camcorder/webcam/messenger

madmummy_2

I'm trying to use my digital camcorder as a webcam to enable us to have view with messages whilst 'talking' to my sister in law.
The camcorder has the capability and I've connected it to my PC but the PC does not recognise it. What do I do now?
I'm clueless about what I'm should do to get it working, so I'm guessing. Any help really appreciated.
Thanks

Rex_Mundi

Have you installed a driver for your cam? Your computer will need the software to tell it how to use a device that you plug in.

LincsLad_3

How are you connecting the camcorder to the PC? If via Firewire connection, you will probably need additional software like DVDriver for around $20.

Download a trial version here.

Read review of the software here.

madmummy_2

Thanks for the suggestions.

I've uninstalled and reinstalled the driver. I'm connecting via USB. I;ve gone through the wizard in messenger and all seems OK. I can see my friend, but he can't see me. >:(
I get a couple of messages:
"Your conversation cannot begin because your camera is currently in use or not plugged in. Make sure your camera is available and try again."
and
"You have canceled your invitation to start viewing webcam."

swiftly followed by:

" You have stopped viewing webcam with (my friend)".

I'm really confused now. Why can't he see me? Not that it's that pretty......... :)but

Thanks!

Rex_Mundi

Always worth a try at the camera manufacturers website to see if there is a more up to date driver.

Maybe google to see if there are any known problems with your model camera. Sometmes you can find others that have had exactly the same problem.

madmummy_2

Thanks Rex Mundi.
Tried JVC website - no luck.
Tried Messenger help - no luck
Tried Google - no luck there either
Have now emailed JVC direct. ???

madmummy_2

The wizard recognises the camcorder but the settings says it's either not plugged or I'm using it with another program.

madmummy_2

Thanks Paul R
I've got a JVC GRD 73.
The instuctions for video conferencing using messenger say to use the USB cable. It doesn't say anything about firewire.
It's been suggested that I try closing off the firewall as they may be the inhibitor. I'll give it a go later and let you know.

Toxteth_OGrady

When you connect the camera does it show in Device Manager or My computer ???

8)

TOG

madmummy_2

Yes, it appears in the device manager

AustinPowers

The exact same thing happens to me, with a JVC GR-DX77 AA.

This seems to be a common problem with digital video cameras, and using them as webcams... even though their user manuals make it sound sooooo easy.

Any help would be appreciated.