QuickCam Orbit webcam

Review:
The new Logitech QuickCam Orbit is a very sleek, high-end Webcam that offers pan, tilt and zoom features for the end user.

The stylish camera can be placed on a base, or attached to a long, tubular stand which raises the camera to about eye level. This is pretty impressive, as previous Webcams we've tried have always had a hard time staying situated on top of our monitors. With more monitors becoming flat panel, the space on top is shrinking.

The other 'wicked cool' feature of the Webcam is its 'face-tracking' software, which is supposed to keep the image focused on the person's face during video conversations. We had mixed results with this feature, possibly because of our bad lighting conditions, but also possibly because the software is quirky. When the 'face tracking' feature is enabled, some times the camera begins to have a mind of its own, and we ended up just turning off the camera.

Thankfully, there are 'manual' on-screen controls that let you do your own pan, tilt and zoom, so if the camera starts acting wacky you can turn off the feature and move it yourself.

We love the auto-focus ability of the camera, and the picture quality, even in low-light situations, was pretty good.

The Logitech software is outstanding as usual, with links to instant messaging applications such as Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Messenger. In addition, you can create video e-mail messages, and take still pictures (at 1.3 megapixel resolutions) with the camera.

Reviewed by Keith Shaw