Comments on: How to Use Skype (New Media Monday)

By: Craig

Craig — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 01:46:30 +0000

For multiple party conversations, DimDim is more efficient since each computer only talks with the server where Skype has every one talk with everyone else.

One interesting thing to note, is you can use Skype AND DimDim at the same time. This opens up a variety of interesting twists.

By: Paul Hastings

Paul Hastings — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:05:57 +0000

Do you know which is more efficient bandwidth-wise, DimDim or mebeam?

By: Thomas

Thomas — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:53:49 +0000

My thinking is that for Skype video you would only use two computer one for AFF and one for NEG. But you are right. If you need to have multiple locations or you have a third party judge DimDim looks great.

Another good site for video conferencing is http://www.mebeam.com. It requires no downloads, setup or signup. You just create a room and have people meet you there. I tried it and it setup was dead easy on both windows and Mac OS X.

By: Bran

Bran — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:42:45 +0000

Skype is really cool. I've been using it for debate stuff. I have several observations (lol) to make:

1) Skype works in Linux, just FYI. http://www.skype.com/download/skype/linux That's one of the main reasons I'm still using it. I personally think the linux version they produced is better than the windows layout. (for some reason everyone adds extra buttons when they make something for Windows – RealPlayer has this problem too) And Ubuntu linux will automatically recognize whatever webcam you throw at it. Actually much easier to set up than in windows.

2) And I've had no major problems with feedback on my computer, and I'm not using a headset mic. Actually, my 7 year old mic tends to get better quality than most of my friends who use headsets.

3) Here's my problem with skype: (Other than the fact that they need to WAY simplify their Windows version) Video only works for two-person conversations. So you can have TP debate rounds, you just have to do them in sound-only. Oh well. I'm thinking DimDim may be a great alternative for that. http://www.dimdim.com What do you think about it?

> Brian