<p>We’ve decided to try skype, so I need to get a webcam. I have no idea what features to look for, other than I’d like it to be easy to install. Any suggestions?</p>
<p>It has been a few years so I don’t even know if they still make webcams with manual focus, but one feature you definitely want is automatic focus. I remember reviewers commenting that manual focus meant you spent most of your skype call out-of-focus or continually fiddling with the focus.</p>
<p>We are new Skypers, too. We got the Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000, and so far it is not too bad. Sometimes we don’t do the video and just talk, and you can also use it like IM. Once you do the download, it’s simple.</p>
<p>The Logitech Pro 9000 ($76 on Amazon) is a pretty good one and is one that’s recommended by several of the video over IP providers. I have a couple of them and use them frequently and have used it with several applications - Skype, Microsoft Live Messenger, and Polycom PVX.</p>