Webcam won’t display in Windows or Linux, appears to be hardware isssue

[ShortFormErnie]

My webcam appears to have a hardware issue that is preventing me from using my webcam normally. It does not appear on boot and may eventually appear, but only after a lengthy handshake process with the computer that sees frequent disconnects. Some logs, which show that the computer does not properly interact with the internal camera for more than an hour after boot. 

I have ample logs for this, but my posts keep getting marked as spam, so I’m going to leave it out. Apparently, HP doesn’t value people who can share technical information about their products.

I can confirm this is not unique to Linux, as the camera does not appear in Windows 11, either, nor in the BIOS. I have a feeling it may be related to a frayed cable or damaged part inside the device, but there appears to be no way to test this inside the BIOS diagnostics, so I’m kind of at a loss. I’m capable of taking apart the computer and replacing parts, but I just need a little help determining what I need to take out and replace. Am I looking at a screen replacement, or something less dramatic?

[BeemerBiker]

Have you run diagnostics? Tap the ESC key after powering on. Tap it once a second after you see the LEDs on the keyboard flash. When you see the startup menu, press F2 to run diagnostics.


If you do not see the webcam test then update the diagnostics:

HP releases newer UEFI diagnostics periodically.
When you select F2 during boot you are requesting UEFI diagnostics.
There is an updated diagnostics package Click Here
Look for the phrase 'issues outside the OS',
Expand the'+'symbol and click the DOWNLOAD button.
The version of the UEFI diagnostics is shown at the left of that DOWNLOAD button.
When you press F2 to run diagnostics please ensure the version is the new one.

If a component fails during the UEFI test then Click here to check warranty
and Click here for world-wide contact info

Camera may not be enabled in windows.

1. Open “Settings -> Privacy -> Camera.”
2. At the top, look for “Camera access for this device is on.”
3. If it is off, click the “Change” button and turn it on.
4. Under that, check for “Allow apps to access your camera” and make sure it is On.
5. Next, look at “Choose which apps can access your camera.” Make sure apps you want to use with your camera are enabled.
6. Re-enable the device.

If a real hardware problem DIY replacement is difficult as explained here

[ShortFormErnie]

I had already updated the diagnostics and done the test. The camera does not show up in the list at all.

The device is out of warranty, but I’m comfortable with replacing the screen, as I have already upgraded/replaced a number of components (trackpad, battery, RAM and SSD upgrades). I likely would upgrade the entire screen rather than just replace the camera component—in part because the rear housing already had some damage/dents from when I originally purchased it three years ago.