How do I start the webcam - does it have to be linked to a specific app, i.e. Skype, or can it be started independently? Thanks

Let me assist you in this regard.

This issue could be due to below reasons:
1. Corrupted Wireless drivers.
2. Corrupted BIOS.
3. Defective wireless adapter.

Before confirming, I request you to perform the below steps to isolate the issue.

Step 1: Update BIOS from the below softpaq:

ftp://ftp.hp.com/pub/softpaq/sp38001-38500/sp38173.exe

Installation Instructions
1. Download the SoftPaq .EXE file to a directory on your hard drive.
2. Execute the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Uninstall and reinstall the wireless drivers as follows:
1. Click Start, Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and then System icon.
2. This opens the System properties window.
3. Select Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4. Click "+" beside network tab.
5. Select the wlan and right click on it.
6. Click Uninstall and restart the Notebook.
Now reinstall the drivers from the below softpaq:

ftp://ftp.hp.com/pub/softpaq/sp36501-37000/sp36542.exe
Installation Instructions
1. Download the SoftPaq .EXE file to a directory on your hard drive.
2. Execute the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.
NOTE: After the files are unpacked, the Setup program runs automatically. If
the setup program (Setup.exe) needs to be run manually, look for it in the
download directory.

If the issue still persists, it could be due to defective wireless adapter. I suggest you to perform the below step to confirm the issue.
Remove and reseat wireless adapter:
To get the step by step instruction how to remove and reseat wireless adapter please go through the bellow URL:
http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c01095493.pdf
Please refer page number:35 and 36 (44 of 122)
Please let me know if the issue still persist or you have any other issue because it is important that I resolve your issue in a timely manner. I would like to add that we value your precious time and We assure you of our dedicated support, 24 hours, 365 days a year.