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The Canon Hacker's Development Kit (CHDK) requires the user to load two files onto their camera's memory card which will then unlock the extra features - the creators call the files an enhancement, arguing that they neither overwrite nor permanently change the camera's firmware, meaning that when you delete the files the camera continues to operate as it did before.

Once loaded the files apparently allow you to take pictures in RAW format, and open up a number of new compression types. The CHDK also allows users to edit their on-screen information, granting features such as zebra mode for pointing out very bright and dark areas, and a live histogram displaying current image information including luminance and RGB for each

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channel.

Other options include shutter, aperture and ISO overrides, allowing longer exposure times up to 65 seconds, customisable high speed bursts and faster shutter speeds.

The software also claims to allow users to run a number of scripts allowing functions such as motion-sensing, for taking pictures of lightning for example.

The software has already garnered a lot of praise from those who've used it, with one poster claiming: "Excellent software. Night exposures up to a minute versus the 15 second limit by default, and I wrote a quick script to take five shots at different exposures for HDR images, and the battery life indicator is great. The RAW image support huge as well."

However, other posters have sounded a note of caution: "I have used this product and it is fantastic, but trust me it is a huge battery drainer. Live histograms will eat your batteries for lunch. It is nice having the zebra feature on a low-end point and shoot though."

Those interested in the CHDK can find further information on its Wiki page. Beware that PC Pro has not tested nor recommends the use of this software to date.

Canon had not returned our request for comment at the time of writing.