Canon PowerShot A540 Point & Shoot Camera
The Canon PowerShot A540 is a 6MP 1/2.5 inch compact camera — with 480p video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon PowerShot A540 Point & Shoot Camera
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Camera Overview — Canon PowerShot A540
Key Features — Canon PowerShot A540
6MP 1/2.5-Inch Sensor: Captures images at up to 2816x2112 pixels, suitable for standard prints and casual everyday photography.
DIGIC II Image Processor: Canon's DIGIC II engine handles image processing and contributes to responsive camera performance.
AA Battery Powered: Runs on two AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, with NiMH cells rated for approximately 360 shots versus roughly 90 on alkaline.
9-Point Contrast-Detection AF: Covers a wide area of the frame for reliable focus acquisition on everyday subjects.
Optical Zoom Viewfinder: Real-image optical zoom viewfinder provides an alternative to the LCD for composing shots in bright sunlight.
2.5-Inch LCD Display: TFT color screen serves as the primary live view and playback monitor for composing and reviewing shots.
Camera Specifications — Canon PowerShot A540
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.5 inch |
| Resolution | 6MP |
| Processor | DIGIC II |
| ISO Range | 80 – 800 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection, Manual Focus Only |
| AF Points | 9 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 2816x2112 |
| Burst Rate | 2.3 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 480p |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
Description — Canon PowerShot A540
The Canon PowerShot A540 is a compact point-and-shoot camera centered on a 6MP sensor measuring 1/2.5 inches, processed by Canon's DIGIC II image processor. Maximum still output reaches 2816x2112 pixels, and the camera supports a burst mode at 2.3 fps for capturing fast-moving moments. The 2.5-inch TFT color LCD at 85,000 dots handles image review and live composition, while a real-image optical zoom viewfinder offers an alternative framing method.
Autofocus uses a 9-point contrast-detection system with manual focus available as a fallback. The built-in flash covers Auto, On, Off, and Red-eye reduction modes. Video recording is available at up to 480p at 30fps or 15fps in 8-bit color.
Storage options include SD and Memory Stick media, and connectivity is provided via USB. The body is constructed from plastic, measures 90 x 64 x 43 mm, and weighs 180g. The ISO 80–800 range and 2 x AA battery system — rated at roughly 360 shots on NiMH — complete the camera's practical feature set.
Pros — Canon PowerShot A540
- ✓Flexible AA battery compatibility supports both alkaline and NiMH cells, with NiMH rated for approximately 360 shots
- ✓9-point contrast-detection autofocus system offers reliable subject coverage for a camera in this class
- ✓Dual storage support for SD and Memory Stick media provides flexibility depending on cards on hand
Cons — Canon PowerShot A540
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind — neither in-body nor digital — which can increase blur risk in low light
- ✗Video tops out at 480p resolution, which is well below modern standard definition expectations
- ✗ISO ceiling of 800 limits shooting flexibility in darker environments
Reviews — Canon PowerShot A540
Videos — Canon PowerShot A540
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