Idoits guide to skype needed please

annie123

Hello
I did do a search but got 125 threads, and ended up more confused then before I started reading them:rolleyes:

So far my understanding is that:
.you get free calls between skype users.
.you need either a headset with mic or a skype phone:D
.you download softwear to computer, found it on skype:D

Questions:
Is a skype phone the sort of thing I have found on ebay
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250460358956&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Does it always have to be plugged into the computer?
Can I use it out and about in wifi spots?

Got confused with the phone ( I'd rather that than headset) when 3mobile kept turning up in my google search, dont want to use them for anything.

Sorry if I've asked daft questions, I do get there in the end:D

davester

the one you have shown on ebay is USB plug into your computer when you want to use it. Which you then have to have that computer connected to the internet. If you buy skype credit or take out a monthly contract you can call landline or mobile numbers.

annie123

Thank you davester

Another question:
Does it make any difference how the phone connects to the computer ?
I notice its either usb or what looks like jack plugs depending on the phone

davester

jack plugs go into the headphone and mic socket on the laptop. it wont make any difference to how you make calls unless the number buttons on the phone only work with USB. Tone dialing is a possible way it might work in the jack plug option. but then if you have everones number stored in skype its a double mouse click away anyway. I use a headset its more convient and can play annoying telesales agent while talking to your mates.

Taffybiker

The skype phone is really little more than a mic and speaker. You can use computer speakers and a computer mic for exactly the same thing and get better quality. The reason headphones are recommended is to avoid acoustic feedback. Something like these would be ideal. I made the mistake of buying one of the phones you are considering. It is gathering dust.

wallbash

I like the USB phone , seems more natural than sitting with the 'telesales agent'
head gear. The sound might not be as good, but its ok.

annie123

Thanks guys
Didn't think to look at Argos, and for that price its worth a go.

Good practice if I want to become involved in telesales;)

Backbiter

How do Skype make money?

davester

They charge you 3 pound for £20 credit. so its £23 so you can call real phones. They also have other plans as well that give unlimited calls a month for about £3.50 a month. Great for calling abroad cheaply.
The free calls are computer to computer just like Msn or Yahoo.

ioscorpio

Skype tutorial http://forum.skype.com/index.php?showtopic=41492

I have used a usb handset on windows xp but it does not work on my vista laptop, if your speakers and microphone are ok on your pc you can use skype without plugging in a headset or phone, to see whether you like it. Have you done a test call on skype yet?

I now use my Orange broadband 2nd line which is a voip line, that you just plug a standard phone into.

annie123

one more question,
if 2 mobiles have skype on them and the one making the skype to skype call (not skype to mobile using skype credit) is in a wifi area, does the other mobile have to be in a wifi area too? or will they be able to answer it anywhere?