Webcam sensitivity/resolution advice?

[Thunder888]

Gents, I need some help with a webcam. I'm a complete noob regarding webcams, so please bear with me.

I'm planning on building a surveillance system. I need to monitor persons about 5-10 meters from where I can mount the camera. Is this possible with existing webcams, or am I wasting my time and money. Will I be able to see what they're doing. I can get a web camera which has a 4X digital zoom. Is this feasible?

I appreciate any comments

 

[JTY]

I'd recommend looking at network enabled security cameras. They start at around $100 or so.