HELP DESK
Instant messengers offer video

By Kim Komando

AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), ICQ, MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger are among the most popular instant messaging programs. They also provide free video services if you have a high-speed connection such as digital subscriber line (DSL) or cable. The video isn't the sharpest, but it offers a fun way to communicate with folks down the block or around the world.

It doesn't cost much to get started. First, you'll need a Web cam. These video cameras generally cost between $50 and $200. Look for a model in the $100 range. Most models in the price range include a built-in microphone, which is required if you want to chat with sound.

There's little difference in the video quality among the four instant messaging programs. Each delivers slightly jerky motion, but it isn't too distracting if you and the person you are chatting with don't move around too much.

In addition to seeing your chat buddy in a window on the screen, all of the services show you how you appear on video. This helps you center your face within the image, adjust the lighting and control other features. All of the services also allow you to send video to messaging buddies that don't have a Web cam. They can respond to your video messages by typing their messages.

Feature list

Each video messenger distinguishes itself with special features.

AOL Instant Messenger (www.aim.com) and ICQ (www.icq.com) are short on bells and whistles but they're the easiest to use. Once a chat session is initiated, press a button (the video button on AIM and the Web cam icon on ICQ) to start a video chat. The picture size is relatively small (less than 3 inches diagonally). Neither program allows you to adjust the picture size or quality. AIM operates on both Windows and Macintosh. ICQ runs only on Windows XP.

MSN Messenger (messenger.msn.com) and Yahoo! Messenger (messenger.yahoo.com) require extra steps to launch video chat. You have to press one button for video and another for audio. If you find yourself with video and no audio, you may have skipped a step.

Both programs allow you to resize the video screens from small (about 2 inches) to large (more than 4 inches).

You also can tweak your Web cam's settings to change the image's brightness and contrast. There are advanced settings that correct color and allow you to flip the image vertically or horizontally. Both programs operate on Mac and Windows.

Hints and tips

Although all services are relatively easy to use, here are some troubleshooting suggestions:

• If you're behind a firewall, check with the program's FAQ and help sections if you run into connection problems.
• Proper lighting is key to a good picture. Bright, overhead and evenly lit areas are the best. Avoid backlight sources, such as windows. They will cast you in shadow, making you difficult to see.
• If you are using the Web cam's microphone, set it away from your computer's speakers. Otherwise, you will have feedback. If your speakers are placed next to your monitor, try a headset/microphone that plugs into the back of your computer.

Kim Komando hosts a radio show about computers and the Internet. To find the station nearest you broadcasting Kim's show, visit: www.komando.com/findkimonair.asp. To subscribe to Kim's free weekly e-mail newsletter, sign up at: www.komando.com/newsletter.asp.