Most people have one, but few know how useful it can be. We show you how to get more from your PC'
s webcam1. High-Def Glory
High-definition cameras have been around for a while, but until now there was very little point in having one. With the rise of HD video chat services such as Skype HD, though, and processors that are fast enough now to handle high quality footage, you can start to reap the benefits, such as clear life-like chats with friends on the other side of the world or even posting your high-def videos online. Look for a webcam capable of recording in 720p high definition, such as the Microsoft HD-5000.
Top Quality : An HD webcam adds depth to video chat
2. Chat Like Never Before
Skype (which is free to download from www.skype.com) has now upgraded its service, so you can chat with friends and family across the world in glorious high-definition. To do this you need a broadband connection, and an HD capable webcam - there's a superb selection sold through the Skype website.
Super Skype : You can talk face-to-face with friends and family for free with the Skype service
3. Connect with Friends or Family
3. Connect with Friends or Family
If you're a Windows Live user, you don't have to switch to Skype to enjoy chatting via webcam. Windows Live Messenger has a fantastic video chat feature, which enables you to catch up in the familiar surroundings of the most popular instant messenger in the world. If that wasn't enough, you can play games while you chat, making for a much richer experience. You can sign up to Windows Live by visiting https://signup.live.com.
Live Chat : Windows Live Messenger offers another superb way to keep in touch with your webcam
4. Power Up Facebook
Unlike Windows Live Messenger and Skype, you won't need to use a third-party app, which means you can use it to stay in touch when using internet cafes abroad, and even on tablets. With Facebook verging on ubiquity, video chat is an essential addition and a great upgrade. See www.facebook.com/videocalling for more details.
5. Hangout on Google+
One of the new features of Google+ (https://plus.google.com) is the ability to web chat as a group, which is a great way to stay in touch. Unlike Facebook, Google+ tends to be used in a more professional capacity, and this feature, dubbed Hangout, is good for discussing ideas. Google+ is similar to Facebook, but works around the idea of circles, which means you don't have to mix family, friends and colleagues. You can start a Hangout with any of your circles, and see everyone at once.
6. Show your Best SideTaking a few simple steps can improve webcam video no end. Firstly, make sure you have the right lighting. Many people don't light the room adequately, so use a soft light from above, and have a light shining on your face, out of sight of the camera. It can just be a desk lamp, but it will eliminate shadows and help keep you clear and bright on screen. While video quality of webcams has improved, movement is shoddy, so try not to move about much. Finally, turn off other bandwidth sapping programs, to make sure the stream is smooth.
Bad Show : Poor quality can make webcam chat painful
7. Be a TV Presenter
You don't just have to use your webcam to stay in touch with friends - you can broadcast to the entire world! Sign up to Justin.tv (www.justin.tv) and start your own broadcast, all from your PC. You can do anything from boring the world with your thoughts on the shortcomings of the justice system to presenting your own mini TV show. There's also a smartphone app, which means you can take your show anywhere with a 3G connection. Use Twitter and Facebook to promote it, and you might be a hit
Video Stars : Create your own TV show with your webcam
8. Become a YouTube Superstar
If you get bored fooling around on Justin.tv, why not start a show on YouTube? Loads of people have made it big on the site by showcasing their talents. One great example is Charlie McDonnell, whose video blog has over one million subscribers. Recent figures showed his YouTube channel gaining over 4,000 new subscribers daily. YouTube also offers a revenue share for content creators, which can rack up to a healthy amount if your videos are popular.
9. Turn Your Webcam into a CCTV SystemIf internet fame isn't your cup of tea, put your webcam to use as a security camera. There's been a host of cases where home-made security systems have caught burglars in the act, and it's free to set up. Get GotoCamera from www.gotocamera.com and hook up your webcam to your PC. Prime the software and it uses a built-in motion sensor to capture movement in your home. If you're not worried about crime, use it to keep an eye on your pets, and check they don't get up to mischief while you're out.
10. Add Fun to your Chats
Web chatting is a great way to stay in contact, but it can also be a fun way to keep kids entertained. Small children love playing with special effects, so giving them your webcam to play with will keep them quiet for a while. There's a free special effects toy at http://neave.com/webcam that uses your PC's webcam, and enables you to cycle though silly effects, and even take stills. If you have a Logitech QuickCam, you can use the built-in special effects while chatting with friends.
Skype (which is free to download from www.skype.com) has now upgraded its service, so you can chat with friends and family across the world in glorious high-definition. To do this you need a cheap broadband connection, and an HD capable webcam - there's a superb selection sold through the Skype website.
