A TechLore "Ask the Experts" Question...

Question:

I have a Canon powershot s1 1s camera. I have been downloading images from my camera to the computer until recently. Now, when I connect the camera to the computer, the pop-up screen that gives me the option to download has vanished. I have tried downloading the software again, but to no avail. What can I do to get my camera and computer talking again?

-submitted by steve gennoy

Answer:

As an owner of a Canon Powershot digital camera, I can certainly help you and others out there with this digital camera issue.

Simply put, don't bother transferring images with the camera. I switched to an external flash card reader shortly after I got my camera. No more bizarre software or drivers to deal with. Transferring images from the card reader is just as easy as moving files from one folder to another. Best of all, Windows XP has a super easy wizard that handles the transfer and renames all of your pictures in one easy step.

External card readers are cheap! I think I spent 8 bucks for a Compact Flash only reader, which plugs into a USB port on my computer. You can even get readers that work with all flash formats, which is great if you have several types of digital cameras in your home. Trust me, it's the best thing you'll ever do.

Matt Whitlock - Editor, TechLore.com