VideoApplet Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What browser should I use for chatting on WebCamInABox?

    95% of modern browsers works with the WCB Video Applet. Unfortunately, some browsers don't support Java properly, so you may experience problems.

    The following browsers work well with WebCamInABox:
    • Internet Explorer v5.0 and higher.
    • Netscape Navigator v4.7
    • Mozilla 1.0 and higher

    The following browser does NOT work:
    • Web TV

    You may experience problem with certain versions of the following browsers:
    • AOL
    • Opera

    Please use Internet Explorer 5.x or 6.0 for the most stable viewing.
    (See FAQ #3: AOL users can use Internet Explorer while on AOL)

  2. Why do I only get a gray box on my screen?

    There are several things to check:

    The first thing to check is the settings on your browser. They CANNOT be set to "compress graphics". This is the default setting on the AOL browser, so if you have never changed it, be sure you do.
    It's very easy, please do the following steps:

    1. select "My AOL"
    2. select "Preferences"
    3. select "WWW"
    4. select "Web Graphics"

    then there is only once choice - UNCHECK the "compress graphics" button. Be sure to shut down and restart before trying to view the applet again.

    If you still see a gray box, check the version of your browser. Go to the top of your browser window and click "Help". Then select "About". If it says your browser's version is lower than:

    • 5.0 for Internet Explorer
    • 6.0 for AOL
    • 4.0 for Netscape Navigator
    • 1.0 for Mozilla

    then you have an old browser. We recommend updating/upgrading to Internet Explorer 6     here or please make sure your browser is up to date on your browser's home page.

    Check you proxy settings - some proxies/firewalls cannot work with Java. Try to disable proxy if you have it enabled.

    If you still have problems, try to install Sun Java plugin (please see FAQ #5 below)

  3. I have AOL, why can't I see the Video?

    Make sure your graphics are not compressed (see FAQ #2).

    AOL's browser isn't great, but the good news is you can use a newer browser with your AOL account. To learn how to use a new browser while keeping AOL, go to keyword: Browsers. You'll find complete and EASY instructions on how to use Netscape or Internet Explorer.

  4. I have Web TV, how can I see the Video?

    Unfortunately, by this moment Web TV does not support Java applets as well as some other Web technologies.

  5. Still have problems with Video, what should I do?

    Please try to install the Sun Java plug-in:http://java.sun.com/getjava/download.html

    Please note that you should restart your browser after the installation.

    If this does not help, please contact support and let us know your login name and describe the problem.