Microsoft LifeCam Readme and Troubleshooting Information

This article includes late breaking information for the LifeCam software and general troubleshooting information about LifeCam software and webcam products.

Late Breaking and Known Issues

Windows N and KN versions require installation of Windows Media Format 11 SDK

On Windows 7 N and KN, versions, you need to install Windows Media Format 11 SDK to enable LifeCam functionality. For more information, click here to view the Knowledge Base article on this topic.
On Windows Vista N and KN versions, you need to install Windows Media Format 11 SDK to enable LifeCam functionality. For more information, click here to view the Knowledge Base article on this topic.

Windows 7 E version requires installation of Internet Explorer

On Windows 7 E, you need to install Internet Explorer to enable LifeCam functionality. You can install Internet Explorer from the Microsoft Download Center.

Windows 7 requires that .NET be enabled for LifeCam software to run

On Windows 7, if you have .NET turned off, you will be prompted during LifeCam Setup to enable it. If you choose not to do this during Setup, you will not be able to run the LifeCam software- the software will close automatically when you try to open it. In order to use the LifeCam software, you will first need to enable.NET in the Windows 7 Control Panel.

Troubleshooting: Installation and Setup Issues

Firewall, router, spyware detection software, and pop-up blockers may prevent LifeCam software installation

During installation of the LifeCam software, your virus protection program, pop-up blocker, or spyware detection program may block the installation process. Many of these programs will ask you whether to continue blocking or to allow installation. If you are prompted, allow the software to install.

In addition, some network firewalls or routers may block LifeCam software installation. If this happens, refer to the documentation that came with the firewall or router to enable installation of software programs that require Internet access.

Installation error message: There is insufficient free hard disk space to install the LifeCam software.

You may receive the "insufficient hard disk space" error message for a variety of reasons. For detailed troubleshooting information about this issue, see the following Knowledge Base article: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953691

LifeCam software not working as expected after software installation

If your LifeCam software isn't working as expected after installation, try the following:
- Close the LifeCam software and then open it again.
- Restart your computer, and then open the LifeCam software again.
If the LifeCam software stops working properly after you have installed another webcam software application (for example, Logitech QuickCam software), uninstall and then reinstall the LifeCam software. In some cases, you may also need to shut down the other webcam software or disable it while using the LifeCam software.

Hardware Configuration Issues

Troubleshooting: Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports

Your Microsoft LifeCam will work on either a USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 port, however, some webcam features may not be supported on USB 1.1 ports. In addition, different types of USB ports provide different amounts of power to your webcam. A USB port on a keyboard or other peripheral device may not have sufficient power for the LifeCam webcam. If you experience one of the following symptoms:

The LifeCam video preview area is black (no picture or sound).
Windows Live Messenger stops responding when you start a video call.
Your webcam will not work in high-resolution videos.

One of the following steps may resolve the issue:

Disconnect and reconnect your LifeCam.
Disconnect other unused USB devices.
Use a different USB port on the computer. Connect to a USB 2.0 port if you can.
If you are using a USB hub, unplug the hub and plug the LifeCam directly into your computer.
Plug your LifeCam into a powered USB port.
Restart your computer.
Lower your video resolution setting in the LifeCam software.
Uninstall, and then reinstall the LifeCam software.

Troubleshooting: Video and Image Capture Issues

If you experience problems capturing still images or videos, such as:

Video capture freezes or flickers.
LifeCam software closes unexpectedly when you start it.

One of the following steps may resolve the issue:

Unplug the webcam and plug it back in.
Lower the video resolution.
Close, and then reopen the LifeCam program.
If you are connected to a USB 1.1 port, try connecting to a USB 2.0 port.
If you are connected to a USB hub, try to directly connect the webcam to a USB 2.0 port on your computer.
Make sure you have installed the latest drivers for your video card. See your hardware manufacturer's documentation or web site for information about how to update video card drivers.

Software and Compatibility Issues

Troubleshooting: LifeCam software issues

Pan, Tilt, Zoom, and Face tracking are not available at all video resolutions on all cameras. If one of these features is unavailable at a particular video resolution, it may not be supported on your camera. Lower your video resolution setting to use these features.
Video effects are not available at all video resolutions on all cameras. If video effects are unavailable on your camera at a particular video resolution, change the video resolution to a lower setting.

Troubleshooting: Instant Messaging programs

Microsoft LifeCam software may be required for certain instant messaging software

To ensure product compatibility with some messaging clients, the Microsoft LifeCam software may be required. You can download and install the LifeCam software from: the Microsoft Hardware web site.

Video calls may disconnect when using certain instant messaging software

If you are behind a firewall or router, video calls may disconnect shortly after starting. If this happens, you may need to adjust your firewall or router settings to work with you instant messaging program. See your instant messaging program's Help file or Web site for more information.