Hey,
I am a certified computer tech.And for your question on webcam and video confrencing is as follows.
1- COMPUTER=..512 ram
fast processer
xp home , pro
good graphics card
noise canceling headset
high speed internet connection
cable or dsl

2=WEBCAM= LOGITECH PRO 4000
CREATIVE LABS ULTRA LIVE

3CHAT PROGRAM= PALTALK IS ECELLENT FOR VIDEO
CONFRENCING. SMALL MONTHLY FEE FOR
FULL SERVICE .

YAHOO MESSENGER WITH VOICE.
PROBLEMS WITH VIDEO FRAME RATE(SLOW)
GREAT VOICE CHAT ALL ELSE IS EXCELLENT.

CAMFROG VIDEO CHAT3.4 ALSO A GREAT
VIDEO CHAT PROGRAM.
I HOPE THIS IS HELPFUL