WebCams, Multi-Mode Cameras, digital cameras-what's the difference? It seems like everyone's talking about them, but why so many different terms? Here's the scoop on what it all means:

Different manufacturers use different terms to describe the main function of each type of camera. Here's what we at Creative mean when we talk about the many types of cameras:

Webcam or web camera:Web cameras (also called Webcams and tethered cameras) are cameras that attach to the computer. These cameras provide excellent support for video capture, videoconferencing and video instant messaging, but cannot be used when detached from the PC. You usually do not have to use batteries with a web camera since their power is supplied by the PC. Most web cameras feature USB 1.1 connections, but some cameras are available in USB 2.0 or FireWire configurations. An excellent example of a USB 2.0 webcam is the Live! Cam Optia, one of the latest webcams from Creative.

PC-CAM or Multi-Mode Camera:Multi-Mode Cameras are like two cameras in one. They include all of the features of a web camera when connected to the PC and work as a digital still camera when detached from the computer. Some even capture video and audio. They commonly use two or four AAA batteries, but some have built-in rechargeable batteries. The pictures taken when in digital camera mode can be stored on the camera's flash memory (typically 16MB in capacity). Memory capacity can be increased with the help of flash memory cards. Sleek and stylish, the PC-CAM 950 Slim is one of the latest PC-CAMs from Creative.

Digital still cameras or digital cameras:Digital still cameras offer the best picture quality and features for taking snapshots away from your computer. They typically do not have a videoconferencing feature, but you can connect it to your computer for photo downloads. They often have integrated flash memory and expansion slots for flash memory cards that increase your photo taking capacity. These cameras commonly use two or four AA regular or rechargeable batteries.

Digital video cameras:Digital video cameras capture moving images digitally, rather than recording them on tape. With digital video, you get quality and ease of use, as moving images captured are stored in a high-quality, easily-edited digital format. In recent years, there has been a convergence of digital still and video cameras, where the latter is also able to capture digital snapshots. Marrying the best that each camera type has to offer, the DiVi CAM 525D is the ultimate all-in-one digital camcorder and still camera- complete with MP3 player and voice recording capabilities.