Lindy's Minicam Pro, a webcam with lights
By Omar McFarlane 
posted Dec 15th 2006 6:41AM
posted Dec 15th 2006 6:41AM
It's no secret that we fancy novelty USB devices here in the Engadget office -- and at best, the Linda Minicam Pro can only be described as novelty. While not the first webcam to feature infrared or sport LEDs -- or even to combine them -- it does win points for having a flexible neck, always a plus. Other than a 350,000-pixel CMOS sensor and optional desk stand, the £21.99 ($43.00) webcam is fairly common-place. For those still looking for a cheap stocking stuffer, though, it is available now. [Via Tech Digest]
What is the purpose of infrared on a web cam? I never understood. Is it to make a thermo image or does it serve some other purpose?
How do you get $29 from £21.99?
Should be more like $43.
Probably because its available in both the US and UK and everything is so much cheaper over in the states.
Just about any video camera is sensitive into the IR range.
Have someone point a remote at you and push the buttons while you look at it through your phone camera some time.
Thermographic imaging isn't really the same as it detects the heat emitted by objects.
Using IR LEDs makes the image viewable without blinding the subject by simply using lower frequency light waves than we humans can see.
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Heh, James has a point. Strictly speaking, 21 pounds is $41.18 (as of my post). However, if you've ever visited both London and, say, Boston, on the same paycheck, I'm sure you'll see that that really doesn't translate perfectly.
That picture seems a little misleading... what's up with the keypad? Yes, I know, it's not included, but what on earth is it being used for in that pic? For a sec I thought this was a security webcam. I've been looking for a couple decent ones fairly cheap.
As is, what can this be used for? Well, set your plate of french fries on the desk next to your keyboard and set this cam to hang over them, keep them nice and warm while you eat. ;) haha (yes I recognize they don't generate enough heat to keep french fries warm. I hate having to say that, but I just know someone with no sense of humor is going to give me crap if I don't).
Totally my fault guys, I was converting from Euros to dollars, not pounds. I have corrected that. Thanks!
I bought one of these a year ago at a local computer show for 12 bucks. USA DOLLARS! It works pretty well...it's great for the laptop.
i think the IR is used for night vision purposes when you don't want LEDs to light you up. you will, however, look creepily green or some other one-color when viewed on the camera, basically monochrome.