The Observation Deck

I've been using Skype for a long time, since it was a beta. Until today, I was tethered to my computer in order to make calls.

Not anymore. Cordless (and WiFi) Skype phones have started to proliferate the market.

After reading not-so-good reviews on the Wifi versions, I picked up a Netgear SPH200D cordless Skype phone. It's dual mode, so it supports landline and Skype. It also uses the European DECT standard, so it doesn't compete with WiFi frequencies. It also has Speakerphone, and is expandable up to 4 handsets. AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries are included, a nice touch; you can buy replacements pretty much anywhere.

Setup is simple; in literally 5 minutes or less (after charging the batteries), you can be making calls.

The phone is currently $130 after rebate from Amazon.com. Unlimited Skype calling to the US & Canada is $29.95 a year. A SkypeIn number with voicemail is $6/month, a necessity if you want to receive calls from landlines and mobiles. International calls are a huge savings too; starting at 2.1 cents per minute. There's a 3.9 cent connection fee, but that can be avoided if you have Skype Pro, which includes other extras as well.

If you have questions about Skype, feel free to ask...I swear by it.

A friend of mine in Copenhagen has been encouraging me to get this. We talk often for a project we're working on and it could really help to be live rather than email.

I'm glad to hear you like - think I'm going to check it out.

Thanks.

Sure thing. I use Skype all the time...I also use it for the Instant Messaging, because unlike AIM/YIM/etc, chats are encrypted.

Skype-to-Skype calls are always free!

Do people keep their landlines for emergency use, though? Wasn't one of the concerns about this service is around 911 calls? With landlines, the 911 operator can get help to you even if you had only enough strength to dial the phone but with this, they won't know who are where you are calling from? Just curious. Always interested in a bargain.

Yeah, that's the thing....you can't call 911. I keep a cell phone handy...because by Federal Law, every cell phone must be able to dial 911, even if it's not activated.