How to setup webcam

Microsoft Entertainment has opened a new line of webcams named the LifeCams. Among the new features is a built in microphone which can reduce sound noise and produce crystal clear audio without adding more confusion with extra head sets or external microphones. On top of that, these webcams also have amusing video effects such as falling snowflakes and twinkling stars to boost the background of video conference and to make it more individual. The LifeCams also come with a universal base which folds easily and clips onto your laptop screen or desktop monitor.

Now, when almost all laptops come with a built in webcam and microphone, the prices for those webcams sold separately went down. LifeCam VX-500 sells for just . If you add a little bit more, you can get a really nice buy in the LifeCam VX-5000, for only . This model, among other features, includes digital pan, zoom and tilt, with a video quality of a standard definition DVD. And it also looks cool with a color ring around the casing. It is not like the Philips SPC 620NC webcam, which is not so easy to install for an average user; with the VX-5000 you can launch to your first video call within few moments. As soon as you locate a place for it on your desk, you can just plug in the USB cable and start using it.

Of course, many other webcams offer the same features and maybe even for less money, but the VX-5000 added a few more things to improve the picture. If you compare it to the same family product the LifeCam VX-7000, you will easily notice that the latter one performs not so bright image. Indeed, VX-5000’s picture comes twice as brighter; considering that not all users have a desk lamp to turn it on especially for video chats, this feature becomes critical.

A drawback is a muddy picture when you try to zoom in too much. Plus, lower performance of the microphone which doesn’t let you go from your webcam, otherwise the audio goes silent fast. Those who don’t use Live Messenger will also consider it a defect that the VX-5000’s software is made mainly for that chatting program and even though some features are available only for Live Messenger, it still works nicely with Yahoo! Messenger and Skype.