The newly developed image processor, DIGIC, improves the signal processing algorithm, resulting in improved picture quality, more accurate autofocus and faster image processing speed.

The Development of the Canon DIGIC Imaging Processor

Early in the development of the PowerShot line, Canon realized it was necessary to develop its own specialized image processing IC. While other manufacturers rushed to market using off-the-shelf LSI processors, Canon concentrated on developing its own digital image processing technologies. Canon's first digital image processing IC made its debut in the PowerShot S10 in 1999. In the fall of 2002, Canon announced the next major advance in image processors: DIGIC.

Among optical manufacturers, only Canon possesses the requisite know-how -- both a background in advanced signal processing technologies and the ability to develop LSI chips in short timeframes to create a processor as sophisticated as DIGIC.

Super-Fast Processing Speed with High-Capacity Buffering

The general-purpose image processor used in most digital cameras perform pixel operations in a single serial stream of data, i.e., one at a time. By contrast, Canon's DIGIC operates in parallel mode: numerous pixels are processed simultaneously with each clock cycle. It can, therefore, perform image processing functions with exceptional speed that cannot be matched by conventional designs.

In Canon PowerShot cameras, DIGIC's highspeed signal processing is combined with high-capacity buffering. The result is fast response and continuous shooting capability unmatched by other digital cameras. An added benefit of DIGIC's highspeed processing capability is a movie mode that offers higher image resolution and longer recording times.

Super-Fast Architecture specialized for Digital Cameras

Canon developed a super-fast architecture especially for digital cameras with its digital imaging processor. The features found on all Canon digital cameras -- high image quality, low power consumption, and large-capacity buffering -- stem from this speed.

Longer Battery Life

Image processing is one of the major functions in a digital camera that drain battery power. DIGIC is an inherently efficient design and far outperforms general-purpose processor chips in this regard. Independent comparison tests confirm that Canon PowerShot cameras with DIGIC are significantly less battery-hungry than competitive digital cameras.

A Stunning Difference in Image Quality

DIGIC adds several newly developed algorithms to our previous digital imaging processors. Canon’s digital imaging processor can operate at extremely high speeds; complex algorithms for improving image quality can be executed effortlessly. The processor easily executes numerous operations for algorithms that require an enormous number of calculations even for the slightest gain in image quality. And it does this without any compromise.

Superior Dynamic Range

Canon's DIGIC proves that white saturation ("blown highlights") is more often caused by inappropriate image processing than by any inherent limitation of the CCD sensor. Identical images taken with and without DIGIC processing, using the same CCD, demonstrate entirely different levels of white saturation. Pictures taken with PowerShot cameras are, therefore, far less likely to exhibit this phenomenon.

Reduced Noise

While CCD sensors do exhibit a certain amount of inherent noise, what many reviewers and other experts often refer to as CCD noise is, in fact, largely noise generated during image processing.

Canon's precision approach prevents any extraneous noise from being generated. DIGIC's high-speed processing capability is used to perform an enormous number of calculations. (The more precise the calculation, the fewer the errors. Errors represent deviation from the original signal i.e., noise.) DIGIC also employs advanced algorithms that enhance resolution without increasing noise, shattering yet another commonly held notion that signal-to-noise ratio can only be improved at the expense of resolution.

Compared to other manufacturers' models with comparable CCD sensors, Canon PowerShot cameras with DIGIC deliver superior image quality that is easily demonstrable.