Using Analog Sony Handycam as a Webcam

[whataboutbob]

Hello:

I would like to use my analog Sony Handycam CCD-TR81 as a webcam. To make matters perfectly clear - there are no USB or Firewire ports. There are composite and S-Video jacks. I have connected the camera using the S-Video port to my ATI AIW 9800 Pro video card. I am running Windows XP Pro by the way. I am able to catch the stream using ATI's software that came with the card. Also, I can also see the stream or capture the signal using Windows Movie Maker. I've also downloaded and tried something called WM Capture v7.0.22 from Microsoft which allowed me to choose the S-Video input under "Options -> Video Crossbar" and the video stream is seen perfectly. The problem is I ultimately want to use the Sony Handycam with Skype. It does not work with either Yahoo Messenger or MSN Messenger (latest versions). I either get a blurred view (like a TV channel with no signal) or a message stating that the video driver is already in use (or words to that effect) and to close the offending application.

To state things more simply - I can capture and record a live stream or video from pre-recorded tapes with my analog Hi8 camera using the selected apps I mentioned above but cannot simply stream through instant messengers like Yahoo or MSN. Any suggestions? I have tried to be as specific as possible.

Thanks for taking the time to read this post.

[whataboutbob]

Let me update my post ...

I've discovered that the program DVDriver by Eagletron, maker of TrackerCam, works great by allowing an analog videocamera to work as a webcam, compatible with MSN Messenger and Yahoo Messenger. At any rate I'm done playing with the demo version - would anyone know of an alternate or similar program that is freeware or open source?

Thanks for everyone's time.

[whataboutbob]

Last Update:

I installed TrackerCam which is a free program to use. It works fine. For those trying to use this software for the first time - here is a little hint ... you can change the settings in TrackerCam while your favourite IM is running and you will see them take effect immediately. Particularly, the video source (input) or setting called video crossbar. Anyway, after installing about a dozen applications - one that works.

That's all folks! :P