What is Skype and is it free?

[PhiloVance]

I have a daughter in law who claims she set up Skype and uses it for free. I always thought it was a pay service, small monthly charge but still a pay service.

[photolady]

It's free. Several of my family members use it to communicate with each other those that are far away. They wouldn't use it if it costs money.

[Welshjim]

PhiloVance--It is free only if you are talking to another Skype member. Otherwise you pay, but the cost is very low. I think about 2½ cents per minute for much of the world including the US.
Really free within the US for the rest of 2011 is Google Call Phone.
http://www.google.com/chat/voice/
I think the caller must be connected to the PC for Google, but that Skype has ways around that. http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/home

[PhiloVance]

OK, thanks. Google chat looks good too.

Questions about webcams:

I don't have a webcam, so I'd have to buy one. Does it come with a built in microphone or do you need to buy that too? Are they hooked up by usb plugs?

[SuperSparks]

You don't have to use a webcam with Skype if you don't want to, though the party at the other end cannot see you if you don't of course.

Webcams are connected via USB. As far as I know, most webcams don't have a mic. It's probably best to get a separate one anyway, for good results.

[Train]

And I expect you need to get a good one at that.

I bought 7, but only 2 worked with my voice. Just my experience and that not with Skype or google.

[Drs Orders]

You can get a good headset for around $20.00

[fink]

You can get a good headset for around $20.00

Which is what I've done and it eliminates potential feedback (squeeling) from desk/laptop speakers picking up the local microphone sound.
Sound quality is generally very good and video is decent although with lower end hispeed audio and/or video may degrade.