Webcam shows as working but is only black screen

[Favole]

I have an issue with the built-in webcam: in settings, it appears as though it is working properly but in actuality, it shows just a blank, black screen. If I put greenscreen, it will show the image I selected but I am invisible (as if I am not at my desk).

I should note that my keyboard has been causing issues, such as the "ctrl" key malfunctioning and the "tab" key not working. It goes in and out, occasionally typing a "t" will provide a "g" alongside it but other times, it works normally. I have a workaround of simply using a separate keyboard. My USB-A port doesn't always function, but I have a USB-C converter that provides three USB-A ports. 

I state that to share that, while I can use the "mute" and volume buttons, pressing the shutter button on/off does not work (the light does not come up and nothing changes). It doesn't appear to be the case that the shutter is on (blocking the visual) but I cannot seem to find any other way to toggle this feature. 

Aside from that, I have gone through all of the troubleshooting I can think of:

• Simply restarting the laptop
• Checking & installing software updates
• Confirming app permissions are enabled
  • This issue runs across all video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)
• Uninstalling & reinstalling the webcam device itself

I do have a word document with screenshots showing my findings, if this would help. 

My workaround is simply an external webcam but at this point, my laptop is no longer very "mobile" and is disrupting my productivity when I meet for collaborative team meetings. 

Edit to Add Device Information:

HP Spectre x 360 2-in-1 laptop 16-inch 16-f2013dx

Product: 7H0Z9UA

Purchased January 2024

[Garp_senchau]

@Favole, Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're stoked to have you on board! 

To help us get started on resolving your issue, could you please share your HP unit's product number with us? 

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We're looking forward to helping you get back up and running! 

Regards, 

[Favole]

Sorry, I thought it would show once I saved the device to my profile: 

HP Spectre x 360 2-in-1 laptop 16-inch 16-f2013dx

Product: 7H0Z9UA

Purchased January 2024

[Garp_senchau]

Hey @Favole,

Thank you for providing the details

It sounds like you're dealing with multiple hardware-related issues, particularly with the built-in webcam and some USB-related problems, which are likely interconnected in some way. Since you've already performed some troubleshooting steps, I'll focus on some specific guidance to try and resolve this issue.

Check HP Camera Software

Open HP Support Assistant and check for updates, especially for webcam drivers.

Reinstall the webcam driver via Device Manager.

Check BIOS Settings

Restart and press Esc > F10 to enter BIOS.

Ensure the integrated camera is enabled, then save and exit.

Update Camera Driver

In Device Manager, right-click the webcam under Imaging Devices and choose Update Driver.

Alternatively, download the latest driver from the HP website.

Reset Camera App Settings

Go to Settings > Apps > Camera, click Advanced Options, and reset it.

Camera Privacy Shutter

Ensure the webcam privacy shutter is not blocking the camera.

Use HP Privacy Settings software (if available) to control the shutter.

Run HP Diagnostics

Run a Camera Test via HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (from HP Support Assistant).

USB and Keyboard Issues

Disable USB Selective Suspend: Control Panel > Power Options > USB Settings.

Update keyboard drivers in Device Manager and test the keyboard directly without the hub.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

[Favole]

Thank you! I will walk through all of your suggestions this Friday and see if it resolves the issue.

[Garp_senchau]

Hey @Favole, 

Thank you for your response

Take your time with the steps, and no rush at all. Feel free to let me know how it goes after you've had a chance to try them on Friday. I'm here if you need any further assistance!

Regards,