How to Use A Wyze Cam As A Webcam
Toilet paper may have attracted all the attention as the most in-demand item of the COVID-19 era, but a variety of other shortages have emerged during these times. Webcams, in particular, are difficult to obtain, given their importance for today's work-from-home and study-from-home setups.
Depending on which webcam you select and where you order it from, you could be in for a lengthy wait. If, during that time, you urgently need access to a device, consider this helpful quarantine hack: use a Wyze Cam instead.
Cool Ways to Use A Wyze Cam As A Webcam
Over the last few months, Wyze Cam enthusiasts have stumbled upon multiple options for making the most of this device — especially during the quarantine.
- Video Conferencing & Video Chat - Whether you need to attend a video chat for work or are eager to get in on Zoom happy hour with your friends, your Wyze Cam will keep you in the digital loop. If properly configured, this device is compatible with a variety of top video conferencing apps.
- Viewing 3D Prints - Your Wyze Cam is far more versatile than you could have anticipated. In addition to being a top option for COVID-19 era video conferencing, it can also be used to monitor the 3D printing process. To take advantage of this unique functionality, plug a flashed Wyze into your computer and use it with 3d printing software such as Octoprint. Learn more about how to set it all up and use it here.
What You Need to Make the Most of a Wyze Webcam
While it's relatively easy to shift functions with your Wyze Cam, you will need to take a few extra steps to get it set up as a webcam. The process involves several key pieces of equipment, so be sure you have access to the following before you begin:
- Wyze Cam Pan or Wyze Cam v2 - These top Wyze devices deliver clear images and a flexible design that make them great options when you need a webcam immediately.
- Special Firmware - The specific type of firmware involved in the Wyze webcam setup process will depend on what your preferred Wyze device is. Click here to download the Wyze Cam v2 firmware or here for the Wyze Cam Pan firmware.
- microSD card - Experts at Wyze recommend a 32 GB microSD card for webcam purposes.
- USB-A to USB-A Cable - This will be used to link your Wyze Cam with your computer.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a customized wrap designed specifically for your Wyze Cam. As with all webcam skins and wraps, it provides a valuable layer of protection while also adding a little aesthetic interest.
How to Set Up Your Wyze Cam As A Webcam
Once you've got all the necessary equipment, you can move forward with setting up your Wyze Cam. First, you'll need to flash the firmware, which can seem intimidating to the uninitiated, but it's not actually all that complicated. Follow these steps to get started:
- Download the appropriate firmware
- Unplug the Wyze Cam
- Insert the microSD card
- Press the setup button. Hold it before plugging in the USB cable.
- When the light turns solid blue, release the button. This shade of blue differs from the one typically associated with the device, but the difference should be obvious.
- Wait at least four minutes for the camera to reboot
- As soon as the flashing process is complete, the status light will be yellow and blue at the same time
- Next, the USB A-to-A cable can be used to link the USB ports for the Wyze and computer
- Use your preferred video conferencing app to shift the camera source to "HD USB Camera"
- If possible, use separate sources for the microphone and speaker functions
Set aside a little extra time to test the camera with your selected video conferencing app. This will ensure that your new setup is fully functional before you begin a video chat.
Has It Been Tested?
Before you take on the effort of converting your Wyze Cam to a webcam, it helps to know if it works with your favorite apps. Thankfully, it has already been tested and verified for a variety of operating systems and programs, including:
- Windows 10
- Mac OS
- Skype
- Google Hangouts
- Zoom
- GoToMeeting
Although many people have successfully used the Wyze Cam with these operating systems and apps, it may still be worth your while to experiment on your own. You may be surprised by the versatility of this acclaimed device.
As you find clever new ways to use your Wyze Cam and other devices during the pandemic, add a little flair with help from Mighty Skins. Our custom skins and wraps can punch up almost any device. Get started creating today with our straightforward process!