Point to point video calling absolutely free of charge
System requirements
This tutorial will talk you through getting web based video calling working on a Windows 2000 or XP based system. Other operating systems are in the pipeline, but for the moment, it's Windows only.
You'll need to acquire and install a webcam. I'd recommend the Logitech range, but any camera will do.
Something like a phenomenon...
You can't really avoid hearing about it. As of the time of writing it has 212 million downloads, it's the Internet telephony revolution - it's Skype.
If you haven't tried Skype yet, it's time to give it a go. It allows free PC - PC calling and for a small fee you can even make and receive calls to landline phones. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skype
The first step then is to download and install Skype. During the install process you'll need to create a Skype account for your connection. http://www.skype.com/download
Cut to the freebies...
But you aren't reading this article to find out about another voice over IP application. You are reading it to find out how to make video calls for free. It's surprisingly simple now that you've got Skype installed.
Make sure that you have the camera drivers installed and that the camera can capture an image within Windows.
The Skype application is similar in some ways to your web browser. It allows the application to be extended by installing plugins. These software modules add features which aren't normally available within Skype.
The cutting edge of Skype video calling is currently provided by the Dialcom Spontania video4IM plugin. Download the Spontania plugin here. http://www.video4im.com
Having got everything installed, plugged in and running, you'll need to find a friend who has a similar setup. Launch Spontania, Skype and have these running within the Windows system tray. Then when you're ready to call your friend fire up Skype and place the call.
You may need to switch the camera on in Spontania, press the webcam button on the top toolbar. Also ensure that the "send video" option is selected in the Call drop down menu at the top of the Spontania window.
Summary
It takes a bit of setting up, and clearly you'll have to talk one or two of your friends through the process (or better still send them a link to this article). I think you'll agree that when everything is behaving as it should the results are worth the effort.
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View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
View their website at: http://www.enigmaconnections.com
