webcams

A webcam is a video capture device that connects to a computer or network to provide live video, typically used for video conferencing, streaming, or surveillance. Most webcams are compact USB devices that plug into a computer's USB port, while networked cameras (IP cameras) connect via Ethernet or Wi‑Fi and can be accessed remotely.

Technical details vary by model but share common features. Resolutions commonly range from 640x480 (VGA) to 1080p (Full HD) and 4K on newer models. Frame rates are typically 30 frames per second, with higher-end devices offering 60 fps. The image sensor is usually a small CMOS or CCD, and video is compressed using formats such as MJPEG, H.264, or newer codecs. Many webcams include built-in microphones, and features like autofocus, exposure control, white balance, and low-light enhancement differ across products.

History and development: The concept originated in the early 1990s with cameras used to monitor a coffee pot at Cambridge University’s Computer Laboratory, an idea that led to consumer webcams. In the mid-1990s, low-cost USB webcams became popular, followed by rapid growth in laptop-integrated cameras and standalone high-definition models for professional use. Advances in streaming technology and ubiquitous broadband have made webcams common in homes, offices, schools, and studios.

Uses and context: Webcams support personal communication through video calls and conferences, online education, live streaming, gaming, and security surveillance. They are also used in telepresence and remote monitoring. Privacy and security considerations include the risk of unauthorized access and the availability of hardware shutters and software controls to manage access. Standards and drivers, such as USB video device class (UVC), help ensure compatibility across devices and operating systems.