The camera does not work on a laptop: how to turn it on?

Cameras are used in everyday life to take photos and videos. With their help, people can save significant events in their memory, as well as print the resulting photos on paper. Also, in computer technology, cameras are used to interact with other users and maintain online communication. This was especially true with the advent of the Internet and free access to the network from Windows and Agios devices.

The use of advanced developments and modern technologies allowed manufacturers to add this device to computers, tablets, laptops ... When using them, users can make video calls, keep in touch with other people. If you have the time and desire, you can independently compare the technical specifications and choose the best model for the job.

At first use, it is worth reading the instructions and instruction manual for the correct connection and configuration of all operating parameters. It will also be useful to read additional information and see reviews on this topic. In our article, we will talk about operating modes and possible connection problems.

Why does the built-in camera on a laptop not work?

Usually, when connecting a camera, users do not have any difficulties, and the equipment performs its functions in standard mode without failures and malfunctions. However, there are exceptions. In some cases, problems may arise in the recognition and operation of the device. In this case, a thorough diagnosis should be carried out, the cause should be identified and, if possible, repair and adjustment of the operation parameters should be carried out. The most common types of problems are:

Incorrect connection and further parameter settings. Most often this type of problem occurs, therefore, it is necessary to know the mechanism of connection and regulation of operating modes.
System malfunctions, which can lead to various violations in the performance of camera functions.
Lack of software and drivers. Sometimes a problem may arise when using an outdated version that does not provide support for modern options.
Virus infection of the operating system when downloading files from extraneous sources from the network.
Inappropriate format of the video card used in the laptop, or its absence.

Inspect the appearance of the structure body, and also check the settings of the system parameters, paying particular attention to the points described above.

Depending on the type of problem, the algorithm for resolving it will differ.

Important! If possible, do your own repair or replacement of components. If this cannot be done, contact a specialized service center for help.

But in this case, to get free help on the warranty card, you can not carry out independent intervention in the design of the device.

Driver Verification

In most cases, solving the problem will not be difficult and will not require special knowledge and skills from the user in working with computer equipment. The greatest difficulty can be the problems with the operation of the drivers installed on the laptop. In this case, you need the help of a wizard. But despite the complexity, you can try to diagnose and configure yourself at home. To do this, we recommend using a step-by-step plan for performing all manipulations:

Connect the laptop using a wire to a power source, start the system. After that, log in to the desktop in standard user mode.
After that, go to the “start” main menu by pressing a key or button on the screen with the corresponding flag image.
From the proposed list of features, open the “Device Manager” item to open a dialog box.
In the proposed list of various parameters, select and go to the line "image processing devices".
You will again see a dialog box with a complete list of connected devices. Find the name of your camera and double-click on the line to open the properties.
In the context menu, enter the “driver” tab, check the system status. If you see the “enable” button, click on it to activate, after that a button should appear with the inscription “disable”, signaling that all actions have been correctly performed.

The plan described above is suitable for all operating systems. The only difficulty may arise when using a different operating system due to the changed interface and replacing the names of some menu items. Focus on the main points in the instructions presented and log in to the desired section.

Important! Depending on the operating system you are using, you can perform quick detection using the search bar in the start menu or call the “execute” dialog with the Win + R key combination (in some cases, only the Win key is used).

Other possible causes of malfunctions

We examined the most common causes of malfunctions when connecting the camera to a laptop. However, if all the described steps did not help to fix the problem, and the computer still does not provide interaction with the camera, you should consider other possible problems. Perhaps the problem is one of the following faults:

Turn off the camera by randomly pressing a keyboard shortcut. The use of hot keys ensures starting and disabling the camera; pay attention to this during operation.
Software shutdown of equipment through system settings. In different versions, an automatic start of the equipment can be set when connected.
Damage to the camera and elements necessary for pairing the equipment. Wires, chips, and microcircuits may be damaged; to restore them, it will be necessary to disassemble the structure.

Despite the fact that these types of causes are much less common, it is worth paying attention to them with a comprehensive diagnosis. It is especially important to consider these criteria in the absence of the effect of standard methods of repair and restoration of equipment functions.

How to turn on the camera if it is disabled by software?

If you encounter a problem in the camera’s functioning software, you will need to turn it on yourself through the computer menu. For this, you will have to perform the following manipulations:

Go to the "start" menu, and then go to the "device manager". You can use the shortcut to the corresponding dialog box.
Select the line with the name of the connected camera from the list that appears.
After that, right-click on the line to call the context menu with a list of possible manipulations.
Select “enable” from the list of actions to activate the work. If the image freezes, try disconnecting the camera again in this section, then reconnecting.

Important! This method is recommended to be used after checking the functioning of the installed driver package.

What if all of the above didn’t help?

In rare cases, all the described methods may not help restore the functions of the connected equipment. If you are faced with a similar situation, most likely the device is out of order. In this case, you should either buy new equipment to continue working with the camera in normal mode, or seek help from specialists.

Free warranty assistance will be provided to you only if you have not performed any independent repairs and removal of structural elements. If you need to apply for paid help, evaluate the condition and service life of the equipment. If the technique has been used for a long time, it will be much more profitable to purchase a modern model with a set of additional features and improved indicators of image display.

Of course, the correct execution of various manipulations comes to the user with experience. But first, you should use useful tips for comfortable work and prolonging the service life:

Periodically diagnose devices to identify and fix potential problems.
Perform preventive cleaning of the equipment to remove accumulated dirt and dust, as well as foreign elements.
Watch for the correct operation of the antivirus, do not allow virus applications and programs to get into the computer system.
Delete unnecessary documents and files, do not overload the software.