Webcam solution needed

Syppion

Member
Jul 23, 2005
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0
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My wife and I live several states away from both of our families, but try to keep our kids and the rest of the family (mainly their grandparents) familiar with each other. Anyhow, my parents recently left dial-up for DSL (~1400/250) so were looking at moving from emailing photos to streaming video.

We have cable, i-net, and VOIP phone through Time-Warner (~4500/300 while talking on phone). Since long distance is free, we will probably just use a speakerphone for the voice-link, but need to figure out the video link. We are looking at buying the same camera for both my parents and ourselves (in-laws and our siblings get to buy their own ;) ). We both have routers that can handle wired, 802.11b, and 802.11g. (Having the same gear makes it easier to provide long-distance tech support).

Debating getting a USB webcam (e.g., Logitech 4000 pro) vs. a networked (probably wireless) camera. After reading a bit it seems the network cameras have some advantages:
1) Ability to stream ?live? footage without any additional programs (NetMeeting, etc): less complicated = better for grandparents
2) Web(browser)-based seems easier to hold a conference type call: one IE window for grandparents camera, one for cousins, etc.
3) Remote nanny-cam if we ever feel the need (hope not to)

The only disadvantage seems to be some complexity in the initial setup if wireless (one-time thing), and a price premium vs. USB cameras.

Is there anything I?m missing? Can the 4000 pro or similar cameras do the above better than I give credit for?

We?d like to go wireless so we can talk somewhere other than in front of computer desk, like the couch, which is much better for a 2.5 yr old.

The Logitech 4000 pro reviews seem to indicate it?s one of the better non-networked webcams, but I have yet to find a network camera without mixed reviews or a heavy emphasis on remote home-security. While remote home-security may be a nice feature, we?re more interested in making a family video-phone.

Any recommendations in the <$200 each range? Not that we want to spend $400 on two cameras, but if they?re worth it in quality/longevity/ease-of-use?
 

LiquidIce1337

Senior member
Aug 23, 2005
537
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I have just the thing for you Syppion, I am selling ym Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000 *silver* on ebay actually.. I payed 129 for it this year and I decided I didn't really need it because I don't use it often enough.. the picture quality is amazing and I think I have only used it probably 4 or 5 times to do a webcast for a radio station.. 640x380 at 30 frames per a second is the ideal for anyone. One of the ebst cameras you can get.. it would do the trick it's usb 2.0 and VERY easy to set up also has software that will allow you to video phone but I find MSN for what you are trying to do being a much better solution.. Will work great and the cord is ample to reach anywhere you want.. also zooms like no other. PM me I will link you to my auction