Creative Labs PC-CAM 600

Versatility and excellent image quality give the PC-CAM 600 two compelling advantages over the competition. Its 1024-by-768-pixel CCD sensor lets you make larger, sharper prints than you'd get with the 640 by 480 sensors used by most other Webcams. In both our still image and video tests, the PC-CAM 600 produced better color and sharper details overall than any of the other Webcam products we looked at. It's also the only model that could capture both still images and video clips with sound when used as standalone camera. As a PC-attached video camera, the PC-CAM 600 captures and streams images at up to 640 by 480 resolution and 30 frames per second (as well as various smaller frame sizes and lower rates). Untethered, the camera's generous 16MB of built-in memory can accommodate a wide range of media content: 200 low-resolution (640-by-480-pixel) images, 85 normal-resolution (1024 by 768) images, or 20 high-resolution (1280 by 960) images; up to 75 seconds video with sound at 352 by 288 resolution; and up to 60 minutes of audio only. At the maximum resolution, created using software interpolation that Creative refers to as "hardware scaled," some images compare favorably with those generated by 1-megapixel digital cameras. However, true 1-megapixel cameras, such as the Olympus D-340L, have an edge in image color, sharpness, and quality.
Neither a carrying case nor any sort of protective cover is included. Warranty is limited to 90 days after purchase, but tech support is available for the life of the product. Unlike true digital cameras, this model does not support removable memory, nor does it have an LCD panel for reviewing your shots.
Priced at $150, the PC-CAM 600 costs two to three times more than most low-cost Webcams; however, that price differential doesn't seem so harsh given the camera's dual personality. Stylishly designed, the PC-CAM 600's rounded case includes a handy groove that makes it particularly easy to grip. The unit's controls and LCD settings display are simple to learn, and its optical viewfinder clearly indicates the target area. It also has red-eye reduction and a self-timer. When attached to a PC, a sturdy base and ample 6-foot, 7-inch USB cable make the PC-CAM 600 easy to set up, but the base doesn't tilt or swivel, so you have to move the entire unit (camera and base) in order to change the scene. In videoconferencing tests, the quality of the streaming video was good overall, although dial-up modem users will inevitably see some jerky motion, which is typical when using a low-bandwidth Internet connection. Still-image quality will suffice for viewing on your monitor or posting on the Web; however, the resolution is barely adequate if you plan to print out 4-by-6-inch prints.Setup is smooth thanks to the comprehensive step-by-step documentation and easy-to-use PC-CAM Center, which facilitates downloading and managing photos, videos, and audio files. The ample software bundle also includes tools for photo and video editing (Ulead Photo Express and VideoStudio), videoconferencing (Microsoft NetMeeting), and security (Creative's own WebCam Monitor, a motion-detection utility).
Featuring top-quality images, dual-format versatility, and robust software, the PC-CAM 600 is an excellent choice for those who want an all-in-one digital camera. But if all you need is a Webcam, the PC-CAM 600 is overkill.

Buying Information

Creative Labs PC-CAM 600 CCD sensor; 640 by 480 maximum video resolution at up to 30 fps, 1024 by 768 (optical) or 1280 by 960 (interpolated) maximum resolution for still images; optical viewfinder, LCD settings display, USB connection, 16MB built-in memory, flash, and four AAA alkaline batteries; Creative Labs PC-CAM Center and WebCam Monitor, Ulead Photo Express 4.0 CE and VideoStudio 4.0 Basic SE, Microsoft NetMeeting 3.01, and PixAround PixMaker and PixScreen software. Ninety-day parts and labor warranty, toll-call phone support for 12 hours on weekdays and 6 hours on weekends. $ 150 CCD sensor; 640 by 480 maximum video resolution at up to 30 fps, 1024 by 768 (optical) or 1280 by 960 (interpolated) maximum resolution for still images; optical viewfinder, LCD settings display, USB connection, 16MB built-in memory, flash, and four AAA alkaline batteries; Creative Labs PC-CAM Center and WebCam Monitor, Ulead Photo Express 4.0 CE and VideoStudio 4.0 Basic SE, Microsoft NetMeeting 3.01, and PixAround PixMaker and PixScreen software. Ninety-day parts and labor warranty, toll-call phone support for 12 hours on weekdays and 6 hours on weekends. http://www.creative.com 800/998-5227