Guide to Webcams

What are the different types of webcam and how do they work?

A webcam is a small camera that works in the same manner as a video camera but with images that can be accessed via the internet, instant messaging or with video conferencing applications.

Webcams provide ‘real time’ images – they can be viewed live on a web page. For example, if you have instant messaging software, such as MSN Messenger, you can request to view your buddy’s webcam while he/she also looks at yours. The broadcasting end of a webcam captures the images, which are then fed into your computer, through the ISP and on to the internet.

Broadcasting can take two different forms dependent on the individual’s webcam. They either work via streaming, in which images are downloaded in a constant stream; or via Java in which images are captured at intervals and are regularly refreshed by the broadcaster.

There are many different types of webcam available including:

• Dedicated webcams – These are the most common types of webcam available and simply require a USB connection on your computer. They are easy to install (many webcams will become available to use as soon as you plug them in) and they are straightforward to use. Of course they do have their limitations, including a potentially low number of frames per second and poor resolution.
• Integrated cameras – Comes as part of the hardware. Many laptops now include webcams integrated into their design.
• Camcorders/security cameras – Many people now set up security cameras outside their home using a video capture card on the PC. These often come with variable lens options, night-time coverage and filters for daylight
• Megapixel cameras – Due to their excellent quality, megapixel cameras create large files and as such are rarely used for streaming. Instead they are used to capture still images over a consistent period of time – these are particularly popular for refreshing archived images.

When deciding which type of camera is right for you, it’s important to think about what you plan to use it for.

What features should you look for?

Here are some of the characteristics you should look for on a webcam:

• Frames per second – Arguably the most important aspect of a webcam are the number of frames per second that are recorded – which determines the image quality. Generally the speed at which images move will be much poorer than on a video camera or a digital camera, even if you have a high-speed internet connection. You should pick up a webcam that records at least 30 frames per second but also bear in mind that it is not just the webcam that determines the quality of the images – slow modems, internet traffic and more can all be contributing factors.
• Resolution and colour – Webcam resolutions are usually between 160x120 or 320x240 pixels. Higher quality cameras can be picked up with resolutions at 640x480 or above. Generally speaking, the higher the resolution the better the quality of image you should expect. However, it is often a good idea to pick out a camera that will adjust to variable lighting and conditions in order to adjust the picture as you need it.
• Digital zoom – The ability to zoom in on something specific. An optical zoom will actually change the lens position, but a digital zoom merely increases and decreases the size of an area.
• Camera control – Some cameras will allow you to tilt and pan, and others will include a manual focus.
• Video conferencing – Some webcams come with video conferencing capabilities such as lighting and real-time enhancements. You will need video conferencing support from applications such as Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, AOL Messenger, Skype and more.
• Portable – Usually this is as simple as a clip on the webcam that means it can be hooked on to laptops.
• Microphone – Many webcams come with in-built microphones so you can enjoy live conversations as you view and chat.

What should you pay?

Webcams can be picked up for as little as £10 and they will be perfectly adequate for most users – i.e. those who just want to chat to friends over a messenger service. Webcams with in-built microphones are available at around £15 while for around £40 you should pick up the ‘works’ – i.e. a webcam with digital zoom, microphone, etc.

If you need a webcam for professional purposes you might wish to pay out more. There are many high-tech webcams available with features such as automatic face tracking, remote controls and more.

The key is to think about how you plan to use the webcam and then determine how much you want to pay. Good luck with your choice!