Philips PCA635VC User Manual
PC Camera
User Guide
PCA635VC
This manual covers the installation, usage and troubleshooting of the Philips PCA635VC Camera and Videogram software. You will notice, to get up and running quickly, that a separate Quick Start guide has been included. This manual
should be used along with the Quick Start guide and referenced when you need a more complete explanation.
In addition, on-line help is available inside the Videogram Creator application. A “Read Me” file can be found in the program group where you install the Videogram Creator software. If you install the Videogram Creator software to its default
folder then you may access this by clicking on “Start,” followed by “Programs,” then the “Philips PCA635VC Camera”
program group and finally click on “Read Me.” The “Read Me” file contains information that was not available at the time
this manual was created.
To save you time, at the beginning of each Chapter, please notice that there is a short summary of what that Chapter
covers. Also, an index and glossary are available towards the end of this manual for quick reference. If you get stuck, please
refer to Chapter 11, “Frequently Asked Questions.” For more advanced uses, investigate Chapter 9, “Advanced Features.”
This chapter will help you optimize your system for Videogram capture as well as assist you in creating Videograms for
Internet Websites.
Manual Conventions
Look for the following symbols to identify items of importance.
Requires Extra Attention
Helpful Tips
Valuable Information
Important–These settings affect whether or not you see video.
22
About This Manual
About This Manual 2
Manual Conventions 2
Table Of Contents 3
About Your Philips PCA635VC 6
Bundled Software 6
Videogram Creator 6
Chapter 1 Before You Begin 7
Check the Package Contents 7
Minimum System Configuration 7
Optimum System Configuration 7
Safety Tips 8
Maintenance 8
Chapter 2 Setup & Installation 9
Installing Philips PCA635VC Unit 9
connecting the camera, the microphone and the adapter
directing the camera
Chapter 3 Software Installation 10
STEP 1: Re-Connect the Power
STEP 2: Turn On the System and Launch Windows 95
STEP 3: Insert CD-ROM 1
STEP 4: Click the “Start” Button and then “Run”
STEP 5: Enter Program Name
STEP 6: Follow the Installer Directions
QuickVideo Software on System 11
Philips PCA635VC Program Group
Videogram Player Group
Philips PCA635VC Setup Wizard
Table Of Contents
3
Chapter 4 Videogram Creator Software 14
Opening the Videogram Creator application 15
Video & Audio Settings 15
Settings Control Panel
OK & CANCEL Buttons
Format 15
Quality
Size
Adjust 16
Video 17
Audio 17
Capture Audio
Frequency
Size
Channels
Image 18
Size
Subject
Quality
The Main Window 19
File Menu Bar
File Menu
Edit Menu
Tools Menu
Help
Video Toolbar 20
Sound Toolbar 21
Chapter 5 Creating & Saving Videograms 22
Videograms and AVI Video Files Compared 22
3 Easy Steps for Video Creation 22
STEP 1 - Preview Video
STEP 2 - Record & Play Video
STEP 3 - Send/Save a Videogram
Sending Videograms
Saving Videograms
Send Videogram Dialog Box Settings
Helpful Hints for Sending Videograms 27
MIME versus UUencode
Sending Videograms Without Attaching The Player
Using Videograms With Non-MAPI Email Programs 28
Sending Videograms with non-MAPI Email Programs
Receiving Videograms with a non-MAPI Email Program
Chapter 6 Playing Videograms 29
Under Windows 95 29
Under Windows 3.1x 29
Streaming Videogram Player 29
Playing Non-Executable Videogram Files 29
4
Chapter 7 Grabbing Snapshot Images 32
Capturing a Snapshot 32
STEP 1: Preview Video
Live Video
STEP 2: Grab Still
Live Video
STEP 3: View the Bit Mapped Image
STEP 4: Save and Send
Grabbing Snapshot Images from Pre-Recorded Video 34
Picturegram 34
Chapter 8 Adding Narration & Audio 35
Add Live Sound 35
Record Audio or Narration
Add Pre-Recorded Sound 35
STEP 1: Select Insert Audio under the Edit menu
STEP 2: Select an Audio File to Insert
Chapter 9 Using Videograms 36
Sending with E-Mails 36
Family
Salespeople
Business Consultants
Training
Internet Sites
Using In Presentations 36
Presenters
Adding Videograms To Presentation Software
Stand-Alone Videogram Presentations
Chapter 10 Advanced Features 38
Video Streaming 38
Standard Internet File Download
With Videogram Streaming
Adding Videograms To Internet Sites 38
Viewing Videograms On Internet Sites 39
Optimizing System for Video Capture & Playback 39
Video Capture Optimization
What Happens When Capturing Video
Parallel Port Recommendations
Processor, Hard Disk & Controller Recommendations
Video Playback Optimization
When Playing Back Video
System Recommendations
Graphics Card Recommendations
Chapter 11 Frequently Asked Questions 42
Chapter 12 Specifications 46
Glossary Of Terms 47
5
Your Philips PCA635VC Camera is the easiest way to capture and send video from your desktop or laptop computer. The
Philips PCA635VC along with Videogram Creator Software, incorporates the latest in video capture and playback technology into a high quality, compact video camera. With the PCA635VC you can capture full-motion video at resolutions up
to 320X240 (CIF Standard) at 30 frames per second through the parallel port. There is no need to open your computer to
enhance all your communications with video, quickly and easily. And you can also capture high resolution still images.
