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Jam Cam Digital Camera By Pam Gleichman Tribune Media Services Jam Cam is a high-resolution, cool looking (bright yellow and black plastic) digital camera that uses a serial or USB connection. Depending on the resolution you select � you choose from three levels � the Jam Cam can store up to 24 pictures. When using the 640 X 480 VGA high resolution, the Jam Cam stores eight pictures. Pictures can then be uploaded to the computer, edited and printed out. Included with the Jam Cam are two photo editing and project software titles that let users edit photos, create cool effects, add splashy backgrounds and print personalized cards and calendars. Also included is ArcSoft PhotoFantasy. This is an image entertainment application that enables users to create "photo fantasies" by combining their personal photos with over 200 fantasy backgrounds. The Jam Cam runs on a 9V alkaline battery (not included). The Jam Cam is a fun and inexpensive way to get photographs into your computer. The quality with the highest resolution (eight pictures) is pretty good. One negative is that you don�t hear a click when you push the button to take a picture. After about 10 seconds you will see the number change on the back of the computer (to indicate how many pictures are left). I only recommend the high resolution. On lower resolutions, which allows you up to 24 pictures, the quality is not great. Microsoft�s Picture It �99 is a very good photo editing and project program. Young children will need help using it. Publisher : KB Gear Interactive, 7416 Washington Ave. S., Eden Prairie, Minn. 55344, (612) 941-1905, http://www.kbgear.com , http://www.gojamcam.com . Category : Digital camera. Age : All ages. Young children will need assistance uploading the pictures to the computer. Installation : We were not successful in getting pictures downloaded on a 400 MHz laptop or a 233 MHz desktop. We repeatedly got error messages. We were, however, successful when we used a 200 MHz desktop. We were able to take pictures and upload them within minutes. Use : Easy. The photo editing software, however, is for older children and adults. Graphics : Not applicable. Written Materials : Written materials are included. System Requirements : Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT, Pentium or Pentium Compatible processor, 16 MB RAM or higher, USB or open 9 pin serial port, 90 MB free disk space, CD-ROM drive. Macintosh � USB Macs only, 32 MB RAM or higher, CD-ROM drive, Open USB port. (The Macintosh driver is available on KB Gear Web site. Tested Version : Windows 95/98 and Macintosh. Cost : $89.95. Rating : Three stars. The Jam Cam Digital Camera and editing software will provide you with an inexpensive way to take pictures, upload them into your computer, edit and print them out. DEAR PAM : I really enjoy your column and have come to rely on your objective reviews of software for my children. Occasionally, however, I have trouble finding the programs at my local software store. What is the best source for finding these hard-to-find titles? DEAR READER : In the last few years, the market has been inundated with thousands of new software titles for children. Shelf space limitations have forced many publishers to market their software through mail order companies and the Internet. Mail order companies and Internet sites offer large selections and many of them offer a 30-day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the program. The Edutainment Company ( http://www.edutainco.com (800) 338-3844) offers a large selection. You can order directly from the Web site or call the 800 number and request a catalog. WEB SITE OF THE WEEK THE ULTIMATE ORIGAMI SITE http://www.origami.vancouver.bc.ca This site has everything you need to know about origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. RATING KEY : ***** — Outstanding; **** — Very Good; *** — Good; ** — Fair; * — Not Worth Purchasing. Pam Gleichman welcomes questions/comments from readers. Write to Pam at Tribune Media Services, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1400, Chicago, Ill. 60611. Send e-mail to [email protected] . � 1999 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Techno file index Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA