Here’s a hack that could enable your low-end Canon camera to shoot in RAW, plus activate a few more features such as live histograms, depth-of-field calculation and under- and overexposure highlighting usually reserved only for DSLRs.
It’s only for the brave of hearts, of course, and those who know what they’re doing. It’s a hack that could void your warranty, so proceed with caution.
This fix works for Canon cameras using the DIGIC II image processor – A610 to A640, A700, S2, S3, etc. – and it’s quite easy to install.
It’s called CHDK, a free firmware to unlock the capabilities of the DIGIC II chip which were there in the first place but were disabled by Canon for low-end cameras.
The CHDK firmware is non-destructive and highly unlikely to damage your camera, the author assures, but proceed at your own risk. And bear in mind that each particular model has its own set of instructions, so take heed. There are detailed instructions in the links below.