HP's Robotic-like Elite Webcam Goes Beyond HD

HP isn't exactly a main player in the rather small USB webcam add-on market, most of which belongs to Logitech by now. Integrated webcams on monitors are mostly fine except when you need need pan and tilt, external ones are far better choice. Since most HP LCD monitors also don't come with a built-in camera, this 3-megapixel model just introduced by the said company might sell like hotcakes. Who knows.

This 'bizarre-looking' Elite webcam from HP boasts some very nice and thoughtful features, including a native 3-megapixel sensor which goes beyond HD; autofocus; privacy cover; and UVC for driverless install; and 320-degree pan angle. You can expect 30fps at VGA, but only 8 to 9fps at 1280x960. Then again, most ordinary persons don't need more than 800x600 for video conferencing, and at this res, the webcam can handle at 20fps. There's an effective focal range from 4 inches to infinity and an integrated stereo mic. Included with the Elite are ArcSoft VideoImpression, Magic-i and PhotoSmart Essential software. The low FPS concern aside, the HP Elite Autofocus webcam goes nicely with the new breed of glossy black HP LCDs.

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