Setting Up A Side-Angle Camera | Honorlock Help Center

Some exams require a side view to show your workspace, hands, and keyboard during testing.

Step 1: Check Your Equipment

What you need:

A laptop or desktop computer.
An external USB webcam OR a smartphone (used as a webcam).
(Optional) A mount (tripod, gooseneck stand, or a stack of books/coffee mug to prop your phone up).
(Optional) A USB extension cable if your cord isn't long enough.

Important — Unsupported Devices:

iPad, Amcrest camera, or Nexigo camera— these are not compatible with Honorlock.

Important — Mobile Application Deactivated:

When not using the Honorlock mobile application, Honorlock recommends using a wired webcam. Because phones, apps, and operating systems vary widely, support may be limited if you run into technical issues.

Use your smartphone as a webcam:

You can use your iPhone as a webcam on the latest version of MacOS, or you can use your Android Phone in Webcam Mode with the latest version of Android, with either MacOS and Windows. Please refer to the guides below for your computer option:

- Windows
- Mac

You can also use the Honorlock Mobile Application (the Honorlock Mobile App must be active for your institution) or a secure third-party app, to use your smartphone as an external webcam for your computer.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Pick a quiet, well-lit room.
Clear off your desk completely (leave only your computer and any allowed materials). See the example below:

Step 3: Position Your Camera

Follow the on-screen steps to ensure your head, hands, keyboard, and screen are all in view.

Find the right distance: Sit in your chair and stretch your arm out to the side. Place your camera right where your fingertips end (about 3 feet away).
Prop it up: Set the camera on a tripod, a stack of books, a shelf, or prop your phone up against a heavy mug.
Plug it in: Connect the camera to your computer using a USB cable (wired connections work best to prevent disconnects).

Step 4: Adjust Your View

Look at the camera preview on your computer screen. Follow the onscreen overlay and adjust the camera until all 4 of these areas are visible:

Your profile (side of your face/head)
Your hands
Your keyboard
Your computer screen (and any permitted paper notes)

Tip: Use the on-screen Honorlock guidelines to help line up your shot. It doesn't need to be perfect—just make sure all 4 areas are clearly visible.

Switch the overlay based on which side your camera is on.

Step 5: You’re All Set!

Questions?

If you have questions about setting up an external camera for side angle view, please visit Honorlock.com/support for further assistance.