Someone has been getting into your room, your desk drawer or your front hallway while you're out, and you have no proof. A webcam you already own can watch the spot for you, but only if software tells it when to record. SoftCab Webcam Spy Lite is a small Windows program built for that job.
Quick facts
- Edition: Lite (the vendor also sells a Professional edition)
- Platforms: Windows 95/98/ME, Windows NT/2000, Windows XP
- Price: $24.95 for Lite
- License: Shareware, with a downloadable trial
- Video sources: webcam or other video source, including TV tuners
Key features
Recording that starts when something moves
The motion detector watches the camera image and begins recording once motion appears. It also stops on its own. The vendor says there is no timer involved, which cuts down on disk space because you aren't storing hours of an empty room.
Video clips or still snapshots, your choice
When motion is detected, the program either records video or saves a snapshot. Stills are quicker to scan later. Video shows you what actually happened.
An alarm sound or your own program on trigger
The program can play back a WAV file or run an external application when it sees motion. You can also adjust the sensitivity of the detector so a passing shadow doesn't set it off.
Stays out of the way in the system tray
The program sits in the system tray and waits for movement in front of the camera. It picks up the web cameras installed in the system, along with other video sources such as a TV tuner.
Who it's for
It suits you if you want basic home security or a way to see who has been near your computer or a room, and you already have a webcam. It's small and focused, and it doesn't try to be a full camera-management suite.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Motion-triggered recording starts and stops automatically
- Works with webcams and other video sources
- Can play a sound or launch another program on an alarm
- Small program that stays in the tray
- Lower price than the Professional edition
Cons
- Lite is the cut-down edition. The vendor publishes a feature comparison against Professional, so check it before you buy if you need extras.
- Built for older Windows versions, up to Windows XP
- It needs a camera or video source connected to the PC
FAQs
Does it need a special camera?
No. It works with a regular web camera or another video source, such as a TV tuner.
Can it record automatically?
Yes. Once the motion detector sees movement, it starts recording video or takes a snapshot. It stops again on its own.
What happens when motion is detected?
Depending on how you set it up, it can flash an icon in the system tray, play an alarm sound, save pictures, save video, or run an external program.
What is the difference between Lite and Professional?
Professional costs $99.95 and Lite costs $24.95. The vendor lists the feature differences side by side on its product page.
System requirements
- Windows 95/98/ME, Windows NT/2000 or Windows XP
- A web camera or other video source