Start my camera on Windows 7

[Bobear1]

I need to use my camera in online conversations, under windows 7.  The camera software is erratic... do I need new drivers or old ones?

[Max3Aj]

Hi @Bobear1, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

If your camera software is acting erratic on Windows 7, the issue could be due to driver incompatibility, missing updates, or software conflicts. Here’s how you can troubleshoot:

Check the Current Driver

1. Press Win + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter.
2. Expand Imaging Devices or Cameras.
3. Right-click your camera and select Properties → Driver tab.
4. Check the driver version and provider.

Try Updating the Driver

• If an update is available, click Update Driver → Search automatically for drivers.
• If no update is found, visit the HP website and download the latest driver for Windows 7 (32-bit).

Try an Older Driver

• If the latest driver doesn’t work, try rolling back to an older driver:
  1. In the Driver tab, click Roll Back Driver (if available).
  2. If the option is greyed out, try downloading an older version from the manufacturer’s website.

Use Compatibility Mode

If the latest driver is for Windows 10/8, install it in compatibility mode:

1. Right-click the driver setup file → Properties.
2. Go to Compatibility tab → check Run this program in compatibility mode for → select Windows 7.
3. Click Apply, then OK, and install the driver.

Reinstall Camera Software

If your camera has a dedicated software, uninstall it, restart your PC, and then reinstall it.
 

Check if Another Application is Using the Camera

If your camera is not working in online conversations (Zoom, Skype, etc.), check:

• No other application (e.g., another video chat app) is using the camera in the background.
• Go to Settings in the app and select the correct camera.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support