Is a Skype Webcam Compatible With a Mac?

Webcams are frequently used with Internet communications software for two-way videoconferencing, or group conferencing for more than two parties. Mac users have the option of using Skype software in addition to the native Mac applications iChat and FaceTime; each program communicates with users on a different network. Most USB webcams are compatible with Macs, although not all Skype-branded webcams are Mac compatible.

Do You Need a Webcam?

Recent MacBooks and iMacs are sold with an internal iSight camera, located on top of the monitor bezel -- plastic surrounding the laptop screen -- in the center. This camera works as video input for Skype software, as well as iChat, FaceTime and other software that uses video input. If your Mac has a built-in iSight, you do not need an external USB webcam.

Skype-Branded Webcams

Various webcams from outside manufacturers have been branded by Skype and sold through their store or third-party vendors. Their specific compatibility depends on the manufacturer and the date they were made. If you still have the original packaging or manual that came with your webcam, you can check these to determine whether they're Mac compatible. Otherwise, plug the webcam into the Mac's USB port and follow the steps in Section 4 to test it.

Skype Store Webcams

Skype offers a wide variety of webcams through its online store. Skype marks each of its webcams with a Windows and Mac icon; webcams that are Mac-compatible are marked with a solid icon, while webcams that are not Mac-compatible display a grayed-out icon. If you want high-definition (HD) quality video, check the complete details of the webcams you may be considering, as some listed as Mac compatible do not provide a full range of resolution on Macintosh laptops.

Checking Mac Compatibility

Plug the webcam you wish to test into the USB port. Open the Sound preference pane in "System Preferences" by clicking the System Preferences icon in the Dock, then clicking the Sound icon. Click the Input tab and see if the USB webcam is available for sound input. If so, click the icon and speak into the microphone; if sound input is working, you'll be able to see the volume change in the input meter. Launch the PhotoBooth application to test video input; if the webcam is working, you'll see live video in the PhotoBooth window.

References

• Skype: Shop for accessories
• Mac OS X Help: Input pane of Sound preferences