Why won't my webcam work?!?!?

[redhead1952]

I have Windows 7 (dell webcam central) and my webcam hasn't been working for quite some time. When I click on it it pulls it up but i can't see myself. My webcam is built in and usually a light will turn on next to it when it's on but it doesn't turn on. I go to the control panel and then device manager and can't find it there either. Any ideas?

[Dell Inc.]

Hi
I am Nitika from the Dell Social Media outreach team.

First we need to check whether Imaging Devices is getting detected in device manager
For this we have to
1. Right click on My Computer
2. Select Manage
3. Click on device manager
4. On the right side please check if you are getting imaging devices

If you are getting Imaging devices in device manager then we can install a generic the WEBCAM software from the below link

http://www.nchsoftware.com/capture/index.html

In order to verify that the system does not have any hardware issues, you can run the system diagnostic available in all dell systems. Follow the instructions below to run hardware diagnostics
1. Press F12 on the dell logo while powering on the system.
2. Complete all the diagnostics and make a note of error codes if any

If possible please provide me your system service tag so that I can check your order details and give you the correct driver which needs to be installed.

And you can find the service tag
**on the bottom of the laptop on the white sticker **it’s a seven digit alphanumeric code which ends with BS or number 1.
If in case you do face any challenges in the process, please feel free to contact me directly by sending me an email or by through a reply to this blog.
email:nitika_kukreti@dell.com
We would recommend you do not post your private information on a public forum.

Thanks & Regards
DELL_NITIKA_K
Dell Social Media Responder

[D McC]

try reinstalling the webcam drivers and software, if that doesnt work you may have a faulty webcam and will have to have it replaced or it would be cheaper to just buy a decent webcam and connect it by usb

[Becky Riley]

First go to Control Panel, Hardware, Devices and look for your webcam. Go through the tabs to make sure it is Enabled. If you do not see the webcam in the list, right click on the white space and select Show disabled devices. If you still don't see your webcam then you will need to reload the software drivers, either from disc or the manufacturer's website. Once you think you have it working you may want to reboot your computer, and then try the free webcam test tool (http://ml.vu/XxTuOE).