The Many Faces of Computer Communication

Computers have given us surprising new ways to communicate. Although e-mail has become one of the most popular forms of communication, video conferencing, chat rooms, faxes, and telephony are also popular computer communication devices.

E-Mail
These days e-mail is commonplace. It is simple, can be free and offers instant gratification. Many of us don't realize that it has been around since the early 1970s. It grew in popularity in the 1990s when the Internet became 'user friendly'. Because of its versatility, e-mail quickly grew into the most widely accepted form of computer communication.

Video conference calls
Dick Tracy's watch is now a reality. Via computer, you can see each other while you chat if both parties have net cams (a video camera connected to your computer). Video conference is one of the hottest growth areas for the future. Although the current quality can leave a lot to be desired, your Internet connection (speed/static) and your computer's processing power determine how well your video and audio signals come in. Don't expect a movie quality picture - yet - most of us will get distorted movements for now.

Chat
Another option for keeping in touch with friends and family is to set up a chat account. In a chat room, you can hold real-time, text-based "conversations" with other people via your computer. You can create a private chat room where only those invited can join, or you can visit a public chat room, which typically draw together people who have similar interests.

Fax
We can also send and receive fax messages through our computers. Most machines now come with software that can fax documents just as if you were sending them to your printer. This same software also allows you to receive faxes either directly to your computer or to a website where you can pick them up later.

Telephony
Telephony allows you to send and receive sound over the Internet without the use of a telephone. This means the end to long distance charges every time you want to call home. Websites now allow us to make free Internet telephony calls where your computer's microphone replaces the telephone. All you pay for is your Internet connection. The call is local, but some systems work no better than a two-way radio.

So next time you want to get in touch with someone - just reach for your computer.

Lauri is the owner of Wise Owl Opportunities, specializing in computer training for groups, businesses, and individuals. If you have a question or would like assistance, contact her at Lauri@wiseowlops.com.