Intrigued by the idea of video conferencing, but not sure where to start? Want to put together some video clips to send to distant relatives? Are you looking to take some digital photographs, without spending a fortune on a digital camera? A WebCam could be just what you are looking for. Prices range from about £30-£200, depending on the interface, included software, camera quality, and additional features. Our guide will help you to understand the most important WebCam features so that you can find the right camera for your needs.

Overview

A PC video camera, or WebCam, is like a tiny camcorder connected to your computer. It can capture video and still images and allow you to video conference or capture and edit clips to send to friends, family, and business associates via e-mail and the Web. Some will even capture audio so you can chat to people the other side of the world over the Internet while not running up a huge phone bill. With a WebCam, you can create your own digital movie clips and share them with friends around the world.

Installation

Getting set up is easier than you might think--all you need is a computer, an Internet connection, and a WebCam. Installing a WebCam is very easy as nearly all WebCams on the market today use a USB connector. If you have a PC that doesn't support USB, then you need to buy a WebCam that uses a parallel (printer) or serial port. Once you've plugged in your WebCam, all you have to do is install the drivers and any software that is supplied. When you first use the WebCam, you'll be taken through a simple setup routine.

Video Conferencing

Video conferencing works much like instant messaging or online chatting. You're simply adding digital video to the connection in order to see your friend on the other end. In order to videoconference, you will need an Internet connection and special software that normally is bundled with the WebCam.

Frames per Second

Frames are the individual still images that flash by during video play, making the pictures appear to move. The more frames per second you're viewing, the better the image quality. If you have fewer frames, the video will look choppy, like the little books you flip through quickly to make the pictures move. Don't expect the image quality of a digital camera or the smooth video playback of a camcorder--even at faster Internet connection speeds, Web video is usually low-resolution and relatively choppy. When you're looking for a camera, try to get one that will deliver a maximum of at least 30 frames per second.

Modems

Since most PCs now come with at least a 56-Kbps modem, you shouldn't need any additional modem hardware if your system is new. Even with a 56-Kbps modem, however, don't expect expert-looking video; video takes a lot of bandwidth to transfer properly. If you're going to be doing a lot of video conferencing, you should consider getting higher speed access, such as broadband. However, it is worth noting that unless both WebCam users have a broadband connection the picture quality will remain the same. If you need to get a new modem, you'll find a great selection here. In the coming months, different WebCam manufacturers will be releasing WebCams designed for use on a broadband connection. The main advantage these new WebCams have over existing WebCams will be in sound quality.

Resolution and Colour

It's rather difficult to judge resolution and colour accuracy of a WebCam, since the images it produces are far from perfect. Most resolutions will be in the area of 160 x 120 or 320 x 240 pixels. Instead of choosing a WebCam based on its listed resolution, it's a better idea to make sure a camera has a superior lens that will adjust to variable lighting and conditions, and offers the software support to adjust the picture as needed. Watch out for recommendations from the Halfvalue.co.uk team in the reviews that accompany many of our WebCams.

Camera Control

Most PC video cameras have a manual focus, which makes it easier for you to record yourself for video conferencing purposes. You'll also want to make sure the camera has a steady mounting system that will allow you to adjust it both vertically (tilt) and horizontally (pan). Some companies also sell accessories like tripods and mounting systems for added control. Make sure that the software that comes with the camera enables you to handle some of the fine-tuning yourself.

Software

Most WebCams enable you to take still pictures as well as record video streams. Stills can be taken at up to a resolution of 640x480 on certain WebCams, effectively giving you a budget digital camera, though more commonly you'll see a resolution of 320x240. With this in mind, it's worth looking out for WebCams that come with image manipulation software especially if you want to boost the quality of your images, since they usually turn out less than perfect. Most cameras ship with some form of editing software, but you may want to invest in a separate package.

Of course, if the number-one reason you're looking for a PC video camera is for video conferencing, then you'll want to find a camera that comes with video conferencing software like Microsoft NetMeeting or CU-SeeMe. Video conferencing software allows you to seamlessly send streaming video over the Internet to the party waiting on the other end. You can also find free video conferencing software online.