What Does a Webcam Do?

A webcam converts moving pictures taken through its lens into digital images that can be stored on a computer or beamed throughout the Internet. It is often integrated into a laptop but can connect to a desktop wirelessly or through a USB or Firewire cord. A webcam can cost from $25 to $250.

Lens

Webcams take pictures through their lenses: the higher the megapixel resolution, the clearer the picture. A separate webcam can have a resolution of up to 8 megapixels versus the 1.4 megapixels of a laptop camera.

Microphone

Webcams with microphones allow audio and video through one all-inclusive unit. The quality of the audio bears no relationship to the quality of video. One can be equal to or better than the other.

Video Quality

The quality of movement broadcast on the Internet depends on the type of Internet connection. A fast T1 connection offers smooth, television-or-better-quality video. A phone modem lags with jerky, disjointed images.

Automatic Features

Many webcams boast auto-tracking and auto-focus. If you move your head, the camera can follow it and keep your face in focus.

Uses

Webcams can be used to bring people together though videoconferencing or video-phoning, for security though remote viewing of a location, or to show products that are hard to describe with text such as a colorful toy.

Manufacturers

Most webcams work on either a Mac or PC and offer software for both types. Some of the better manufacturers include Logitech, Labtech and Microsoft (PCs only).