Skype & Web Cams

[Tysonator]

Hi,
my dad would like to have a Web cam with his MSN & an internet phone to call some of his pal's that now live in Australia. :)
So, which skype phone is best, I really only need a cheapy one just to get him started. Then if he needs more features I can look in to it more then. :)

As for the web cam, what about Logitech QuickCam Connect apx £16.00
Are these just simple plug & play devices ! ? :undecided:

Many thanks

[Mark]

For Skype, USB headset is the way to go unless you want to have a 'pc off' solution. A regular headset will do as well but I prefer to keep PC audio and VoIP audio seperate.

[Tysonator]

For Skype, USB headset is the way to go unless you want to have a 'pc off' solution. A regular headset will do as well but I prefer to keep PC audio and VoIP audio seperate.

I was going to buy him a cheap skype phone. I think Tesco's do one for £14-£20.

[Mark]

Same thing - just a handset instead of a headset. May actually be better in this case.

[Tysonator]

will do.
Do I just install the Skype software and then plug the phone in ?
I take it I need to set an account up for him in Skype ?
I have never used Skype of web cam so completely in dark on this area !

[Mark]

Yes - it's all done through the software. Never tried a webcam myself but the headset was 'plug and go'.

[Tysonator]

Cool, I will go buy the said cheap phone from Tesco's and the Logitech web cam.
I will let you know how I get on
Cheers for your help

[Mark]

Please make sure it's for Skype and not Tesco Internet Phone service. :)

[Tysonator]

oh that is a good point !
I will have to go to PC world then and buy a skype phone.
cheers for that

[Mark]

In most cases, USB handsets will work either way, but Skype-certified ones will have dedicated buttons for Skype access and more support from Skype themselves if you have problems.

[Tysonator]

Many thanks Mark, I will buy a skype phone at the week end.