Solved Need WebCam Help Please

[TDKMate]

Don’t laugh (too hard) but I don’t know anything about a webcam. All of a sudden I have a need for one for ‘video visits’ with doctors. It’s a great idea as I will save many hours of travel time in just two visits.

So I go out yesterday and get the only webcam in town as everybody but Staples were sold out. I come home and plug it in, Windows 7 Pro 64 loads drivers, and…nothing. No software in the box, and the maker’s web site doesn’t even list this model and I can’t find software for it.

Surprisingly, my local Staples had a tech guru and he told me that, that’s the way webcams are anymore and ‘something’ needs to request a connection for them to work.

Now I’m in a panic as how do you have an official doctor’s appointment when you don’t even know if the webcam works or not? I don’t want to be charged for a missed office visit because we can’t connect.

Then it hit me and I Googled it and found a couple web sites than can test a webcam, and they found it and it works. (Well, 2 of 3 found it.)

But there has to be more to using a webcam than only by outside request. So how can I use this thing for other purposes than video visits??

Webcam make: VHD, Model J1702C.


Thanks
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[AK6DN]

I use the NCH Video Tools Suite for other purposes, but their free version also supports webcam recording, editing, etc.


See here: Video Capture Software. Video, Webcam or Screen Recorder

 

[Snick]

I use Free 2x webcam recorder and also free OBS: Open Broadcaster Software

For your perusal
Top 12 Webcam Video Recorders [Free for Windows/Mac ...

Snick

 

[TDKMate]

Thanks for the tips. I checked out the programs mentioned, and the link too. Since I’ve never needed a webcam before, I figure I didn’t need a powerful suite as I can’t think of a personal use for it at the moment. So I went with what seemed the simplest/easiest to use: Free 2x webcam recorder.

I have about 3 minutes time playing with it, and it works. Now to fine tune the settings so things aren’t as jittery in the video, LOL.

Again, thanks.

 

[file3456]

The other alternative here is that if your doctor uses an App, you could use your phone's camera. But again, this is with their App, the hospital's App for your phone.

Yawcam is what I have been using myself for things.

 

[townsbg]

The other alternative here is that if your doctor uses an App, you could use your phone's camera. But again, this is with their App, the hospital's App for your phone.

Yawcam is what I have been using myself for things.

I agree. Some institutions' system allow using an app on the phone or tablet while others only allow for workstations. Some might not even support workstations. It's best to follow the instructions from the institution and if you run into some difficulties or have questions contact their tech support. That's what they do and what they are paid for. They know the system, it's capabilities, and requirements. Frankly, more than likely, we don't. If they have a way to test from their site use it ahead of time.

 

[Wandering one]

It is possible the doctor will control the connection as it is probably encrypted for security and privacy.
Art

 

[Snick]

HIPPA requires a secure connection for protection of your health records.

Snick

 

[TDKMate]

Yes, it’s possible to connect via tablet or smart phone, but that’s another “don’t laugh” as I have neither.

Yes again, their Tech Support line was able to do a test run. Had to install Chrome, though… Their connection came up fine in Firefox but I picked the wrong camera on my end, so I could see and hear them just fine, they couldn’t see or hear me. I don’t know to change that setting back, so it was quicker and easier just to install Chrome. (In Firefox I accidentally clicked on ‘remember this’ button, something I ‘never’ do…)

And again, yes it’s a secure connection controlled by them.

Thanks again.
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[TDKMate]

A follow up: just had my first 'video visit' and it went without a hitch!


Thanks for the help.