Webcam on HP 15-bs234wm not working

[mrjoey98]

*Note: The laptop in question is the same as the one here: https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Notebook-Hardware-and-Upgrade-Questions/Power-button-problem-with-HP-1... (that is, an HP 15-bs234wm).

After replacing the hinges and even the power button board on this laptop, I've come to find out that the webcam doesn't work anymore. I updated the BIOS, made sure the camera was plugged in (which it was), but still no luck when it comes to the webcam. I've also been unable to find drivers for the camera, though, of course I don't know if updating the drivers will even work, as I've had this problem before only to update the drivers with no success.

Can anyone help me out with this? I've run out of things to do (aside from maybe buy a new webcam, which I hope isn't necessary), so any help would be greatly appreciated/.

[erico]

Try testing the webcam with the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics utility.

Power the notebook on and immediately tap the F2 key to invoke the utility.

Go to component tests and test the webcam.

Let us know what the result of the test was so we can continue to help you troubleshoot the issue.

[mrjoey98]

I'm just now getting to do this, and upon reaching the diagnostics screen, I didn't see the webcam listed as a component to test. 

[erico]

Is it recognized as being installed by the OS in the Device Manager?

@mrjoey98 

Excuse me for not remembering, The old version of the HP PC Diagnostics does not have a webcam test, but the newer version does have the component test!

I just took a look at the version in my Spectre x360-13ap000 and there is a component test for the webcam.

You will need to install version 7.6.0.0 v8.4.0.0

You can download it from  www.hp.com/go/techcenter/PCDiags

[mrjoey98]

I just checked Device Manager and the PC Diagnostics program and neither of them make reference to the webcam.

[erico · Accepted solution]

OK. 

I take it that you updated to the newer PC Hardware Diagnostics Utility UEFI?

If that is the case, the built-in webcam is no longer functional.

For the laptop you have, it is not viable to replace the webcam.

An external webcam is your best option.

Check out Logitech's offerings on Amazon.com. They are far less expensive than replacement of the complete display assemble.

See the hyperlink below

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=lapeop+external+webcam&crid=1F95I12SFC17U&sprefix=laptop+external+webcam%...