web cam not working. I do not have an f13 button or a kill switch

[Nomalley]

I have an HP ENVY x360 laptop and cannot get the camera to work.  I have checked all of the privacy and camera settings and all are correct.  I am getting a message that a switch for the camera is turned off - I cannot locate the switch.  This is a new laptop so the available videos are out of date for this device

[Raj_05]

Hi @Nomalley,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

If you're getting a message that a switch for the camera is turned off on your HP ENVY x360 laptop, but you cannot locate the physical switch or button for the camera, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Check for a Physical Camera Shutter or Switch:

• Some laptops, including HP ENVY models, have physical camera shutters or switches that can physically cover the camera lens for privacy. Look around the laptop's display frame or near the camera to see if there is a sliding switch or a physical cover that needs to be opened.

Use Function Key (Fn) Combinations:

• Many laptops have function key combinations that can enable or disable the camera. Look for a key on your keyboard with an icon that resembles a camera or webcam. It's often one of the F keys (F1, F2, etc.) and might require pressing the "Fn" key simultaneously. Pressing this key combination should toggle the camera on or off.

Check BIOS/UEFI Settings:

• Restart your laptop and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing a specific key like F2, F10, or Del during startup). Once in the BIOS/UEFI settings, look for an option related to the camera or webcam and ensure it's enabled.

Update Webcam Drivers:

• Outdated or corrupted webcam drivers can cause issues. Go to the HP support website and download and install the latest webcam drivers for your laptop model.

Check for Windows Updates:

• Sometimes, Windows updates can resolve hardware issues. Make sure your operating system is up-to-date by checking for and installing any available updates.

Check Device Manager:

• Open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting "Device Manager." Look for the "Imaging devices" category and expand it. If your camera is listed but has an error icon or a warning sign, right-click it and select "Update driver." Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.

Run the HP Diagnostic Tool:

• HP often provides diagnostic tools that can help identify and resolve hardware issues. Visit the HP support website and search for a diagnostic tool specific to your laptop model.

Perform a System Restore:

• If the camera was working previously and has stopped working after a software update or installation, you can try performing a system restore to a point when the camera was working correctly.

Remember to backup important data before performing any major system changes or updates, and be cautious when making changes in the BIOS/UEFI settings.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4
HP Support