- Posted by sondreb on November 3, 2006
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Microsoft has recently launched their High Definition 2.0 Mega pixel notebook web cam, the Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000, and I just happen to receive one in the mail and here is my experience.
The Package
There is not a whole lot of things included in the package, and you wouldn't expect much from a simple web cam. One very nice touch though is the tiny black bag that you can use to store your web cam when you're out traveling. As you can see on the photos (see at the bottom), there was a free theme pack offering for Windows Live Messenger, a quick instruction manual on how to get started and a full product guide. And of course, the CD-ROM with the software to install.
Installation and Setup
I rarely install software that comes bundled with packages, the drivers on them are often out of date and they sometimes include software you really don't want. Even if I wanted to, I couldn't, as my Tablet PC doesn't have a CD-ROM.
So I went to the Microsoft Hardware download page and found the software I needed. My only concern was the hefty size on the LifeCam software, a massive 119MB for a web cam driver?
After downloading and unpacking the zip-executable I discovered that Microsoft have included DirectX 9.0c in the package, which accounts for 52MB. Windows Media component at 5MB, and the LifeCam folder itself is 178MB.
Installation was flawless; I walked through the wizard which was simple enough for my parents to understand. But note that you should install the software before connecting the camera.
Getting Started
So the first thing I did right after installation was launching Windows Live Messenger and initiating a video chat with my lovely wife. The quality was decent on my side (the local preview) but I felt the video quality on her machine could have been a lot better.
Think there is room for improvements in the video codecs and maybe utilize more of the available bandwidth that users have. Microsoft should add the ability to control the bandwidth that should be used, allowing users to get real high definition video chat.
Hardware
One nice twist with the camera is that you can move the lens into the camera body when you're not using. This protects it from scratches and dust. When the camera is active, the white Microsoft logo on the front will glow, which adds a nice touch so you'll know when it's activated or not.
The way it's built, allows you to connect it on the edge of most machines (notebooks mind you, standard LCDs would be too big). For my Tablet PC, it even works gracefully when I have the machine in slate mode. Take a look at the photo to see how good it looks.
Software
After installing the drivers you will get a new application installed called the Microsoft LifeCam. This can be used to record videos and take snapshots. While the UI of this application is not very typical of Microsoft, it's very easy and user-friendly. All the captures and videos you record are stored in the LifeCam Files folder in the My Documents folder.
In the Microsoft LifeCam application and Windows Live Messenger you get an extra menu option that allows you to add different funny effects (overlay) on your video feed. This was a nice touch and can help to make some funny video chats. Hopefully Microsoft will release more of these overlays with updates in the future.
Conclusions
The camera looks gorgeous and it works seamlessly with my Windows XP Tablet PC. Image quality is good even in places that are not brightly lit.
I have had many web cams over the years and this is a very good one, especially if you're looking for one to use with your notebook PC.
Photos
