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My computer doesn't know that it has a built in webcam.

Ok. My dad gave me this laptop(a systemax MS-16372) with windows vista. i don't know what he did to it before hand, but... i really want to get it working. i tried getting on skype and on msn to use it but it doesn't register that it is there. i think i need to download a program or something cuz i can't find any files that have anything to do with webcam. i can't even find it on the control panel... help:(
Answer
Answer
Hi,

You probably need to reload the camera drivers and any camera control software.

Logon as Admin.

Control Panel - Device Manager - Imaging - write down make and model of camera - double click
on it and on driver's tab get version. Now click Update Drivers (which may not do anything as MS
is far behind certifying drivers). The RIGHT CLICK on the camera - UNINSTALL - REBOOT - this
will refresh the driver stack.

Now go to System Maker's site and download the latest camera driver and other related camera
software (if no newer get the same ones).

Download - SAVE - go to them and RIGHT CLICK - RUN AS ADMIN - reboot after each driver.

Manually look at manufacturer's sites for drivers - and Device Maker's sites.
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/driverssupport/ht/driverdlmfgr.htm

How to Install a Device Driver in Vista Device Manager
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/193584-device-manager-install-driver.html

Then leave windows updates on however stop it from loading drivers which are often older than the
ones you have installed. If Updates suggests a driver then HIDE it and look manually to see if their
really is a newer one (at both system maker and device maker's sites).


How To Disable Automatic Driver Installation In Windows Vista - Drivers
http://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/how-to-disable-automatic-driver-installation-in-windows-vista/
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc730606(WS.10).aspx

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If you need more help check with the System maker's forums, their on-line documentation and any
forums if they have them.

Hope this helps.
Rob - Bicycle - Mark Twain said it right.
Rob Brown - past Microsoft MVP - Windows Insider MVP 2016 - 2021
Microsoft MVP Windows and Devices for IT 2009 - 2020

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Hi,

Open Device Manager and see if you can locate the cam there, or if there are any listings of unknown devices. If it's listed, then it's recognized and installed. If not, or if it is an unknown device, then you need to install the proper supporting drivers from the manufacturer.

It is also possible that it is disabled in the system BIOS, so you'll need to check there as well. Follow on-screen directions to "enter setup" when the system is initially booted to check.

Best of Luck, Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP http://mvp.support.microsoft.com Windows help - www.rickrogers.org

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Last updated May 15, 2020 Views 8,590 Applies to: