IDEAL Camera for direct input to PC/MAC +CHDK?

[univurshul]

Just a little forward thinking, somewhat "wishlist" type stuff here, but I guess the goal is to eventually have the display system live and direct to the processing device:

There's some new cameras out there on the market, compact, and flexible in terms of their features and lenses. Being a noob, I'll ask not because I'm unhappy with my Canon A590 setup, but inquisitive about someday eliminating the onboard display system and eliminate the need to load and drain SD cards every book:

If I wanted to "nice-up" or take it to the next step in terms of hardware on a new scanning rig, what would be the ideal camera and devoted page capture lens to boot?

Here's another stupid but noteworthy question: Is it possible to run capture software with two cameras running simultaneously? Will my USB port catch fire?

[TonyDart]

Check out this link http://www.breezesys.com/MultiCamera/psr_index.htm for commercial software to control multiple cameras on 1 PC or Mac - I think the charge is $95 per camera. Not sure if simultaneous or one following the next. And yes, your USB port will catch fire (not!)

Regards
Tony

[Tim]

I can't answer the ideal camera, but I can say I'm pretty sure you don't have to buy software to get the functionality you want. I think if you use gphoto and choose a camera that is on their remote capable list, then you can download pictures directly from it. I can't say for sure because I haven't tested it. My camera is canon, but is not on the remote operation list.
http://gphoto.sourceforge.net/doc/remote/

I would guess that if you choose the highest megapixel count and best optics from that list, and for the best price, you would be in good shape. Do some more in depth checking before you buy obviously, but libgphoto is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux.

[univurshul]

Thanks to all for this info. I'm looking forward to building my third a little meaner and leaner