need a webcam...

[Semidevil]

so my gf will be going overseas in a few months, and one of the ways that we want to keep in touch is through msn chat, w/ a webcam.

now, when it comes to web cam, I really have no idea what to look for. Basically, we want something that willl show clearly, give clear picture, and also can capture our video movements and all pretty smoothly. makes sense??

there are literally cameras going for 20 dollars to 200 dollars per camera.

So what kind of specs should I be looking at?

 

[DrumBum]

I can't help you, but I would also be interested in learning something about these.

 

[Texun]

I'm no expert on webcams but I do know the ones with the CCD sensor provide better image quality than CMOS sensors. That's basically where the price difference is seen. Since CCD is better sensor it will probably be noted in the product description. If you see a camera and the sensor isn't mentioned then you are probably looking at the low end CMOS type. Also, Broadband is a must if you want to avoid a sideshow.

Others who have more experience with webcams hould be able to give you more detailed information but this will get you started.

 

[DarkManX]

the 3com homeconnenect webcam is great, 640x480 resolution, pretty good quality, and works great in any kind of lighting. they have been discontinued for a while though, so I dunno if u can find new ones.

found the specs http://www.3com.com/products/en_US/detail.jsp?tab=prodspec&sku=003718-00&pathtype=support they go for about 40$ on ebay, when they were around about 2 years ago they were going for 100$+

 

[Sheriff]

I have an old Hauppauge that still holds it own agst current ones that I've seen (ie,Logitech, ADS) but I also have an old 8mm Vid camera that works great too and has zoom
If the Vid card has an in and/or with the right software capturing is a breeze.

 

[vegetation]

I have a Veo observer cam. It has tilt and pan functions that work over a remote internet explorer web browser (uses Activex so other browers don't work). Great quality picture and the ability to move the camera by the remote user makes a world of a difference in functionality. Also, it's a standalone ip camera so no host computer is needed for serving purposes. Runs about $150 but what a difference it is over the under $50 junk out there.

 

[WW]

a lot of the new camcorders (sony, etc) have usb streaming built in and make great webcams, plus you can show videos you've already recorded throught messenger, etc. Of course the picture blows the $20 webcams away.

I wouldn't get one just for that reason, but if you're looking for a camcorder, check for that feature. There's also software available to turn any minidv camcorder into a webcam. trackercam and webcamdv



webcamdv info

 

[Futher]

Best webcam on the market is the Logitech Quickcam Pro 4000. If you have a mac, get the isight. The Isight is the best webcam overall on the market. The different between USB and Firewire is amazing.