This article explains how to test the operation of a webcam using a PC or Mac. Both Windows and macOS operating systems have a built-in Camera app that you can use to test the operation of a webcam. Alternatively, you can use a specific web service to carry out the test.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Using the Internet Browser
Step 1. Visit the Webcammictest website using any browser on your computer
You can use the browser of your choice among those installed on your PC or Mac.
Step 2. Click the Check Webcam button
It is blue in color and placed in the center of the page.
Step 3. Click the Allow button
In this way, the website will have the possibility to use the integrated webcam or connected to the computer.
Step 4. Check the test result
If the webcam is working properly, a box should be visible in the center of the page showing the image taken by the video capture device.
Method 2 of 4: Using Windows
Step 1. Click on the "Start" button
Normally, it is located in the lower left corner of the desktop.
Step 2. Type the keyword camera into the search bar
It is located at the bottom of the "Start" menu.
Step 3. Click the Camera icon
The application of the same name will be launched which will automatically activate the webcam. If the image taken by the webcam appears on the screen, it means that the device is working correctly.
If this is your first time using the Camera app, it is very likely that you will need to change some security settings so that it can have access to the hardware resources necessary for it to function properly
Method 3 of 4: Using macOS
Step 1. Open a Finder window by clicking on the icon
It features a blue and white smiley face. Normally, it is visible directly on the docked System Dock on the underside of the desktop.
Step 2. Click on the Applications folder
It is one of the items listed in the left panel of the window that appeared.
Step 3. Double-click the Photo Booth icon
The Photo Booth app will automatically launch the webcam. If the image captured by the video capture device appears on the screen, it means that the webcam is working properly.
Method 4 of 4: Troubleshooting
Step 1. Check the condition of the webcam
Physically locate the device. It is usually located in the center of the top of the monitor. Make sure there are no residues of any kind or objects that could obstruct the lens. Some laptops come with a protective webcam cover. If this is the case, make sure it is open and that the lens is clear of any obstructions. If you have purchased an external webcam, check the connecting cable to make sure it is not damaged or torn.
Step 2. Check the USB port the webcam is connected to (only in the case of an external webcam)
If you are using a USB webcam, check the operation of the computer port it is connected to. Make sure the cable is connected properly and securely. If you experience a malfunction, try plugging the webcam into another USB port to rule out this option as the cause of the problem.
Step 3. Verify that the webcam is active (for Windows systems only)
Through the Windows "Settings" menu it is possible to enable or disable the use of the webcam, both in general and for specific apps. Follow these instructions to check if webcam use is allowed:
- Click on the button Start Windows;
- Click on the icon Settings depicting a gear;
- Click on the option Privacy;
- Click on the tab Camera listed along the left side of the window;
- Click on the button Edit located in the section "Camera access for this device is disabled";
- Click on the slider that appeared on the screen to activate it;
- Make sure the slider displayed in the "Allow apps to access the camera" section is turned on;
- Scroll down the list of applications to make sure they all have access to your computer's camera.
Step 4. Check that the webcam is working using the "Device Manager" system window (for Windows systems only)
Follow these instructions to verify:
- Click on the button Start with the right mouse button;
- Click on the option Device management;
- Double click on the tab Cameras or Image acquisition devices;
- Click on the webcam icon with the right mouse button;
- Click on the option Enable device.
Step 5. Update the webcam drivers
You can also use the "Device Manager" dialog to check if the camera drivers are up to date. Follow these instructions:
- Click on the button Start with the right mouse button;
- Click on the option Device management;
- Double click on the tab Cameras or Image acquisition devices;
- Click on the webcam icon with the right mouse button;
- Click on the option Update Driver.
Step 6. Reset the System Management Controller (Mac only)
If your Mac's camera isn't working properly, trying to reset the system management controller (SMC) may fix the problem. Follow these instructions:
- Turn off the Mac;
- Press the key combination "Left Shift + Control + Option" for 7 seconds;
- Press and hold the "Power" key for 7 seconds while continuing to hold down the keys indicated above;
- Release all the keys you are pressing and wait a few seconds;
- Start your Mac again.
Step 7. Check the camera settings of the app you want to use
If the webcam does not work when you use a specific app (for example Skype), it is likely that you will need to configure the program so that it can use the video device correctly. This step is very important, especially if you have several cameras connected to your computer. The location of the webcam configuration settings vary from program to program. Generally speaking, the webcam settings can be accessed via the "Video" tab or section of the "Settings", "Preferences" or "Options" menu.
Step 8. Verify that there are no other applications running that are currently using the camera
Otherwise, the app you want to use will not be able to access that hardware resource. To fix this, close all apps that are using the webcam before launching the one you want to use.
Step 9. Replace the webcam
If you have found that the webcam is not obstructed by objects or debris, that the drivers are up to date, and that the operating system is configured correctly, it is very likely that the cause of the problem is a malfunction. In this case, you may need to purchase a new webcam. If you are using an older webcam, it is likely that it is not compatible with new commercially available applications.
