Philips Vesta PCVC675K

I have 2 webcams which are connected to old computers and used for property surveylance. I accidentally found PCVC675k, boxed, with a manual and installation CD at the local thrift store for 3.99, used, but VG+ condition. I initially connected it to my Win XP laptop and the installation somewhat locked up when the app. asked to plug in the camera. However, it did install the camera software and the camera was working, although Skype (it automatically poped-up camera mode) had a pattern of yellow tint. I liked the camera from the first moment: nice, solid, clear lens in a metal frame, lens mount/front of the camera is some type of metal alloy -- solid. Manual focus, but the image is VERY sharp. To my surprise, there is at least a couple of versions of freeware drivers for this cam, both for the latest Windows versions (just google the model number). I reinstalled the driver and the test picture looked great. Yahoo cam mode shows a very good picture without any color cast. I assume that the sensor is not particularly sensitive in the low light, but my QuickCam 5000 has the opposite problem. So, this camera makes a nice addition to the array of cams you may have for different purposes, and if you can find it at the thrift store for ~$3.99, it's a great bargain. I may finally retire my 1/2 price for 2, bargain, $15 dollar Veo with flimsy focus ring, blurry image and slow throughput.

Great image quality, very sharp image, good color. Brightness, contrast, gamma, and gain adjustments/reliable auto mode. Multiple selections of frame rates from 5 to 30fps with 5fps intervals. B&W, mirror image, backlight compensation modes. Auto, Freeze (manual), Indoor, FL(uorescent) and outdoor color balance. A few, new, freeware drivers available for download on the internet, and they work great.

Low light results in darker picture, introduces minor video noise. Original installation CD driver is not suitable for Windows XP (the only tested version).

Logitech QuickCam Pro 5000, Veo Connect Digital PC camera, Sony DSC video output for video recording on PC.

The product is not listed on Philips support site (no support for the discontinued product), although Google finds a link to an original manual from the manufacturer site.