camcorder/webcam

[davidl]

Hi folks.

I'm responsible for all things technical at work and that includes web conferencing.

I'm looking for a good quality camcorder that is tripod mountable that can also be used for audio/video streaming for web conferencing. I assume it would connect to the laptop via IEEE 1394 (firewire)as a USB connection hasn't got the required bandwidth.

I have a video capture device but it is application dependent and not optimal as a conference solution.

There are lots of smart folks from all backgrounds here so I'm hoping for your input.

Thanks loads.

 

Dave

[Artie Owl]

From what I've seen people seem to like the iSight for firewire webcams; but you seriously outgun USB 2.0 for video conferencing? Can you elaborate on that a bit more to help me understand?

 

Also since you're in Canada, you can check out newegg.ca they're pretty solid for Canadian online tech shopping.

[davidl]

Thanks for your input A Owl.

The problem I've seen with USB 2 connectors on camcorders is that they are primarily for data transfer (moving video to the pc.) as opposed to streaming.

If I could find a camcorder with windows drivers, whether USB or Firewire that would do the trick as a webcam, that would be great.

I know its out there. The cost just has to be workable.

 

Dave

[Artie Owl]

Well, I've searched and didn't find much, all I can tell you is that if you're using windows, you could typically connect almost any camcorder via firewire as long as you have driver cards that allow windows to recognize it. I think it's more plug and play with apple, but sadly I can't recommend a model, mostly because I haven't used any that could help you out. I have a webcam built right into my macbook and a digital camera for the rest.

 

Sorry, and good luck!