What is webcam?

A webcam is a video camera that attaches to a computer connected to the Internet. It can be used for video chat, record video, and live video.

Requirement

To use the webcam, your computer should have at least 1GB RAM, USB 2.0 Input, a processor speed of at least 1GHz and broadband internet connection so you can have a video chat with your friends, family via internet call services like Skype; upload the video after recording; stream the live video through livestream, Justin. TV etc. Also pay attention that slow Internet speeds will lead to your video chat session becoming jerky or fragmented, and it will be difficult to carry on a conversation.

Feature

Understanding the basic features of webcams as you decide which webcam to buy is essential. It will also help you determine whether you want any additional audio and video components or computer accessories to go along with your webcam.

Resolution

There are two basic resolution categories: standard definition and high definition. Standard definition has a lower resolution than high definition does, with 480-pixel vertically scanning lines being the common standard definition resolution. High definition webcams offer two levels of resolution for broadcasting: 720 p and 1080 p. The former has 720-pixel vertically scanning lines and the second has 1080-pixel vertically scanning lines. The more pixels that there are in the vertically scanning lines of a video, the sharper and clearer the image will be.

Frame rate

The frame rate is the number of still images shown in one second of video or animation. Frame per second (fps) is the measure used to show this rate on webcam packaging and specification sheets. A higher frame rate means a smoother video. A 15fps or lower tends to causes the video to flicker and appear choppy. So it is important to find a camera with enough of a frame rate to make it appear so.

Auto-focus

When detecting movement, the webcam automatically tracks the subject's movement and refocuses the image regardless of distance. Users who move around during video chats will find it beneficial as the camera will always be able to broadcast them clearly to viewers on the other end.

Lens

Image quality is largely connected to lens quality, so the better the lens is, the better the broadcast image will be. Webcam lenses are made of glass or plastic. Plastic lenses are adequate for basic video chatting, but the images produced may be blurry or slightly warped. Glass lenses give you a clearer picture and do not scratch as easily. The lens type does not typically appear on the packaging, so find out what it is before purchasing.

Microphone

It is possible to get a microphone as a separate component, but having one built into a webcam is an added convenience. If a webcam does have a microphone, it is generally suitable for use on a chat program, but is not powerful enough for professional sound recording.

Recording

Most webcams can record videos and pictures. Some are able to record high definition video and are capable of taking higher-resolution photographs. This is a good feature to record audio with your video or to make video calls.If you want to add video capability to online instant messaging services, a microphone is useful, but not essential. Microphones can be purchased separately, this will increase the overall cost and will require a separate connection to your computer.

Construction

The webcam casing may be made of plastic, metal or a combination of the two materials. Durability of the webcam casing is important in determining the type of webcam to purchase. Plastic is fine for everyday use, whereas all-metal construction lasts longer.