How to call vkontakte. Why is the webcam not working on my computer? VK camera not working white screen

In one of my previous articles, I wrote about a very useful feature in Odnoklassniki - video call. It allows you to call and chat with friends and acquaintances right in your favorite social network, without having to install any programs on your computer or laptop, like Skype.

However, some users have encountered a problem when The webcam does not work in Odnoklassniki. Let's look into possible reasons why the webcam does not turn on.

Why the camera does not work in Odnoklassniki

The main reason why the webcam in Odnoklassniki does not work is a problem with the Flash player. Either it is not installed, or the version is outdated, or you did not give permission to access the webcam and microphone when making a video call.

How to set up a webcam in Odnoklassniki

First of all, download and install Adobe Flash Player on your computer from the link:
https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/?loc=en

After installing the Flash player, you can go to Odnoklassniki and try to call someone. Check if the webcam is turned on now or not.

If this is your first video call, 2 windows will appear just before the call (as shown below). Do all the same settings and the camera will work.

If the camera does not work not only in Odnoklassniki, but in other video communication programs, then most likely the fact is that there are no drivers for the web camera. You need to go to the website of the manufacturer of your computer or laptop and download the drivers there.

To date, the webcam is used by the owners personal computers and laptops for different purposes. However, it happens that the device unexpectedly fails and requires a speedy repair. In this article, we will tell you about methods for diagnosing and restoring the stable operation of the webcam.

It is worth mentioning that separately connected and built-in video equipment are initially varieties of the same device. At the same time, if in the first case it can be a matter of mechanical damage, then in the second case, the breakdown is more of a systemic nature.

An integrated webcam that has failed due to mechanical damage cannot be restored.

In addition to the above, there are also such circumstances that the webcam does not work in any specific programs or sites. In this case, most likely, the problem lies in the settings of the software or the Internet browser used.

Method 1: Diagnose system malfunctions

Before moving on to solving problems with video equipment, it is necessary to diagnose the device for operability using various methods. This is due to the fact that if the webcam does not work, for example, in Skype, but stably transmits the picture in other programs, then the problem, accordingly, lies not in the hardware, but in the specific software.

Most in a simple way camera diagnostics is a Skype program that provides not only the ability to make video calls to other people, but also a preview window of the image from the camera. We have considered this functionality of this program in detail in a special article on the site.

webcammax

This software was created to perform several other tasks than Skype, but it is still great for diagnosing a device for performance. Moreover, if the webcam works stably in this program, but does not perform well in other software, you can use the built-in image redirection functionality.

Other software

If for some reason you do not have the opportunity to use the software we have reviewed, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the review of the most remarkable programs for recording video from a webcam, but ideal for diagnostics.

In addition to the above, you may well be interested in a full-fledged instruction on the topic of recording videos by using a webcam.

Online Services

This diagnostic technique consists in using special online services created to check equipment. At the same time, be aware that for the stable operation of each resource discussed in our instructions, you will need the latest version of Adobe Flash Player and an equally up-to-date Internet browser.

If there are problems with the webcam through these services, you should try to run diagnostics in other browsers.

Method 2: Set up the camera in Skype

Skype today is the main software used by PC and laptop users to communicate via the Internet. It is for these reasons that the correct approach to diagnosing a device and setting up Skype is extremely important, which we described earlier in a special article on the site.

Method 3: Set up the camera in browsers

When using any services on the Internet with webcam support, you may encounter the problem of no video signal. Of course, before studying the recommendations further, it is necessary to check the camera for performance using the previously described means.

1. Launching literally any site that supports video and audio, you will be presented with a notification with the option to allow the use of a video device.



2. It is not uncommon for users to close the said window by accident, leaving the camera locked by default.



3. To provide the site with access to the webcam, click on the icon indicated by us on the right side of the browser address bar.



4. Set selection to item "Always allow a site access to your camera and microphone", then click on the button "Ready".



5. If necessary, switch the video and audio equipment you are using.



6. After turning it on, refresh the page and check the operation of the device.



7. If everything was done correctly, then the webcam will work completely stably.

In addition to the instructions above, there may be general web browser problems associated with an outdated version of supporting software or browser components. To bring the program you are using to a stable state, you must do the following.

