Webcams

A webcam is an image capturing device, similar to a digital camera and usually connected to a computer. Small enough to fit into the palm of the hand, this electronic gadget has a stand that enables it to be placed on a desk or the monitor of a desktop computer. Alternatively, spring-enabled clamps allow it to be clasped onto the top of an LCD monitor or laptop. While viewing the image on the screen, webcams can be moved or the angle changed to focus on the person sitting on the computer or some other part of the room.

A webcam is usually connected to a computer’s USB port. While most webcams are standalone devices, some laptops have inbuilt webcams fixed into the lid. For a webcam to function, the relevant drivers need to be installed. These drivers as well as the imaging software required to control the webcam are shipped free with the product. The software includes features to click still pictures or capture and save video footage. A zoom and color manipulation facility may also be present.

Webcams come in varied sizes and shapes with a tiny, but sensitive, lens in the centre. A dial around the lens can be turned to focus the lens for getting the clearest picture. Most chatting applications such as Yahoo Messenger and MSN Messenger are compatible with webcams. Thus, online chatters can permit the other party to view them live.