Nov 25, 2010 15:36 GMT  ·  By

Since all the latest notebooks and tablets feature integrated webcams, we sometimes forget there are some users out there that need such a device, Genius catering to those users with the low budget FaceCam 1000 that comes with 360-degree rotation capabilities.

Apart from the interesting mounting system that swivels 360-degrees and allows Genius' webcam be installed equally as easy on a desktop computer or laptop, the FaceCam 1000 also comes with 720p high definition recording capabilities and a 8MP image sensor for capturing still images.

Furthermore, the FaceCam 1000 comes with a manual focusing system (sorry, no autofocus here), helping eliminate blur from your photos and video footage as well as your favorite conferencing application.

Although this is basically all that we get from a hardware perspective, the software package that comes bundled with the FaceCam 1000 is a lot more compelling.

I am talking here about the CrazyTalk Cam Suite Pro software as well as about the Image Protection Mechanism (IPM), this being a special application that prevents unauthorized users from gaining access to your computer.

This is accomplished by taking a snapshot of your face, the special IPM driver locking the computer when left unattended, requiring the user to identify himself (or herself) by standing in front of the webcam, the software comparing some facial characteristics with those stored before.

Although this isn't the most advanced security measure known to man, it should provide users with an adequate level of security as long as they run a Windows OS as the software isn't compatible with other operating systems.

Available trough NewEgg.com, Amazon.com, Tiger Direct, Buy.com as well as the company's website, the FaceCam 1000 is retailing for a rather low $34.99 price tag, making it ideal for those users that want a high definition webcam that doesn't break the bank.