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It was the year 1995, and Apple Computer was gearing up to unveil a revolutionary product that would forever change the landscape of communication. The Apple QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100, Apple’s first foray into web cameras, introduced a remarkable set of features, setting a new standard for video conferencing technology. Even 28 years later, the impact of this groundbreaking device on the tech industry remains undeniable.
The QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 was way ahead of its time, boasting a powerful 1/3-inch 24-bit CCD Color Image sensor and a picture resolution of up to 542 x 492 pixels. This remarkable device also featured an S-Video connection port and an RCA composite port, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the mid-90s. Its innovative design earned it the prestigious Product Design Award in 1995 and garnered widespread acclaim from the tech community.
Beyond just a camera, the QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 was a complete communication solution. It introduced the cutting-edge QuickTime Media Conferencing software, enabling real-time collaboration with video, audio, and the transmission of still images and text. The inclusion of a “whiteboard” capability further enhanced its utility for collaborative purposes. The device supported local-area, wide-area, ISDN, and ATM networks, giving users the flexibility to communicate seamlessly across platforms.
The QuickTime Camera’s compatibility with the H.320 teleconferencing standard was a pivotal step towards cross-platform connectivity. This groundbreaking feature allowed users to engage in video conferencing across different systems, making it an indispensable tool for professionals and businesses seeking efficient collaboration methods.
With a starting price of $289, the QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 was not accessible to all consumers, but its impact was immeasurable. It set the stage for future advancements in video conferencing technology and laid the foundation for the modern video conferencing tools that we rely on today.
However, its journey was not without its challenges. In 1997, when Steve Jobs returned to Apple, the QuickTime Camera was discontinued, and the company shifted its focus to other areas. Despite its relatively short lifespan, the device left an indelible mark on the world of technology.
The QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 remains an iconic piece of technology, often referred to as the cornerstone of modern video conferencing. It opened doors to new possibilities in communication and collaboration, empowering businesses, educators, and individuals worldwide. Even as technology has evolved rapidly over the past two decades, the impact of this groundbreaking device continues to reverberate.
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In the annals of tech history, the QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 stands as a testament to Apple’s visionary spirit and commitment to innovation. Its powerful features, cross-platform connectivity, and transformative impact on communication laid the groundwork for the virtual meeting spaces we now take for granted. As we look back 28 years ago, we can’t help but marvel at how this revolutionary device has shaped the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect across the globe.
QuickTime Video Conferencing Camera 100 Details
| Introduced | February 12, 1995 |
| Discontinued | 1997 |
| Model Number | KWM-A102A |
| Order Number | M4490LL/B (Apple Media Conference Kit) M4585LL/A (Apple Media Conference Pro Kit) M4616LL/A (Apple Media Conference Pro Kit PCI) |
| Original Price | $289 (Camera + Software) $1,750 (Camera + Software + H.320 Encoder + ISDN adapter) $6,000 (Camera + Software + H.320 Encoder + ISDN adapter + Macintosh computer + external speakers) |
| Weight | 7 oz 198.44 Grams |
| Dimensions | 2.6″ H x 2.6″ W x 4.9″ D 6.6 cm H x 6.6 cm W x 12.44 cm D |
System Requirements
- Macintosh or Power Macintosh with built-in AV ports
- 16 MB of RAM
- System Software 7.5 or later
- Internal DAV connector and an ISDN line for H.330/ISDN Card
Camera Specs
| Image | 24-bit |
| Resolution | Up to 542 x 492 pixels (512 x 492 effective) |
| Optics | 1/3-inch color CCD |
| Lens Focal Length | 6.0 mm |
| Range | Manual From 2″ to infinity |
| Shutter Speed | N/A |
Media
| Photo Formats | QuickTime (H.261 codec) |
Connections
| Audio | None |
| Ports | 1 – S-Video 1 – RCA (composite) |
Power
| Power | 1.9w 12v DC via S-Video connector |
Further Reading and References
- Apple Computer’s QuickTime Conferencing Kit Now Shipping (Apple Archive) – Web Archive
- Apple QuickTime Conferencing Datasheet (Apple Archive) – Web Archive
- QuickTime Conferencing Kit Brochure (PDF) – 1000Bit
- Video Conferencing Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
- The Executive Computer; Is Video Conferencing Coming of Age? – The New York Times
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Last updated: August 6, 2023