to prepare an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

In this process "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit is installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

To turn on a camera with CHDK installed, hold down the power button until the camera starts. Just pressing the button starts the camera in Preview mode and disallows switching to record mode (where you can take photos).

Choosing an SD card

• On the A495, 4GB cards are easier because larger cards must be partitioned to use more than 4GB while running CHDK.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long mapping flights in one day, more than one 4GB SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de. This file might be downloaded automatically if you follow one of the procedures below.

Installing CHDK using a PC

• For 4 GB SD cards follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This involves using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks.
• For 8GB or larger cards download and unzip the program ACID http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/acid/acid.html. Run ACID (double-click the jar file), drag a photo from the A495 to it, select "Download SDM common files" and "Download CHDK full build," then click "Download CHDK." Unzip common_files.zip and in that new folder find and run SDMinste.exe. This program will partition the card, format each partition, and make the small partition bootable. If needed, used SDMinste to swap partitions so the small bootable one is partition 1. Then copy all the CHDK files from the unzipped CHDK folder on your computer into the small bootable partition on the SD card. Remove the card from the reader, lock it with the little slider, and put it in the camera. To turn on the camera, hold the power button down until the camera starts (just pressing it will turn it on in Preview mode). Photos will be saved to the large partition. To see those photos on your PC, use the camera (CHDK/Miscellaneous Stuff) or SDMinste on your computer to swap partitions so the big one is partition 1. Swap back before returning the card to the camera. (See above where it says 4GB cards are easier;)

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• Would videos of these installation procedures help?

Some useful CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press the PLAY button on the back of the camera, then press the MENU button. To exit CHDK, press the PLAY button.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer or switch, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and a timer must be set accordingly.

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/640 or 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera will require more light and maybe a slower shutter speed, but adjusting ISO or f/stop can keep shutter speed high and help reduce motion blur). To enable shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

"CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are easier because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB of the card. If you are using a Mac, the program SDMInst (see below) can properly partition larger cards. Does anyone know of good instructions for doing this with a PC?
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long flights in one day, more than one SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de

Installing CHDK using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This involves using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• (add videos?)

Basic CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press some button on the back of the camera, then press some other button.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and the timer must be set accordingly.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/640 or 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and a slower shutter speed). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

"CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are easier because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB of the card. If you are using a Mac, the program SDMInst (see below) can properly partition larger cards. Does anyone know of good instructions for doing this with a PC?
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long flights in one day, more than one SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de

Installing CHDK using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This involves using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK on SD cards and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• (add videos?)

Basic CHDK settings to start with

CHDK Main Menu To enter the CHDK main menu on a Canon A495, press some button on the back of the camera, then press some other button.

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. So the camera shoots on every other signal, and the timer must be set accordingly.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/640 or 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and a slower shutter speed). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch, and may need to change during a flight.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set on "infinity" focus mode. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Some additional information is needed to confirm how this "infinity" mode works.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Image Stabilization -- The A495 does not have image stabilization. That's okay because it probably does not help on balloon or kite flights.

Exposure Compensation -- On sunny days, the view from above is bright, and the automatic exposure system can be fooled. The A495 can compensate for such scenes by reducing the exposure in increments of 1/3 f-stop. Setting the Exposure Compensation to -1/3 or -2/3 can eliminate overexposed highlights.

ISO -- On sunny days, ISO 80 (the "slowest" sensitivity to light) should produce the crispest images. On darker days, setting the ISO higher (100-200) will allow faster shutter speeds (less motion blur), but the images will be noisier (grainy). ISO settings higher than 200 are not recommended because the images will be rather noisy, but in dim light this may be the only option.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495)

• Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down
• Turn the autofocus light off
• Turn off the LCD display before launch.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

"CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are easier because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB. If you are using a Mac, the program SDMInst (see below) can properly partition larger cards.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long flights in one day, more than one SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F." The matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/bins/a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip

Installing CHDK using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This requires using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing CHDK using a Mac

• A program called SDMInst will install CHDK and can be downloaded here: http://www.zenoshrdlu.com/clickpansdm/sdminst.html

• You might have to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F:

  cd /Volumes/CANON_DC xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

• (add videos?)

Basic CHDK settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. The timer must be set accordingly.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and a lower shutter speed). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch, and may need to change during a flight.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set on "infinity" focus mode. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Some additional information is needed to confirm how this "infinity" mode works.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Image Stabilization -- The A495 does not have image stabilization. That's okay because it probably does not help on balloon or kite flights.

Exposure Compensation -- On sunny days, the view from above is bright, and the automatic exposure system can be fooled. The A495 can compensate for such scenes by reducing the exposure in increments of 1/3 f-stop. Setting the Exposure Compensation to -1/3 or -2/3 can eliminate overexposed highlights.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495)

• Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down
• Turn the autofocus light off
• Turn off the LCD display before launch.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" an SD memory card for each camera so that temporary firmware is loaded to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger the cameras remotely via the USB port.

"CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads each time the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are easier because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• Cards must be "SDHC"
• For multiple long flights in one day, more than one SD card per camera might be needed.

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/bins/a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip (mirror)

Installing using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This requires using the clever program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic CHDK settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal. The timer must be set accordingly.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and a lower shutter speed). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch, and may need to change during a flight.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set on "infinity" focus mode. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Some additional information is needed to confirm how this "infinity" mode works.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Image Stabilization -- The A495 does not have image stabilization. That's okay because it probably does not help on balloon or kite flights.

