It is common these days for a webcam to double as a digital camera. The lure of these devices is their low price. While resolution won't be high enough to make large prints from, it's acceptable for viewing on your PC. It is with that in mind that Logitech's ClickSmart 420 is presented.

It offers a maximum still image resolution of 640 x 480. At this size, you can get 80 images onto the 8Mb of internal memory. Up to 70 seconds of video, with sound, can also be squeezed in at a resolution of 320 x 240 - though, of course, the more pictures you have saved the less room there is for video.

A display on the back of the camera provides operational information but doesn't help you frame shots. A flash and self-timer are present, although the four AAA batteries that power the camera will need replacing fairly regularly if you intend to use the flash a lot. The camera itself is reasonably large and heavy and it doesn't come with a protective case, just a lens cover that hangs off the wrist strap.

The stand, needed to use the Clicksmart 420 in webcam mode, is impressively sturdy and swivels 360 degrees as well as to about 45 degrees past vertical.

Logitech provides an all-in-one application designed to meet a range of digital image and video requirements and it is pretty good. Its 'QuickSync' technology automatically downloads images when you plug the camera into your PC via its USB connector. The software also includes applications to host a webcast and use the ClickSmart as a motion detection device.

These features make the ClickSmart 420 a reasonably good camera for those interested in recording and manipulating images and video on their PC. Just don't expect high-quality digital images and do expect to carry spare batteries if you're planning on low-light shooting.

Contact: Logitech 01753 870900
www.logitech.com