Crusader Digicam

Crusader Digicam combines the functionality of a webcam and digital camera. When used as a standalone digital camera, it draws power from 4 AAA sized batteries and allows you to take 26 pics at high resolution (640x480) or 107 at the lower resolution (320x240). An indicator shows the number of remaining pics that can be taken. It will not allow you to take snaps until there is enough lighting, which can be annoying if you need to take a quick snap. It has a self-timer, which automatically take snaps after 10 seconds. It can also take continuous snaps without having to press snap button every time. Image quality of the snaps was average, and taking pictures requires getting used to.

It connects to the PC through a USB interface. Bundled software include ArcSoft PhotoImpression 2000 for image editing and ArcSoft VideoImpression for video creation and editing. It allows you to capture at 6 different resolutions from 128x96 to 640x480. Video capturing was a little disappointing with the camera achieving only 12.3fps at its lowest resolution of 128x96, 11 fps at 320x240 and a mere 2.27 fps at the highest resolution. Overall, a good option for people wanting dual functionality though a little expensive.

Sachin Makhija