So I switched over after yet another system failing virus and I need some help! I'm not by any means good at tech issues, and so I hope I don't sound too stupid.

I've got a logitech quick cam that works with skype - I didn't seem to have to find new drivers for it. But - though the other person can see my vid, I can't see my own. I'm not quite sure what to do there.

Secondly, I've got a USB headset - nothing fancy. But it's not working though sound from my speakers is just fine. I've browsed a few things regarding this matter and the answers seem a bit past my level of tech ability, sadly.

Any suggestions?

What distro are you using? Ubuntu? (your post has the logo indicating that's where you posted from)

Also, what are your system specs? You're going to need to give a little more info before we can help you.

Distro...Ohh all the new terms i need to learn, heh. Yes, I am on Ubuntu and as far as system specs, I'll take a guess at what you need because I'm having a bear of a time finding the info (I knew right where to look in Windows..learning curve, eh?)

it's an older machine with a duo core processor, 2.2 ghz i think? 2g ram, if i recall. it's a gateway GM5084 model, with everything standard apart from the vid card which is an nvidia8200.

"Distro" is just short for "distribution". As for finding out exact system info, typically the fastest way to do it on a Linux-based OS is by opening a Terminal (equivalent to Command Prompt on DOS/Windows, but with different commands ) and typing lspci. This should give you a list of the current (internal) hardware installed in your system that is detectable by the OS. You should be able to find the Terminal program under Applications->Accessories->Terminal.

Also, what version of Ubuntu are you using? I'm using 9.04, but I wouldn't think it should make too much difference if you're on one a little newer (e.g. 9.10).

Have you installed any additional drivers for it? You should be able to install the proprietary NVIDIA drivers for your card by going to System->Administration->Hardware Drivers. This may be a part of your problem, is that you are using the generic "nv" driver or maybe even the "vesa" driver, neither of which provide a whole lot of functionality.

I actually just installed the new Nvidia driver a few minutes ago, so i'll have to check and see if that helps with the video issue.

I believe I am using 9.10 Ubuntu.

Any sound suggestions? I'm tmepted to just go out and buy a linux friendly headset.

Have a look at the output of

I'm assuming you meant for me to enter it into the terminal? I did, it asked for my password. I tried typing the password but it wouldn't allow me to.


I'm really beginning to think i'm not fluent enough in programmer language for this.

Do you just mean that the characters weren't showing up? That's normal, and in fact a good thing. It's a security measure that prevents those characters from being read from the screen, so to speak. The password is still being entered, it's just that it's not visible on the screen.

Don't give up so easily! Linux really is a learning experience; even I'm probably not familiar with all the nooks and crannies of my machine's OS. Just be patient, and you'll realize that not that hard after all.

*facepalm*

I feel dumb. ok onto that other question, this is what shows up :


Bus 002 Device 002: ID 058f:9360 Alcor Micro Corp. 8-in-1 Media Card Reader
Bus 002 Device 001: ID 1d6b:0001 Linux Foundation 1.1 root hub
Bus 001 Device 006: ID 0461:4d16 Primax Electronics, Ltd
Bus 001 Device 005: ID 046d:0a0c Logitech, Inc.
Bus 001 Device 003: ID 0409:005a NEC Corp. HighSpeed Hub
Bus 001 Device 001: ID 1d6b:0002 Linux Foundation 2.0 root hub

Also - I really am sorry to be such a pain, and I appreciate all the help from everyone.

An update : i solved the headset issue - I think. I'll know for sure with my next skype session but I htink I got it fixed - and I feel like such a dork for not just checking the input/output device selection first. See..I think it seemed to obvious to work. I'm used to things not being so right in front of my face!

I'll keep working on the video issue, but I'm glad that at least others can see it. I don't -really- need to see myself talking, anyway.

Also, if it seems like painfully obvious things (such as the terminal) fail me, I think it's just because I'm so used to windows that I need to relearn everything. So please be patient. THanks!

Not a problem; we were all once newbies, too. And don't worry, that's what Google and forums like LQ are for!

About that — are you able to see the other person's video feed (assuming they have a webcam), or is it that you can't see anyone's video stream? You said that you can't see your own video feed, and that others can see your feed, but you didn't specify any other details.

Yes...I can see him, he can see me, but I can't see me!

I know the linux version of Skype does things a little differently.
I assume you are looking for the picture-in-picture idea, try right clicking on the active window and see what video/screen
options are there.

At some time you may need this...

One of the paths from frustration and ignorance to competence is learning how to use commands. This course will introduce you both to the logic and structure, and to the terminology, of linux. Even if you do not often use commands yourself, they are standard points of reference.

http://www.linux.org/lessons/

The tutorials linked to in my signature also have a lot of great info.