You hear feedback or echoes in the audio when you use a LifeCam together with MSN Messenger or with Windows Live Messenger to make a video call (921334)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000
  • Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000
  • Microsoft LifeCam VX-1000

SYMPTOMS

When you use a Microsoft LifeCam together with MSN Messenger or with Windows Live Messenger to make a video call, you hear feedback or echoes in the audio.

CAUSE

This behavior occurs when any one of the following conditions is true:
  • The speakers or the microphone levels are not set correctly.
  • The headset setting is selected when you are not using a headset.
  • The speakers are too close to the microphone.
  • There is more than one microphone.

RESOLUTION

Set the audio levels

  1. Start Messenger, and then sign in.
  2. If you cannot see the menu, click Show Menu.
  3. On the Tools menu, click Audio and Video Setup.
  4. Complete the steps that appear in the wizard.
    • On the page for speakers, make sure that the volume is not up too loud, and the headset setting is correct.
    • On the microphone page, make sure that the microphone level is set appropriately. The meter should not go in to the red level.

Move the speakers

Move the speakers away from the microphone. Additionally, ask your contact to adjust their speakers.

Disable the second microphone

Some portable computers have built-in microphones. If you are using the camera's microphone or a microphone in a headset, disable the other microphone. To do this, follow these steps:
  1. Click Start, click Run, type mmsys.cpl, and then click OK.
  2. On the Audio tab, in the Sound recording area, click to select the microphone that you want to use if it is not already selected.
  3. Click to select the Use only default devices check box.
  4. On the Voice tab in the Voice recording area, click to select the microphone that you want to use if it is not already selected.
  5. Click OK.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:8/30/2006
Keywords:kbtshoot kbExpertiseBeginner kbprb KB921334 kbAudEndUser
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