Internal vs External Webcams

Most laptops and some desktops or all-in-one computers have built-in webcams. Where a built-in webcam is available the webcam tool will default to using it as the source of the image stream.

The built-in webcam may not be the best choice. For example, it may be possible to get a better view of the presenter by using an external webcam. An external web cam can be positioned away from the computer. It may also be able to pan, tilt, or zoom, all in an effort to achieve a more attractive shot of the presenter.

Selecting a Different Webcam

With webcams enabled the WebShare tool will use the first webcam found on the computer, which is typically the built-in camera.

To select the other webcam the presenter must do the following: (presumes that they already have the WebShare launched and the internal camera in use)

• Click on the blue camera icon to turn off the the webcam display.
• In the browser address bar click on the small black camera icon (shown right) to reveal a list of media devices.
• In the Camera pulldown list select the desired webcam.
• Click on the [Done] button.
• Refresh the browser window by pressing the F5 key on the keyboard.
• Click on the blue camera icon to turn on the the webcam display.

You should see the image from the new camera when the stream returns.

The WebShare tool will continue to use this camera as long as it’s available.

Later

If the external camera is not connected when next required the WebShare tool will return to using the internal webcam.