Hack 28. Choose and Configure a USB Handset or Headset  
A guide to choosing and setting up a USB handset or headset for your PC or Mac with a minimum of fuss. Works with: Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X versions of Skype. USB handsets can be either basic or advanced. Basic handsets are really just a microphone and speaker in the convenient form factor of a phone-shaped handset, whereas advanced handsets also have a keypad and sometimes an LCD readout. Don't underestimate the importance to many people of the familiarity and comfort of using a handset, particularly those who have not been bitten by the "geek" or 'techie" bugs. For many 'ordinary" people, calls made from a handset are simply more familiar and therefore more pleasant, if not in a quantitative sense, certainly in a qualitative sense. Your handset and headset choices are shown in Figure 3-7. Figure 3-7. USB handset and headset choices, left to right: basic handset, advanced handset, wired headset, wireless headset and USB base station, and desktop speakerphone 
In terms of choosing a handset or headset for use with Skype, you may find the following guidelines of help:
Basic handset -
This type of handset is the simplest to configure because it is usually a self-configuring USB sound device that requires no additional software. Also, it is very cheap; some cost less than $20. However, as these handsets lack a keypad, all interaction with Skype has to be done using your mouse and keyboard; that is, you can't make, or pick up, a call using only this type of handset.
Advanced handset -
By adding a keypad to a basic handset, you gain extra features and control over how Skype works, all from the handset itself. However, to take advantage of these you must install software that enables the phone to interact with Skype. Normally, this type of handset allows you to make and pick up a call using only the handset. In addition, you may get additional features, such as call memory and speed dial (separate from what Skype itself provides in this respect). As an added bonus, most advanced handsets have built-in echo correction. Expect to pay $30 and up for an advanced handset.
Headset -
The key thing here is comfort. Pay particular care to comfort issues if you wear glasses. If you make frequent calls or long calls, or both, you'll need to choose a headset that's comfortable for you. Otherwise, after a surprisingly short while, you may be forgiven for thinking your head is held in a vice! Also, if you like to get up and stretch occasionally, or reach for things close by, you might want to get a headset with a 10-foot (3-meter) cable, or use a USB extension cord. That way, you'll have limited mobility around your desk. A headset that is uncomfortable is worthless at any price, so don't skimp on this one; good, comfortable headsets start at around $40.
Wireless headset -
A wireless headset gives you mobility. In fact, sometimes quite a bit, as some wireless headsets have a range of up to a few hundred feet. However, mobility costs, and you should expect to pay something well north of $100 for a good wireless headset (plus base station). Comfort is again an issue if you intend to wear the headset for prolonged periods. And, for those of you who wear glasses, make sure that damn thing will stay on your ear with your glasses on!
Desktop phone -
If having the familiarity of a desktop phone that can make and receive calls using Skype is important to you, expect to pay for the privilege. Desktop USB phones that are compatible with Skype cost $40 and up; and, just as for advanced handsets, you may have to install and configure additional software to exploit its advanced features fully. When configuring Skype to use a USB headset or USB handset, you have a number of choices based on your type of Internet connection, as shown in Figure 3-8. Each configuration option shown in Figure 3-8 has its pros and cons:
Option 1 and option 2 -
Usage -
Skype used as an enhancement to your existing phone system. Figure 3-8. Options for configuring Skype with a USB handset or a USB headset (in this figure a USB handset is shown but the configuration is the same if you substitute a USB headset) 
Pros -
You can save money off your phone bill. Simple to set up and configure; oftentimes USB devices are self-configuring. USB handsets and USB headsets are comparatively cheap (good ones can be had for between $20 and $50). Hands-free operation in the case of a USB headset, and the comfort and familiarity of holding what feels like a phone in the case of a USB handset.
Cons -
You can make and receive calls only while sitting at your computer, unless you're using a device that connects wirelessly to a USB base station. Headsets can become uncomfortable if worn for prolonged periods; this is particularly true if you wear glasses (as the hooks over the ears are squeezed between your ears and skull).
Option 3 -
Usage -
Skype used as a replacement for your existing phone system.
Pros -
You can save a lot of money off your phone bill. Simple to set up and configure; oftentimes USB devices are self-configuring. USB handsets and USB headsets are comparatively cheap (good ones can be had for between $20 and $50). Hands-free operation in the case of a USB headset, and the comfort and familiarity of holding what feels like a phone in the case of a USB handset.
Cons -
You can make and receive calls only while sitting at your computer, unless you're using a device that connects wirelessly to a USB base station. Headsets can become uncomfortable if worn for prolonged periods; this is particularly true if you wear glasses (as the hooks over the ears are squeezed between your ears and skull). No 911 emergency service. No 411 directory service. No support for a regular fax machine. Clearly, as this option eliminates your existing phone service, you'd have to be fairly dedicated to Skype or saving money, or both, to choose this option. But it is a choice!  | The "Snip" shown in option 3 is only a metaphorical 'snip," as all you really need to do is cancel your existing phone service. |
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