I can't access the video stream of a "USB Video Device Lenovo Performance IR Camera," which is actually the IR module of the "Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam." I believe that Microsoft, for some reason, has made it inaccessible, possibly to prevent users from accidentally using it as their primary webcam during video conferences.

Since my goal is to use this piece of modern technology for its intended function—Face Recognition systems—I would like to access the webcam’s IR module video stream (I guess there's no need to explain why).

So my QUESTION IS:
HOW CAN I ACCESS THE VIDEO STREAM OF THE WEBCAM’S IR MODULE?

If it's possible to do this with standard (built-in) Windows tools, please let me know how—at least give me a hint.

If I need a special driver, SDK, or any other tool, could you provide me with the necessary resources?

Thanks a lot!

Hello TirexWhite,

Welcome to Lenovo Community

I understand that you are having concerns with the Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam IR module's video stream.
Is the Lenovo 510 FHD Webcam working on its own? What computer are you using with it?
Is the Windows Hello already configured on the machine?
Ensure that all updates are installed on the computer and then check this link for camera settings.
Update us how it goes.

Regards, 
Lorenzo_Lenovo

If you have need or are interested Lenovo is currently running a surplus parts sale in North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific regions, a lot of parts are offered at heavily discounted prices.
Visit the Lenovo Parts Clearance site to see the offerings.

The camera is recognized by the system perfectly. Windows Hello works, but sometimes it fails to recognize me. Either the Windows Hello algorithms are bad, or the camera module is not powerful enough.

The problem is that I can access the video stream of the RGB (color) module from any program, but the IR module is not available in the list of capture devices, no matter what program or method I use. I started with the regular Windows Camera app, then tried VLC Player, FFmpeg, and so on.

Nothing can detect or use the camera’s IR module, even though it is recognized as a USB Video Class device in the Device Manager.

I have attached screenshots from both "Device Manager" and "cameraprofiletool.exe" from Windows Kits.

Thanks for the reply. 
While I further check on this, kindly see this related topic from Microsoft.
I'll get back to you soon.

Regards, 
Lorenzo_Lenovo

If you have need or are interested Lenovo is currently running a surplus parts sale in North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific regions, a lot of parts are offered at heavily discounted prices.
Visit the Lenovo Parts Clearance site to see the offerings.

We hope the suggested thread helped you.
You can try to check further with the Microsoft support community as this may relate more on software customization as well as the software team in particular.

Regards, 
Lorenzo_Lenovo