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Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000 by Logitech
Digital Photo Product DetailsManufacturer: Logitech Audio: English (Original Language) Format: CD Platform: Windows Model: 961239-0403 Product features: - 640 x 480 video resolution and 1280 x 960 photo resolution
- Built-in microphone
- USB 1.1 interface
- Includes a full suite of camera utility software
- Compatible with Windows 98, 2000, Me, and XP; Mac OS X 10.1.5 to 10.2.6
Accessories:
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000Customer Review: THIS IS THE ONE YOU WANT. Buy NOW, before 31 August 2005!!! Summary: 5 Stars
This is loooong, I know, but bear with me if you will; I think it'll really help. (Note: $20 Logitech rebate offered for the month of August 2005-- Jump on it!)
Pros:
1) Best image clarity on the market. I have Comcast High-speed Internet and use it with their "Video Mail" software to outstanding result!
2) Ease of set-up and installation for inexperienced and experienced alike.
3) Simple user interface (software).
Cons:
(Note: all 'cons' are of a relatively insignificant nature, and in no way interfere with the actual performance of this webcam.)
1) "Flimsy stand"- Explanation: I think most users are referring to a small, screw-in piece, which connects the camera to the base. This piece has a tendency to loosen with movement, but like I said, "screw-in" -- solution? ==> tighten it back down! If you are one of those people who like to frequently move your camera about for better angles and such, a single droplet (and I do mean ONE DROPLET) of your favorite brand of cyanoacrylate adhesive (aka- "Krazy Glue" or "Super Glue") applied to the threads with the tip of toothpick should solve your woes. I say only one droplet because this piece is made to be replaceable, and allows for a wider array of mounting options, if you get too "krazy" with the "Krazy Glue" these options will no longer be available to you should you need them; or if you break the piece somehow, you'd have to buy a complete new stand from Logitech, rather than just ordering a new connector.
2) "The microphone is too sensitive." Explanation: Granted, the mic IS very sensitive, but is this really a problem? Depending on your application, it could prove beneficial. Besides, the mic sensitivity can be adjusted via the included software, and the reality of webcam mics is that very few (if ANY) are reliable for 2-way web communications; you end up with a lot of overlap, echo, and "Whats?" and "Huhs?" You might as well expect to invest in a headset; even the inexpensive ones provide marked improvement over the built-in webcam mics (which are really for room or ambient noise collection anyway). [Addition: if you should decide to stick with the built-in mic, I've found that it helps to position the privacy shade directly in front of it for less background noise interference (fans, typing, etc.)]
3) "The snap shots aren't clear." Explanation: Well, no solution to this one. While the camera does take 1.3 megapixel snaps, have you ever really looked at a 1.3 megapixel photo? They ain't too pretty. [Lighting and distance play heavily into this issue too.] If it's clear snap shots you want, don't look to this webcam, or ANY webcam for that matter, buy a true digital camera instead. The snapshot function of this camera should be considered a fun extra, not a functional main reason for purchase.
4) "The instructions aren't clear enough." Explanation: The camera and included software are simple to install and use. Don't be afraid to tinker with the settings, and customize them to your suiting -- You Cannot Hurt It. Just get in there and "tweak".
5) "The USB cable is too heavy." Explanation: Come on now, "the cable is too heavy"? A heavier gauge USB cable is a good thing people. The thicker the wires inside, the faster and clearer the data transfer. I think this complaint comes back to the screw-in piece mentioned above in "con #1" (see above). Like reviewer, Adrian Derbyshire said, adjusting the slack in the cable solves this one just fine.
Now for my personal tidbits:
I ran into a bit of a problem the first time that I ordered this one online. A certain online retailer, who will unfortunately go unnamed (as per Amazon's guidelines), features an image of this camera, in the version of its retail packaging WITH the flat panel clip included. Well, WATCH OUT FOLKS! If you need the flat panel clip (and I DO recommend it- much more versatile and stable than the hard plastic version), pay attention to the packaging and seller's description and listing, and if in doubt, contact the seller prior to purchase. The "flat panel clip" or LCD monitor adapter, or other similar description, is the second, `extra' stand included with SOME versions of this camera. It is the flexible, rubber coated stand that Amazon shows with this camera in their description There are apparently two versions of retail packaging available for this webcam, one with the flat panel clip, and one without. Here's what to consider:
[NOTE: See Correction Below!!!]
>If the retail box itself is primarily BLUE, and mentions some included Yahoo! software, the flat panel clip Should Be Included --
Again, Blue box + Yahoo! Software = Flat panel clip (in addition to the first, hard plastic version).
>If, on the other hand, the box is mostly GREEN, and there is no mention of included Yahoo! software, DO NOT EXPECT the flat panel clip to be included. Apparently, Logitech updated their packaging shortly after the camera's release by including the additional stand and changing the software a bit. Most retailers aren't even aware of this distinction folks, and I have found no difference in price related to this issue.
