New Webcam

If you haven’t used a webcam, now is the time to do it--so you can enjoy the fun of seeing and talking to family, friends or business associates over the Internet (think video conference). You’ll need a webcam, software such as Skype (www.skype.com free), a computer with Internet connection, and someone at the other end who has similar stuff.

We’ve just tried the new award-winning Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910 (www.logitech.com $80). Easy to install, includes built-in stereo microphones, and lets you zoom, tilt and pan the auto-focus webcam using on-screen controls while talking. Works in any place you can bring your computer, webcam and have Internet access.

Two of the cool features we used during our “Skype” sessions and with still photos were terrific: facial recognition to automatically keep your face centered within the frame, and auto-focus Carl Zeiss ultra-wide glass lens for a sharp, clear pictures.

 

Video for calls is 720p, with 1080p resolution for video recording, and snapshots are at 10 megapixels. And Logitech Webcam Software (included) has fun effects: turn yourself into an on-screen alien, cat or bat, add a crown or arrow-in-head to your image, add distortion, and more.

We use this webcam to talk to people in this country and abroad–-people we couldn’t easily connect to any other way. Try it!