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Digital Rebel Firmware Hack Worth It?

Mr. C,
Received the original rebel as a gift last year. Pretty nice camera. Where does one go to get updated software to make it function more like the XT? In your opinion is it worth it?
Thanks

Bill Merritt
Sun, 24 Jul 2005 21:15:43 -0700

Bill,

Here are some firmware resources for you:
Canon 300D Wasia Firmware
advice for new 300D owner about the hack

Mechanical Hacks:
Digital Rebel Hack No. 1 - Extended eyecup
Digital Rebel Hack No. 2 - Full time AI Servo

Chieh Cheng
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 11:09:55 -0700

Personally, I feel that the Wasia firmware is worth upgrading to. The Undutchable firmware is interesting and foreshadows additional possibilities. But at its current state, it's only worth it if you use automatic picture modes.

Chieh Cheng
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 11:12:15 -0700

Mr. C,
Extreme thanks for fast response. I e-mailed canon support same day.
They informed me that there were no upgrades available for the 300. Geez, what a surprise. Then again, they're in business to sell cameras. It is a little frustrating that Canon refuses to address it though.
Have to admit, am not very tech-minded when it comes to this stuff.
I think I will take your advice and go with the Wasia upgrade. Is this someting I can purchase on-line and download upgrades directly to camera, or would it involve sending for a CD and booklet.
Do you have an idea on cost of upgrade and how I would go about doing
it? If I am understanding your comments about Wasia upgrade, it appears that the end product is close enough to not make me want to run out and purchase the newer XT / 350. Are my assumptions correct?
Thanks again for taking the time to help me.

Bill
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 17:21:40 -0700

You can read the comparison between the Digital Rebel XT and the Wasia upgraded Digital Rebel in this article:

Digital Rebel XT vs. Modified Digital Rebel vs. Digital Rebel

It's not unreasonable for Canon to deny the existence of the Wasia firmware upgrade. This firmware upgrade was hacked by a Russian named, Wasia. It was not sponsored by Canon and does void the warranty on your camera. However, the firmware hack worked well and few people had any problems with it.

You won't be able to purchase the Wasia firmware upgrade or pay for installation. However, you can get the upgrade for free by doing it your self. You can download the firmware from one of the links I provided earlier.

If you need step-by-step instruction on installing the firmware upgrade, you'll be happy to hear that my Hacking Digital Cameras book is being published by Wiley in September. It's got a full chapter on how to install the Wasia firmware and how to use all of the new functions that are activated. It's written for both beginner and advanced techies.

Any path you go, I'm sure you will be happy with your newly upgraded Digital Rebel. It'll feel like a new camera.

Chieh Cheng
Tue, 26 Jul 2005 10:52:21 -0700

Mr. C,
Can't wait for your book. I will be needing the low-tech version. I will keep my eye out for it. I assume it will be available through Amazon or one of the majors like Borders or Nobles?
Sorry, did not know Wasia was a person. Sounds like we will all in in his debt. Will start looking at sites today for download instructions. If it is too much for me to understand, I will wait for your book before pursuing.
Thanks again. Much success on new publication.

Bill
Tue, 26 Jul 2005 19:06:06 -0700

I can't wait for the book to be published either. It will be on Amazon and all of the major bookstores, like Barnes and Noble. In fact, you can already pre-order it at all those bookstores.

Good luck. Let us know how your upgrade goes.

Chieh Cheng
Wed, 27 Jul 2005 14:30:13 -0700

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