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Requiring a Second Camera in Respondus Monitor

A faculty guide that explains how to enable and use the Respondus Monitor second camera feature, while outlining requirements, limitations, and best practices to ensure a secure and student-friendly testing experience.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Respondus Monitor includes an option to require students to use a second camera during an exam. This feature provides an additional viewing angle, enhancing exam security and offering more context during the review process.

When enabled, instructors can review multiple recordings simultaneously, including the student’s webcam, screen activity, and footage from a second camera.

Image: Review of exam session in Respondus (Screenshot provided by Respondus)

Three views are seen on the screen: Student's screen, front webcam view, and 2nd camera side view. Two flags are present both stating, "student prompted to fix second camera interruption."

Important Considerations:

Requiring a second camera adds a layer of technical complexity for students. Before enabling this feature, consider the following:

  • Accessibility: Not all students may be able to meet the technical requirements

  • Device equity: Some students may not have access to a second device

  • Student experience: Additional setup may increase stress or confusion

Recommendation:

Use this feature primarily for high-stakes or proctored exams where additional security is necessary.

Important Limitations

  • Respondus does not control the student’s phone operating system.

  • Poor lighting, low battery, or unstable positioning may affect video quality.

  • If a student cannot provide a second device, you will need to determine an alternative, such as:

    • Alternative testing arrangements

    • In-person proctoring

    • Or a different assessment method

Best Practices for Faculty

To help ensure a smooth testing experience:

  • Clearly explain camera positioning expectations (e.g., show workspace, keyboard, and screen)

  • Provide a practice quiz so students can test their setup in advance

  • Remind students to:

    • Fully charge their second device

    • Keep the device plugged in

    • Enable camera/microphone permissions

    • Use a stable surface for the device

Students can test their second device in advance at:
​https://respondus.com/camera2

How to Enable the Second Camera

Step 1: Open Respondus Monitor Settings

  • Open the Respondus LockDown Browser Dashboard

  • Select your exam and choose Settings

Step 2: Enable Respondus Monitor

  • Confirm Respondus Monitor is enabled

  • Select your preferred recording option (e.g., webcam + screen)

Step 3: Require a Second Camera

  • Locate the Second Camera option

  • Select:
    ​“Require students to use a second camera in addition to the webcam”

  • (Optional) Add customized instructions for students

Checkbox "Require students use a second camera in addition to the webcam EDIT TEXT [explain]

What Students Will Need

Students must have:

  • A second device (phone or tablet recommended)

  • A device capable of scanning a QR code

  • A stable internet connection

Important notes:

  • The second camera must be a separate device (not another webcam plugged into the same computer)

  • No additional app is required—students connect through their device browser

What Students Experience

When starting the exam:

  1. Students complete the standard webcam check

  2. A QR code appears on their screen

  3. They scan the code using their second device

  4. The second camera connects through their browser

  5. Students position the device based on your instructions

  6. Once connected, they proceed with the exam

During the exam, students should keep the second device:

  • Plugged in (recommended)

  • Stable and unmoving

  • Active on the camera page throughout the exam

Screenshots Provided by Respondus: Student View

Second Camera Instructions page 1: Default instructions that can be customized

Second Camera - Instructions "This exam requires the use of a second camera. Use a mobile device with a camera that can scan a QR code. Position the second camera so it shows your screen, keyboard, mouse and face in the video." Continue botton

Second Camera Instructions Page 2: Start Second Camera Setup

Second Camera - Tips. "Plug in the device and enable Do not disturb (if available). Once displayed, keep the video page on your second device active and topmost. Do not change the camera orientation after the recording indicator appears." Set up Second Camera button

Second Camera Instructions Page 3: QR Code

Second Camera - QR code.png

Second Device View: Allow Access

Permissions: Access the Microphone and Camera.

2nd Device View: Ready Confirmation

Mobile_connected: "Position your camera according to your instructor's directions. Select "I'm Ready" to continue. I'm ready button.

Troubleshooting Tips

Common issues and solutions:

  • Device won’t connect:
    → Ensure the QR code is scanned correctly and permissions are allowed

  • Camera permissions blocked:
    → Students must enable camera/microphone access in their device settings

  • Unstable video feed:
    → Recommend placing the device on a fixed surface and avoiding movement

Respodus articles:

How to Require a Second Camera for a Respondus Monitor Exam – Respondus Support

Setting Up a Second Camera for a Respondus Monitor Exam – Respondus Support

Final Notes

The second camera feature is included with Respondus Monitor and does not require additional software or cost. However, it should be used thoughtfully, with consideration for student access and experience.

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