Desktop Web Cam Goes 720p
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Microsoft has come out with a new, high-definition model of the LifeCam Cinema that has actual 720p resolution. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema has full 1280×720 video capture resolution at 30fps and a 16:9 aspect ratio; this is unlike similar devices that have since only produced 960×720 resolution videos with a dinky 2 megapixel lens (half-assed video we should say). This little web cam is the first of its kind to offer full 720p definition video capture to your desktop or notebook computer.
The LifeCam Cinema connects easily via USB 2.0 and minimally requires a 1.6Ghz dual core computer to work well. Microsoft recommends, however, using a 3.0Ghz dual core computer with 2Gb of RAM — these specs are probably not your typical notebook computer or is a more high-end desktop. If you’re going to want this 720p web cam, make sure your computer can handle using the device to its full potential. Otherwise, you can risk having sub-par video quality and make you wish you had upgraded your computer instead of plopping down $79.99 for to do video conferencing with the LifeCam Cinema.
Other features of the camera include an auto-focus lens with 4x digital zoom, a built-in noise-canceling microphone, a call button for one-touch access to Windows Live Messenger, and a technology called ClearFrame that was introduced a ages ago by Toshiba as an anti-motion blur feature for its televisions:
To avoid possible motion blur with fast motion video, ClearFrame doubles the frame rate to 120 frames per second, or 120 Hz. While there are many possible methods for creating the additional 60 frames, ClearFrame utilizes superior Motion Vector Frame Interpolation (MVFI) technology. MVFI analyzes Frame A and Frame B and creates a new Frame A+B. By evaluating the speed and direction of multiple picture elements within the frames, this advanced system virtually eliminates motion blur without decreasing image brightness or adding flicker.
The package comes with a mount that can be used for both desktops and notebooks. Either you can clip it to your flat screen or it will stand on a flat surface. The mount also allows the camera to pivot around, panning and tilting as needed. As mentioned the device will retail for $79.99 in the US on September 9th, 2009.
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