Skype Tech Help

A USB phone connected to a computer can be used with Skype.

Skype has revolutionized communications by phone and face-to-face via webcam. Before you start calling though, It's important to make sure your software and hardware are properly configured.

External Headset or USB Phone

Once you've plugged in your external device, your computer should recognize it automatically. If it doesn't, you'll need to run any additional software that came with it. Click on "Tools" > "Options" > "Audio settings." Select the audio device you're using from the microphone and speakers drop-down menus and then test by speaking into the microphone and pressing the play button in the speakers section. If all is well, you'll see the volume bar extend when you speak and hear a test ringtone through the device when you press the play button.

Add a Contact

You can make Skype-to-Skype calls only if the person you're attempting to call has accepted you as a contact and he has a valid Skype account. To add a contact, click "New" to the left of the application's main window and then select "New contact." Enter the name of the person you want to add and click the "Find" button." Highlight the person's name, click "Add contact" and then "Send." Once the other party has accepted your invitation, you'll be able to call him with Skype.

Webcam

If you're trying to make a video call to a contact and are having problems with your webcam, click on "Tools" > "Options" > "Video settings." Choose your webcam from the drop-down menu and select whom you want to automatically receive video calls from by checking the box next to the option you want.

References

• Skype: Need Help?