XPS L702X webcam just quit out of no where

Question

Last time I booted my computer (earlier this morning) the webcam worked just fine (I use the included Fast Access software to log in).  This afternoon, the white light indicating that camera is on did not come on, and the camera is not sending any picture to any program.  All I get is a black screen, although all the programs seem to think the camera is working.  The camera does show up under Device Manager without any problems.  I did the online Dell diagnostics and it reported no problems with the camera (so much for Dell's diagnostics- worthless) and of course it still is not working.   Anyone have ANY idea?  I have taken very good care of this laptop and the camera is used only very sparingly (for boot and website login, but no long video chat sessions).  If this is the indication of Dell 'quality', this will absolutely be my last Dell.  Of course I am out of warranty, so....

PudgyOne · Accepted Answer

VTX1800N1,

Remove the plastic bezel, carefully(see video below)

At the top of the screen, there are teo screws. Remove the two screws, then unplug the webcam. Plug the webcam back in and the webcam should work.

Rick

PudgyOne · Accepted Answer

VTX1800N1, I suspect the webcam came loose, at the top of the screen, near the webcam. It's where you open the laptop often. Rick

VTX1800N1 · Answer

I always try to keep my fingers/thumb away from the webcam to avoid getting the lens dirty.  It doesn't feel loose at all.  What solutions do I have?  I can only imagine how expensive a service call is going to be...

VTX1800N1 · Answer

Thank you for the link.  For whatever reason, I booted my laptop several hours later and it's working again.  I know it wasn't an issue of needing to be rebooted, because I did that several times earlier and it made no difference in the camera function.  The webcam was also showing as working properly in Device Manager.  I have absolutely no idea why it stopped working nor why it started working again.  I will keep this thread and your how-to video link in mind in case it stops again, thanks.

PudgyOne · Answer

VTX1800N1, Glad your webcam is working! :emotion-21: Thanks for posting back. Take care, Rick

Locked Topics – Laptops General

Was this post helpful?