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Ways to Conference Using a Computer You've probably seen the TV commercial of the woman in her pajamas and fuzzy slippers working at home and not wanting to take a video conference call. What are some of the options for computer conferencing, if you don't want to be seen (or don't yet have audio/video conferencing technology)? * IRC (Internet Relay Chat) the original "chat" capability for live keyboard to keyboard talking. Many proprietary browsers, such as Netcom's Netcruiser and Compuserve's and America Online's internet interfaces, have IRC built in. Other popular programs, such as Microsoft's Net Meeting, Netscape's Conference, and IRCircle, are based on IRC technology. You must be connected to the Internet to use IRC. We will discuss IRC more in another tip. * Real-Time ``buddy" list programs such as Mirabilis' ICQ and AOL's Buddy List have revolutionized quick online communication. These programs allow you to create your own list of family, friends and business associates, and will inform you of who's on-line any time you log on so you can contact each other at will. You can send instant post-it-type messages back and forth or you can open a conference style window, dragging as many people who are currently online into your chat as you wish. * Audio Conferencing live voice to voice chat through computers over the Internet, using microphones and speakers (programs such as Cool Talk or Internet Phone). Though the technology leaves a lot to be desired at this point, it is possible to talk long distance anywhere in the world via the Internet, providing the person you want to talk to has the same software you do. * White Boards keyboard to keyboard conferencing in which one person's screen may be seen simultaneously on the screens of other participants and manipulated by all members (programs such as Netscape Conference or CU-SeeMe or Timbuktu). Participants may also use voice and video if they have the necessary equipment. * Audio Bridge Conferencing live voice to voice using your telephone to dial in to a switchboard or "bridge" that connects all participants into a conference call which can include up to hundreds of participants. No computer required. Participants use their telephone keypads to respond to questions or indicate they want to ask a question. Many conferencing programs are available as shareware or freeware that you can download for free from Internet sites such as www.davecentral.com, www.tucows.com, and www.shareware.com. These sites also provide reviews that will help you choose one that's right for you. Microsoft's NetMeeting, Mirabilis' ICQ and White Pine's CU-See can be downloaded for free from their web sites or from many shareware web sites. Kaye Vivian, ABC Copyright 1997 by Kaye Vivian ( kvivian@cloud9.net ). All rights reserved. |
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