Skype help

[H5]

I need to get Skype going to get this free call thing going for my bro in the US and some relatives in France. As far as I can tell I need a microphone, speakers, a webcam and to download the software.

 

Is that it? What microphone / webcams are the ones to get? I know nothing!

[AndySpak]

Get yourself a headset from PC World (or similar) that way you won't get feedback. Just get a cheap one, the sound quality is bobbins, just like a normal telephone. Its fine for talking but don't worry about getting an expensive mic.

 

I don't bother with a webcam, just use it for voice but you can get reasonable webcams for about £20 in the same place.

 

[Ardesco]

Don't need a webcam, you can just use a mic (and speakers obviously so you can hear). I find headsets are the best, pick up less interference.

[H5]

Cheers guys. I think the lady will want a webcam so she can see her relatives.

 

What about these things?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Skype-certified ... 250&sr=8-1

 

And this?

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Creative-Webcam ... 42&sr=8-10

[Ardesco]

Bah don't listen to her. I bought a webcam so my wife could chat to her sister in new york about 18 months ago. So far she has used it once (when we first got it) and never again.

 

She just chats to her sister over MSN (which incidentally can use the webcam).

 

Also nothing stopping the relatives having a webcam so the missus can see them, even if they can't see her.

[H5]

True, this is women!!

 

Anyone had any experience of those Skype phones though?

[sl114]

I have a skype phone but a USB one that attaches to the computer, works really well and well worth the £13 i spent on it.

 

Go to Maplin, they have loads!

[H5]

Cheers bud.

[H5]

Another question related to this, I have seen sme phones that claim to allow you to receive normal landline calls and Skype calls in the one unit. Can someone explain to me how this connects / works please??