IPEVO PoV webcam now shipping in US
I've been using the IPEVO PoV ("Point of View") 
since early January. $39.99 suggested retail. Works great with my laptop. Features I use the most:
- Snapshot button to take pictures. Amazing how often I wind up sending a quick photo of something at my desk. The software works with the Skype for Windows client, pulling up my contacts to address the image.
- Roving video. A quick rotation and you can lift the camera off its base. Then point it like your index finger. It brings cinematography to webcam calls. You can see it in the Design Notes.
- Small. Wraps up nicely, but I use a zipper plastic bag to keep the cam, and base together when I travel.
PoV has the Time Home Endoscope's (EHE) flexibility but a 4cm (about 1.5 inches) macro focus, better for general use.
I wish someone would certify the PoV for Skype HQ Video since it works at 640x480 @30fps (specifications). So far Skype has only certified three Logitech cameras sold in Skype's store.
In the US the PoV is shipping at the IPEVO store now, and later this month at Fry's online.
See also: IPEVO webcam: first glance. Skype Journal, September 4, 2007.
Comments
It's one thing to have the 640 x 480 @ 30 fps spec on the camera but then the real challenge is to transmit at this rate over a broadband Internet connection. That requires special drivers for the Logitech cameras, whose actual spec goes to 1600 x 1200 pixels @ 30 fps. But only 640 x 480 would work at broadband Internet connection speeds. More here on the development of High Quality Video.
Posted by: Jim Courtney | April 3, 2008 10:24 AM