Alienware M9700 webcam not working, Fn+F4 activation?

I recently acquired an Alienware M9700 and upgraded it to Win 7 Pro from XP. I'm still getting used to this laptop (and I use that term lightly....it must weigh 40lbs!...LOL). I have not yet figured out how to get the webcam to work. I know pressing FN+F4 is involved, however i tried to use the camera on Skype and Skype doesn't recognize the webcam.


The laptop's manual gives this note, how do I activate its function through Windows?

Press this key combination (Fn+F4) to power on and power off the optional Web Cam module. After powering on the Web Cam, you need to activate its function through Windows™.

Thank you!

P.S. I also posted in the Dell Alienware forum, no replies there yet

Dude said:

myemerald, please post a screenshot from device manager

Here is my device manager...

I reinstalled the driver, no sign of vista, not sure what I saw before. Here is what I ended up with:


There's a USB2.0 Camera listed under other devices, but with an error. Any idea what is going on here? Thanks!!

Dude said:

sorry about that, try this

Installing a driver in Compatibility mode in Windows 7

Darn, I'm sorry, I tried to delete that comment before you saw it. I was able to make it work (see above). I just launched Skype to test the camera and IT WORKS!!!!

Thank you so much!