Executive Summary

PyjamaHR’s proctored assessments and AI interviews require candidates to have a working camera and microphone enabled throughout the session. This ensures the integrity of the assessment and allows the AI interviewer to interact with and evaluate candidates effectively. This article provides a comprehensive guide to camera and mic requirements, setup, troubleshooting, and best practices—so you can complete your interview smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

Detailed Overview

What Are Proctored Assessments on PyjamaHR?

Proctored assessments on PyjamaHR use AI to monitor and interact with candidates during interviews or tests. These assessments require real-time video and audio access to:
- Verify candidate identity
- Ensure test integrity
- Enable AI-driven question/answer interactions

Key Integration: The camera and microphone are mandatory for all AI interviews and proctored assessments. If either device is not working or not permitted, you will not be able to proceed.

Why Are Camera and Microphone Access Required?

Identity Verification: Ensures the candidate is present and matches application details.
AI Interaction: The AI interviewer listens to and evaluates your spoken responses.
Proctoring: Maintains assessment integrity by monitoring the environment.

Business Impact: Enabling camera and mic access reduces fraud, speeds up hiring, and ensures a fair process for all candidates.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Your Camera and Microphone

Prerequisites

A device (laptop, desktop, or mobile) with a working camera and microphone
A supported web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari)
Stable internet connection
The latest version of your browser
The unique PyjamaHR interview or assessment link

Step 1: Check Device Hardware

Ensure your device has a built-in or external camera and microphone.
- Example: “I don’t have a camera” (Conversation 2535) — You must use a device with a camera.
Test your camera and mic in another app (e.g., Google Meet, Zoom) to confirm they work.

Step 2: Grant Browser Permissions

Open your PyjamaHR interview link in your browser.
When prompted, click “Allow” to grant camera and microphone access.
- Screenshot callout: Show browser pop-up requesting permissions.
If you missed the prompt or blocked access:
- Click the lock icon in your browser’s address bar.
- Go to “Permissions.”
- Set both “Camera” and “Microphone” to “Allow.”
- Example: “Camera and mic access is blocked in settings” (Conversation 711).

Step 3: Verify Permissions in Device Settings

On Windows: Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera/Microphone and ensure access is enabled for your browser.
On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Camera/Microphone and allow access for your browser.

Step 4: Rejoin the Interview

If you changed any permissions or settings, refresh the page or rejoin using the same link.
Example: “Try rejoining using the same link” (Multiple conversations).

Step 5: Troubleshoot (if needed)

Switch browsers (e.g., from Chrome to Firefox).
Try a different device if possible.
Restart your device.

Advanced Usage & Best Practices

Power User Tips

Always test your camera and mic before joining the interview.
Use a wired headset for better audio quality and to avoid echo.
Close other apps that might use the camera/mic (Zoom, Teams, etc.).
Use a stable, high-speed internet connection to prevent audio/video lag.
Join from a quiet, well-lit environment for best results.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do:
- Enable camera and mic permissions as soon as prompted.
- Check device settings if browser permissions don’t work.
- Use the same interview link if you need to rejoin.

Don’t:
- Attempt to join without a camera or microphone (“Can I join without cam?” — No, Conversation 8866).
- Use a device with a damaged or non-functional camera/mic (“mic and camera damaged” — Conversation 4467).
- Ignore browser permission prompts.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Common Error Messages & Solutions

Issue/Message	Solution
“Camera/mic not detected”	Check device hardware, browser permissions, and try another browser or device.
“Camera access blocked and I cannot change it”	Go to browser settings > Permissions > Allow camera/mic. Refresh or rejoin the link.
“AI says I am not audible”	Test mic in another app, check browser/device settings, switch browsers, rejoin link.
“Unable to access camera and microphone”	Enable permissions, check device settings, rejoin using the same link.
“No option to unblock camera/mic”	Try a different browser or device.
“Camera light is on but not detected”	Refresh, rejoin, or restart device.
“Interview won’t start without camera/mic”	Use a device with both camera and microphone enabled and working.

What If Scenarios

What if my camera/mic is physically broken?
Use a different device or repair/replace the hardware.
What if permissions are blocked and I can’t unblock?
Try a different browser or device.
What if the AI skips questions or can’t hear me?
Check your mic, rejoin the interview, and ensure a stable connection.

Recovery Procedures

Rejoin using the same link after fixing settings or switching devices.
Contact support if all troubleshooting steps fail (provide screenshots if possible).

Comprehensive FAQ

1. Do I need a camera and microphone for my PyjamaHR interview?
Yes, both are mandatory for all proctored assessments and AI interviews.

2. Can I join the interview without a camera or mic?
No, you cannot proceed without both devices enabled and working.

3. What browsers are supported?
Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari are supported. If you face issues, try switching browsers.

4. How do I enable camera and mic permissions in my browser?
Click the lock icon in the address bar, go to Permissions, and set Camera and Microphone to “Allow.”

5. What if my camera or mic is not detected?
Check device hardware, browser permissions, and try another browser or device.

6. Can I use my mobile device?
Yes, as long as it has a working camera and microphone and a supported browser.

7. What if the AI says I’m not audible?
Test your mic in another app, check settings, and rejoin the interview.

8. Can I rejoin the interview if I fix my camera/mic?
Yes, use the same interview link to rejoin.

9. What if I accidentally blocked permissions?
Go to browser settings and manually allow camera/mic access.

10. What if my interview link expires while I’m troubleshooting?
Contact support to request an extension or new link.

11. Can I complete the interview later if I fix my device?
Yes, as long as the interview window is still open.

12. What if I see “No option to unblock” in settings?
Try a different browser or device.

13. Can I use external webcams or microphones?
Yes, as long as they are detected by your device and browser.

14. What if my camera/mic works in other apps but not in PyjamaHR?
Check browser permissions, try a different browser, and ensure no other app is using the camera/mic.

15. What if I need more time due to technical issues?
Contact support to request an extension.

AI Interview Scheduling: Ensure your device is ready before your scheduled slot.
Candidate Dashboard: Track interview status and rejoin links.
Support Center: For persistent issues, contact PyjamaHR support with screenshots of your error.

Summary Table: Common Scenarios and Solutions

Scenario	Solution
No camera/mic on device	Use a device with both camera and microphone
Permissions blocked in browser	Allow permissions via browser settings
Device settings block camera/mic	Enable access in device/system settings
Camera/mic not detected by browser	Switch browser or device, restart, rejoin link
Audio/video lag or breaks	Check internet connection, close other apps, use wired connection if possible
AI cannot hear you	Test mic in another app, check settings, rejoin
Interview link expired	Contact support for extension

By following this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to complete your PyjamaHR proctored assessment or AI interview without technical interruptions. For further assistance, reach out to PyjamaHR support with detailed information and screenshots.

Camera and Microphone Requirements for Proctored Assessments on PyjamaHR