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Do your clients know that webcams -- digital cameras that capture video and still pictures on a computer -- can support a home security system? They can also be used to remotely monitor vacant homes, watch the dog and check in on the babysitter.

Getting clients started. Webcams plug into a USB or Firewire port on a computer. Firewire supports faster frame rates, which result in a clearer picture. Webcams can work on a dial-up connection, but a broadband service is highly recommended for video broadcasts. Most webcams include the software to operate the camera. Video can be recorded and stored on your computer hard drive for playback and editing.

Home security. Wireless webcams, which use a built-in signal transmitter and have a range of up to 150 feet, are easily positioned for home surveillance. A wireless Internet connection is required. Wireless webcams transmit video to the computer via this network. A camera with a motion detector feature will record or transmit video only after detecting movement.

Remote monitoring. Webcam software can take a feed and broadcast it to a website, to let users observe their homes while away. Internet access, special broadcasting software and space on a web server to store and view the feed are needed to broadcast from a webcam.

Webcams run from $25 to $600. Expect to pay about $60 for a decent wired webcam for Windows (www.linksys.com, www.logitech.com and www.intel.com). A good wired webcam for Apple Macintosh will cost about $140 (www.apple.com and www.orangemicro.com).