TrackerPod: Take Your Hands Off Your Webcam

Price And Contents, Continued

We reviewed the "TrackerCam Special," which includes a Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000 along with the TrackerPod base. The MSRP is $199. You cannot attach multiple QuickCam kits to the same computer, but this is not Eagletron's fault. You can blame Logitech, as the driver currently prevents you from having multiple Quickcams on the same computer.

Closer Look

Since the TrackerPod system is basically a Webcam connected to a base, it requires two USB connections into your PC. One connection is for the base and the other is for the camera. If you are using multiple TrackerPods into the same computer, you will run out of ports quickly unless you use a USB Hub.

The unit has a large range of motion, 80 degrees to each side (total of 160 degrees lateral coverage) and 55 degrees up and down (total 110 degrees vertical).

The plastic base of the unit does not have any rubber feet, but two rubber feet are included with each TrackerPod. The feet can be screwed in tightly if no additional height is needed. You can also use velcro tape or Earthquake putty to securely hold the TrackerPod to a surface. For a more permanent attachment, you can bolt or screw the unit into a table or wall.

The motors are loud, so don't expect your TrackerPod to conduct stealthy surveillance in quiet areas. In addition, red lights flicker when the motors activate, providing an eerie red glow and letting the public know that the unit is active.

Humphrey Cheung was a senior editor at Tom's Hardware, covering a range of topics on computing and consumer electronics. You can find more of his work in many major publications, including CNN and FOX, to name a few.