Skype Does Not Detect My Camera

Skype must be able to detect your webcam for a video call.

One of Skype's main features is the ability to make video calls to other Skype users. These calls are free as long as you are only video chatting with one other person at a time. Video conference calls require a paid subscription. Regardless of whether you wish to video chat with several people or just one, you will not get very far if Skype does not detect your camera. The person on the other side will simply see a black square where your video should be.

Simple Solutions

With any luck, the problem with your webcam is one that's easy to troubleshoot and fix. Check the basics to make sure everything is set up properly. For example, double-check to make sure the webcam is turned on. If it is not built in to your computer, make sure it is plugged in properly and properly connected. If your webcam is turned off or has come unplugged from your computer, Skype will not be able to use it for video calls.

Updates

Updating everything relevant may solve your problem and help Skype detect your webcam. Update Skype by opening the program, clicking "Help" and selecting "Check for Updates." Follow the prompts to update Skype if possible. Update your webcam drivers from the manufacturer's website. Finally, install any available updates for Windows and DirectX. Sign in to Skype and try again to make your video call.

Webcam Drivers

Even if your webcam drivers are up to date, there may be a problem with them. Check to make sure your computer is listed in your Device Manager. To do this, click "Start" and then "Control Panel." Find and click "Hardware and Sound," and then "Device Manager." Click "Imaging Devices," and look for your webcam. Skype's help files suggest reinstalling the drivers for your webcam if it does not show up in this list. Next, sign out of Skype and opt out of letting it start when the computer starts or of signing you in when Skype starts. Restart your computer. When it has fully restarted, open Skype again. Sign in and try your video call again.

Check Settings

Skype's help files recommend checking your settings for the call. This can give you further information about any problems with various aspects of the call. Click the "Check settings" button to pull up status information about not only your webcam, but also your microphone, speaker, computer and Internet connection. Check for any problems here. If Skype has detected a problem in any of these items, including your webcam, it may give you further information that you can use to troubleshoot.

References

• Skype: Why Can't I See Any Video From My Webcam?

Resources

• Skype: Support
• Skype: Video Problems