Now all problems with the webcam on the sites should disappear.

Method 4: Activate the equipment

And although each camera, especially those built into a laptop, is integrated into the system by default, automatically installing the necessary drivers, there are still situations when various kinds of failures occur in the software. If you are faced with the problem of a non-working webcam, first of all you need to check if it sees operating system.

In general, you can use other special programs like AIDA64 for diagnostics, but only if you wish.

1. Right click on "Start" and find "Device Manager".



2. As an alternative way to open, you can use the keyboard shortcut Win+R and in the opened window "Run" run the execution of a special command.



3. Having opened the window in the list of sections, find the item "Image Processing Devices".

   

   If you are using external video equipment, then you will need to open another section "Sound, game and video devices".



4. In the list of available equipment that appears, find your webcam and double-click on the line with it.



5. Go to the tab "General", and if the webcam is turned off, enable it by pressing the button "Turn on".



6. Starts automatically immediately system tool diagnostics with notification of possible reasons for the shutdown. Click on "Further".



7. As a result of the actions performed, provided that there are no obstacles, your webcam will be re-engaged.



8. Make sure that after following the recommendations in the block "Device Status" there was a corresponding inscription.

In cases where the actions did not bring positive results, it is necessary to check the health of the drivers.

If the button initially had the desired label, then no action is required.

On this, with this technique for solving problems with a webcam, you can finish.

Method 5: Reinstall the drivers

This method is directly related to the previous one and is relevant only in cases where, after fulfilling the prescriptions, positive results have not been achieved. In this case, of course, in general, the camera should be displayed without problems in the Windows Device Manager.

Of course, if the camera has driver requirements, then you need to install them yourself. The corresponding software is usually located on the website of the manufacturer of your device.

To make things easier for you, we have provided articles on installing drivers for each popular webcam manufacturer. If necessary, use a special heading or search on our site.

After installing the updated version of the driver, be sure to restart your computer or laptop and, upon switching on, double-check that the webcam is working.

Method 6: Diagnose mechanical defects

The most common and most difficult problem, due to which the webcam does not work, is a mechanical problem. There are several ways to do this, the vast majority of which boil down to replacing the device.

Conclusion

Concluding the article, it is important to note that if you are using an expensive video device that has unexpectedly failed, but does not have system problems, be sure to seek help from specialists. Otherwise, the camera may be damaged more than it was originally, which will increase the complexity and cost of repairs.

So, today we have to find out for what reasons your webcam does not work (on a laptop or computer). After that, we will try to correct the situation and return the equipment to working condition. True, it is worth noting one important fact right away - there is a lot of information on this issue. And if you are faced with our today's problem, you will have to "roll up your sleeves" and stock up on a fairly large period of free time. After all, only then will you be able to figure out in a calm environment why your webcam does not work. So, let's quickly get down to business and discussions.

Drivers

Well, let's start with perhaps the most common reason. Fortunately, it is eliminated quite quickly and easily. The thing is that if you are wondering why the webcam does not work on a laptop or computer, you will have to check for a special software package for your equipment. It's called a driver.

As a rule, without drivers, the equipment will not work correctly. After all, this package of programs and libraries helps to establish "contact" between the webcam and the operating system. Usually, a special disk is attached to all equipment connected to a computer. It contains all the drivers.

Think carefully, did you install anything from the included disc when you connected the camera? Not? Then do not be surprised that the webcam does not work. Just connect it to your computer, then insert the disc into the drive and install. Next, a reboot is required - and all problems will be solved.

When there is no disk

If the problem lies precisely in the drivers, and you don’t have a disk (you lost it or it wasn’t included with the equipment at all), then you will have to suffer a little to succeed.

Fortunately, now you can download all the necessary drivers from the Internet. More precisely, from the official website of the manufacturer of your equipment. Thus, if you know why the webcam does not work (and the reason for this is the lack of a driver in the system), then simply visit the manufacturer's web page, find your camera model there, and then select your operating system. Now wait a bit - the installer will be downloaded.

