There are other ways to enjoy the Net without having to use your hands. If you have a relatively newer system with a sound card and an inexpensive microphone, you can take advantage of Internet phone programs to say hello to friends or family around the globe.
Telephony programs allow you to send your voice across the net without involving your long distance telephone carrier. There are several on the net but I thought I'd focus on just a couple that you might like to try.
Freetel has been around for a couple of years now, and it's an interesting little program. When I first downloaded it two years ago their interface was a little difficult to set up. Recently I gave them another try and it would appear that they have cleaned it up a bit and it's fairly easy to use. Locating a friend in their "directory assistance" can be a bit of a challenge though if you don't know which name or nick they are using.
Webphone has also been around for a couple of years. Its interface is fairly easy to set up. Instead of popup windows, you view what would appear to be a cellular phone on your screen. Webphone's directory assistance in my humble opinion is superior to Freetel's. Webphone also maintains an on-line help desk that you can e-mail (if your webphone really doesn't work) or you can even phone them via Webphone.
Microsoft Netmeeting allows you to not only use voice but if you have a Cuseeme camera attachment to your system you can use video as well!
Now bear in mind, you aren't paying long distance fees for these calls so don't expect spectacular audio results. Dropoff (when the transmission is a little hazy) can happen during high peak times on the Net when bandwidth is difficult to maintain. Also, unless you are using what they term full duplex on your sound card the conversation will resemble something along the lines of a radio telephone call. Only one person can speak at a time. Considering how much you can save on your phone bill though (when we all know that disabled people have oodles of money to spend on such frills) it can be a welcome addition to your "toys" on your system.
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Michelle Struik's Disabilities topic, please visit the Discussions page.