So, Green box + NO Mention of Yahoo! Software = NO Flat Panel Clip.
Now for my initial reason for this 'dissertation' -- PRICE. I have to agree with reviewer, Adrian Derbyshire again; buy it from Amazon [PERIOD]. If I had, I truly believe that I would have had far less hassle with my flat panel clip issue. Plus, their price is much better than most, as well is their reputation. Additionally, for the month of August 2005, Logitech is offering a $20 rebate on the QuickCam Pro 4000! Couple that with Amazon's current 25% off sale price and you're looking at $47.44!!(before shipping). That's less expensive than many other webcams of much lesser quality!!! At this price, I'm ordering another one for my in-laws in Germany so that we can see them as clearly as they get to see us!
That's a wrap. Sorry this is so lengthy, but I sincerely hope that it helps you with your decision, and can help others to avoid the hassle that I experienced with the flat panel clip issue.
[...]
Well, apparently there are MORE THAN 2 VERSIONS OF THE PACKAGING for this camera! As stated in my original post, I took advantage of the sale price and rebate offer and ordered another QuickCam Pro 4000 from Amazon.
When the order arrived (3 days prior to estimated btw, and that's with FREE super saver shipping!) I was a bit stunned to see a green box instead of the blue one that I expected. I immediately thought "Oh No!", but was happy to see that even though the box was GREEN, the flat panel clip WAS INCLUDED. Additionally, there is no Yahoo! software, rather MSN Messenger was included instead (Go Figure?). [I'll try to get an image posted of the this packaging in the next few days]
Turns out, the customer service rep. that I spoke with at Logitech was mistaken about the packaging for this camera. She specifically told me that there were 2 styles of retail packaging and outlined the differences that I originally posted, but obviously, there are more than 2 styles.
So, bottom line is:
---> You'll just have to call your retailer and specifically ask if the flat panel clip is included or not. <---
Hope this clarifies any confusion that may have been created. One would think that the manufacturer's representative would provide accurate information,... perhaps not.
My apologies.
Best,
C. Garrett
Description of Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000Logitech Quickcam Pro 4000 - Digital video camera - USB Amazon Product Description Video enthusiasts, get ready. Logitech's new QuickCam Pro 4000 was made just for you. Combining a digital zoom, built-in microphone, and high-quality VGA CCD sensor, the QuickCam Pro 4000 lets you express your creativity like a pro. Now you can create amazing videos and shoot 1.3-megapixel still photos with ease. Or add live video to Yahoo! Messenger, MSN Messenger, and AIM while you chat. You can also make live video calls, set up a video monitoring system, or send photos and video with your e-mail. Enhance the way you communicate and animate your life. |  Add live video to your favorite instant messenger: MSN Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo! Messenger, and Windows Messenger | Product Features - Enjoy 640x480 video resolution with the advanced VGA CCD sensor and high-quality 1.3 megapixel photo resolution
- Zoom in or out, even pan and tilt to get the right shot
- Add live video to your favorite instant messenger: MSN Messenger, AOL Instant
- Messenger (AIM), Yahoo! Messenger, and Windows Messenger
- Send live video to mobile phones with Logitech Mobile Video
- Create movies like a pro with studio-quality video editing software
- Compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1
Set it up on any monitor The flexible back lets you shape it to match your monitor's profile. Or use the camera with its base on any flat surface. Send video greetings instantly Record a video to congratulate your friend on her new promotion. Just click your mouse once to send her a video e-mail. Isn't that simple? | | Automatic face-tracking follows your actions! It's easy to stay the center of attention during your video IM or video calling session. It automatically zooms in and follows your movements. Chat face-to-face online Video-chat with your best friend or relative using your instant messenger service. The built-in mic lets you express yourself. The Creative Way to Get Closer - Add live video to your favorite instant messenger: MSN Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo! Messenger, and Windows Messenger
- Shoot 1.3 megapixel photos and high-quality videos
- Edit movies and photos with studio-quality software
- Make live video calls
- Email video and photos easily
- Get closer with a digital zoom
- Conduct online video conferences and calls using Windows Messenger or Microsoft NetMeeting
- Speak your mind with the built-in microphone
- Add video to your eBay auctions with SpotLife VideoSnap
- Create fun animated films
- Create web albums, broadcast live video and audio, and set up a web cam
- 2-year limited hardware warranty
- Compatible with Windows 98, 2000, Me, and XP, and Mac OS 9.04 and 9.1.
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| Product Specifications - Video capture: Up to 640 x 480 pixels (VGA CCD)
- Still image capture: Up to 1280 x 960 pixels, 1.3 megapixels
- Frame rate: Up to 30 frames per second (with recommended system)
Included Software - FREE Logitech IM Video Companion
- Live video-enabled Yahoo! Messenger
- One-click video e-mail software
- Video broadcasting software
- Web album creator software
- Web camera software
- Motion detection software
- Animation software
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