[photo-3d] "3d" action freeze (HELP!!!)

["Sergio Baldissara" <winter@xxxxxxxxxx>]

In some movies or TV broadcasts (mainly advertisements or cult videos) we
can see the action "frozen" while the camera is panning around the scene.
It isn't stereoscopy, but the 3d effect is impressive. The effect is
obtained by inserting in the movie a sequency (left-to-right or right to
left, or both) of still frames from multiple cameras set around the scene.
The shutters are fired simultaneously.
Here in Italy I can find cheap IR controlled photo cameras at less than $50
each, so may be I can afford some experiments, but I need to know more about
this technique.
-How is it called in technical jargon?
-what is the minimal number of cameras I can use?
-where (possibly in the web) can i get  additional info?
all help will be very appreciated.
Sergio