Why doesn't the camera on my laptop work in Skype? All available ways to fix problems with a camera not working in Skype

The built-in webcam on a laptop usually does not require additional configuration. But sometimes users are faced with the fact that the camera, which only yesterday allowed active communication on Skype, does not turn on today. What could be the cause of the problem and how can I fix it myself?

Turn on the camera

First, try restarting your laptop - this is a standard recommendation when any problem occurs. If this does not help, then make sure that the required module is enabled at all. Perhaps your laptop camera is not working because you accidentally turned it off. Older models have separate physical buttons on the body that allow you to control the webcam.

If there are no such buttons, examine the laptop keyboard. On ASUS and Acer devices, the “V” key in combination with Fn is responsible for turning on the camera.

If you have a Lenovo laptop, pay attention to the ESC key. You see a camera on it - press Esc in combination with Fn to launch the module.

The keys on different laptop models may differ, so it is better to take the instruction manual and carefully read the section that talks about how the webcam works.

Working with the camera app

Some laptops have special camera control applications that allow you to set shooting parameters and other settings. Lenovo laptops have the EasyCapture program, HP has the HP Camera application, ASUS has Life Frame Utility, etc. Such programs may also have an option to turn the camera on/off.

If the camera does not work in a particular program, then you should check the settings of this application. Let's see how to check your webcam on Skype:

If the camera does not work, then you should see whether the module is enabled in the device manager and whether the necessary software is installed on the system.

Checking drivers

When upgrading a "seven" or "eight" to Windows 10, hardware drivers are installed automatically. However, the system often installs the wrong drivers, which leads to the webcam not turning on. You can fix the problem through the device manager by installing the appropriate software.

If it says "Enable" instead of "Disable", press the button to launch the camera. On Windows 7 and other OS versions, the operation is performed similarly.

If you see an exclamation mark near the camera in Device Manager, then to fix the problem you need to reinstall the drivers. It is recommended to download suitable software from the official website of the laptop manufacturer. Let's look at the order using an HP laptop as an example:

If there is no camera software for Windows 10, then download drivers for Windows 8 or 7. Run the downloaded file to install the drivers, and then restart your laptop.

Hardware faults

Unfortunately, the camera may not work not only due to a software glitch. Sometimes the cause of the problem is a physical problem: for example, damage to the cable or the camera module itself.

Troubleshooting this kind of problem on your own is difficult. If there is a problem with the cable, you will have to disassemble the laptop, which requires some skill. Therefore, if software error correction methods do not help and the webcam does not work, contact a service center.

There are many reasons why video from a web camera may not be displayed in Skype. This may be preceded incorrect program settings, absence the correct driver version for the device or many other malfunctions that interfere with the correct operation of video communication.

Checking drivers

Incorrect or missing camera drivers can cause a lot of problems not only with Skype, but also with other similar programs and instant messengers.

How check driver performance:

Reinstalling the driver

In some cases, complete reinstallation Equipment software. This is not so easy to do, since most webcams do not come with a driver disk or do not even have them on the official website.

How to reinstall:

What to do if webcam not displayed in the manager:

Checking the camera without Skype

In some cases, the device may simply be broken, causing it to not work in all programs, not just Skype. In this case you will need test operability of the device using the built-in operating system tools. How to do it:

If the image from the webcam is displayed normally, then the problem is settings Skype programs. Otherwise, there are faults in the device itself.

Checking Skype settings

Incorrect settings in Skype can also become reason no image from your camera. Therefore, it is worth going into the program and going through the points “ Tools», « Settings».

After this, you need to open the “ Video» and select the desired device for video communication.

Other reasons

Also, several other problems may affect the correct operation of the web camera. The first of them is insufficient throughput USB connector. Such a malfunction can occur mainly at very old computers equipped with outdated motherboards. In this case, serious upgrade PC (replace the motherboard and many other components) or at least purchase a USB expansion card that allows you to add faster ports to the computer.

Some users connect cameras via poor quality USB extenders that cause severe signal loss. In this case, everything is simple - just connect the device directly to the USB port of the computer or change the extension cord to a better one.

One of the most popular and in demand programs all over the world is Skype. The application, which allows for high-quality voice and reliable video communication over the Internet, enjoys the well-deserved trust of millions of users. However, any program has its weaknesses. The most common problem associated with Skype is that the application does not see the camera.