When the process is complete, run the installer. Follow the instructions to complete the driver installation process. Then connect the camera to test and restart your computer. Usually everything starts working. True, if the reason is not in other scenarios. What else can happen? Let's try to figure this out.

Disabled equipment

If you notice that your webcam does not work on your computer (not on a laptop, this is important), then it makes sense to check if you have this equipment turned on. The thing is that now there are a lot of different kinds of camera models that require special handling. And this concept can be interpreted in two ways.

The first option for the development of events is such cameras that require direct activation after connecting it to a computer. In the working state, as a rule, a special indicator starts to shine on the model. Usually in green. Or it looks like a regular highlight to help the user. If you use such a model, then before trying to check how the webcam works, turn it on. And then you can enjoy the results.

The second option is the lack of connection to the computer in principle. Yes, different models require a different approach to this process, but, nevertheless, your "machine" should see the connected equipment. In cases with Bluetooth, establish pairing, and with USB cameras, simply plug the cord into the appropriate socket on your computer. That's all. You can check. Everything will work if the reason is the lack of equipment connection. And if not, then what? Let's think further.

Incompatibility

If you are wondering what to do if the webcam does not work, then you will also have to pay special attention to such an item as "Hardware Compatibility". After all, it is precisely because of the incompatibility of the operating system with the camera that problems can arise.

In this case, you only have to change the equipment. Or reinstall the operating system to the one specified in the compatibility settings. By the way, they are usually written on the box with the camera in bold text.

To be honest, usually users prefer to buy new hardware that is compatible with their operating system. Then you won't have to figure out why the webcam isn't working. And even more so somehow correct the situation. But there are other scenarios as well. Some of them disappear very, very quickly. But others are signs of serious problems with the system. Let's get to know all of them.

Reset

Sometimes the webcam does not work (Windows 7 or any other operating system) due to the fact that you simply reset the hardware settings. There can be many reasons for this - from a minor system failure to serious viruses. The main thing, the result is the same - the camera refuses to work.

To be honest, this situation rarely happens. And if it becomes the fault of equipment failure to work, it is eliminated quickly and easily. How? Let's figure it out.

The first step is to find the place where the input-output devices are indicated. To do this, click right click click on the gramophone on the desktop taskbar (near the clock), and then select "Recorders". There, as a rule, microphones are displayed. But if you have a camera with a built-in "micro", then it will be shown here.

Next, double click on your model and then select "Levels". There, adjust the volume a little, and then save the changes. Now you can test the operation of the equipment. In principle, everything should fall into place. Otherwise, you will have to suffer for a very long time with other scenarios. And now we will get to know them.

Pirate system

If you notice that your webcam and other connected equipment do not work, then the reason may be that you have an unlicensed operating system on your computer. This is what is already becoming a huge and significant problem for most users. What to do if you are faced with this situation?

There are two ways. The first is reinstalling the operating system. You can put the "pirate" again, or you can immediately buy a license. After that, connect the equipment, install the drivers and check if the webcam is working. Not? Then you repeat the process. And so on until you succeed. Far from the best approach.

The second option is to remove the drivers and then reinstall them. In truth, this method is in most cases more effective than reinstalling the operating system. In general, in order to minimize problems, it is better to use only licensed software in general. Including the operating system. Well, it looks like we figured it out. But do not rush to rejoice. We have some more pretty serious reasons why the webcam does not work. And now we have to find out with you and solve them.

Viruses

If you notice that your webcam does not work in Skype or any other programs, then the most common virus attacks can become the reason for this. Unfortunately, now almost every user is faced with this problem. What should be done in such a situation?

To begin with, you will have to conduct a thorough check of the operating system for a variety of computer infections. A good antivirus will help you with this. For example, Dr.Web or Nod32. After the scan is completed, disinfect all dangerous objects. Anything that doesn't respond to treatment is removed. To do this, a special button appears in the antivirus.

