webcam problem

[robbmth]

I have a new HP DV6-6102 laptop and the installed camera does not work.........the laptop tells me that there is no webcam attached.....help!!!

[Dragon-Fur]

Robbmth,

Welcome to the Forum!

I am sorry that new webcam is stubborn.

There are a couple of things to know about webcams and new notebooks:

• Most NEW computers do have working webcams.  Every so often, a computer does come out of the factory with a webcam that has a loose connection. 
• Go through all the checks, do all the homework, try what is suggested… then do CALL HP.  You may have one of the webcams that has to be fixed.  Yes, you could fix it yourself, NO, it is not worth taking apart a new computer and ruining your warranty to fix a loose wire.

Things to try:

• Make sure you have the updated driver for your webcam.
• Complete a Reset on your notebook to make sure the notebook can “see” the connection (in case the Device Manager is confused about the device).

(Re)Install the Webcam Driver:

==========================================================================

The webcam software for your notebook’s built in webcam is likely either Cyberlink YouCam or MediaSmart.    Mini Netbooks might come with the ArcSoft Webcam software installed. 

Start > search / type "youcam" or "mediasmart" or “arcsoft” >

(Then)  Select "YouCam" or "MediaSmart Webcam" or “ArcSoft”

Below is Help Documentation:

This file will explain how to test the webcam using the different software and what to try when you are having problems getting the webcam to work properly.

Webcam Issues in Windows 7

NOTE:  There are links in the document for Vista and XP users.

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These documents are intended to help you become familiar with your webcam software.

For those using MediaSmart:

MediaSmart Software Webcam Feature

For YouCam Users:

YouCam Quick Setup

========================================================================= Download New Driver for your Webcam:

If you are having real issues getting your webcam to work, or if you have recently upgraded your Operating System, you may have to reinstall your webcam software.

NOTE:  If all else fails and you cannot find a driver for YOUR Operating System, note that sometimes Vista drivers will install and work on Windows 7.  Vista came first - Windows 7 and Vista remain closely related.  Select Vista as your Operating System, then check for driver availability. 

Go to the top of the HP forum page to Support and Drivers

• Enter your Computer Model information, and then go to Software and Drivers...
• Enter your Operating System in the Drop-down menu...  Scroll down
• Look for category Software - Multimedia
• Select the appropriate webcam software – if available for your system
• Save the appropriate *.exe installation package on your computer

NOTE the name and the location - the *.exe file will likely save to "Downloads “

• Install the Software / Driver installation package:  If you have ‘Admin’ control, you may highlight the package(s) and “double-click” to install, else Right-Click, Select ‘run as Administrator’ and install.

NOTE:  There is sometimes a lot of information at the computer’s website.  Be sure to take an extended look at what’s available.

==========================================================================

Hard Reset:

Sometimes all you need to do is kick the computer.  This method works for a variety of connection and ‘stuck’ program issues.

• Disconnect all external devices first.
• Remove AC power and the battery
• Press and hold power button for at least 30 seconds
• Reinstall only AC power for first startup ** See Note
• Power on - Log in
• Next time you shut down the system, reinstall battery.

** Note:  If time is short, reinstall battery the first time and be done with it.

Hard Reset to Resolve Hardware and Software Issues

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If the webcam is stubborn after you've tried the steps in the "Webcam Issues" doc, do consider calling HP for help.  I had a "DOA" webcam and had to send it in for repair.  I have other notebooks on which the webcams have worked for YEARS without problems.  It is worth checking out either way.

Good Luck!

I hope this helps!

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                   Operating System, and an Error Description

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