Cause: DirectShow graph deadlock. Solution: Do not "unplug" cameras while the software is running. Always use File > Close Source before physically disconnecting a USB device.

Cause: Another application (Zoom, Teams, Chrome) has exclusive control of the camera. Solution: Close all other applications using the webcam. Go to Windows Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and ensure "Allow desktop apps to access your camera" is turned ON.

| Software | Better for… | |----------|--------------| | OBS Studio | Advanced compositing, plugins, and streaming (free) | | Blue Iris | Large-scale IP camera surveillance (more expensive, more features) | | iSpy / Agent DVR | Open-source, cross-platform, AI object detection | | ManyCam | Simplified virtual cam + effects for calls (less camera control) |

Stick with Webcam 7 Pro if: you need a lightweight, single-Windows-PC solution for mixing local and IP cameras with low latency, motion alerts, and virtual camera output—without the complexity of a full NVR system.