A headset will improve Skype call quality.
Skype is a tool that combines instant messaging and text messaging with audio and video features. After you download the program onto your computer, you can use it to talk online to other users, call phones and hold video chats. Skype is free to download and easy to use, and it requires only a few tools to work properly.
Software
Before you can use Skype, you will need to download the software from the Skype website, http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/home. Install the program and create a Skype account. After that, Skype shows you a window that displays your contacts. From there, you can add friends, load your account with money to call or text and make calls. You can also download Skype onto an Internet-enabled cellphone and use it to chat or make calls when connected to wireless service.
Computer Hardware
The hardware you need to use Skype will depend on the way you want to use it. For text-based communication, you simply need a computer and a keyboard. To use the video calling feature, you can use an on-board webcam or install a peripheral webcam through a USB port. If you want to use the audio calling features, you will need speakers and a microphone.
Headset
The built-in microphone on your computer is usually suitable for calls, but it will pick up other noises besides your voice. For audio and video calls that require better quality, buy a headset with a noise-canceling microphone. The headset will allow only you to hear the person on the other end of the call and minimize background noises, which is useful if you are calling from a public location. If you are on a Mac computer, you will need to buy a USB headset instead of the standard PC version.
Internet Service
Because Skype uses the Internet to send instant messages, text messages and phone calls, you will need steady service. For chatting and sending text messages, you need only to have a basic Internet connection. If you plan to do video conferencing or long phone calls, either to other computers or to phones, the connection is crucial. Because phone and video calls use more bandwidth, the faster your connection is and the greater the download and upload speeds, the better the performance will be.
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