What do you need to call a computer?

To make calls to a computer, you need:

A full-duplex sound card with a headset (or speakers and a microphone) or a USB port with a USB headset (or USB speakers and a USB microphone).
A modem with a speed of at least 33.6 kilobits per second (Kbps) and a connection speed of at least 33.6 Kbps.
A version of Windows Messenger that has the voice feature turned on. (If you are in a corporation, this feature could be turned off by your network administrator.)

To make calls with video to another computer, you need:

Microsoft Windows XP.
The equipment listed above for calls to a computer.
A Web camera.
A version of Windows Messenger that has the video feature turned on. (If you are in a corporation, this feature could be turned off by your network administrator.)

Note

Sound equipment is not necessary for a call using video only. If you do not have sound equipment, you can type text rather than talk.