Restart your computer after each troubleshooting move.
Outdated drivers or software can lead to a black screen when you are attempting to use the webcam while chatting on Yahoo! Messenger. You can perform basic troubleshooting such as uninstalling and reinstalling the application to resolve the black screen. If issues continue, contact Yahoo! for assistance.
Webcam Requirements
Ensure your webcam meets the requirements for Yahoo! Messenger if your screen is black during streaming. Webcam requirements include support for certain image sizes and having at least Microsoft DirectX version 9.0 installed on your computer. Yahoo also recommends the use of a camera that supports an RGB or I420 format. If your webcam does not meet the requirements, the black screen may continue to display or your video stream may be blurred or choppy.
Yahoo! and Windows Update
Check Yahoo! Messenger for an update if the black screen continues. Updates are downloaded and installed through the application's help menu. You should also check that all available updates for Windows is installed on your computer. Access Windows Update from the computer's Start menu. Restart your computer after updating Yahoo! and Windows. Relaunch the Yahoo! Messenger application and test the webcam to determine if the black screen is resolved.
Update Webcam Driver
Your webcam's drivers may need updating if the black screen in Yahoo! Messenger is still displayed. The quickest way to check for an update to the drivers is by visiting the webcam manufacturer's website. Access the downloads or support section of the site and search for any available updates. If you need to disconnect your webcam while the update is installing, you will be prompted to do so before the process starts. After installing the updates, restart your computer.
Additional Troubleshooting
Continued issues with using your webcam with Yahoo! Messenger requires additional troubleshooting. Download and install the Xvid video codec on your computer. The video codec is available to download from the Yahoo! website. You can also uninstall and reinstall Yahoo! Messenger if the black screen continues. Run the Video and Voice Setup Assistant from the application's help menu after reinstalling the software to check for the black screen.
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