Common reasons

A modern laptop has a built-in camera, which is enough to transmit video.

There are many reasons why Skype does not find this equipment, here are the main ones:

driver problems;
the camera is occupied by another program;
not updated application;
malfunction of the device itself.

Let's try to understand the solution to the most common of them in detail.

Webcam driver

The first thing to do when you discover such an obstacle is to check whether the drivers are installed on the camera. If yes, then was it done correctly? To do this, you need to open the device manager.

You can perform this action in several ways:

for Windows 7. “Start” - two right-clicks on the “My Computer” position - select the “Properties” line;
for Windows 7, 8, you can simultaneously press the Win+R keys and type devmgmt.msc, then Enter;
in Windows XP, just click “My Computer” and launch the camera.

Open the task manager and find the “Image processing devices” item. Here is information about the webcam.

Photo: “Image Processing Devices”

Open the properties of this element and see if there is an exclamation mark or a red cross. If everything is in order, then the equipment status should indicate “The device is working normally.” So the reason is not in the drivers.

Diagnostics

If everything is fine with the drivers, then you need to check the functionality of the camera. It should be turned on. There is a key with a camera icon on your laptop keyboard, or you can use the instructions for your equipment. If the user sees himself in the image, then everything is in order with the technology. It works, but Skype gives the error “...did not find a webcam...”. What to do? We proceed as follows.

Video: Camera doesn't work

Settings

To set up video, you need to launch Skype on your laptop. To do this, you need to log in to the application by entering your username and password.

After starting the program, you should follow the instructions below:

If all actions are completed correctly, the user's image will appear on the right. If there is no image, you should check all the settings again. In the same position you can configure parameters such as "Show my video", "Automatic screen display". Sometimes completely incomprehensible errors arise. It seems that the camera settings were done correctly, and everything is in order with the drivers.

The application developers themselves do not seem to know the reasons for this problem. It can appear at any time and can disappear unexpectedly. Users found a way out of this situation on their own: It is enough to install another, in most cases the previous version of the program. Find out how to do this below.

Removing problematic Skype

If there is a need to completely remove the program from your laptop, you should follow the instructions below: first, shut down the application. To do this, open the program, click on the “Skype” icon and select “exit” from the list presented. We proceed further depending on the operating system installed on the laptop:

It is impossible to completely delete your account in the application. If you stop using it, then three days after the last access to the network, it will be automatically erased from the user search. Subsequently, as soon as the user logs back into the network, it will be automatically updated.

Downloading a new one

It is very easy to download and install a program on your laptop for voice communication, video calls, messaging and file exchange. The application is freely available on the Internet on specialized resources.

Downloading does not require any registration or transfer of money. This application is free. Just click on the download link and follow the instructions.

Installing a web camera

If the application does not find the camera after all the attempts made, then there is nothing left but to replace it. You can buy a new external camera with a microphone and connect it to your laptop via a USB port. After all steps are completed, you should launch the application. The application should automatically find a new camera. If this does not happen, then you should go to the program settings and select the “camera - debug” option.

Disabling program updates

The device was functioning correctly, but suddenly stopped working after a scheduled update. Such situations occur at every step. The problem may arise due to driver incompatibility. What to do if the application does not see the camera on the laptop after the update.

You need to disable them:

Skype does not see the webcam on a laptop

Other common problems that prevent the application from working correctly include:

All problems can be solved. The main thing is the right approach and a little patience.

Checking the camera to see if it is being used by another program

In some cases, upon startup, the user may receive a message with the following content: the video broadcast cannot be started. Close all other programs that may be using the video device.

Important to remember. The camera can only transmit images to one program at a time. If you do not follow this rule, then either there will be no image or the message noted above will appear.

The solution to this problem is that before starting, you need to close all applications that intercept the video stream. If the user does not understand which program is interfering with the correct operation of the application, then you can simply restart the laptop.

Is this camera in the settings?

To select a video device, you need to go to the program settings:

The connected device requires only one driver to operate. If multiple drivers are installed, a conflict may occur.

