I’m looking for some good, easy-to-use PC videoconferencing software for the holidays. The grandparents can’t make the trip but still want to visit with the grandkids. Both parties have a computer, Webcam and broadband connection. What do you recommend?
If you’re using the same instant-messaging software, start by looking at the video-chat features you might already have available. Microsoft, Yahoo and AOL offer video-chat features in their latest IM clients. A variety of other video-chat programs, such as Paltalk, iVisit and ICQ, are available for download. For best results, use the same program at both ends of the videoconference.
Verify that both computers and cameras meet the minimum requirements specified by the software and start with basic text messaging to get the contact lists set up and working.
If all goes well, you can establish voice contact next and talk your way through getting the last details in place so that the Webcam connection and video-messaging features will work. It should be as simple as plugging everything in, starting the messenger software, initiating a chat connection and clicking a Webcam or video link to establish your videoconferencing session. Providing remote technical support if something goes wrong will be easiest if you are using nearly identical setups on both ends.