Bundled Software
Videogram Creator
The Videogram Creator software allows you to compress captured video files, embed the Videogram Player inside the file,
and play it back on any Windows 3.1x, Win 95 or Windows NT system without installing the Player on the target system.
This makes it perfect for sending Videograms through email. The compression is so great that a 1-minute Videogram with
the Player fits on a standard, 31/2 -inch, 1.44MB floppy disk.
•
When to Use Videograms
Videograms are perfect for any situation where you want to share more than just words or you want to share the experience in person but can’t-birthdays; thank you messages; a child’s first steps or words; a motivational speech; a sales
call; a product demonstration. You can attach Videograms to email messages, post them to Websites, or create them so
that others can stream the Videogram from your Website in real-time. See Chapter 8 for more ideas and examples.
Microsoft NetMeeting
Using your PC and the Internet, you can now hold face-to-face conversations with friends and family around the world.
Video is just one of the powerfull features of NetMeeting 2.0. Its data conferencing features let you collaborate with a
group of people from within any Windows application - drawing on a shared whiteboard, sending text messages, and
transferring files. And NetMeeting’s real-time audio lets you talk to other people over the Internet, even if you use a
14.4 kbps modem. NetMeeting’s video, audio, and data conferencing are all based on industry standards, so you can communicate with people using compatible products.
For the latest version of this program and for more information on this sorftware, go to the Microsoft webside:
www.microsoft.com.
About Your Philips PCA635VC
6
This chapter provides a checklist of items you need to ensure a smooth installation including a section on general safety.
Before installation, make sure that your Philips PCA635VC was shipped complete (“Package Contents”) and then verify
that your system meets the minimum requirements (“System Requirements”).
Check the Package Contents
Please check your Philips PCA635VC package for the items shown below. If any of the items are missing, contact immediately at one of the numbers or addresses listed at the beginning of this manual.
•
Philips PCA635VC attaches to the parallel port of your PC and remains outside the computer. There is no need to
open your computer to use the Philips PC Camera. Connect your video sources to the Philips PCA635VC Camera to
begin digitizing (or capturing) video into your computer.
•
User Manual - Use this if you are familiar with computer peripheral installations and want to get up and running
quickly.
•
Philips PCA635VC Bundled Software (CD-ROM) - Install the Philips PCA635VC Videogram Creator Software and
the electronic User Guide.*
Minimum System Configuration
This section itemizes what is required and recommended for installation of your Philips PCA635VC and related software.
It is assumed that you already have a computer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc..
Your system must meet or exceed the following minimum requirements to use the Philips PCA635VC Camera and related
software:
•
Windows 95
•
Pentium 75 or faster PC
•
Bi-directional Parallel Port (ECP Parallel Port for optimal performance)
NOTE: Your Philips PCA635VC Camera is backwards compatible and supports standard Bi-directional Parallel Printer
Ports. Please take a look at the “Read Me” document inside the Philips PCA635VC program group for additional information.
•
16MB RAM
•
23MB of free hard disk space (video files may require more disk space)
•
CD-ROM drive for application software and drivers
Optimum System Configuration
A more optimum system configuration for using the Philips PCA635VC might be:
•
Windows 95 with no other video capture devices installed
•
Pentium 133 or faster PC
•
An available ECP parallel printer port
•
32MB RAM
•
High Speed Hard Drive Controller & Drive(s)
•
At least 23MB of free hard disk space
•
CD-ROM drive for application software and drivers
•
A Windows sound system or SoundBlaster-compatible audio capability with speakers
NOTE: This product is not MAC compatible
Additional information regarding system optimization for video capture and playback can be found in Chapter 10,
“Advanced Features”.
