Message Edited by Totis on 10-11-2005 08:31 AM

Thank you.  I couldn't find the information in the user's manual for the 510M.

To make PC to PC phone calls, can I purchase a simple unpowered external microphone or does it have to be self powered?

 

 

For that kind of service the only program that i know it's call SKYPE....

 

and the other computer needs the same program so you can call the other pc...

the website is www.skype.com

 

Actually, we both installed Skype (MSN messenger does the same thing with webcam and microphone but I find the images and sometimes the sound a bit choppy).   Since the 510M doesn't have an internal microphone, I can't hear the personne using the 510M.  We didn't think to buy a microphone because my Inspiron 8200 has an internal microphone.  Anyways, I'll get the person to buy a microphone and we'll try again.

Thanks.

 

'can I purchase a simple unpowered external microphone or does it have to be self powered?'

The mic itself should be one of these:

a MONO computer mic (sometimes sold as minidisc mics). This type can work very well. It draws its power from the bias voltage at the mic jack ... they also come in stereo versions but a stereo mic won't have the right plug to get the power from the Dell's jack;

an unpowered dynamic mic (should work but will be lower volume), won't be as satisfactory;

a condensor mic that has its own power supply or is connected to phantom power.

an electret mic that has a battery to power it.

a headset mic but I dunno. Some folks have reported having problems with these but I don't know the cause. Could be an incorrect plug re the Dell.

Jim