How to Setup a Skype Video Conference

Internet has changed the method of communication over long distances. In the past, communicating with loved ones in different parts of the world was not only difficult but also very expensive. However, with the development of Skype, this is no longer an issue. Now people in all parts of the world can not only talk to each other but also see other with video conferencing facility.

A lot of people are confused about the nature of Skype. Skype is actually a Voice over IP (VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol) service provider. After you have found out how Skype works, you will easily be able to talk to your near and dear ones located in different parts of the world with ease. If there are a number of people you want to talk to at the same time, you will be able to converse with all of them using Skype conference calling facility. However, with the video conferencing feature of Skype, you can have video conference calls as well so that you will at least be able to see your loved ones over the Internet.

How to Make a Skype Video Conference Call

When you want to make a video conference call on Skype, you will have to ensure that the camera is attached to the computer and is in working condition. Same is the case with headphones. They will be required for you to talk. The next step is to check if you have Skype installed on your system. It is free to download. If it is not installed, then you will have to go the Skype website to download the application. The last of the preparation measure for a 3 way video conference is to have a Skype account. If you do not have one, register yourself with a username and password so that you can use the different facilities given by Skype. Now let's see how to make a video conferencing call using Skype.

• Launch Skype and enter your username and password to log in.
• Check if the people you want to have video conference with are on your Skype friends list. If they are not, then using the search box in Skype, add them to your friends list.
• Once everything is set, select the person you want to call and press on the 'call' button.
• When you dial the call, a window will appear with the video icon. In the icon your image will be seen.
• On the other person's end he will have the option of accepting the video call.
• After the person accepts the call, both you and the person will be able to see each other.
• If the window appears small, you can get the person's image as a full screen by clicking on the icon with four arrows.
• Now you can call the other person you would want to have video conference with as well. The process will be the same as the first call-recipient's turn. However, since you are the initiator of the call, you will have to make sure that no one is dropped from the call.
• Continue to talk as long as you want. After you are done, disconnect the call.

Now you know how to use Skype for video conference. Using Skype on a Mac is no different from using it on a PC. The only difference is that you will have to download Skype for Mac. Rest of the steps are the same. Using Skype, you can have as many as 9 people in the video conference at any given one point of time. It is important to note that Skype video conferencing is still in the nascent stage. Therefore, you may be have to be prepared for some hiccups.