QuickCam VC: Great for videoconferencing & webcams
Written: Jul 14 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great for basic webcams and videoconferencing
Cons: Not the highest quality- you get what you pay for
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| billyah's Full Review: Logitech Camera Family |
Many of the reviewers of this product have given it low marks as they are disappointed with low quality still photos. What they didn't realize before their purchase is that is not the purpose of this camera. While you can take still photos with it, it is better to buy a digital camera for that purpose. In turn, some digital cameras can do video, but poorly. It is best to get the right device for the job.
That said, I have had a QuickCam VC for about a year. I am happy with its performance. I use it as a webcam much of the time, and have also used it to videoconference with friends and family. Considering the price of the product (I purchased mine for about $55 on eBay) it performs these tasks admirably.
The quality of the webcam pictures are nowhere near photo-quality, but they don't have to be. If that were what I wanted, I would pay for a more expensive solution. Again with the videoconferencing, the quality is not stellar, but with the limitations of internet bandwidth, it can't get much better without substantial investment.
The setup of my USB model QuickCam couldn't have been easier. After installing the software, I plugged it in and it worked like a charm. USB is great since you can plug and unplug the thing to your heart's content, even while the computer is on, and not have to worry. The software that comes with the QuickCam is adequate for me to make the webcam work. I have been using Microsoft NetMeeting for videoconferencing.
The base that comes with the QuickCam does not keep it particularly stable. I use a miniature tripod that I originally purchased for my 35mm camera and used the screw mount on the camera to attach it to the tripod. I imagine you could purchase a small tripod like this for fewer than ten dollars at a camera or outdoor goods shop. It keeps the camera infinitely more stable and allows for more flexibility in positioning. This is important for both webcams and videoconferencing.
The QuickCam does not respond well to low levels of light. Turn some more lights on and you'll be fine. I have had some problems with the automatic light balance feature where the camera will "blank out" to white briefly when in especially bright sunlight. As long as the light levels are bright enough (but not REALLY bright) and fairly constant, there are few problems.
The moral of the story is, know what you are buying ahead of time, and purchase the product that really fits what you want to do with it. The QuickCam VC is great for basic webcams and videoconferencing, especially for the price. If you want higher quality, be prepared to spend money to get it.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
billyah
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Member: Bill
Location: Beaverton, OR
Reviews written: 4
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
Sporadic user of this site.. trying to contribute what I can when I can.
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