Webcam for Mac Mini?
I have a 2009 Mac Mini, which does not have a webcam. I don't need an expensive one, but I'd like to stick a basic one on there for iChat, etc.
I see webcams in the various stores for $25 or $30, which seem like they'd do the trick, but the boxes always say they're for Windows systems only.
I'm assuming that means the software that comes with them. But if I buy any old Microsoft or HP web cam and just plug it in, will the Mini see it and understand it?
I see webcams in the various stores for $25 or $30, which seem like they'd do the trick, but the boxes always say they're for Windows systems only.
I'm assuming that means the software that comes with them. But if I buy any old Microsoft or HP web cam and just plug it in, will the Mini see it and understand it?
Comments
I have a 2009 Mac Mini, which does not have a webcam. I don't need an expensive one, but I'd like to stick a basic one on there for iChat, etc.
I see webcams in the various stores for $25 or $30, which seem like they'd do the trick, but the boxes always say they're for Windows systems only.
I'm assuming that means the software that comes with them. But if I buy any old Microsoft or HP web cam and just plug it in, will the Mini see it and understand it?
Its hit or miss.
http://webcam-osx.sourceforge.net/cameras/index.php
Logitech have Mac webcams but they are really expensive now. You can get the older models on eBay though:
http://cgi.ebay.com/LOGITECH-QUICKCA...#ht_2936wt_914
P.S. Tested. Extremely difficult to configure and to get working. Not worth buying.
If you own an iPhone or Touch already, you may choose to try Wireless Webcamera app ($.99).
How on Earth would that work with an iPod Touch, which has no camera?
That app is for the iPhone only, for obvious reasons.
How on Earth would that work with an iPod Touch, which has no camera?
That app is for the iPhone only, for obvious reasons.
Ummm... Indeed. Mea culpa.
By way, my whole post should be taken back.
I played with that app (on iPhone). It's not duck soup to get it working and is even tougher to get working for iChat.
Unfortunately, iChat's ShowMacster add-on doesn't work under Snow Leopard anymore; we thus have to wait for its being back to achieve any valuable integration with iChat. Moreover, the add-on costs $19, which pulls the whole deal out of any interest.
Don't take it too much serious, but provided you own an iPhone, you do have a $.99 camera for any chat system right out of here.
As soon as we find the graceful way to accept incoming connections on iPhone over 3G, the app becomes the must for any reporter.
P.S. There are already webcam apps, which post pictures onto the web to make them viewable, but direct broadcasting is preferred solution.
Well, while that app is still remaining definitely not the best choice for iChat
Unfortunately, iChat's ShowMacster add-on doesn't work under Snow Leopard anymore; we thus have to wait for its being back to achieve any valuable integration with iChat. Moreover, the add-on costs $19, which pulls the whole deal out of any interest.
Don't take it too much serious, but provided you own an iPhone, you do have a $.99 camera for any chat system right out of here.
As soon as we find the graceful way to accept incoming connections on iPhone over 3G, the app becomes the a must for any reporter.
P.S. There are already webcam apps, which post pictures onto the web to make them viewable, but direct broadcasting is preferred solution.
That's nice but really has little or nothing to do with the OP's question.
On my previous mini (G4), I know a Macally Icecam 2 is compatible but the image is way too dark and hence it's close to useless. I kept searching for settings to change and finally stumbled across some internet thread where several people said they had the same and insolvable problem. Back to the store the Icecam 2 went and I wan't going to spend over $100 for one known to work (a Logitech, I think).
It's entirely possible that Intel-based minis have a broader list of cameras that will work out of the box (ie. not needing Mac-specific drivers as found on a couple expensive webcams) but there doesn't seem to be any authoritative list that I've seen.
That's nice but really has little or nothing to do with the OP's question.
Yes, yes. I can't deny that.
I was just proposing low-cost low-tech videoconferencing companion to any chat system.
I plugged it in and it worked, right out of the box. No drivers or configuration or anything. Pure plug & play, and it works just fine with iChat and all those crazy effects and everything.
(Mac Mini 2009, with SL)