HoverCam Orbit is an easy-to-set-up wireless document camera with the features teachers need to deliver clear, rich, and engaging lessons without being tied to their computer.
This device uses its own built-in wireless connectivity with a 100-foot range to deliver a fast, nearly lossless, and virtually lag-free video connection. With no drivers to install or network settings to enter, it's a plug-and-play solution that will make both teachers and your school's IT department happy.
Orbit HoverCam: introduction
Out of the box, my first impression of the HoverCam Orbit was how well it was put together. The hinges moved smoothly but had enough resistance to let you know they will stay in place once attached. The base is sized and weighted to allow you to adjust the camera's long arm without worrying about it falling over.
Once the camera was charged, I was able to get it up and running quickly. All I had to do was decide if I wanted to connect the wireless transmitter to my computer or display using the included USB-A, USB-C, or HDM cables. I also installed the free multi-platform compatible Flex 11 software.
I appreciated that the 13-megapixel camera assembly has a quality microphone and manual controls to power the four LED lights to illuminate the generous 13”x 21” work area. A wheel allows you to rotate the camera 90 degrees, plus there are buttons for autofocus, as well as taking snapshots or recordings. I was presented with the option of using the built-in 16 gigabyte SSD hard drive or the micro SD card slot and my own card to store lesson files. I found all of these features very valuable since this is a wireless document camera.
The free downloadable Flex software is well designed and didn't make me feel overwhelmed with an overly complicated interface. Works on Windows, Mac and Chrome devices.
It had controls for taking photos and recording videos, which is great to share with students for review or catch up. It also had a nice annotation tool for drawing or writing on the displayed image or a digital whiteboard. Additionally, you can rotate and/or flip the image. Every teacher needs this feature, especially when writing directly on a document under the camera.
Orbit HoverCam: Best Features
- 100-foot wireless range with 8-hour battery life.
- No network settings, Wi-Fi setup or drivers needed.
- Overall quality build with crisp 4K video and clear audio recording.
- USB-A, USB-C and HDMI connection options.
- Free, platform independent; HoverCam Flex Software.
- Natively supports all video conferencing platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.
Orbit HoverCam: Price
Suggested retail price $629
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Key takeaways
I found the HoverCam Orbit to be a great hardware solution. It's a true plug-and-play document camera with a long-lasting battery that allows teachers to move freely around their spaces to deliver lessons. The added flexibility to connect to the transmitter via the included USB-A, USB-C, or HDMI cables allowed me to use a variety of screen types and sizes. The Flex software further increases its value by turning it into not only a document camera but an annotation tool with picture-in-picture and lesson recording functions.
All in all, HoverCam Orbit is a versatile and solid solution that can find a place on any teacher's desk.
