Web Cam

[Graham-P]

I've just set up a web cam, I tried it out but all I get is a black screen, they can see me but I can't see them. Any ideas? I've gone through all that I can in the set up, is it me or them?

[PJR]

Slight shortage of information.. You didnt even tell us what software you are using? Mac? PC? ZX81? Ports opened on Firewalls? Drivers correctly installed? etc etc etc..

[Graham-P]

Opps, sorry complete numpty about all this.
It's a PC running Windows XP, with Zone Alarm firewall, AVG AV, and ewido spyware. I've downloaded Skype and installed a MSI web cam as per instructions. The firewall is telling me it hasn't blocked any access attempts.....

[thepassenger]

Look through the manuals for Skype and do a google. Figure out what port (if any) it uses for the webcam traffic and specifically open that port on the firewall.
If your using some sort of NAT/Router device to share the internet connection try forwarding the port on the router to your computer.

Also, try using any test software that came with the camera and make sure it's actually working and displaying a picture. If your in a rather dark area it could be that your below the cameras ability to pick up anything hence the black screen.

[neilski]

Graham-P said:

I've just set up a web cam, I tried it out but all I get is a black screen, they can see me but I can't see them. Any ideas? I've gone through all that I can in the set up, is it me or them?

Ask them to take the lens cap off!