Exposure Compensation -- On sunny days, the view from above is bright, and the automatic exposure system can be fooled. The A495 can compensate for such scenes by reducing the exposure in increments of 1/3 f-stop. Setting the Exposure Compensation to -1/3 or -2/3 can eliminate overexposed highlights.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495)

• Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down
• Turn the autofocus light off
• Turn off the LCD display before launch.

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/bins/a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip (mirror)

Installing using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495)

• Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down
• Turn the autofocus light off
• Turn off "Preview" which displays each photo after it is taken

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK and use more than 4GB.
• 4GB cards are $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/bins/a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip (mirror)

Installing using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495) * Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down * Turn the autofocus light off

Installing and using CHDK

• There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies
• A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK. 4GB cards $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/bins/a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip (mirror)

Installing using a PC

• Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install
• This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495) Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down Turn the autofocus light off

Installing and using CHDK

There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It loads when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK. 4GB cards $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/ (mirror)

Installing using a PC

Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 second is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495) Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down Turn the autofocus light off

Installing and using CHDK

There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It only runs when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK. 4GB cards $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/ (mirror)

Installing using a PC

Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed

Shutter Priority -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 seconds is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495) Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down Turn the autofocus light off

This page is in progress

Installing and using CHDK

There is lots of information at the "CHDK for Dummies" site: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_for_Dummies A CHDK FAQ is here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that they load temporary firmware to your cameras when they are turned on. This firmware provides several useful enhancements including the ability to trigger two cameras simultaneously every 5-10 seconds via the USB port.

The "CHDK" or Canon Hack Development Kit must be installed on the camera's SD card. It only runs when the camera is turned on, and does not change the camera permanently.

Choosing an SD card

• 4GB cards are preferred because larger cards require partitioning in order to run CHDK. 4GB cards $5-10 online or a little more at a local store.
• cards must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/ (mirror)

Installing using a PC:

Follow the instructions here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK_For_Newbies-How_To_Install This requires using the program called CardTricks: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CardTricks

Installing using a Mac:

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)

Basic settings to start with

Enable Remote

To allow remote shutter release via the USB port, you must enable remote operation. In the CHDK Main Menu select Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters/Enable Remote.

Synchronous Shutter Release

To precisely synchronize the shutter releases of two cameras connected to a timer, you must enable synchronous remote in CHDK. In the CHDK menu, under Miscellaneous Stuff/Remote Parameters, turn on Enable Remote, Enable Synchable Remote, and Enable Synch.

With this setting, CHDK uses the first signal from the timer to get ready to take the photo (focus, exposure, any other auto stuff) and then takes the photo on the second signal.

Some options available when CHDK is installed:

Shutter Priority# -- The Canon A495 does not have this option, but CHDK adds it. It allows the camera to set the exposure automatically while keeping the shutter speed high (thus reducing blur). On sunny days, setting the shutter speed at 1/800 seconds is suggested (the IR camera may require more light and lower shutter speeds). To use shutter priority in the CHDK menu, select Extra Photo Operations/Disable Overides = OFF, then Overide Shutter Speed = 1/800 (or whatever), then Value Factor=1. Generally you should deselect or turn OFF everything else on that menu page.

Configuration using the camera's normal menu settings

Personal preferences will vary, but these choices have worked well during mapping flights. In general, manual settings are preferred over automatic settings so each photo has similar qualities and will stitch together well. The exception is exposure, which is a challenge to set correctly before launch.

Manual Focus -- the A495 can be set to focus on infinity. The camera has to be in "Manual" mode for this option to appear (have to confirm this). For most mapping flights, everything will be in focus if the camera is focused on infinity. Caution: when focus is in manual mode, MAKE SURE it is focused on infinity before launching.

Daylight White Balance -- When the camera is in "Manual" mode, select the sun icon for daylight white balance.

Turn Image Stabilization (IS) OFF -- There is some debate about this, but IS is designed for shaky hands, not cameras swaying on long lines.

Battery Saving Features -- (must confirm with the A495) * Turn the brightness of the LCD display way down * Turn the autofocus light off

This page is in progress

Follow these steps to "reprogram" a pair of SD memory cards so that you can get them to trigger simultaneously every 5-10 seconds.

Choosing an SD card

The "CHDK" or Canon Hacker Development Kit can be installed on an SD card to allow external triggering of the camera via the USB port.

• 4GB cards are only $5 online plus shipping
• must be "SDHC"

Installing CHDK on the SD cards

• The firmware version on the Kickstarter A495 cameras should be "100F", so the matching CHDK file a495-100f-1.0.0-1820-full_BETA.zip is available at http://mighty-hoernsche.de/ (mirror)

I had to run this command in the terminal on the files in the SD card to make them executable (on a mac):

cd /Volumes/CANON_DC
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine DISKBOOT.BIN PS.FI2

as outlined here: http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ/Mac#Still_Having_Trouble.3F

• (add videos?)
• CardTricks can work on PC, but there are several other options.

Quick guide to CHDK & suggestions for basic settings to start with.

• beginners’ checklist with the caveat that there are many reasons to use different settings

Advanced:

• Using shutter priority via CHDK (not a feature of A495, but good for other cameras)
• Precise synchronization (link to another wiki page) will be worthwhile to some, but simpler options could be described?

Configure your camera for good battery life and photo quality

• Menu settings on the A495 (some of my preferences, but not all critical)
• Auto vs. manual
  • Manual focus at infinity if possible
  • Automatic exposure (shutter priority)
  • Manual white balance (on daylight)
  • Turn IS off (some debate, but most think it doesn’t help while flying)
• Battery saving features
  • Turn display off or turn brightness way down
  • Turn autofocus light off
  • Must look at A495 options
• Basic settings
  • ISO, file size, “Vivid,” Exposure Compensation, etc
  • Shutter speed (1/800 second if possible)
  • Widest focal length