In this case, the user needs to remove all incompatible drivers:

Find "Device Manager". By the way, you can do this as follows: in the search field, enter the text: device manager, the computer will automatically select the desired position;
then double-click on “Image Processing Devices”. Thus, the list of camera drivers is revealed;
if there is not one, but several positions in the list, then right-click to delete any driver. If a request for deletion appears, confirm the action;
you need to remove all drivers. The Imaging Devices section should disappear;
Then select “Action” and perform “Update hardware configuration”.

Video: Installation and configuration

Windows version is not supported by the camera

Some Windows operating systems do not support Skype. For example, Windows XP SR2.

If this version is installed on the laptop, then there are three options:

delete this version of the application and download an older one;
do not use the application for making video calls;
update your operating system to version SR3.

Computer settings are "outdated"

Users whose equipment is based on a Pentium III processor cannot make video calls. These computer devices are classified as obsolete. That's why Skype doesn't work for them.

The solution is to try installing an older version of the application and disabling automatic updates. If you think carefully, consider different reasons, analyze the situation, then any problem can be solved on your own. Accidentally pressing the wrong keys, reinstalling the operating system, disabling it in the BIOS are some of the options that cause difficulties with this application.

Now you know the answer to the question of what to do if Skype does not see the camera on your laptop. Select the problem that has arisen, and by following our article, you can easily and quickly fix it. Good communication with friends and partners!

Problems with calls on Skype? Most likely, this is due to your or your interlocutor’s Internet connection. Low Internet connection can result in connection to remote calls, delays and poor quality of audio and video. In addition, if problems occur, you will see a call quality indicator. Use the following tips.

Check your computer and Internet connection.
A poor connection can result in dropouts, unclear or freezing video, and poor audio quality. If your connection quality is poor, you may receive the following notification: Poor network connection.

In addition, the following may affect call quality:

Make sure you have good wifi signal or if possible use a wired connection.

If your Internet connection deteriorates during a call, Skype may turn off some video streams in group calls. When the connection returns to normal, Skype will automatically turn the video back on.

If you are having connection problems on Windows, you can perform troubleshooting as described in Solve network connection problems.

Close all applications that may negatively affect call quality. File sharing apps, streaming audio or video, and even having your browser open can all take up bandwidth.

If you're using Skype on a laptop that's running in low-power mode, try connecting it to a power source or switching to maximum performance mode.

Checking your system's privacy permissions. For Mac OSX Mojave (10.14 or later) and Skype for Windows 10 (version 14) users, make sure to grant permission for Skype to use microphone and cameras.
- Mac OSX Mojave (10.14 or higher):
  -Go to the Mac section System Preferences>security and privacy>tab Confidentiality > Microphone or camera and providing access to Skype.
- Skype for Windows 10 (version 14):
  -Go to Start and then select Options gears > privacy> select cameras or microphone. In the section, make sure that Skype is replaced on. Restart Skype and go to your Skype audio and video Options to check the correct devices are selected in Skype.
Check your webcam. Make sure it is turned on, pointed towards you and not blocked by anything. In Skype for desktop, select your avatar > Audio and video settings and in the section Video Check what the webcam shows in the preview window.
Note. Skype for Windows 10 requires your webcam to meet the minimum requirements for Microsoft Store apps.
on Skype. During such a call, you will be asked to record a message, which will then be played back. This is the easiest way to check your audio settings. In Skype on your desktop, select your avatar>Audio and video settings >Make a free trial call.
Check the sound
. The range of devices available is vast, and there are a number of possible reasons why functionality may be impaired. Each brand has its own quirks, so we always recommend visiting the manufacturer's website to view the user manual or get troubleshooting help

Below are some steps you can follow.

Check your microphone, speakers, or headphones. Make sure they are connected and not muted. If it's a Bluetooth device, make sure it's connected as well.
Check your webcam. Make sure it is turned on, pointed towards you and not blocked by anything.
Make a free test call on Skype. During such a call, you will be asked to record a message, which will then be played back. This is the easiest way to check your audio settings.
Can you hear the echo of your voice? There may be a problem with your interlocutor's device. Ask him to turn down the audio volume.
Check the sound. Try playing a song or using another audio app to check the volume. If you hear sound, the problem may be on the other person's side. Ask him to do the same.
Refer to the manufacturer's website. The range of devices available is vast, and there are a number of possible reasons why functionality may be impaired. Each brand has its own quirks, so we always recommend visiting the manufacturer's website to view the user manual or get troubleshooting help.