The webcam is not functioning properly.
The webcam is not functioning properly.
I own an old webcam I purchased from Amazon a few years ago at a low price. I use it occasionally on my home computer, mainly for professional meetings. Because I rarely use it and care about privacy, I usually leave it unplugged, only connecting it when necessary for remote work. (Even then, I prefer not to use it for that, though company rules require it.) Recently, the device began behaving strangely. I’m sure it should turn on automatically after plugging in, but sometimes I have to connect it and restart the computer to get it working. Nowadays, even with that step, it doesn’t always function properly. I’ve tried using it with my camera app, and it’s showing slow loading or just black screens most of the time. Yesterday I managed a short clip, but today it refuses to work at all. My best guess is there’s a driver problem. I’ve already updated Windows 10 and rebooted the latest version, thinking the default driver might no longer support this model. From what I found in Device Manager (under Properties → Details), it appears to be made by Arc International, model ID 9331. Anyone know where to find compatible drivers or suggestions for fixing this?
Check the camera on a different computer using the same driver you're currently using. If it doesn't function there, the issue is likely with the camera itself. Consider asking a friend to test it on another machine if needed.