I entered the webcam world several years ago. I was interested by the process and relied on the inexpensive Logitec models. As a novice, these worked fine for web chats and basic video emails. After I felt comfortable with the webcam concepts and really started to use it, I have upgraded to a model that provides much better picture quality. This model is the Logitec QuickCam 5000.

You must have the following computer elements in order to support the camera and software:

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Windows 2000, XP

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Pentium P4 1.4 GHz or AMD Athlon? processor 1 GHz (Pentium P4 2.4 GHz or better recommended*)

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128MB RAM (256MB RAM recommended*)

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200 MB free hard drive space

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CD-ROM drive

The webcam itself comes with:

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6 ft. USB cable

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Adjustable base and camera with built in microphone

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QuickCam Software CD

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16-bit color display adapter

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Windows compatible sound card and speakers (full duplex sound card recommended*)

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Available 1.1 or 2.0 USB port (USB 2.0 High Speed port required for megapixel image capture*)

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Fixed focus lens, ultra wide field of view lens

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Stereo headset

I also have and ISDN cable line which provides constant internet service. This makes a world of difference to the quality of your web stream. Currently my computer uploads 1 picture every 2 seconds.

I simply installed the camera into the back of the computer with my plug in USB and loaded the software. This process took about 5 minutes total (guess that is why they call is a "quickcam"). The base fits nicely on top of the computer or on a desk. The base is solid and lightweight and can pivot to all angles.

I am very pleased with the quality of the webcam - far superior than the other less expensive Logitec models. There are some neat features loaded into the softward such as face tracking and automatic light adjustment. For me however, I use the default mode and use it inside exclusively. The best feature is the autofocus. No more blurry images!

I have my video hosted by a free site named Camarades.
This software can be downloaded from: http://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Network_and_Internet/Video_Chat_Tools/Camarades_Webcam.html

I have also used with webcam with Eyeball
This software can be downloaded from:
http://www.eyeball.com/

For example, my family lives on the West Coast and my mom lives on the East Coast. We can Eyeball for as long as we want and actually see each other as we talk. The quality of the picture is very good and crisp. The colors and focus is sharp with no distortion. I like this webcam as it has an excellent built in microphone. I don't have to use headphones anymore!

I purchased this webcam off of Amazon.com and purchased it "used" for a good discount.

This web cam is also very durable. My 1 year old son is fascinated with this camera - he must clue in to the fact that Mommy is always tinkering with it to get a better shot. He grabs onto the cable and crash it hits the hardwood floor from several feet. This has happened countless times and it still works great - no problems with the picture quality or camera. Just amazing.

Two thumbs up for any mid level webcam enthusiast.