The Computer Revolution/Peripherals/Web Cameras
From Wikibooks, the open-content textbooks collection
A web cam is a device that usually connects to the computer via a USB port. A web cam takes what it sees in it's lens and transmits it to the computer as an image.
Now a days web cams are used for a variety of things. For example, you can chat with a friend or relative across the globe and have a video conference so you can see them and they can see you. Web cameras posses many positive and negative qualities.
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[edit] History of the Web Camera
In 1991, the Web Camera was born in Cambridge University, in the Trojan room coffee pot, in the computer science department. [1]
On this website you will see the first image of the Trojan room coffee pot that the web camera gave; as well as a detailed description of how the science department configured the camera.
[edit] The Advantages of Web Cameras
- A web cam enables individuals to monitor their home while away
- A web cam can be used to take pictures and make videos
- Older individuals who have difficulty leaving their home but who want to still keep in touch with their friends can use a web cam to do so
- Hearing Impaired individuals find the web cam useful when communicating with others
- With a web cam you can observe your babysitter's behaviour toward your child
- Inter-office communication between cities can be set up at a reasonable cost (i.e. video-conferencing at a fraction of the price)
- Useful for individuals who have social anxiety and don't like to meet people in person, perhaps a blind date situation
- Communication can be ended at any time at the click of your mouse
[edit] The Disadvantages of Having a Web Cam
- A potential invasion of privacy exists
- Because web cams have high quality resolution and are easy to use, they can be used to exploit children through pornography
- Web cams are movable which increases the risk for damage
- Web cams remove the need to socialize in person creating a lack of human interaction
- As people spend more time watching TV, surfing the internet, playing computer games, etc., the web cam is yet another health hazard
[edit] The Different Types of Web Cameras
- IP Camera
[edit] The Price of a Web Camera
The price of a web camera varies quite a bit depending on what additional features you require in a web camera. Here are a few different web cameras on the market, note prices included are published MSRP and may vary by retailer.
CP Technologies USB Mini PC WEB Flex CAM - Video conferences, video mail, photos and photograms
Available Since : Feb 28, 2004 Price : $17.29
http://img.nextag.com/image/CP_Technologies_USB_Mini/1/000/000/615/716/61571661.jpg
HP Webcam, Integrate Microphone, Plug n Play USB Conn. Thia can used with integrated microphones to arrange video conferencing. This product can capture large video with 640 x 480 pixels resolution; it also has a high refresh rate of 30 frames per second.
Available Since: Nov 3, 2006 Price: $39.99
http://img.nextag.com/image/HP_Webcam_Integrate_Microphone/1/000/005/272/157/527215703.jpg
Microsoft Lifecam VX6000 USB WEB Camera - Compact camera which connects to your computer via a standard USB 2.0 interface. Allows you to participate in web conferencing, record high-resolution video to your computer and take 5 megapixel still images. An integrated microphone allows you also capture audio.
Available Since: Mar 6, 2006 Lowest Price: $75.61
[edit] Web Cameras and Virtual Travel
Hey who needs to leave there homes when all they need is a computer with internet access, I've always wanted to see Halifax Nova Scotia and by clicking below you to can see it live. You have to love the internet.
