To get started, it’s worth determining if your webcam is working. It so happens that people buy a laptop and for a long time simply do not use it. If the webcam does not work, then you need to download the necessary drivers and applications for the laptop camera. They will help to use the functionality of the computer both for classic communication on the Internet, and for recording videos or creating photos.
Webcam setup
In most cases, no matter what brand your device is. The system for turning on the camera and camera applications for the laptop is practically no different. Of course, in most cases, the webcam works from the first turn on, but if it is not, then you need to perform a number of actions:
- Go to the "Start" and find the "Device Manager".
- Find the item "Image Processing Devices".
- Right-click on this item and select "Engage".
If these steps do not help, then update the drivers built into the webcam. They can be downloaded on the official website of the device manufacturer. To check, use applications for working with a laptop camera. They exist in the public domain, as well as online.
Laptop Tracking Applications
If you figured out all the difficulties of setting up a webcam, then you can start using it. Of course, you can keep track of who is sitting at your computer, but it would be much easier to just set a password on it. Are you not looking for easy ways? Then try installing webcam tracking apps:
- WebCam Viewer. It can work offline, taking pictures of the surrounding area. The application does not record video, but only takes pictures. This laptop camera application has a simple interface and should not cause much difficulty in setting up. For its work uses a special archive. It does not take up much space, since not all photos are sent there. The essence of the application is to take photos at the time of changing the frame. This means that if nothing happens in the camera’s field of view, then the photos will not be saved.
- WebCam Surveyor This laptop app for camera is free. It has great functionality, but is more difficult to use. WevCam Surveyor has a built-in motion sensor that can monitor your laptop and what is happening in your room. If the webcam detects any movement, it will instantly create a photo and send it to your inbox. The functionality of the application allows you to adjust the frame rate and scaling. You can record video and sound. Movies are saved in MPEG-4, DIVX and MJPEG formats. The utility works secretly and offline.
- WebCam Monitor. Another great application for a webcam on a laptop, which has wide functionality. It has all the advantages of the above utilities. A distinctive feature is the ability to reduce the size of the saved video material, which can help if you do not have so much memory on your device.
Home or Office Security Applications
Another category of tracking utilities. Applications of this category can ensure the safety of not only the computer and the surrounding space, but also the entire house as a whole. The only negative of such programs is that they are not free. The most famous among them are:
- iSpy. Despite all the features of the application, it does not require special technical devices and complex settings. iSpy uses a camera and microphone. Any noise or movement will be recorded and sent to you via SMS or mail. Has the ability to detect smoke, which can warn of a fire.
- WebCamXP. A program that allows you to observe what is happening in real time. With WevCamXP, you can watch your laptop even from your phone or tablet. Used by small companies to protect small businesses.
- D-VievCam. If you have many laptops located in different places, then this application is for you. With it, you can provide communication with webcams of 8 computers. It also has a motion sensor and a function for recording audio, photo and video information.
Why are these apps needed?
Many may think that this software can be used with evil intentions. In no case. Applications do not have the functions of hacking other people's webcams, otherwise they would be illegal. All these utilities are designed to ensure the security of your device and home.