Nikon Coolpix S510

Connectivity
Software (7.0)
The Nikon S510 camera comes with a Nikon Software Suite CD-ROM for Windows Vista XP and Macintosh OS X version 10.3.9 or higher: Nikon Transfer, Apple Quicktime, my Picturetown Utility, ArcSoft Panorama Maker, and oddly enough, Kodak EasyShare.

To install these programs, users must click on the custom install button in the Install Center Window, with prompts for additional drivers. Total installation time for the Nikon S510 software is about 15 minutes. Programs do not open up immediately once installation is completed, which is a setback. Once opened, Nikon Transfer software only allows you to transfer pictures from your camera to the computer, and doesn't include editing options.

There are three drop-down tab menus in Nikon Transfer: Options, Thumbnails, and the Transfer Queue. There are six tabs in the Options menu to help users detect the details of their photos. The tabs are labeled Source, Embedded Info, Primary Destination, Backup Destination, Preferences and Promotion. Users can actually see their uploaded pictures in the Thumbnails menu, but only while the camera’s USB is connected to the computer. The Transfer menu allows users to see the transfer rate of their images.

Nikon Transfer is a hassle when you can easily upload them using the included Kodak EasyShare software, which allows users to save and edit images all in the same program.

Kodak EasyShare software is easy to use, with editing tools that work for photographers at any level. There are tips that constantly pop up to give users extra support or a spark of creativity to what they could do with their photos. The software is also directly linked to the online Kodak EasyShare Gallery site, which is convenient for ordering prints, creating cards, stickers, and other fun things with photos.

Overall, the Nikon software suite is marred with a poor transfer program. Interface and general usability are a headache. Users are better off using the included Kodak EasyShare software.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (6.25)
The Nikon Coolpix has one AV-Out jack for connection to television sets in PAL or NTSC format, computers, or PictBridge-compatible printers via USB cables included in the box. The AV-Out port is located on the right side of the camera, concealed under a silver-colored plastic door.

Direct Print Options (5.5)
Users can directly print from the camera when connected to a PictBridge-compatible printer. Through the camera’s Print Set menu, users can tag favorite photos using the rotary dial and select up to nine prints per image.

Battery (3.25)
The Nikon Coolpix S510 uses the included EN-EL10 rechargeable lithium ion battery. The battery weighs half an ounce and has a reported 170 shots per charge, which is a long battery life. Users can also buy the optional AC adapter EH-62D that is compatible with the camera.

Memory (5.0)
The Nikon Coolpix S510 has 52 MB of onboard memory, which is just enough to save 13 full resolution images to the camera. That’s an upgrade from the 26 MB on the S500 model. For additional memory, users need to purchase an additional SD or SDHC memory card. Users can copy photos from the internal memory to the memory card and vice versa for easy transfer.

Other Features (3.5)
Voice Recording Mode – Users can record audio WAV files up to five hours or until the memory card fills up, whichever comes first. Accessed through the mode button, the screen lists multiple recorded files with a date information and time stamp for users who want to use the digital camera as a portable voice recorder.