Skype - Free Computer to Computer Internet 'Telephone'

[Marc]

Has anyone here tried Skype Computer to Computer Internet 'Telephone'?

[Oriondad]

I have talked to a supplier who has and they swear by it. I wanted to look into it, and now your post has reminded me.

My understanding is you use your computer to connect to another "Skype" programmed computer and you can use them like phones. Both computers need Skype and need to be "mic'd" up.

Not much, but that is all I know at the moment

[Marc]

I have it installed on my iMac and want to try it with someone in the near future.

I used a similar program back int he 1990's when i was working with Harley. I had a fellow in York and we talked a lot using a prgram (the name I can't remember). That was like 1996. It was a bit choppy because he was on dialup there. It was nice because it was free so if we sment an hour or two talking about the project it didn't cost anything. I figure in todays world it probably works real well. I know a few companies have links to people's computers - Their Skype number - on their web site.

[Howard Atkins]

Marc,
I am going to get miced up and will be in contact

[Marc]

OK - My 'name' is elsmarc

If you give me an approximate time / day I'll make sure I have the program launched on my computer.

[Marc]

Howard called me and Skype really works nice as a telephone. Clear, free and it appears that conference calls can be made. I didn't even have to use headphones - I piped it through my stereo (well, mmy iMac is always hooked up to the stereo anyway) and used the built in mic. I could hear Howard very clearly. There is some 'cellphone' like echo from time to time.

I'm impressed so far! All it needs is an 'answering machine' function for when you're away from the computer.

[Marc]

Howard and I have been 'playing' with Skype - We just had about a 2 hour conversation - Israel to Ohio USA - and it went very well. I had to use headphones and the Mac's built in mic. Using external speakers caused too much noise - feedback to Howard - and that caused a lot of voice dropouts.

I used something similar back around 1996 and the 'problems' are about the same. It's trying to be full duplex like a 'normal' telephone, but at times drops back to half duplex (as sometimes happens on cell phones).

One thing that has changed is there used to be a bit of a delay. I'm assuming broadband has significantly reduced that issue. Whilst speaking with Howard there was no discernable 'delay'.

NOTE from the Skype FAQ: Headphones help to eliminate echo and background noise. Computers without built-in microphones can use an external microphone or a headset. A headset, USB or other, is recommended for best sound quality.

[db]

Quick question Marc, is the registration and use free? Or is it just the download that is free? Their website doesn't make that too clear.