Camcorders allow higher-quality video images than standard webcams.
You've spent good money on a full-featured camcorder and wish to improve the image quality of your webcam with the camcorder. Often, the camcorder will not interface with the webcam software in your computer, causing frustration and possibly a fair amount of time playing with program settings. While some camcorders are capable of webcam plug-and-play use, others require third-party driver software to properly integrate with webcam cam programs.
Webcam Driver Software
Many modern computers are outfitted with webcam-ready software compatible with standard computer-mounted cams. In order to use a camcorder, additional software is often required to bypass the dedicated drivers of the webcam software. These programs simply bypass the existing drivers and enable the computer's can software to recognize the camcorder as the default or preferred unit.
Connecting the Webcam
Camcorders are typically outfitted with USB ports for connection to the computer for uploading and downloading video, and you will use the same connection for webcam use. Although FireWire-type connections are also common for camcorder to computer use, USB is the primary method for connecting standard webcams and should be used to avoid potential communication problems.
Webcam and Software Instructions
When the camcorder is initially plugged in, the computer will load the necessary drivers for the camera to operate. Some cameras will require an operating CD containing the drivers to be inserted first, but this is not typical with most units. Booting the webcam software, the computer's webcam software and turning on the camera will result in the camcorder image to be displayed on the screen. You may need to "tell" the webcam program which camera you prefer, and sometimes set it as the default camera on some programs.
Problem Solving
If the camcorder does not show video, check the USB connection, ensure the camcorder is not in standby or photo mode and connect the camera to a wall outlet rather than using battery power. You may also have to turn the camera power on first and boot the software in another order as described in the software user guide. When comparing the driver software, ensure that it is compatible with your operating system and webcam application type.
Camcorder Controls
Use the webcam software to record, monitor or take still photographs as you would a standard webcam. Using the camcorder controls to record will not be necessary, as this is done with the software, but you may have to use manual camcorder controls for zooming, white balance and other features.
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