Next, you will have to clean the system registry using "CCleaner". Run the application, check all sections hard drive, as well as browsers. Click on "Analyze" and then on "Cleanup". Now you can restart your computer and look at the result.

If all else fails, then the best thing to do would be to reinstall the operating system. In principle, this is quite an obvious outcome of events. After all, viruses are well eliminated before they get to the hardware drivers. In truth, there are two more options for the development of events. Which ones? Let's try to figure it all out.

For laptops

A fairly common reason that a webcam does not work on a computer is the banal lack of camera support on a laptop. This problem valid for older models.

In this case, there are also two methods of struggle. The first is buying a new laptop. Preferably with a built-in camera. Then there won't be any problems. It is enough to install the drivers - and everything will work.

The second is the rejection of video calls. If without them anywhere, you will have to look for a replacement laptop. But there is another rather interesting point that concerns our topic today. Which one? Now we get to know him.

In applications

If your webcam does not work in Skype and other applications, but all other options do not suit you, then there is only one thing left - check the settings of the program in which you are working. In cases where several cameras were connected to the computer, all the set parameters for operation may be reset.

Launch, for example, "Skype", then visit the settings (section "Video"). There you set the camera model you need, adjust the microphone volume and adjust the image quality. Now it's enough just to save the changes. You can try to chat on the camera. Everything must work.

If anyone does not know, we inform you that on VKontakte there is an opportunity to call a friend via video link. In order for the connection to be available, you need to get a microphone and a webcam. If you are using a laptop, this should not be a problem.

In order to call the user, go to his page and you will see a camera icon next to the "Send message" button. Here's what it looks like:

If you hover your mouse over the icon, you'll get a message: "You can call username when he's on the site. To use the video, you need to turn on the webcam."

Accordingly, if the user is on the site, click on the specified icon, after which the connection occurs. Please note that at the time of writing, communication requires the use of Adobe Flash Player.

When you call, a connection is made. In our case, the connection is not possible because the webcam is not installed.

Of course, you can call only those friends who have added this feature.

How can I get my friends to call me?

First and foremost, only those users who are friends can make video calls.

To activate the video calling feature, go to "My Settings" and select the "Privacy" tab. Here, in the subsection "Contact me" next to the item "Who can call me via video call", put "All friends".

The camera icon will now appear on your page. You won't see it, but your friends will see it.

If the icon does not appear, then this may help: click "Edit Page".

Then select the "Contacts" tab and in the columns " mobile phone” and “Additional phone”, set “Visible only to friends”, even if the number is missing, and click on the “Save” button.

Now the button should appear and your friends will be able to call you. Of course, if there are cameras and microphones on both sides.

The fact that Skype will not surprise us is already clear, and even our early-rising grandparents flood in the morning with their evening grandchildren living in America using a practically free video call. But not everyone knows that the same can be done on the VKontakte social network using the VKontakte video call function.

In 2012, for the first million customers of the VKontakte network, a new "video call" beta feature appeared. After successful testing, this service became available to all users of the service. Of course, functionally, it is much weaker than Skype, but maybe the task of surpassing a competitor was not at all.

For video communication, you will need a video camera and a microphone with any interfaces. Also, a flash player must be installed on the computer, preferably latest version.

To establish a video call, your interlocutor must have a video camera and a microphone installed, and the video call function is enabled in the settings of the VKontakte program.

If you use a laptop, then you can use the built-in devices accordingly.

How to set up the equipment?

First, connect the video camera.

There may be three options:

• webcam with USB interface;
• IP video camera, wireless, or with RJ-45 connector;
• video camera with analog or SDI output;

The easiest way is to connect a USB camera. Simply plug the camera's USB cable into the appropriate port on your computer.

Please note that if your camera has a USB 3.0 interface, it is unlikely to work with a USB 2.0 connector. These connectors are compatible and similar in appearance, but have a different color. USB 3.0 is marked in blue, very rarely in red.

After connecting, the operating system will detect a new device and if there is an appropriate driver in its database, then nothing needs to be done, it will automatically install software device itself. You may need to restart your computer.

