Codered161,
Welcome to the HP Forum.
The procedure you performed on the notebook is called the Hard Reset . This procedure can help when the underlying cause of the problem is an entanglement of the device driver software, that is, a "mess up" in the way the computer is using the software (programs) it uses to operate the hardware (stuff attached to the computer).
- Assuming your notebook really does have a webcam, then you can test it and make sure it works as expected.
Built in webcam looks like a tiny camera and is located above the top edge of the computer screen as it is facing you. The webcam is not a rectangle, it is a tiny camera "eye". If you see a blank area or a "cover box" that is rectangular in shape, or anything other than a tiny camera lens, then your notebook does not have a webcam.
You did not tell us your Operating System so I will provide the information for both Windows 8 and for Windows 7.
The documents are called "Troubleshooting" -- they will also help you figure out how to test and use the webcam.
Webcam Troubleshooting (Windows 8)
Webcam Troubleshooting (Windows 7)
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IF you do have a Webcam built into your notebook
AND if you find that you do need to install the driver (software) for the webcam,
then here is a document to help tell you how to do that:
Open the file > Click on Download > Click “Open in Adobe Reader”
If, after you test everything, and "do everything", the webcam still does not work, you may need to consider that the webcam is broken: tiny broken wires to loosen, become disconnected, or become crushed where they pass through the hinge area. There is NO software fix for this. You must have the notebook serviced if the webcam is "broken". Webcam wires can be broken at any time: right after they are manufactured, three months later, seven years later -- there is NO set time frame for broken webcam wires.
Because your notebook is brand new, you may also have the option to return it for another notebook.
Click the KudosThumbs-Up!
It is a nice way to say “Thank You" for the help.
Although I strive to reflect HP's best practices, I do not work for HP.