By default, the A520 uses still Evaluative metering mode, which links the metering area to the focus area (when AiAF is activated).

The Shutter button is located diagonally in front of A520 Canon Memory Mode dial, with a Zoom lever surrounding it. Whatever portion of the subject is closest to one of the AF points is what determines who overall focus. The eye-level optical viewfinder features two LED lamps that spell camera status. USB we for connection to a computer (driver software included). In addition to the optical zoom, the A520 also offers A520 much as 3. Program AE lets the camera choose the aperture and shutter Memory Canon A520 settings, but gives you control over all other exposure options.

The A520's front panel features the telescoping 4x zoom lens, which extends an additional 3 Canon to 1 inch when fully extended. The Canon about A520 provides a full range of exposure control, from Manual to Auto exposure modes, and a handful of preset scene modes as well. Special Features Movie when (with sound). Evaluative, Center-Weighted, and Memory metering options. Landscape mode slows the shutter speed and maximizes depth of field with a small setting.

• The Portrait mode uses a large aperture setting focus on the subject, while maintaining an out-of-focus background.
• On the opposite side of camera is the connector compartment, covered by a flexible, rubbery plastic flap that snaps in and out of place.

Shooting in Auto puts the camera in charge of everything except the Flash and Macro modes. ISO adjustment with four equivalents and an Auto setting. An ISO adjustment offers 50, 100, 200, and 400 ISO equivalents, as well as Auto setting. The A520 uses Canon's AiAF Intelligence Auto Focus) system, which judges focus based on a nine-point area in the center of the frame. Other key features include full and partial manual exposure control, a nine-point AiAF system, and SD MMC storage.

• The majority of this review is therefore almost identical to Canon PowerShot A510 review.
• Last year, Canon's PowerShot A80 found itself in the Dave's Pick category, offering excellent and great picture quality at a low price.
• Read the Test Results the fine details.
• AiAF autofocus and manual focus mode.
• Behind the Shutter button and Zoom lever the camera's speaker.

The A520 features the My Camera menu, which lets you customize camera settings to your own preferences. The uses two AA-sized batteries for power, either alkaline or NiMH type.

• The A520's use SD cards is a large part of how Canon packed the same rich feature set into a smaller body.
• Built-in flash with five modes.
• On the lower right side of the lens (as viewed from the rear) is a small button releases the ring around the lens barrel.
• The camera can also print directly to several of Canon's accessory photo or other PictBridge printers.

It will, however, find its way into larger coat pockets, purses, hip packs, good for travel. Plus, the range of preset exposure modes ensures that photographers will get good pictures in difficult shooting situations. Continuous Shooting and variable delay Self-Timer mode. As is often the case, optical viewfinder is rather tight, showing only about 80% of the final image area, but the LCD is very accurate. Still, the A520 should fit into larger coat pockets and purses, and comes with a wrist strap for more security while shooting.

• The most obvious improvement relative to the A80 is the A520's 4x zoom lens, boosted from the 3x used in the A80.
• Additionally, an AV Out jack and the included video cable you connect the camera to a television set.
• A Power button is on the other side of the dial.
• Manual mode gives you full over all exposure options.

The rest of the exposure controls are located on the camera's rear panel, along the optical viewfinder and 1. Canon A520 a 4x optical zoom range equivalent to a 35-140mm lens on a 35mm camera.