Linux WebCam Software?

Who_Sez asks: "I'm interested in setting up a Linux based webcam, however the solutions I've been seeing are either very convoluted in execution, or the referring sites appear to be out of date. Can anyone recommend a webcam package that runs on Linux? I don't really care what distro is required but I'm familiar with Fedora, Yellow Dog, and Ubuntu. I guess I would be considered a 'mid-level user' with regard to experience. Is there a web cam software package that is a fairly complete solution that is also pretty easy to configure (preferably with a GUI)? Also, some suggestions for compatible webcam hardware would be welcome. I'd like to be able to do this on the cheap, and would love to be able to brag about setting up a Linux web cam. Any help here would be appreciated. Thanks!"

Re:Desktop Linux is here!

[finkster]

While I am a huge fan of Linux and OSS, this very question (and sarcastic comment) hits the nail on the head for why Linux is NOT ready for the prime-time user.

For a Windows user, all one needs to do is plug in the webcam and load the programs found on the CD. It takes all of maybe 2 minutes to have the webcam up and running. On Linux, it may take an entire afternoon.

If Microsoft can be credited for something good, then they should be credited for having a systems that generally works - and can be worked by someone who doesn't need to know how to "Build" a software package, or kernel.

...and it might help if the vendors started including "Linux Compatible" devices/drivers/software.

(anyone care to comment if JMF works well with Linux?)

Re:Desktop Linux is here!

[s4m7]

Let's see if I follow your logic here:

1) Linux isn't ready for the desktop, because it doesn't just work
2) It doesn't just work because vendors don't provide Linux applications/drivers for their hardware
3) Vendors don't provide drivers because nobody uses Linux because... Linux isn't ready for the desktop.

Mmmm-Hmmm. Seems about right to me.