How to Set Up an Internet Camera

An internet camera is not expensive and is easy to set up.

Setting up and using an Internet camera is easy. With a basic USB web camera and the proper software, broadcasting via the Internet is a good way to add a face to voice and text communication. Internet cameras are generally used in conjunction with popular instant messaging and voice chat systems like Yahoo Chat, ICQ, AOL Messenger, MSN Messenger and Skype. When using these systems for voice communication, adding an Internet camera will turn them in to a simple video conferencing system.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet connection
• Web camera
• Instant messaging or voice messaging client
• Microphone and headset

Instructions

Camera & Software Installation

1. Install the camera software. In some cases, Windows will already have the camera driver installed; however, most cameras have software for still image capture and video capture that should be installed.

2. Plug the camera into your computer's USB port. Windows will search for the proper driver. By installing the software first, you ensure that a driver for the camera is installed.

3. Test the camera using the manufacturer's software. Most cameras have proprietary software for still image and video capture. By testing the camera first, you can establish a successful installation.

4. Install an instant messaging client or voice communication client.

5. Set up the client to recognize the camera. If the camera was properly installed and worked with the manufacturer's proprietary software, it should be available to the client. The camera settings will vary depending on the client. In some clients, camera setup is in the "preferences" section. In others, there is a separate menu entry for camera setup.

6. Begin an instant message or voice chat session.

7. Start the camera. By default, the camera is usually off.

8. Tell the other person or people in the chat that your camera is on. In most clients, they will have to manually begin viewing your camera.

Tips & Warnings

• Although in most cases, the camera software needs to be installed first, some cameras may need to be plugged in before software setup. Refer to your documentation to see what kind you have. If you experience performance issues, set the camera resolution or frame rate lower in your instant messaging or chat client. Make sure you have adequate light on your face; if you are backlit, your face may not be visible.

References

• How to Set Up a Web Cam
• Webcam - Yahoo Messenger
• How to Set Up Your Webcam for Skype Video