cheap Optical detection - Part Two

[rsn48]

So I have a netbook which is dedicated to my layout room and taking secretaries notes of our train show meetings.  I like to listen to electronic music on Songza (free, appeals to the Scottish me) while working away on the RR.  I will be using the laptop for decoder pro as well.  I started a thread down below about searching for a cheap optical solution to knowing where my train is in my modified helix (nolix).  While snooping through the flyer from the closest electronic retailer and I saw cameras for use with skype for around $30 and thought this might work, just plugged into my computer.  So do you think the camera would work well enough, with an angle of view of at least 24 inches deep and at least 24 inches wide sitting about three feet from the area being shot?

[rsn48]

So I have been researching the options of a web cam and I'm reporting here what I have found for others to read should they ever conduct a "search" on this topic.  I was wondering if using a long USB extension cord would reduce the quality of the image, in my situation I will require about 25 feet of extension.  The short answer is yes.

What has been suggested is to use the wireless security camera you can acquire and set it up in lieu of a web cam with long extension.

[LKOrailroad]

USB is generally limited to 16 feet. You can extend the distance by using a powered hub.

[rsn48]

Thanks LK, another option I can look into.