Skype Mac User Guide
Content
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
User guides homepage: http://www.skype.com/help/guides/
Skype for Mac OS X Contents:
A. Getting started ________________________________________________________2
Downloading Skype.......................................................................................................................................2
B. Skype Sound and Audio Set-Up................................................................................. 2
How to Get to the Sound Preferences...........................................................................................................2 How to Change Sound Output Preferences..................................................................................................4 How to Change Sound Input Preferences.....................................................................................................4 How to Change Skype’s Audio Preferences ................................................................................................5
C. How to use Skype _____________________________________________________6
How to add a contact .....................................................................................................................................6 How to make a call ........................................................................................................................................7 How to answer a call .....................................................................................................................................7 Accepting authorisation requests ..................................................................................................................8 Conference calls.............................................................................................................................................8 Sending files with Skype...............................................................................................................................8
D. Video calling _________________________________________________________9 E. Tips and Tricks ______________________________________________________10
Improving sound quality .............................................................................................................................10
1
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
A. Getting started
Downloading Skype
Skype for Mac OS X is free to download. If you have any problems using Skype, please ensure that you are using the most recent version of the software. See step-by-step instructions for downloading Skype for Mac.
System Requirements
To use Skype for Mac OS X, you need the following: • • • • • Macintosh computer with G3, G4, G5, or Intel processor Mac OS X v 10.3.9 (Panther) or newer 128 MB RAM 75 MB free disk space on your hard drive Internet Connection (either dial-up: minimum 33.6 Kbps modem, or any broadband: cable, DSL, etc.)
The best sound experience on Skype can be achieved when you use: • • Either USB or regular headset. A cable, DSL or equivalent broadband internet connection.
Starting Skype for the first time
When you start Skype for the first time, you will be asked to read and accept our End User License Agreement. Click “Accept” only after you have read and understood these terms. Next, you will be asked to choose a Skype Name and password. Your Skype Name is like a phone number or email address. This is the name that people will use to call you on Skype. The Skype Name and password fields are required in order to use Skype and your Skype Name must be at least 6 characters in length. If the name is already in use you will be asked to try another name. An email address is not mandatory, however it is strongly recommended that you provide one as this is the only way to retrieve lost passwords. You can optionally set Skype to remember your Skype Name and Password on this computer. This feature is convenient but should only be used in circumstances where you control access to the computer. Never use this option on a public computer or one for which you cannot monitor use. You can change this setting at any time from the Skype program by going to the “Skype” menu and selecting “Preferences”.
B. Skype Sound and Audio Set-Up
How to Get to the Sound Preferences
2
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
Click on the Apple Menu and select System Preferences:
The System Preferences window will appear. In the System Preferences window, find Sound and click on it:
The Sound preferences will appear:
3
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
How to Change Sound Output Preferences
Looking at the Mac OS X Sound preferences, click on Output:
You can adjust the Volume and Balance settings from this panel. When using Skype, the Mute box should be unchecked. Checking Show volume in the menu bar is optional and handy. It allows you to adjust the sound volume without having to open System preferences. You should see a list of available ways to output sound such as Built-in Speakers or Headphones. If more than one output device is listed, choose the device you prefer for sound output on your Mac. The selection here is the default output for sound on your Mac. It is also possible to have Skype related sounds output on a different device than the default Mac OS X sound output preference. See How to change Skype’s audio preferences for help with this. For best results, try using headphones or a headset.
How to Change Sound Input Preferences
Looking at the Mac OS X Sound preferences, click on Input:
4
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
You should see a list of available ways to input sound such as Internal microphone or External microphone. If more than one output device is listed, choose the device you prefer for sound input on your Mac. The selection here is the default input for sound on your Mac. It is also possible to have Skype related sounds input on a different device than the default Mac OS X sound input preference. See How to change Skype’s audio preferences for help with this. Your Mac will allow you to adjust the Input Volume of microphones used with your computer. As a general rule you want the Input Volume to be high enough so that the source of sound can be heard, but not too high so that you avoid causing distortion. You can test the Input Volume setting by speaking into a microphone in a normal voice and watching the response of the Input Level meter. For best results, the Input Level should fall in a range of 2/3 to 3/4 full. You can experiment to find the level that sounds best using your equipment by adjusting the Input Volume higher or lower. The Output Volume controls the volume of sound coming out of your computer. Checking Show volume in the menu bar is optional and handy. It allows you to adjust the sound volume without having to open System preferences. When using Skype, the Mute box should be unchecked. For best results, try using headphones or a headset.
