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Forums › Mobile handsets › How can I talk with and see my friend in England?
monstacat

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#30221 2-Feb-2009 10:31
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I have my best friend in the UK and we've both got Yahoo Messenger.

He wants me to set my computer up so I can have a "live" conversation with him by Audio and Video but I have little idea about how to go about it or what equipment I will need.

My computer is an NEC running Windows XP.

Can anyone off me some advice, please?

- Murray

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johnr
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  #193363 2-Feb-2009 11:12
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USB webcam
Mic
Head phones

John



monstacat

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  #193367 2-Feb-2009 11:22
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Ta, John

I guess it doesn't matter what make I use...

Murray

gehenna
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  #193375 2-Feb-2009 11:44
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There are a few options out there.  First step is to get a webcam.  Don't skimp on this because the cheap ones you can get at Dick Smith or whatnot aren't that good for quality.

Microsoft Lifecam range are great, and so are some of the Logitech ones. 

Some webcams come with inbuilt microphones, eliminating the need to get an extra mic.  The Lifecam ones have this.  Then as long as you've got speakers you don't really need headphones either. 

The bigger question is what type of internet connection do you have?  If you're on dial-up then forget this as an option.  If you're on 256k ADSL again, you'll have a terrible experience.  If you're on normal "high-speed" broadband then you'll have a good experience so long as your hardware is up to par.

Once you install the webcam its usually just a case of going to your messenger settings and into the Audio/Video screen to configure your webcam/mic/speaker or headphones to work with the messenger.  Once that's done just call your friend and press the button that corresponds to starting a video chat.



monstacat

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  #193382 2-Feb-2009 12:21
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Wow!!

Thank's for all this information.

Gives me heaps to think on, Ta

Murray

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