If this does not happen, then you will need to install the driver from the disk that the camera comes with. If this is not there, then you need to find it and download it on the Internet.

You can check the performance of the camera using the popular Skype application. Select the "Tools" tab at the top of the program window, then "Settings". You can use the keyboard shortcut CTR+,. And select Video Settings. If in the drop-down window you saw an image from the camera, then everything is in order.

In Windows XP, the camera connection can be checked using standard operating system tools.

In a slightly different way, you should connect and identify an IP camera. First you need to install the IP Camera DirectShow Filter driver, which will emulate an IP camera like a web. You can also use VH Multi Camera Studio.

Connect the camera with an RJ-45 network cable to a computer. Even if the camera has wireless connectivity, the first turn on for setup must be done via cable.

It may turn out that your computer has only one network connector, which is already used to connect to the Internet. In this case, you will either have to sacrifice the Internet during the installation, or install an additional network card.

To see the image, command line browser, you must enter the IP address of the camera.

If you would like to use a conventional video camera, you will have to use boards or external video and audio input modules. For example, Mini Recorder Blackmagic Design for SDI and HDMI interfaces. For an analog camera, you need to purchase a composite to USB converter.

A little pricey, but the best in this regard is the Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro 4K device. Although you can choose something simpler such as EasyCap DVR, costing only $15. If you do not need to count the hairs on the beard of your interlocutor, then this device is quite suitable.

But in any case, connecting an analog video camera to the VKontakte service will depend on the compatibility of the software that comes with the device or is supported by it. One piece of advice, even for engineers who despise those who read the instructions before installing the equipment, still read it. You will find many interesting things there.

The microphone integrated into the camera will connect without any problems. But if you have this device separately, with a USB interface, then you may need to install a driver. A regular microphone with a mini jack connector can be safely inserted into the pink jack next to the headphone output.

How to make a video call?

If the camera was successfully connected and it works, then we are on the way to complete success. To get started, go to the settings of the VKontakte service under your own account. Below the logo, find two words: "My settings". Go to the "Privacy" tab. It is located at the top of the screen and we are looking for the line "Who can call me via video call" in the "Contact me" section.

Set it to any variable that suits you, but it's better to set "All friends" first.

Ready! Go to the "My friends" tab on the left side of the screen, and look at the screen. If in the lists, next to the name, someone has an icon in the form of a camera, it means that your subscriber, like you, has everything correctly configured for video communication.

If no one has this icon, it means that your friends are not on video call or your friends do not have a camera connected. Text them for now.

If someone has a camera icon, then click on it and after a few seconds your friend will appear in the window.

Instruction

To make it easier, we summarize the above information into a protocol:

1. We register in the VKontakte service, if not already registered.
2. Connect the camera and microphone.
3. Install additional video conversion devices, if necessary.
4. Install drivers and software according to the above recommendations.
5. We check the performance locally.
6. We launch the VKontakte service.
7. Looking for friends with cameras;
8. Let's get in touch.

Video call from phone/tablet

When you set up video communication through the VKontakte service on mobile devices, the problems become much less. There is no need to connect any devices, because both the tablet and smartphone have both a camera and a microphone.

There is some inconvenience that not all phones are equipped with a camera on the side of the screen, which means that your interlocutor will see not you, but your knees, for example. Just sometimes wrap the smartphone with the back side and say: “And this is me!”.

But seriously, just to make a video call to a friend, you need to go to his VKontakte page and click on the button with the image of the camera, it is located to the right of "Send messages" under the avatar.

And if your friend is able to receive a video signal, then he will see you.

If there are problems with the connection, either there is no sound or video, first try to check all the functions of the video call on Skype, if the Skype connection is working, then VKontakte should also be attached. If not, then look for problems in the device and its software.

Do not forget that video communication requires a stable connection with a speed of at least 1 Mbps, which cannot be provided by the GPRS protocol. This means that you can only connect to your friend using WiFi connection or 3G.

Check if this communication protocol is available in your region.