How to Change Skype’s Audio Preferences
In addition to Mac OS X’s sound preferences, Skype has its own Audio preferences that allow you to further customize how Skype’s sounds are handled on your computer. You may prefer to have Skype’s sounds treated differently than other sounds on your system. For example, you may like music to be played on a set of external speakers but sound from a Skype conversation to be played on a headset. This sort of customization is possible using the Skype Audio preferences. Using Skype Audio preferences you can also set preferences specific to voice calls.
5
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
To find and change Skype Audio preferences: Open Skype. Click on the Skype menu and select Preferences...
Click on Audio:
To select an audio output device specific to Skype, choose from the Audio Output menu. To select an audio input device specific to Skype, choose from the Audio Input menu. Checking Echo Cancellation should help reduce echo in your voice calls. Checking Gain Control enables Skype to help reduce distortion that can occur from over-amplification of sound input. Test your Skype software now. If you are still having problems, please go to the help center.
C. How to use Skype
How to add a contact
• To find friends so that they can be added to your Contacts, select the “Search for Skype users” option from the “Contacts” menu or press the “Add a contact” in the left corner of your Contact list.
6
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
•
A new search window will open where you can search for friends by name, or any other information they have listed in their Personal Profile. To add a friend to your Contacts, simply select the name from the search results and click the “Add” button.
•
When you start Skype for the first time you will already have one contact added to your Contact list called “Skype Test Call”. You can call this automated testing robot to see if your headset, speakers and/or microphone are working properly.
Skype protects your privacy by only showing your online status to those users you have explicitly authorized. When you want to add a new contact to your Contact list, you have to send an Authorization Request. When the other person accepts your request, you will be able to call or chat with this contact.
How to make a call
There are several ways to call a Contact • Select a Skype Name from your Contact list and then click the green Call button. Depending on how you’ve set your preferences, you may double-click on the Skype Name in your Contacts list or search results.
How to answer a call
If someone is calling you, you will hear the sound of a telephone ringing and a floating call window will appear on your screen.
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22May08
Click on “Answer” to accept the call or “Reject” to decline it. As soon as you decide to answer a call, a two-way voice conversation will begin and the duration of the call will be visible. Either party can end the call at any time by clicking the red “Hang up” button.
Accepting authorisation requests
When another user adds you to his/her Contacts, you will get an Authorization Request pop-up dialog box. If you “Accept” the authorization request, the user will be able to see when you are online. If you “Deny” the request, the user will not be authorized (note that in this case nothing is communicated back to the person requesting authorization).
Conference calls
Up to five people can participate in a conference call with Skype. Starting a conference call is simple, just choose “Start Conference Call…” under the “Call” menu. Next, select the users you’d like to invite to your conference by selecting their names and clicking “Add to conference”. You can select more than one user at a time by using the shift or command key. To begin your conference call, click “Start”. If you are already in an active call and would like to add an additional participant to a conference, you can select the person you want to add to the conference from your contact list, control-click or click the drop down menu button and choose "Add to conference".
Keep in mind that the host of the conference (the person who started the conference) is the only person who can add new participants. In addition, because Skype conferences are peer-to-peer, it's important that the conference host has a good internet connection. If you are planning to conference call with many participants you should choose the person with the best internet connection to host the conference.
Sending files with Skype
Skype also happens to be a very handy way to send large files quickly and easily to other users. To begin the process, simply select the user to whom you would like to send a file. Next, chose “Send File…” by clicking the “Send file” button or select “Send File…” from the Contacts menu. You will be prompted to select a file from your computer to send. Skype will ask the permission of the receiving party to begin the file transfer. 8
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
Note: you can also initiate a file transfer by dragging a file into the text entry box of a chat window. Skype can send files up to two gigabytes in size, transmissions are encrypted by the system, and thanks to its peer-to-peer network Skype can send very large files very quickly and securely.
D. Video calling
Skype Video allows you to use Skype with a webcam to see the person you are talking to.
To begin using the Video option, go to “Skype” > “Preferences” and click the “Video” button, then tick the “Enable Skype Video” check box. You can set Skype to start video automatically when you make a call or you can switch video on and off during the call, by clicking the video button in the call window
9
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
E. Tips and Tricks
Improving sound quality
To get the best possible sound quality, we highly recommend you try the following: • Use a headset with a built-in microphone.
If you don’t have a headset, you are still likely to improve sound quality if you: • • • • • Use headphones instead of your computer speakers. Try moving the microphone closer or further away from your mouth. Use an external microphone (note that most laptops use low-quality microphones). Update your soundcard drivers if applicable. Note that if you don’t own a microphone, you may be able to use a pair of headphones as a temporary solution by connecting these to the microphone jack of your sound card. Try it!
