Skype

Skype is a communications tool that can make phone calls, video calls and conferences and text chat.
It is currently owned by Microsoft who offer it as an app in Windows, Android and Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad or Mac)

It is possible to make calls to a phone number that does not have Skype but this will have call costs above the cost of internet access.
For Skype to Skype calls there are no costs above the internet access fees.
For a friend or colleague who has Skype the full range of options are available: voice, video and text chat.

What is needed for Skype

  • An internet connection
  • A compatible device with microphone and speakers/headphones

(smartphones, tablets and laptops are already OK but desktop computers may need a microphone or perhaps a headset with microphone)

How to get Skype

  • Download the app on your device
  • Set up an account (you can use a Microsoft account if you have one or create a new account - preferable if privacy is a concern)
  • Open Skype and allow it access to Contacts, Microphone and Speaker
  • It may show a list of all your contacts but you should switch to Skype contacts as this lists those of your contacts that have Skype
  • Before you call anyone use the Skype Echo/Sound Test Service to check the function of your microphone and speaker/headset
ScreenSkype.jpg


Skype main page on Android tablet

If there are any problems with the sound test sort these out before using Skype

Using Skype

  • On mobile phones, laptops and tablets the video camera should come up immediately when you make a call by selecting a contact
  • On a desktop computer you may have to further test the video camera from the Skype menu
  • Once set up you can look at the Contact List for anyone who is online, usually indicated with a coloured spot (green)
  • Some can have Skype on but not active and this should also be indicated
  • Click on an active contact (one who is online) to see if they will take the call
  • It may be that you will have to text, email or phone to make a convenient time to Skype with a contact
  • Normally, once a contact has accepted the call as voice only or voice + video the connection will be made and you can see and hear each other.
  • There is also a text box to type messages while you are talking. This can be used for extra information like a web link
  • Unless you have and expensive internet connection you can talk as long as you like, then just hang up
  • You can make a group call up to 25 people by selecting all the contacts you want to call and then use the call button (it should start in audio but then you can select the video button)

NOTE:
While Skype works well most of the time, it operates by sharing capacity on all connected devices (peer to peer networking). This means the quality at any time is affected by the multiple connections used. It also means that as a Skype user, you are supporting other Skype users while ever Skype is active on your device, even if you are not making a call at the time. This is probably not an issue with home wifi but could be significant with a mobile phone internet connection.

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