In order to control costs and talk over the phone, it is sometimes useful to use the internet for our phone conversation. This is commonly referred to as Voice Over IP or Voice Chat. By using our PC, microphone / headset, and a Voice Over IP service, we can have a phone conversation over the internet. In order to use this service, you will need to register with an appropriate service provider. Here are some service providers:

Yahoo Voice | Skype | Vonage

Here are some popular plans to consider:

| Packet 8 | Voice Pulse

System Requirements

In order to do Voice Chat, please make sure your computer has the following minimum requirements:

- Audio Sound Card
- High Speed Internet Connection
- Speakers and Microphone or Headphone Set
- Windows Operating System

For best results with Voice Chat, consider wearing a headset with microphone. This will reduce background noise during the conversation. If you do not have a headset and must speak into a PC microphone, then follow these suggestions:

- Turn your speaker volume settings down to reduce background noise.
- Speak into your microphone away from the speakers to minimize echo.
- Take some time to test your Setup Wizard on voice to ensure you have an appropriate volume setting ready to go.
- Make sure you use a directional microphone that does not pickup sounds from your speakers. This will help reduce echo and low rumbles in our conversation.

International Time Zones

In order to make sure we understand global time differences, here are some links to help determine international time zones:

Time Server