10
22May08
User guides homepage: http://www.skype.com/help/guides/
Skype for Mac OS X Contents:
A. Getting started ________________________________________________________2
Downloading Skype.......................................................................................................................................2
B. Skype Sound and Audio Set-Up................................................................................. 2
How to Get to the Sound Preferences...........................................................................................................2 How to Change Sound Output Preferences..................................................................................................4 How to Change Sound Input Preferences.....................................................................................................4 How to Change Skype’s Audio Preferences ................................................................................................5
C. How to use Skype _____________________________________________________6
How to add a contact .....................................................................................................................................6 How to make a call ........................................................................................................................................7 How to answer a call .....................................................................................................................................7 Accepting authorisation requests ..................................................................................................................8 Conference calls.............................................................................................................................................8 Sending files with Skype...............................................................................................................................8
D. Video calling _________________________________________________________9 E. Tips and Tricks ______________________________________________________10
Improving sound quality .............................................................................................................................10
1
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
A. Getting started
Downloading Skype
Skype for Mac OS X is free to download. If you have any problems using Skype, please ensure that you are using the most recent version of the software. See step-by-step instructions for downloading Skype for Mac.
System Requirements
To use Skype for Mac OS X, you need the following: • • • • • Macintosh computer with G3, G4, G5, or Intel processor Mac OS X v 10.3.9 (Panther) or newer 128 MB RAM 75 MB free disk space on your hard drive Internet Connection (either dial-up: minimum 33.6 Kbps modem, or any broadband: cable, DSL, etc.)
The best sound experience on Skype can be achieved when you use: • • Either USB or regular headset. A cable, DSL or equivalent broadband internet connection.
Starting Skype for the first time
When you start Skype for the first time, you will be asked to read and accept our End User License Agreement. Click “Accept” only after you have read and understood these terms. Next, you will be asked to choose a Skype Name and password. Your Skype Name is like a phone number or email address. This is the name that people will use to call you on Skype. The Skype Name and password fields are required in order to use Skype and your Skype Name must be at least 6 characters in length. If the name is already in use you will be asked to try another name. An email address is not mandatory, however it is strongly recommended that you provide one as this is the only way to retrieve lost passwords. You can optionally set Skype to remember your Skype Name and Password on this computer. This feature is convenient but should only be used in circumstances where you control access to the computer. Never use this option on a public computer or one for which you cannot monitor use. You can change this setting at any time from the Skype program by going to the “Skype” menu and selecting “Preferences”.
B. Skype Sound and Audio Set-Up
How to Get to the Sound Preferences
2
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
Click on the Apple Menu and select System Preferences:
The System Preferences window will appear. In the System Preferences window, find Sound and click on it:
The Sound preferences will appear:
3
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
How to Change Sound Output Preferences
Looking at the Mac OS X Sound preferences, click on Output:
You can adjust the Volume and Balance settings from this panel. When using Skype, the Mute box should be unchecked. Checking Show volume in the menu bar is optional and handy. It allows you to adjust the sound volume without having to open System preferences. You should see a list of available ways to output sound such as Built-in Speakers or Headphones. If more than one output device is listed, choose the device you prefer for sound output on your Mac. The selection here is the default output for sound on your Mac. It is also possible to have Skype related sounds output on a different device than the default Mac OS X sound output preference. See How to change Skype’s audio preferences for help with this. For best results, try using headphones or a headset.
How to Change Sound Input Preferences
Looking at the Mac OS X Sound preferences, click on Input:
4
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
You should see a list of available ways to input sound such as Internal microphone or External microphone. If more than one output device is listed, choose the device you prefer for sound input on your Mac. The selection here is the default input for sound on your Mac. It is also possible to have Skype related sounds input on a different device than the default Mac OS X sound input preference. See How to change Skype’s audio preferences for help with this. Your Mac will allow you to adjust the Input Volume of microphones used with your computer. As a general rule you want the Input Volume to be high enough so that the source of sound can be heard, but not too high so that you avoid causing distortion. You can test the Input Volume setting by speaking into a microphone in a normal voice and watching the response of the Input Level meter. For best results, the Input Level should fall in a range of 2/3 to 3/4 full. You can experiment to find the level that sounds best using your equipment by adjusting the Input Volume higher or lower. The Output Volume controls the volume of sound coming out of your computer. Checking Show volume in the menu bar is optional and handy. It allows you to adjust the sound volume without having to open System preferences. When using Skype, the Mute box should be unchecked. For best results, try using headphones or a headset.
