Some technology just seems designed for the traveling consultant. Webcams, once the purview of attention-hungry teens up to no good, are a great way to see your family—even if you're in Tokyo and they're in Texas. These relatively inexpensive tools are primarily designed for the PC crowd—Mac's iSight camera is often a built-in feature on current laptop models. Keep in mind, however, that you'll need to at least double the prices listed below. That way you can see them—and they can see you.
Philips SPC 1300NC/00
$62.99, www.webcam.philips.com
This webcam offers 6 MPs for still shots, 2MP for streaming video—pretty high grade for just saying hello. A laptop clamp and built-in microphone also make this a smart choice for travel, especially since added technology such as noise cancellation and echo reduction come standard, too. While, like many other products, this PC-friendly model works with a variety of chatting software, like Yahoo! Messenger and Skype, it also claims to be "the webcam for professionals" because of its high-grade broadcast quality.
Creative Live! Cam Voice
$99.99, us.creative.com
Creative's high quality images (1.3 MP video and 5 MP photos) are thanks in part to an ultra-wide-angle lens. This model also boasts technological advancements in ambient-sound reduction, so users need not be overly conscious about being heard in a busy airport. The USB cord is compatible at high speed (2.0) or low speed (1.1), and this product requires at least Windows 2000. One-year warranty standard; two-year upgrade available. For some added fun, try Creative's special-effects options in its software package.
Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000
$79.95, www.microsoft.com
This Microsoft product is designed to work seamlessly with the Microsoft software you may already have—or should get in order to fully appreciate the product—such as Windows Live Messenger, which enables the functionality of Photo Swap and the LifeCam Dashboard. A USB cable, wide-angle lens and built-in microphone make this a solid choice for multimedia interactions. This cam has a limited three-year warranty and is compatible with Windows XP and Vista.
QuickCam® Orbit AF
$129.99, www.logitech.com
This webcam should far exceed your basic needs—with a Carl Zeiss lens, motion tracking, HD video and lighting optimization, as well as software that allows for enhancement with special effects, you'll be ready to send your conference calls and conversations with the family over to the Cannes Film Festival. Offers a two-year warranty and comes with a USB cable for instant connectivity. Compatible with Windows XP and Vista. (Other Logitech webcams do have Mac functionality.)
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