To get the most out of CU-SeeMe, your laptop should have a 28.8 Kbps modem, built-in sound, and a way to capture video. For that last item, get the Connectix Color QuickCam. Available for Windows and Macintosh systems, the Color QuickCam lists for $299. It comes with additional software and hardware you'll need. You don't have to endure some arduous installation process, either. Just plug it into your computer's parallel port, boot up the software, and you're on your way.
The camera, which looks like a golf ball, weighs less than 8 ounces. When you're feeling creative, the software lets you take digital snapshots and video clips. It doesn't require external power, so you can take it around the world without worrying about power adapters.
Geek Factor: Because you're using a local access number to get online, you're charged only the local phone rate -- even if you're making a videocall to Hong Kong.
Weak Factor: The onscreen image is tiny (about 1.75 x 2.25 inches) , and Internet connections are unpredictable.
Coordinates: CU-SeeMe, downloadable from Cornell University's CU-SeeMe home page, http://cu-seeme.cornell.edu/Welcome.html Enhanced CU-SeeMe from White Pine Software, 800-241-7463; http://www.wpine.com Color QuickCam from Connectix Corp., 800-950-5880; http://www.connectix.com/ .
John R. Quain (jquain@mcimail.com) is a contributing editor at Fast Company and appears regularly on the CBS News program "Up to the Minute."
"Quain's Top Ten - VideoPhone"
"Troubleshooter's Guide for Ordering ISDN"
"Show Me Your Data, Not Your Face"
"Webcasting"
Email
Digg
StumbleUpon
Facebook
Buzz Up!
LinkedIn
