Lost manual, dont know how to set timer A510 power

Press the FUNC/SET button. Use the cursor keys to select Drive Mode. Use left/right to select the desired delay and press FUNC/SET. Start the self-timer by pressing the shutter release button.

Full details are in the "Using the Self-Timer" section of the advanced guide. (page 35 in my copy). If you need any of the manuals, you can download them from the manufacturer's web site at
http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer/digital_cameras/powershot_a_series/powershot_a410#BrochuresAndManuals

http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer/
digital_cameras/powershot_a_series/
powershot_a410#BrochuresAndManuals

First you press the self timer button. Then press the shutter button to start the timer.
You can download the manual under the guides and manuals section at this link: http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=183&modelid=14904#DownloadDetailAct

Have you tried NOT setting the shots to 3.

can i use canon power shot a510 how web camera??

Hi,

You can download here.

http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/starbattery/a520manual.pdf

The manual for the 520 also applies to your 510.

Press the Function button. Use the down button to go down to 'Drive Mode' on the left side of the LCD. Use the right button to select the clockface with 2 or 10 (2 second or 10 second delay). Be sure to set back to single shot after you're done using the self timer!

I was just playing with this myself...
Hit the "FUNC" button and scroll (if necessary) to "Drive Mode"
Scroll right/left to select 10-second, 2-second, or custom timer setting. If custom, hit the "Set" button then select the timer delay and number of shots to take.
Leave the FUNC display on the screen when you hit the shutter release. It begins counting down when you hit the shutter button, so make sure you've got it pointed where you want it (preferably on a tripod, though any stable surface will do in a pinch).

Here is the manual.

Tape is the only answer. There will not be spares available. or look out for a similar model that is bust in some other way.

Some how it seems the auto focus- which in macro mode is looking at something else[because of parallax]is over riding your manual focus attempts. Check the manual carefully to see if there is a mention here for special things to do for close work or contact the Canon Technical Support