I was just wondering if I really need that software that came with my webcam and printer it puts programs in my PC and I think it puts spyware in there to I just did a recovery on my PC do to a virus that I could not get rid of and I am getting ready to hook my printer and webcam up just was wondering if there was a way around putting that software in my pc and make the webcam ect. work? thanks for the help
2007-01-05 05:42:23 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
This all depends on the hardware. They all have different needs. The best way to find out is to hook up the hardware and see if it works without loading the software. If it does, great. If not, go to the manufacturers website and try to download just the Device Driver. Most manufacturers will have both the version with all the added software and just the driver available.
2007-01-05 05:57:01 · answer #1 · answered by binaryking 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All you need are the drivers. Most disks have a "custom" choice when you install. If so just uncheck all the other stuff and only install the drivers. Alternatively, you can go to the website of the manufacturer and download the drivers there.
Also, Windows XP comes preloaded with drivers for many hardwares. Perhaps you webcam and printer are in there all ready for plug 'n play.
Good luck.
2007-01-05 13:47:27 · answer #2 · answered by ignoramus 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depending on the brand and model of your hardware, Windows may already have drivers for your cam and printer. This will be enough to allow them to operate, but may limit some of the options you have when using them. For instance you may not be able to set your printer up to only print from the black cartridge, or you may not be able to adjust contrast and color settings on your webcam. If Windows doesn't have a driver available for them, you will have no choice but to install the software if you want to use them.
2007-01-05 13:48:25 · answer #3 · answered by PDH 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
For them to work all you need is the device drivers. Most is just extra. Like most printers come with a program to monitor you ink levels, printer will work fine without it. And some web cams come with some video software but don't need this if just going to use it with yahoo or AIM or msn.
2007-01-05 13:46:21 · answer #4 · answered by micaso1971 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, usually most of the software packaged with a device for your PC is loaded with extras that most users don't need. Windows covers a lot of those same types of needs and automatically installs most "plug and play" devices. You might need the drivers supplied with the device - but that's about it if you wanted to just use the bare minimums.
2007-01-05 13:45:34 · answer #5 · answered by thescoob 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You just need the drivers on the disk (the things that make your hardware function) The rest of that junk they throw on there is useless!
2007-01-05 13:45:19 · answer #6 · answered by coreboy7 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're using Windows XP, just plug it in and let the installation wizard do it for you.
2007-01-05 13:45:01 · answer #7 · answered by Steven5441 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