What You Need to Talk Using Your PC

First you must have an Internet connection. A broadband connection is the best, but a good dial-up connection can work well. Most desktop computers have a speaker system but not a microphone. You must have a microphone and speaker to start. Many users recommend a headset, but that is not necessary. As soon as you have a microphone and speaker, or other device, you can test your system.

It is very easy to test with Skype. After downloading the software from Skype, you call user name "echo123" and an automated system will answer your call. You record your voice and it plays back to verify your connection.

The latest versions of Skype manage audio very well. A headset used to be almost required to keep from having a strong echo. The new versions of Skype should work very well with just a microphone and speaker. After establishing that you can use you PC successfully for voice, there are many accessories that you might consider.

A headset that includes the microphone built-in can be helpful, but you cannot leave your PC unless you have a cordless model. A USB phone handset offers utility similar to a headset, but you will have to hold it while talking. You can dial from such handsets, but your PC keyboard works just as well if you wish to use a headset.

Telephone adapters will let you use a regular phone for Skype. Speakerphones are offered but you will get similar results with a quality microphone and speaker. Cordless phones are available that are designed for use with Skype and usually include the buddy list on the phone display.

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