Connectivity
Software (6.0)
The Canon PowerShot A80 camera is packaged with two image and movie viewing software CDs. Canon’s own Digital Camera Solution Version 14.0, compatible for both Macintosh and Windows computers, offers ImageBrowser/ZoomBrowser, PhotoRecord, and PhotoStitch. This software is great for image and video viewing, general image editing, and panoramic stitching. ArcSoft Camera Suite 1.2 (also for Macs and PCs) offers PhotoImpression 4.0 and VideoImpression 1.7, good for organization and simple editing. Canon obviously made an attempt to provide users with a variety of editing options without increasing the price of the package too much by including a much pricier software like Adobe Photoshop (which is included in some more advanced Canon packages such as the Canon EOS Digital Rebel).
Jacks, ports, plugs (6.0)
The Canon PowerShot A80 has an audio/video terminal for easy connection to a television using the supplied AVC-DC100 A/V cable. It also has a DIGITAL terminal for connection to a computer (with the supplied USB interface cable IFC-300PCU) or to a direct print compatible printer (available for purchase separately).
Direct Print Options (6.0)
The Canon PowerShot A80 is compatible with PictBridge, Exif Print, DPOF, Direct Print, and Bubble Jet Direct printing systems, an array of options for at-home digital printing. Canon has an impressive line of digital printers that are very affordable and easy to use. Within the playback mode of the camera you can designate the image you want to print, the number of prints, type of print (standard, index, or both), and whether or not the file number or date should appear on the print.
Memory (6.5)
The Canon PowerShot A80 uses a CompactFlash memory card (Type 1), which is among the more common storage units used by digital cameras. The widespread use of the CF makes it easy to swap among people and other cameras, and it’s good to know that it’s a trusted media type. It is also quite large compared to some of the tiny media types and is less likely to get lost by falling through cracks or holes in pockets.
Other Features (6.0)
Accessories
The Canon PowerShot A80 is set apart from many point-and-shoot digital cameras because of its ability to support lens converters. Using a separately sold conversion lens adapter (LC-DC52D), the Canon PowerShot A80 can support the Wide Converter WC-DC5A, Tele-converter TC-DC52, and Close-up Lens 250D for increased lens capability.
