This is also a great way for those of us who are separated from loved ones by distance or who just want to talk face-to-face without traveling. It is becoming more popular on sites such as Facebook and Windows Messenger. Many webcams can also record short video clips for emailing or posting for others to look at.
There are some cameras and microphones that are truly plug-and-play. You just plug them into a USB port or your sound card and they pop up and start working. Many,however,must be installed with accompanying software to work correctly or to get the full functionality of the product. Check the packaging carefully to find if you need specific types of hardware or software to make the product work. I find it very useful to also check reviews on the internet for this type of product to see if others have found them hard to install or use or if they are cheaply built or unreliable.
Once your webcam is installed,you will need to use software to communicate with others. Programs like CU-SeeMe,Messenger and Facebook,require that the other person you want to visit with also have the same program and a working webcam and microphone. You may also need help from someone with a little experience if it doesn’t work right away. Don’t give up –get help.
One other caution has to do with safety for you and especially your children or grandchildren. I recommend being very selective with whom you share the webcam experience. Family and close friends are fine,but allowing others that you may not know as well to see you,your children and even the stuff in the background (things on your walls,desk,etc.) may allow predators,thieves and others with less-than-good intent to identify who you are,where you live and if you have things they may want to take. I would err on the side of caution. Many misrepresent who they are,where they are and what their intentions are.
We only allow our children to use the computer if we can watch what they are doing and if they are willing to follow our rules. No webcam or photos to people we don’t know personally,no names or other identifying information (location,address,even city,friends info,relatives,etc.) The internet can be a fun and informative place,but there are people who use it to corrupt and destroy others. Protect yourself and your loved ones and,as always,keep backups of anything important. Stay safe and happy computing.
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 27 years (locally with Musicomp &Bits ‘N’Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation,service,training and repair. If you have questions,you can reach him at 668-7118.
