does canon A590IS support RAW format??

its supports jpg bt does it support RAW format of shooting,,plz reply...

It supports raw but you need to wait for that "hack". Its not hack, its more like add-on which allows to save to raw and adds more functionality... and btw, void warranty, hmmmm no... firmware is still there and unchanged, that add-on is on memory card...

Ah. That one. There is a firmware hack that will do and void the warranty. That's what I was referring to. But you are correct, there is a hack that uses firmware saved on a USB memory card.Forgot about that.

CHDK is the name of the open source project that enables raw on Canon powershot cams, like the A590IS. And this is NOT a hacked firmware, but a program (a A590 is a small computer after all) that runs from the SD card. It does NOT alter ANYTHING in your cams firmware at all. Once you delete the CHDK software from your SD card, the cam works the same as it did when you bought it. So there is no void of warranty of any kind! It's completely safe to use, and you CANNOT brick your cam with it. I can really recommend it if you want to get the most out of the A590IS.

Oh yes, that's right. A very good hack. But is it really worth it? I mean, unless you're doing any serious photo editing, RAW isn't really all that advantageous to your average shutterbug. Nice? Sure. Uncompressed? Yes. But for the average person who just wants to take pictures and print them, or even the hobby photographer who does limited photo editing, it just isn't worth the hassle, IMHO. And if you're more serious than that, you'd be (or should be) using an SLR that takes RAW anyway.

Nice hack, but for most it's lost on them.

You're right that the CHDK isn't for each and everyone. I didn't want to say that you really need CHDK. The A590 does a very good job in it's basic configuration, certainly in it's category of low budget camera's. But when it comes to RAW support, I think CHDK just is a very nice addition. If you want to experiment, or if you really want/need raw (?) and know what you're doing, I think CHDK is a very nice bonus.
Correct, a dslr is much better when it comes to image quality, even at low iso, and has RAW support anyway. So indeed, if you're serious and have the money to spare, a dslr is the way to go. But then again, there are situations that I do not like to take my dslrs with me, but prefer a low cost solution that doesn't cost me an arm and leg to replace when lost. CHDK can just make the difference why one might choose this cam above another one. I wish more brand had similar possibilities, but I'm wandering astray, back to the point:
My bottom line: If you want to experiment with RAW and get more out of the A590, CHDK is a free bonus. However, for nice pictures you do not need it in 99% or more of the cases. The 590 is a nice camera on it's own.

For people who's still curious about will CHDK void the warranty, CHDK's FAQ got an interesting point here:

http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/FAQ#Q._Does_using_the_CHDK_program_void_your_warranty.3F

I'm also using Canon Powershot A590IS, and using CHDK, the result is superb, I do occassional photo, but I'm not a profesional, and dSLR is just too big to carry around everyday. I certainly reccomend to install this software because it really extend the camera's already impresive manual control. Even if you're not planning to shot RAW, give it a try because I found the histogram function is very good to have (and understand) under/over exposure scenes.

Good points. But again, I have to point out that unless you're doing photo editing, and we're talking more processing the photo, not just crops and tweaks, that RAW simply isn't necessary with 99% of those taking pictures.

Im using 590 IS with CHDK.
In my openion CHDK is a real steroid.

Advantages
========
Shutter speed & aperture override, Live histogram, Exact battery indicator and more...

Dis advantage
==========
Reduced battery life.

Conclusion
=============

What im doing is that i will lock the mem: card when ever CHDK is required and other wise as usual I will keep my mem card unlocked sothat it will behave as an ordinary 590is.

The memmory card should be locked for CHDK to boot.


Go for CHDK if u wanna expirement with ur 590is a bit more....
I id it when found my 590 limitting me with shutter speed and all...

RAW is not much needed or useful for me since it is not processed by the DIGIC 3 we need to do much @ PS to publish it either printed or online....

James Deruvo, you are an annoying nerd, go away! I hate these negative geeks who would rather see you spend 1000$ on a DSLR than try CHDK on your cam for whatever reason!

The Powershot A590 does not natively come with a RAW format feature, you can use the open source software CHDK to add additional features as well as increase the control of the functions the camera provides. Use this software at your own risk of possibly voiding Canon warranty, the camera does not feature any internal storage therefore the software will be saved on external memory. Many users have used this software without any malfunction to the camera. CHDK is not firmware and does not alter the existing firmware in any way. The camera is great on it's own; but if you are interested in more creative control, use the CHDK open source software. Some might consider it unnecessary to purchase an expensive DSLR camera with a RAW format feature, because the open source software does provide the same thing. Turn your point and shoot into a Super Camera, lifehacker.com , check out the CHDK wiki for more info.