Webcam filter removal

All webcams have a built-in InfraRed (IR) blocking filter to prevent invisible infrared light from interfering with natural visible colours. Most filters are unable to block all infrared light, IR Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are normally bright enough to penetrate the filter enough for tracking, in which case filter removal optional. But some webcams, like Labtec models, have strong filters that make tracking difficult and removal may be required. Removal is certainly required if IR lit retroreflective material is used to represent the tracking points instead of active LEDs. In all cases, filter removal improves tracking reliability in the presence of background light by increasing sensitivity to IR light so that the tracking points can be better isolated.

The removal procedure is similar for most webcams and reversible if the filter is a glass plate, but in some cases it is a special lens coating (eg Labtec Webcam Pro), which can only be removed by careful abrasion.

Guides by FreeTrack users (contributions welcome):

A4Tech PK 333MB - zaelu

A4Tech PK 335MB - Volans

Labtec Webcam Pro - Deimos

Logitech QuickCam Connect - zaelu

Logitech QuickCam Express - Xotopl

Microsoft Lifecam VX-1000 - tankbuster

External guides:

Logitech QuickCam Express

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