craig mathias
Principal

IPEVO Free.2 Skype USB Handset with LCD

Feature
Nov 10, 20081 min

 

Cool Yule Rating: 4.5 stars

Price: $39.99

Product Web site

Description: Skype is great, but anyone who has tried to use it via a notebook’s built-in microphone and speaker has probably noticed less-than-stellar voice quality. Often, echoes and other artifacts can detract from otherwise excellent call quality. A handset such as the IPEVO Free.2 Skype USB Handset can correct these problems, and adds a degree of familiarity and comfort that most people enjoy.

Setup was difficult; don’t use the CD that comes with the product; download a new driver instead. But once you know this, you’ll be up and running in no time. Sound quality was excellent. You’ll need a quick review of the manual (don’t forget to click within Skype to allow the device to connect), but once you familiarize yourself with the buttons and such you won’t want to make a Skype call without this. Some might want a cordless version (like me), but the convenience here is terrific and the price is right.

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craig mathias

Craig J. Mathias is a principal with Farpoint Group, an advisory firm specializing in wireless networking and mobile computing. Founded in 1991, Farpoint Group works with technology developers, manufacturers, carriers and operators, enterprises, and the financial community. Craig is an internationally-recognized industry and technology analyst, consultant, conference speaker, author, columnist, and blogger. He regularly writes for Network World, CIO.com, and TechTarget. Craig holds an Sc.B. degree in Computer Science from Brown University, and is a member of the Society of Sigma Xi and the IEEE.

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