Skype is a chat program that allows people to use their voice to communicate over the internet (not to be confused with VOIP) and even if equiped use a webcam to share video, great for business and the holidays alike!
A client recently emailed and asked:
How do I know if my laptop can be used for Skype? I don’t think it has a microphone from what I can recall. Is there an easy way to check this?
And I replied:
In order to use Skype you’ll need a microphone, so you’re on the right track.
To check if you HAVE a microphone the easiest thing to do is click start, all programs, accessories, entertainment and then Sound Recorder. This opens a small box that will allow you to record using the microphone, hit round red record button, lean in real close to the computer and YELL! If the little green line pops up and down, YES! You have a microphone if not, you’ll need to buy one, and to be 100% honest if you’re going to use skype often or effectively you’ll need a microphone anyway. The built in ones tend to not be well suited for skype because they pickup the echo from the speakers as well.
There are lots of skype microphone / headset / phones on the market, some as cheap as $25 some as expensive as $150, pop into staples, futureshop or bestbuy for a headset or skype phone you're comfortable with and you should be good to go!
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