Troubleshooting for HP Pavilion DV6000 Webcam

1. Check the webcam software to make sure it is updated. Several programs that work with webcams, such as Skype and Yahoo! Messenger, need to be updated periodically in order to maintain compatibility with an integrated webcam. Note: the HP Pavillion DV6000 automatically includes the Windows Live Messenger program, which can be used with the webcam, but must be updated first before it will be compatible. See Resources below for a link to download the latest version.
2. Modify the computer's firewall settings. If you are using a robust security profile, the webcam may be having trouble communicating with software that is not on the "allowed" list. Open the firewall settings and add the appropriate messaging software to the "allowed" list.
3. Examine connection issues. If the webcam works in a program like Windows Movie Maker but does not load properly in an online program, there may be connection problems. If using a wireless connection, try moving the computer closer to the access point or switching to a wired connection.
4. Check the lighting in the room. If the lighting is poor in the area the webcam is being used, it can look like faces have long shadows or the person is not shown on camera. Try using an overhead light source with the webcam and never have a light behind the webcam, as this will create a washed-out image.
5. Adjust the webcam's properties. Highlight the camera utility in "My Computer," then right-click it. Select "Properties" to bring up a new window. From here, adjust the hue, brightness, saturation and white balance settings to produce the optimum picture on the webcam.