Have you jumped on board the Skype train yet? Not sure what Skype is? Well I'll describe what Skype is and how a huge world of internet calls has opened up, making the standard wall phone a thing of the past. Not to mention I give an idea on how to save a bundle on international calls.
Skype is a software application that allows you to make PC to PC phone calls...for free. What is even cooler is if you have a webcam, you can video chat for free too. Skype has a new interface that may or may not be user-friendly depending on your tastes. For an overview of that go to CNET's video on Skype.
The gear is realatively unexciting. All you need is a mic and a set of head phones. Set up a free Skype account and off you go. You can talk completely free of charges, PC to PC, with anyone that has a Skype account. You can also makes calls to traditional phone numbers, but that costs extra.
Now, on to why I included a router in my 5 best electronics post... VoIP or Voice over IP, essentially making phone calls over a broadband internet connection started in the early 90's. With the g and now n types of wireless networks (getting back to the router), you can make phone calls without interuption over those networks. That's why the router is cool. Let me explain more, cause I can tell I haven't hooked you yet.
There are a number of wireless VoIP phones out on the market today. Here is a sampling of them:
With these, or any WiFi phone you have, all you need is a wireless signal and you're making calls for pennies on the dollar compared to a mobile phone. Not to mention, you have friends in Germany or Spain? No problem. There really isn't anything like a domestic or international call anymore. Just get online...done.
Skype has its own line up of phones as well and offers goodies on thier website like headphones and a host of wireless access points for your home.
What's the deal with VoIP? Well I'll de-mystify it for you. There are a ton of VoIP companies out there, the biggest being Vonage, Verizon and Skype (not necessarily in that order). They have a mishmash of goodies including their own routers that will turn your existing POTS (plain old telephone service) and turn them into a VoIP, to straight up VoIP phones that can hold 500 or more contacts. Some of these phones have remarkable features and fantastic user interfaces. No more "how do I transfer this call?" at work.
What if you want to use your WiFi enabled mobile phone to hop on a network? Well that's available too. Its called FMC or fixed mobile convergence. A good example of this is T-Mobile's hot spot. This service essentially lets you pick and choose between mobile minutes and WiFi freedom.
It all comes back to the router. Cut those wires, that's what I say. With the high price of copper these days, why not go wireless? Its getting faster and more powerful all the time.
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