I had been wanting to purchase a digital camera for a while. Back in July I ran into a little extra money and decided to go check some out at Walmart. The prices on Cameras ranged from as low as $59.00 to $300 . I decided to go with a mid range one priced at approximetly $175.00. The make was the Vivitar ViviCam 3165.

At first I found it easy to use and was happy with the quality of the pictures. It was rather easy to connect to my computer (which was Windows ME).I was able to transfer the pictures from my camera onto my computer without any problem at all.

Soon my problems began though after taking maybe 15 pictures with this camera it began shutting off on it's own in the middle of being used. At first I thought it was if I put it down and let it sit too long. Then it began doing it right as I was about to take a picture. I believe this is due to low batteries. This camera goes through batteries very quickly. Especially if you choose to take better quality pictures. No matter what though you are lucky to get 2 uses of the camera without having to replace the batteries, which is very frustrating.

My next problem with the camera is trying to hook it up to a computer with Win 98. I have followed the instructions, which are very basic and simple and should be no problem. However the computer acts as if the camera is not even there. I would think it was the computer except I tried it on another computer with Win 98 and have the same problem.

This camera claims on the box to have a self timer feature. This way you can take pictures of yourself and your family together without having to hold it out and click.You can set it and pose. I cannot however find anything about it in the instruction booklet.

Speaking of the instruction booklet. When you first grab it by the thickness you are thinking this is going to explain a lot. In reality however it is just that it is in many different languages repeated over and over again.

Some details about the camera: The camera comes with a very nice case which is soft and easy to take camera in and out.
Specs:
2.1 Mega Pixel digital camera
2X AF digital zoom
1.6" LCD display
1,600x1,200 resolution
8MB built in memory
(accepts type 1 compact flash cards)
10 sec. self timer
4 way auto flash w/red eye reduction
MAC/PC compatible
supports USB interface

Overall I would not suggest this camera. The quality of the pictures is good for the money I spent on it. On the other hand though the other problems make me wish I would have spent a little more.



Recommended:
No

Amount Paid (US$): 175.00
This Camera is a Good Choice if You Want Something... Easy Enough for Anyone to Use