Webcam for recording?

freebooter · 29 Sep 2007 at 15:26

I have never used a webcam so apologies if these questions seem obvious.

I want to record something with sound for about 6 hours although I suspect I might have to accept a shorter time. I was thinking of getting a cheap 2nd hand camcorder but I wondered whether a webcam might be better and cheaper. I don't need fantastic quality.

So firstly can I use a webcam to record to disk rather than just display? Secondly how long can I record for and what size files will I end up with? As I say I want to record sound as well. I have seen a webcam with built in mic and I have a headset/mic already. The source of the sound will be within a couple of feet but won't be very loud, approx low voice. I assume that a headset mic like I have is designed to be very close to the mouth and hence won't be sensitive enough to pick up sound from further away?

Will a webcam come with software to record? I also have a digicam that can act as a webcam but don't have any software that can record, is there any free third party software I could use?

thanks

freebooter · 29 Sep 2007 at 18:54

Surely someone must have used a webcam? I am hoping to buy one tomorow.

Hixxy · 29 Sep 2007 at 19:05

FBI might be worth a try? just hide in the cupboard and jump out ffs.

mame · 29 Sep 2007 at 19:19

I sense something very dodgy here! .....

Amnesia · 29 Sep 2007 at 21:18

i dont have a webcam but as far as i know what ever the source the video would be getting recorded on your hard drive ....that gives you time to edit if if need be. with it getting recorded on your hard drive the length of time it can record depends on the amount of space on your hard drive unless the software you use has limitations on it.

you should be able to use a seperate mic but maybe pc desktop mic's may not be the best option as they are made to talk into directly(im guessing).

i cant point you in the direction of any software as i dont have a webcam and havent done anything like this but hope it helps.

Energize · 29 Sep 2007 at 21:39

The eyetoy is a very good and cheap webcam. Virtual dub will allow you to capture to your hard drive in a variety of video and audio formats.

Assuming 1Mb/s h.264 and 64Kb/s ogg. 6 Hours recording would be 3GB.

Hank_Marvin · 29 Sep 2007 at 22:29

yer just get a webcam, 1.3mp's for good quality and use windows movie maker, loads of quality settings, your could record for weeks on the low settings.

someone stealing your milk?