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A webcam is a digital video device, internal or external to a computer, that captures live video and transmits it to a computer for use in applications like video calls, streaming, or recording. Key components include a lens to focus light, an image sensor (typically CMOS) to convert light into digital electrical signals, and a processor to handle the data. Modern webcams often include a built-in microphone for audio, an integrated USB interface for data transfer and power, and a protective housing with a clip for mounting.

How it Works

Light Capture: Light from the real world enters the webcam's lens.

Image Sensing: The lens focuses this light onto the image sensor, which consists of millions of pixels.

Signal Conversion: Each pixel converts the incoming light into an electrical signal, which is a digital data stream.

Data Processing: The processor (often a Digital Signal Processor or DSP) converts these signals into a digital format the computer can understand.

Transmission: The USB interface then transmits this digital data to the computer for use in video conferencing, streaming, or other software.