Noob Questions

[simon1]

I have just bought a Siemens S440 DECT telephone, along with several additional handsets. One of the big features is that it is SKYPE compatible (upon purchase of a M34 USB adapter, from Siemens). I would be able to use the telephones just like regular phones.

I don't make many calls from home, and it would be rare for me to make international calls. But I hate having to pay a tenner a month line rental to NTL.

Would using SKYPE allow me to ditch the line rental and still have a normal telephone number? Are there any other factors I need to be aware of? Does the PC need to be left switched on 24/7?

I would only be able to use SKYPE as a provider with these handsets, as Siemens have done a deal with them.

Thanks for any help you can give me.

[dejongj]

I have just bought a Siemens S440 DECT telephone, along with several additional handsets. One of the big features is that it is SKYPE compatible (upon purchase of a M34 USB adapter, from Siemens). I would be able to use the telephones just like regular phones.

I don't make many calls from home, and it would be rare for me to make international calls. But I hate having to pay a tenner a month line rental to NTL.

Would using SKYPE allow me to ditch the line rental and still have a normal telephone number? Are there any other factors I need to be aware of? Does the PC need to be left switched on 24/7?

SkypeIn is still in Beta test, so I would not recommend ditching your normal landline just yet. Also check that you would be able to get a local geographical number that is representative of your area like you have with NTL. If not this could affect your credit rating....

Yes you would have to leave your PC switched on all the time...