Computer to run Skype

[PJS]

Hi, I have been asked to build a computer for someone. The computer will mostly if not only be used to comunicate with their son in New Zeeland.

1) What would the minimum requirements be of a computer to run Skype 100%?

2) What ADSL conection will be required?

3) And would something like Iburst or 3G be an alternative to ADSL?

Thanks

 

[Net Performance]

1)- Skype can run on my old P3 500 Mhz with 256 RAM with windows XP
2)- I think the upload must be between 5 and 10Kb/s
3)- expensive alternative

Im sure other person will be able to be more specific about your questions, but its a start.

regards,

 

[PJS]

1)- Skype can run on my old P3 500 Mhz with 256 RAM with windows XP
2)- I think the upload must be between 5 and 10Kb/s
3)- expensive alternative

Im sure other person will be able to be more specific about your questions, but its a start.

regards,

Yep a start. At least I now know that you don't need a very powerfull PC and that bandwidth won't be a problem.

My only questions would be on which ISP to recomend and if shaping is an issue. If shaping is an issue - What then!!

 

[PeterCH]

Skype works well even with dialup.

Shaping is not an issue.

If you wanna talk PC to PC you could also use SpeakFreely.

 

[SuperAntMD]

I would imagine wired as opposed to wireless would be better due to the reduced latency, but im not speaking from experience, I use skype almost daily on ADSL 384, with no problems

 

[PJS]

I would imagine wired as opposed to wireless would be better due to the reduced latency, but im not speaking from experience, I use skype almost daily on ADSL 384, with no problems

I am looking at the Web Africa Bronz package for them. 384 with 1 Gig for R199. Not sure what sort of talk time this will give them?

 

[SuperAntMD]

I think that should probably be more then enough i.e. they won't have to worry about talk time, but I think someone else should verify this, anyone?. if they willing to spend some more cash might wanna consider a skype phone (something like this http://dualphone.net/ but im sure there are lots of options) really makes the whole experience smoother and more civilised

 

[SuperAntMD]

Found this:

How much bandwidth does Skype use while I’m in a call?
Skype automatically selects the best codec depending on the connection between yourself and the person you are calling. On average, Skype uses between 3-16 kilobytes/sec depending on bandwidth available for other party, network conditions in between, callers CPU performance, etc.
How much bandwidth does Skype use when there are no active calls?
On average Skype uses 0-0.5 kilobytes/sec while idle. This is used mainly for contact presence updates. The exact bandwidth depends on many factors.

and this

Roughly 70 Kbs if you are in a call with one person. This means you will get 500kByte per minute so to be precise:

1 minute call at 70kbps consumes ~ 0,5 MB of bandwidth
10 min ~ 5 MB
100min ~ 50 MB

The thing is that there just isn't a definite answer. It all depends on the state of the "Skype cloud" which is under constant flux. You might want to search these forums for reports from users who have been measuring it and posting results here.

Seems a bit hit and miss but 1 gig should really cover it

 

[brevity]

A computer that will run Skype should cost no more than R1000, including screen and everything else.

You can use dial up on skype. Sometimes it's not perfect, but generally works fine.

If they really want ADSL, just get the cheapest setup from Telkom, then go with Axxess for your ISP - you can buy a gig which, if you're only using it for emails and skype, should last a couple of months. (It's not a contract, but pay-as-you-go).

I would suggest putting something rather nice together so that the users feel it's easy and fast. Preload all the firewalls and anti-virus programmes, and Skype and set up an email for them. Get these people computer happy.

 

[f4ntom]

1Gb is fine for Skype, but make sure you get a good headset.