MSN Webcam Not Detected, Only Sound
Problems with a webcam and MSN Messenger (now known as Windows Live Messenger) can be caused by hardware or software faults. If no video is appearing and only the sound is working there are a number of options and settings which you can check to troubleshoot the issue. First of all, test the webcam with a different application (such as Google Talk or Yahoo! Messenger) to see if the issue is limited to Windows Live Messenger or more general.
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Windows Live Messenger Settings
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If the issue is limited to Windows Live Messenger, you can focus your troubleshooting efforts on this package. Ensure you are running the latest version of the program, which can be downloaded from explore.live.com/messenger. The application includes a configuration wizard to help you set up and check your webcam settings -- to run it, select "Set up audio and video devices" from the Tools menu and follow the instructions on screen. Check that your webcam is selected for both the Microphone and Webcam sources.
Webcam Drivers
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Visit the official website of your webcam's manufacturer to download the latest drivers for the device -- this will make sure that the most up-to-date bug fixes and compatibility patches have been applied, and may solve issues with the video feed from the camera. In most cases you will need to select your webcam model and operating system before proceeding with the download. Once the drivers have been transferred, launch them and follow the instructions to complete the installation. Reboot your PC and run Windows Live Messenger to see if the updates have had any effect.
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Webcam Software
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Depending on the model of webcam you are using, it may have come with a software utility of its own which is accessible from the Start menu or the system tray. Open this utility to check the feed coming from the webcam and to ensure the correct settings are applied -- in most cases you will be able to test the camera and microphone from this application. If the webcam's own software doesn't recognize a video feed, it's possible the device has developed a fault and needs to be replaced. Double-check that the webcam is firmly plugged into your PC if it's an external model.
Further Help and Resources
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If you have ascertained that the fault lies with Windows Live Messenger, visit the application's Support Center online for further help -- if your problem is not covered in the community forums, start a new thread of your own, including as much information about the problem and your hardware and software set up as possible. If the problem affects multiple programs, try running the Help and Support wizard from the Windows Start menu, or visit the support section of the webcam manufacturer's website for further assistance and pointers.
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