How much data does a skype video call use roughly?

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tardtasticx

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#74557 2-Jan-2011 10:27

I never use Skype video calling, simply because I dont have a need to, but on my trip to chch I've planned to set up a webcam and mic at home, take my laptop with me and video call home to surprise mum because its her birthday while I'm down there and I'm staying with her family. Ill use my uncles Broadband connection if I can but if the video call will use alot of data (he only has a 3GB plan which he uses for work related stuff) I might just get an extra 2degrees data pack. The video call will be about 20-30mins roughly.

Thanks, Sam.

johnr

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#423338 2-Jan-2011 10:33

I have read approx 3.5meg per minute

corksta

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#423356 2-Jan-2011 11:27

I read that too. Can't remember the link though!

sbiddle

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#423440 2-Jan-2011 17:17

It depends entirely on the codec and quality so there is no correct answer to your question. If you've got a 720p HD camera you need a sustained 1Mbps symmetrical connection to use HD video. If you don't use HD Skype will dynamically change the video quality to compensate for your connection speed but you're safe to factor in around 200-300kbps for an average video call.

The best option would be to look at the Skype website

https://support.skype.com/faq/FA1417/How-much-bandwidth-does-Skype-need;jsessionid=1A3DEF6E0AE7DDD7C...

tardtasticx

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#423456 2-Jan-2011 18:31

I dont have an HD webcam, its the one built into my laptop (Compaq CQ62) which I think is VGA?

sbiddle

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#423464 2-Jan-2011 18:52

tardtasticx: I dont have an HD webcam, its the one built into my laptop (Compaq CQ62) which I think is VGA?

Skype will dymanically change the bandwidth usage to ensure an optimum video call and doesn't used a fixed amount of bandwidth and there is no way to set bandwidth usage. The best bet is to look at the bandwidth usage in tools and see how much you use.

tardtasticx

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#423465 2-Jan-2011 18:54

Ok will do. Someone in CHCH, how fast is 2degrees usually? Just in case I have to use their MBB