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Skype – Computer based communication tool

Learning Advantages  Communicate between computers and telephones at low to no cost  Available anywhere if user has a reliable connection  In addition to computer to computer and computer to phone communication, allows for video conferencing, file transfer and

Technology summary is free to download communication tool that allows users to connect over the internet. Communication between internet-connected computers is free and requires only a software download. Instant messaging, video conferencing, and file transfer between computers is also free. Skype credit, available to purchase at www.skype.com, allows users to call cell phones and landlines from their computer for a low fee. Users can also, for a fee, receive a local number to receive calls directly to their account from any phone.

Communication is not dedicated to a specific computer. Wherever in the world you are, if you can download Skype onto a computer connected to the internet, you can log in to your account and communicate as you would from your home PC or Mac. Additionally for Windows users, Skype can be run from a USB memory stick, eliminating the need to download the software onto the host computer.

System requirements vary from to operating system. Skype is currently supported on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Windows Mobile. At this time, the Palm OS is not supported. Most recent computers will meet the requirements for running Skype. To check the requirements for a particular operating system, go to http://www.skype.com/download/skype/.

Where to get help Skype support is available online at http://www.skype.com/help/

Web page for technology Skype downloads are available at http://www.skype.com/download/skype/windows/

Technical needs  Free software application must be installed on your computer, or memory stick if using Windows  Need a microphone and sound card for phone calls and audio chatting, a camera for video chatting  Connection to the internet – a broadband connection is required for best results and for video conferencing

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Skype Step-by-step instructions

1. To begin the free Skype download, go to http://www.skype.com and click on the green Download Skype button. On the next page, you will receive two options: “Skype Free” and “Skype Premium.” Click on Download Skype under “Skype Free.”

2. On the next screen you will be asked to create an account. Enter your information. Sign the privacy agreement by clicking the box.

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3. Once you‟ve created an account, a SkypeSetup.exe window will pop open. Click on Save

File.

4. If you are using , the file will be wherever you save it on your computer. If you are using MozillaFirefox or GoogleChrome, the „Downloads‟ folder will open automatically from which you can then click on the SkypeSetup.exe program, as shown below.

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5. Once you have selected your preferred language, the program will begin to install.

6. Next, the program will ask you to check your audio and video devices. Click „Continue‟ and it will open another window for you to do so. Once you are done with this step, click „Continue.‟

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7. You have now installed Skype! Sign in and talk away.

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SKYPE PREMIUM The features of Skype Premium:  Unlimited calls to US and Canada  Group video calling  No partner advertising  Group screen sharing  Live chat costumer support  30% off an HD Webcam  Conference calls  Instant messaging  Skype-to-Skype video and audio calls If you have chosen the ‘Skype Premium’ option, follow these steps: 1. You will be asked to create an account or sign in.

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2. Next, from the options on the page, you will be required to pick how you would like to pay and enter your billing information. Then press ‘Next.’

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3. Choose your payment method and click ‘Next.’

4. You will receive your order summary.

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5. After you signed in, use the Search box on the right to search for on your contact list.

6. To add a new contact, click on "Add a contact" on the bottom of the contact bar to the right. A box will pop open and you have to enter the information of the person you are seeking.

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7. If you'd like to create a conference call with several people, click on the "Create a Group" on the bottom of the contact list. This will lead you to an "Empty Group". You can add people to the group with the button that looks like a plus (+) sign.

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