Making a Video Call with the Internet

When used with Windows Vista and the right hardware, Windows Live Messenger provides state-of-the-art computer communications features. With Windows Live Messenger, you can talk to others over the Internet as you do on a regular phone, and you can use video to see others and let others see you as you converse (New!). Once you set up your computer hardware—Webcams, microphones and speakers—and related software, you’re ready to communicate over the Internet. You have two communication choices: audio only, and audio and video. With audio only, you speak into a microphone and hear the other person’s response over your computer’s speakers. With audio and video, you send video to others so they receive live images as well as sound. If the contacts you call don’t have a video camera, they will see you, but you won’t see them.

Have a Video Conversation

Double-click the Windows Live Messenger icon in the notification area of the taskbar, and then sign in, if necessary.

Double-click the contact you want to send an instant message.

Click the Video Call button, and then wait for the other person to accept the invitation.

Use the controls to adjust the volume of the speakers or microphone.

Start talking.

When you’re done, click the Close button.

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