Debian Hardware :: Good Webcam For Shooting Outdoors?

I'm looking for a USB-connected webcam that works ok with linux and performs well with outdoor lighting.My goal is simple: I want to connect it to my Debian router, point it out of the window and grab frames off the cam and make it available on a web page.I've got the setup working ok with some prehistoric cam, but the image is terrible. (It's a HW issue - the cam. is junk.) So I'd like to get a better cam.I know there are cams built specifically for this usage, but it's above my price range. For me, the most expensive I'm willing to go is the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 for Business (~130 USD in a local store), or preferably cheaper. I don't want/need any sort of enclosure for outdoors, as the cam will be indoors, behind a window.

Also, I wonder how does focusing work with linux. The only webcam I've ever had had a manual focus ring. Some of the cams claim to have autofocus. I guess it's host controlled. That probably doesn't work in Linux. (?) Anyway, for my usage, autofocus would be in the way, I suppose. (I don't want it to try to focus on the sheet of glass in front of the cam. )