How to Change Skype’s Audio Preferences
In addition to Mac OS X’s sound preferences, Skype has its own Audio preferences that allow you to further customize how Skype’s sounds are handled on your computer. You may prefer to have Skype’s sounds treated differently than other sounds on your system. For example, you may like music to be played on a set of external speakers but sound from a Skype conversation to be played on a headset. This sort of customization is possible using the Skype Audio preferences. Using Skype Audio preferences you can also set preferences specific to voice calls.
5
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
To find and change Skype Audio preferences: Open Skype. Click on the Skype menu and select Preferences...
Click on Audio:
To select an audio output device specific to Skype, choose from the Audio Output menu. To select an audio input device specific to Skype, choose from the Audio Input menu. Checking Echo Cancellation should help reduce echo in your voice calls. Checking Gain Control enables Skype to help reduce distortion that can occur from over-amplification of sound input. Test your Skype software now. If you are still having problems, please go to the help center.
C. How to use Skype
How to add a contact
• To find friends so that they can be added to your Contacts, select the “Search for Skype users” option from the “Contacts” menu or press the “Add a contact” in the left corner of your Contact list.
6
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
•
A new search window will open where you can search for friends by name, or any other information they have listed in their Personal Profile. To add a friend to your Contacts, simply select the name from the search results and click the “Add” button.
•
When you start Skype for the first time you will already have one contact added to your Contact list called “Skype Test Call”. You can call this automated testing robot to see if your headset, speakers and/or microphone are working properly.
Skype protects your privacy by only showing your online status to those users you have explicitly authorized. When you want to add a new contact to your Contact list, you have to send an Authorization Request. When the other person accepts your request, you will be able to call or chat with this contact.
How to make a call
There are several ways to call a Contact • Select a Skype Name from your Contact list and then click the green Call button. Depending on how you’ve set your preferences, you may double-click on the Skype Name in your Contacts list or search results.
How to answer a call
If someone is calling you, you will hear the sound of a telephone ringing and a floating call window will appear on your screen.
7
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
Click on “Answer” to accept the call or “Reject” to decline it. As soon as you decide to answer a call, a two-way voice conversation will begin and the duration of the call will be visible. Either party can end the call at any time by clicking the red “Hang up” button.
Accepting authorisation requests
When another user adds you to his/her Contacts, you will get an Authorization Request pop-up dialog box. If you “Accept” the authorization request, the user will be able to see when you are online. If you “Deny” the request, the user will not be authorized (note that in this case nothing is communicated back to the person requesting authorization).
Conference calls
Up to five people can participate in a conference call with Skype. Starting a conference call is simple, just choose “Start Conference Call…” under the “Call” menu. Next, select the users you’d like to invite to your conference by selecting their names and clicking “Add to conference”. You can select more than one user at a time by using the shift or command key. To begin your conference call, click “Start”. If you are already in an active call and would like to add an additional participant to a conference, you can select the person you want to add to the conference from your contact list, control-click or click the drop down menu button and choose "Add to conference".
Keep in mind that the host of the conference (the person who started the conference) is the only person who can add new participants. In addition, because Skype conferences are peer-to-peer, it's important that the conference host has a good internet connection. If you are planning to conference call with many participants you should choose the person with the best internet connection to host the conference.
Sending files with Skype
Skype also happens to be a very handy way to send large files quickly and easily to other users. To begin the process, simply select the user to whom you would like to send a file. Next, chose “Send File…” by clicking the “Send file” button or select “Send File…” from the Contacts menu. You will be prompted to select a file from your computer to send. Skype will ask the permission of the receiving party to begin the file transfer. 8
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
Note: you can also initiate a file transfer by dragging a file into the text entry box of a chat window. Skype can send files up to two gigabytes in size, transmissions are encrypted by the system, and thanks to its peer-to-peer network Skype can send very large files very quickly and securely.
D. Video calling
Skype Video allows you to use Skype with a webcam to see the person you are talking to.
To begin using the Video option, go to “Skype” > “Preferences” and click the “Video” button, then tick the “Enable Skype Video” check box. You can set Skype to start video automatically when you make a call or you can switch video on and off during the call, by clicking the video button in the call window
9
http://www.skype.com/help/guides/skypeformac/
22May08
E. Tips and Tricks
Improving sound quality
To get the best possible sound quality, we highly recommend you try the following: • Use a headset with a built-in microphone.
If you don’t have a headset, you are still likely to improve sound quality if you: • • • • • Use headphones instead of your computer speakers. Try moving the microphone closer or further away from your mouth. Use an external microphone (note that most laptops use low-quality microphones). Update your soundcard drivers if applicable. Note that if you don’t own a microphone, you may be able to use a pair of headphones as a temporary solution by connecting these to the microphone jack of your sound card. Try it!
10
