22nd January 2001
Telephony. That's when you pass information along to someone who isn't real. Nah, it's telecommunications stuff -- voice over IP (VOIP). I still remember the first time I used a PC to communicate (vocally) with another person. Since then, broadband has been introduced into our homes. If you're lucky enough to have a cable or DSL connection, then there's a Windows program I suggest you call upon for long-distance tech support issues with friends and family members: Netmeeting. It's more than just a simple communications client. Yeah, even when you turn off the audio and video streaming, you can still share a remote Desktop. That is, assuming the user on the other end is running Windows and can use it (Netmeeting). Instead of talking someone through a simple task, you can do it for them. "Well, how are they supposed to learn anything if they don't do it themselves?" Let me ask you this: is your time precious? Helping loved ones troubleshoot computer problems is fine, but it's also more frustrating than being stuck in the slow lane during rush hour traffic. Hey, if nothing -- then at least you may have discovered a rather cheap way to interact with other connected members of your "inner circle." With the right conditions, it's no worse than a cell phone call (although, we still have miles to go before it replaces the handset).