Internet phone fits in laptop
There are dozens of Internet phone services these days. These services use a technology known as Voice over Internet Protocol, or more commonly "VoIP."
The idea behind VoIP is fairly simple to understand but highly complex to make happen. I still don't think it's ready for prime time, but it's getting better.
The Internet lets us send data across the street and around the world. That data can be text, images, videos and sound. If companies such as Skype and Vonage have anything to say about it, perhaps one day VoIP will be the way to go.
Evidently the big phone companies think this to be true as well. AT&T, for example, already has data services in place that offer VoIP.
So do you use your computer to make phone calls? For the most part, all you need is a fast connection to the Internet and the VoIP software. At the very least, that will let you make computer-to-computer voice connections.
Other than the cost of your Internet service, that kind of setup lets you make unlimited voice calls to anywhere at no charge. The VoIP software that makes this happen — Skype is a perfect example — is typically free. The problem with this kind of connection is that either you need to set up your connections in advance or the computer user you are calling must know to leave the receiving computer on all the time so it can take your calls.
If you want to use your computer to call an actual telephone, there's typically some kind of connection fee. Again, this varies depending on the VoIP service you choose. And if someone wants to call you, your computer had better be turned on or they'll get something equivalent to a voicemail telling them to leave their name and number.
Whatever VoIP service you select and the type of calls you make, you're going to need some kind of microphone and speaker connected to your computer to use VoIP. I've seen devices that range from with a simple mike and speaker setup to a headset with a built-in microphone, speakerphone for hands-free talking and telephone handsets that connect to your computer's USB port. The Vo200 Bluetooth Internet Phone being offered by Kensington is a clever and cool example.
The Vo200 is compatible with any PC running Windows and sells for $89.99. Pop the Vo200 out of your laptop in front of a crowd and you'll have plenty to talk about.
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