USB vs. FW

[limburg11]

Hello all,

I'm considering to buy a DBK 21AF (or U) 04.AS because of the advantages compared to cheaper USB Web Cams.

My question is: Are USB and Firewire versions comparable with respect to max. framerate or speed in general? Are both capable of 30 fps continuous recording? Are there other things to consider?

The point is that I have

(1) a laptop with FW but slow CPU (Celeron) and HDD (about 20 MB/s max.)
(2) another laptop, only with USB, but with fast CPU (C2D T5600) and fast HDD.

OK, the latter has FW, but only when connected to the docking station.

Is it better to buy the USB version and use the newer and much faster laptop or are the advantages of the FW camera such that it is recommended to use it together with the slow computer? In the FAQ I read that approx. 18 MB/s HDD speed is needed for 30 fps, and I'm afraid that the slower system won't be able to manage that.

Thanks,
Bernd

[Stefan Geissler]

Hi Bernd,

there is no big difference between the FireWire and USB camera, except even the port. The frame rates are the same. On slower computers you may get not the full USB 2.0 HighSpeed performance, which results in lower frame rates.
I suggest the USB camera for your Duo Core. If this does not work, we would have to exchange the camera.

[limburg11]

Hi Stefan,

many thanks for the quick anwer. So the USB version should suit best for me.

Regards,
Bernd