Before You Begin
7
Safety Tips
Before you install this product, be sure to safeguard yourself, your computer system and the Philips PCA635VC. It is
recommended that you follow these precautions in addition to any precautions you may have found in other documents
for your computer.
•
Shut down and disconnect system power prior to plugging and unplugging connectors.
•
Do not plug an excessive amount of devices into a power outlet and do not run more than one power strip off any
outlet.
•
On rare occasions, some installations of the Philips PCA635VC may require opening the system itself to install a compatible ECP parallel printer port card (obtained from local computer store). If you find this necessary, be careful of the
sharp edges inside the computer and note the safety instructions of the product you are installing.
Maintenance
If you observe the following guidelines, you will prevent defects and the camera will be used safely.
• The outside of the camera can be cleaned with a soft cloth.
• Do NOT use cleaning fluids based on alcohol, methylated spirit, ammonia, etc..
• Avoid direct contact with water.
• If the lens has to be cleaned, use a special lens cleaning tissue, available at any good camera store.
• You can use the camera only indoors.
• Keep the camera free from oil, vapour, steam, moisture and dust.
• Keep the camera away from a heater, lighting equipment and direct sunlight.
• Never direct the lens of your camera towards the sun.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not exposure this camera to rain or moisture. Do not attempt to disassemble the camera. In order to prevent shock and fire hazard, do not remove screws or covers.
There are no userserviceable parts inside.
Important: Use a power that meets the requirements according to EN 60950 only. For USA: Use a UL listed 5V, 2.5 Watt
DC power supply compliant with UL 1950.
8
This chapter walks you through the installation and setup process for your Philips PCA635VC unit. Some of the diagrams
in this section may look different than your system. This user’s guide is designed to be used along with any existing documentation that you have collected for your computer.
The following diagram is an overview of all the wiring connections for Philips PCA635VC.
Connect the camera, the microphone and the adapter
1 Switch off the computer.
2 Connect the connector at the end of the camera cable to the parallel port of the computer.
3 Protruding from the connector which is now connected to the parallel port are two short cables with small connectors,
One of these two connectors fits into the line in of the sound card. Take hold of the small connector and push it firmly and fully into the line in of the sound card.
4 Connect the remaining small connector into the connector of the adapter cable.
Directing the camera
5 The position of the camera and the amount of light available have a great effect on the quality of the video images.
Preferably position the camera at eye level and less than a metre away from what you want to record. Ensure that as
much light as possible is falling on the object you want to record.
Setup & Installation
9
2
Drawings
not to scale
Camera
Adapter
Parallel port
Parallel connec-
tor
Sound card
Line In
Adapter connector
to camera
connector...
...to
adapter
This Chapter describes installation of the Philips PCA635VC software, including the Videogram Creator and Player software. Due to the true 32-bit nature of the software, the installation will only work under Windows 95.
STEP 1: Re-Connect the Power
During the hardware setup we instructed you to unplug the computer system from the wall outlet or power strip. If you
did this, please plug the system’s power back in. Next, plug the power adapter of the camera into a wall outlet or power
strip.
STEP 2: Turn On the System and Launch Windows 95
Turn on your computer system in the normal manner. Windows 95 will boot automatically if it is installed to its default
configuration.
If the system does not power on, make sure no connections came loose during installation of the Philips PCA635VC. If
something is loose, reconnect it and try powering on again. Be sure to pay special attention to the monitor and power
cords-check to see that they are still connected to the back of the computer and/or plugged in to the power strip.
STEP 3: Insert CD-ROM
Place the Philips PCA635VC CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive (typically D:) referred to as X: for the remainder of
these steps. If your copy of Windows 95 supports Auto Play, the dialog box in Step 6 will automatically appear in a few
seconds. Otherwise, proceed to Step 4.
STEP 4: Click the “Start” Button and then “Run”
STEP 5: Enter Program Name
In the Dialog box that appears, type the following:
Remember which drive you put the CD-ROM into in STEP 3. Replace X: with that drive letter or you may receive an
error.
10
Windows Start Bar
Windows Run dialog Box
Software Installation
3
STEP 6: Follow the Installer Directions
The following dialog box will appear. If nothing happens, restart your system and try it again. If it still doesn’t work make
sure the drive works by trying another CD.
Follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
QuickVideo Software on System
Once you have finished installing the software two new groups and icons will be created for you. You may access them by
clicking on the “Start” Button and checking the “Programs” folder.
Philips PCA635VC Program Group
Videogram Creator - Application to easily capture and create Videograms.
Read Me - Text file that contains the latest release updates.
Uninstall Philips PCA635VC - Application to remove Philips PCA635VC software from computer.
11
Philips PCA635VC Program Group Window
Philips PCA635VC Setup Wizard - Walks you through the installation and set-up of your Philips PCA635VC, including
properly configuring your parallel port.
Philips PCA635VC Electronic User Guide - Online User Guide in Adobe Acrobat format.
Videogram Player Group
Videogram Player - Standalone player that is installed on the system hard drive and allows for the creation and sending of
Videgrams without a player built into the file. The Videogram Player is ideal for use by frequent receivers of Videograms as
it speeds file downloading and reduces the total file size.
Philips PCA635VC Setup Wizard
You will need to re-start Windows 95 for the installation to take effect. After re-starting Windows 95 for the first time following installation, the Philips PCA635VC Setup Wizard will automatically appear and guide you through the setup process for your Philips PCA635VC.
The Setup Wizard will determine how your parallel port is configured. The port should be configured as an ECP or Bidirectional port for Philips PCA635VC to work.
Next, the Wizard will help you configure the video input on your Philips PCA635VC.
12
Videogram Program Group
Then, the Wizard will help you configure the audio on your Philips PCA635VC.
Enter Internet settings, then you’re ready to begin recording with Philips PCA635VC.
13
This Chapter discusses the Videogram Creator software. With the Videogram Creator software you can begin capturing,
creating, and sending Videograms. This Chapter will explain the different aspects and features of this software, and will
show you how to adjust settings to create the best Videograms with your system.
Vital settings that control whether or not you see video are described in this section, so it’s worth reading. These settings
are labeled with the Vital Setting tag.
Opening the Videogram Creator application
To access this application click on the “Start” button and then “Programs,” “Philips PCA635VC” and finally click on the
Videogram Creator” icon (as shown below).
Provided the Philips PCA635VC unit and the Videogram Creator software were properly setup, as described in Chapters
2 & 3, this will bring up the Videogram Creator application. See page 44 for a diagram of the Videogram Creator interface.
If the system stops responding AND does not load the software then you should check to make sure that your system
meets the Minimum System Requirements and double-check the connections from the system to the Philips PCA635VC
unit.
If the following message appears, then a valid sound card is NOT installed.
The Philips PCA635VC captures sound by using an existing sound card in the system. If you do not have a sound card,
then simply click “OK” and ignore this message. Ignoring this message does not affect video capture, however it will disable sound capability in the Philips PCA635VC application.
Test your sound card with Microsoft “Sound Recorder” which comes with Windows 95. Access this application under
“Start”, then “Programs”, followed by “Accessories”, “Multimedia”, then click on the “Sound Recorder” icon. If your sound
card is installed correctly this test will be successful, otherwise, contact the sound card manufacturer for information on
how to enable it under Windows 95.
Philips PCA635VC may not support all sound cards. Usually, if your board works with Microsoft “Sound Recorder” then
it will also work with the Philips PCA635VC system and Videogram Creator application.
14
Videogram Creator Software
4
Launching the Videogram Creator Application
Video & Audio Settings
Before you begin using the Videogram Creator, it’s important that you learn how to control video and audio.
You may want to experiment with these settings later to optimize video capture for your system. More information regarding “Optimizing System for Video Capture” can be found in Chapter 10 located towards the end of this manual.
Settings Control Panel
From the Videogram Creator application, click on the “Edit” option on the menu bar and select “Video Settings.” The following “Video Settings” control panel will appear. Use the Tabs located across the top to access the different settings for
video, audio and image capture. This section is broken down into separate tabs to make the information easier to use.
OK & CANCEL Buttons
These are found in a large number of Windows applications and they mean the same thing here. When you’re done
making changes, click OK to accept them and close the “Setting” dialog box or click CANCEL to abort all changes and
close the “Setting” dialog box.
Format
Quality
Select one of these settings to make captured video look better or play faster.
These settings tell the Videogram Creator software how much color and definition information you would like in the
video files you capture. Color and definition combine to enhance the quality of the video files. High quality will produce
the best visual results, however, it does create larger files and puts greater demands on slower systems.
•
High Quality (YUV 4:2:2) - Select this option to maximize the quality of the video; video files will take up more
space on the hard drive by selecting this option (better quality = more room needed to store video), but will contain
more information to bring out colors and definition.
•
Medium Quality (YUV 9) - This option produces good-quality video with good color and definition while consuming
less disk space.
15
Edit Menu
Standard
Windows
Buttons
Video & Sound Settings Control Panel
Format Tab - Settings Control Panel
Loading...