The basic equipment for a minimal setup would be a computer, webcam, and internet connection. Because you are reading this document on a computer with an internet connection, chances are that you are half way there. However, there are a few things to consider when purchasing new equipment or upgrading any hardware that you may already have. Here are a few suggestions to consider.

Web Camera

Webcams are small cameras that allow person to person video chat over the internet. Generally speaking, these produce low quality video feeds because most webcams have low resolution electronic sensor arrays. It is quite reasonable to use a standard webcam and many do.

If you want to provide a quality video stream when performing online, you may wish to consider using a digital camera or video camera. Most digital cameras are webcam ready and plug in to your computer through a usb port. Pixel resolution in the order of 5 megapixels or greater will produce a clear video feed at high resolution.

Video cameras are sometimes used and the Sony Handycam seems to be the preferred model to use in place of a webcam. Disgital video from a Handycam would be superb and provide members with a clear view even in close-up.

If you have a digital camera or video camera then check if it can be used as a webcam replacement. It will make all the difference, especially since members often bypass feeds that are slow or pixelated that tend to originate from budget webcams.

Webcams that are controlled by software are an advantage in this business. If a member can control your cam, turn the cam and focus wherever they like, and zoom in, all from a user control panel in their members area, then you will be providing a service that is rare but in demand. Unfortunately some networks have not implimented this technology so please determine whether the network you have signed up to allows members to control your cam in private shows. Its not a necessity, just a nice additional feature that can be offered.


Internet Connection

ADSL broadband speed connection is preferred. Dial-up connections will not allow the video data packets to be sent at a sufficient speed of transfer.

When considering ADSL plans, keep in mind that your camera is sending data to the cam network where it is then replicated across hundreds or even thousands of websites around the world. Sending data from your computer to another computer over the internet is called data upload. As a webcam performer, it is data upload that you will be doing most of the time and so you will need to purchase an ADSL plan from your ISP that has good upload speeds, and preferably maximum speed. A maximum speed ADSL connection will cost a little more per month in most countries.

Download speed is also important. During cam2cam private shows, you'll need an uninterrupted video feed from the member's own cam and that requires good download speed to your computer. Fortunately it is not usually a concern when choosing an ADSL plan because most higher upload plans come with maximum download speed as default. So download speed shouldn't be an issue but just check it to be sure.


Computer Hardware

Just about any modern computer will be more than enough. That can be a laptop computer, desktop computer, or maybe a notebook. The specifications today are ample and ram is plenty enough.

When using an older computer, it may be worth upgrading the RAM. More RAM means the cpu will process video faster.


ADSL Modem

The choice of modem probably is determined by your local network setup. Provided you have a high speed ADSL modem that matches the speed of your broadband plan, then you will be able to transfer video and audio at the maximum speed to the cam network.


Software

Apart from the drivers for your webcam and modem, you'll need a good camsplitter program. Using a camsplitter will let you connect to several networks at any one time and will generously improve the frequency at which you obtain private shows.


Other Considerations

If you haven't already, maybe go out and buy some nice sexy lingerie and sex toys. These are the tools of the trade.

Need To Purchase Electronics, Software, Toys or Lingerie?

Try these sites:

Webcams, computers, ADSL Modems, and RAM

onSale.com - Great Prices on your Favorite Electronics

Camsplitter Software

SplitCam
http://www.splitcamera.com/download.html
SplitCam provides connection for up to 64 chat networks.

ManyCam
http://download.cnet.com/ManyCam-Virtual-Webcam/3000-2348_4-10593500.html
This program will install a toolbar during installation. Be sure to deselect toolbar installation if you don't want that feature.

Sex toys and sexy lingerie

pornstar.com is a well established adult store that specialises in adult sex toys, DVD's, and video on demand services.