The Surface Pro is a versatile device that combines the power of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. One of its standout features is the built-in camera, which allows you to capture photos, record videos, and engage in video calls. However, like any electronic device, the Surface Pro camera may encounter issues that prevent it from functioning properly. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the common causes of the Surface Pro camera not working and provide step-by-step troubleshooting solutions to help you resolve the problem.
The Surface Pro\’s camera is an essential component that enables users to capture precious moments and engage in video conferencing. However, it can be frustrating when the camera malfunctions and refuses to work. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and resolve the issue. This guide will walk you through these steps, providing detailed instructions to help you get your Surface Pro camera back in working order.
Possible Causes of Surface Pro Camera Not Working
Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, it\’s helpful to understand the potential causes of the Surface Pro camera not working. By identifying the underlying issue, you can take the appropriate measures to address it. Here are some common causes to consider:
Camera App Permissions
One of the first things to check is the camera app permissions. If the camera app does not have the necessary permissions to access the camera, it will not be able to function properly.
Outdated or Incompatible Drivers
Outdated or incompatible camera drivers can cause issues with the camera functionality. It\’s important to keep your drivers up to date to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Hardware Issues
In some cases, the problem may lie with the hardware itself. A faulty camera module, loose connections, or other hardware-related issues can prevent the camera from working properly.
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Troubleshooting Steps When Your Surface Pro Camera Won’t Work
Now that we have identified the potential causes, let\’s delve into the troubleshooting steps to resolve the Surface Pro camera not working issue. Follow these steps in order, testing the camera after each step to see if the problem has been resolved.
Step 1: Check Camera App Permissions
Start by checking the camera app permissions to ensure that it has the necessary access to the camera. Here\’s how to do it:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
- Click on Privacy.
- In the left sidebar, select Camera.
- Make sure the Allow apps to access your camera toggle switch is turned on.
- Scroll down and ensure that the toggle switches for the apps you want to use with the camera are also turned on.
After checking and adjusting the camera app permissions, try using the camera again to see if it is now working.
Step 2: Update or Reinstall Camera Drivers
Outdated or incompatible camera drivers can be a common cause of camera issues. To update or reinstall the camera drivers, follow these steps:
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
- In the Device Manager window, locate and expand the Cameras category.
- Right-click on the camera device and select Update driver.
- Choose the Search automatically for updated driver software option and let Windows search for the latest driver updates.
- If Windows finds an updated driver, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- If Windows doesn\’t find an updated driver or the camera still doesn\’t work after updating, right-click on the camera device again and select Uninstall device.
- Restart your Surface Pro and Windows will automatically reinstall the camera drivers.
After updating or reinstalling the camera drivers, test the camera to see if it is functioning properly.
Step 3: Perform a System Restart
A simple system restart can sometimes resolve minor software glitches and get the camera working again. Here\’s how to perform a restart:
- Click on the Start button and select Power.
- Choose Restart from the options.
Once the system restarts, check if the camera is now working as expected.
Step 4: Reset Camera App
If the camera app itself is causing the issue, resetting it can often resolve the problem. Follow these steps to reset the camera app:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
- Click on Apps.
- In the left sidebar, select Apps & features.
- Scroll down and locate the Camera app.
- Click on the Camera app and select Advanced options.
- In the Advanced options menu, click on the Reset button.
After resetting the camera app, open it again and check if the camera is now functioning properly.
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Step 5: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix common hardware issues. Running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter may help resolve the Surface Pro camera not working problem. Here\’s how to do it:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
- Click on Update & Security.
- In the left sidebar, select Troubleshoot.
- Scroll down and click on Additional troubleshooters.
- Locate and click on Hardware and Devices.
- Click on Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once the troubleshooter completes its scan and fixes any detected issues, check if the camera is now working.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your operating system up to date is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility. Windows updates often include bug fixes and driver updates that can resolve camera issues. Here\’s how to check for Windows updates:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
- Click on Update & Security.
- In the left sidebar, select Windows Update.
- Click on the Check for updates button.
- If updates are available, click on Download and install.
After installing the updates, restart your Surface Pro and test the camera to see if it is now working.
Step 7: Perform a System Restore
If the camera issue started after a recent software change or update, performing a system restore can help revert your Surface Pro to a previous state when the camera was working fine. Here\’s how to perform a system restore:
- Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type rstrui and press Enter to open the System Restore wizard.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point and restore your system.
Note that performing a system restore will revert your Surface Pro to an earlier state, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.
Step 8: Contact Microsoft Support
If none of the above steps resolve the camera issue, it\’s recommended to reach out to Microsoft Support for further assistance. They have dedicated support channels to help with hardware and software issues specific to Surface devices.
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The Surface Pro camera not working problem can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue. Start by checking camera app permissions, updating or reinstalling camera drivers, and performing a system restart. If the problem persists, try resetting the camera app, running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, and checking for Windows updates. If all else fails, consider performing a system restore or contacting Microsoft Support for further assistance. With patience and persistence, you\’ll soon have your Surface Pro camera back up and running smoothly.
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FAQ
1. How do I get my Surface Pro camera to work?
To make your Surface Pro camera work, ensure you select the correct camera in the app, check and adjust privacy settings, restart your Surface Pro, and update camera drivers if needed.
2. Why is my Surface camera black?
A black camera screen can result from physical obstruction, concurrent app usage, privacy settings, or software conflicts. Check these factors to resolve the issue.
3. Why is my camera missing from Device Manager on Surface Pro?
If your camera is missing from Device Manager, it may be disabled. Enable it by right-clicking the camera device (\”Microsoft Camera Front\” or \”Microsoft Camera Rear\”) and selecting \”Enable Device.\”
4. How do I reinstall my Surface Pro camera driver?
Reinstall the camera driver by opening Device Manager, right-clicking your camera device, selecting \”Uninstall device,\” and then using \”Scan for hardware changes\” from the \”Action\” menu to reinstall the driver.
5. Does Surface Pro have a camera switch?
Yes, Surface Pro devices typically include a camera switch or toggle in the Camera app, allowing you to switch between front and rear cameras.
6. How to reset Surface Pro?
To reset your Surface Pro, go to \”Settings,\” then \”Update & Security,\” and choose \”Recovery.\” Under \”Reset this PC,\” select \”Get started,\” and follow the on-screen instructions. Be aware that this will remove your personal files and apps, so back up important data first.