USB Webcams

A USB Webcam, as its name suggests is a small webcam that plugs directly into the USB port on a
computer. Its also possible to plug some models of USB webcam into a USB to TCP/IP converter which
effectively allows a USB webcam to stream over the internet without a PC.

These USB webcams vary from smal low resolution units suitable for still images and low resolution
streaming, to quite sophisticated high definition models with fast streaming of large high quality images
and even PTZ control and night vision capability.

USB webcams are powered from the USB port on the PC and usually come with a metre or so of
cable on them which can be extended easily to 5 or 6 metres by using pre-made extension leads.

To increase the distance any more than this you really need very high quality leads or powered USB extender units to boost the signal.

There really is a huge variety of webcams available for all applications including PTZ where the camera can be Panned Tilted and
Zoomed from within the software.

Most webcams need drivers loaded on to the PC to enable them to operate. Some models are "driverless" and these use the built in
drivers in Windows XP or Vista. Certain webcams using the ViMicro processors can use icamview converters for use on the web
without even needing to connect them to a PC, but for the most time, a USB webcam needs a PC to operate.

For a really wide variety of webcams check out camsecure.co.uk where you can get some really good models at great prices and also
the USB to IP converters too.

Also visit our shop for our own small selection of great low price webcams.