Internet Speeds for Skype Tutor Lessons

Skype requires only 1.5Mbps/1.5Mbps for both download and upload speeds in order to achieve satisfactory performance. To have an uninterrupted video call with clear sound and image, one may need higher download/upload speeds. Sometimes, a Skype connection is simply unstable due to other factors, i.e. the weather, the server and so on. One cannot say absolutely the ideal Internet speed in some of these cases. I suggest that students conduct a Skype video call with family or friends to ensure the connection is good enough. On SpeedTest, you can test your current Internet speed. The bandwidth I am currently using here in Taiwan is: Download Speed 300 Mbps/Upload Speed 100 Mbps. 

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You do not need to have a speed as fast as mine in order to have Chinese tutorial lessons. A long-term student of mine located in Canada uses 25 Mbps/10 Mbps. Another long-term student in Italy uses 30 Mbps/3 Mbps. Our lessons rarely have any connection issues. It can be helpful to use wired Internet rather than wireless Internet during Skype video calls. Wired Internet simply allows the connection on your computer to be more stable, for you are not replying entirely on the wifi signal. 

How to Set up Skype on Microsoft for Tutor Lessons

This page describes different steps you can take to ensure that Skype will operate efficiently on your Windows before the appointment of our tutorial session beings: 

1. Make sure your webcam, headphone and microphone perform correctly

Call (top menu) - Audio Settings...

Make sure your microphone produces green bars when you speak aloud and your speakers work properly. 

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Move your mouse lower and click on the Video Settings. If your camera works, you should appear on the screen. Also, make sure you allow yourself to make video calls with your Skype contacts. 

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2. Check if there is a newer version of Skype

Help (top menu) - Check for Updates

Updating to the latest version usually takes only a several minutes. However, sometimes you may have to restart your Skype or computer after Skype has finished updating. 

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If you are already using the latest version of Skype, you are good to go!

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3. Use Echo/Sound Test Service to test your sound

Echo/Sound Test Service should automatically be on your contact list. This action will require you to record your own voice and the voice will be played back to you. If you can hear your own recording, it means your microphone and headphone both work.

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4. If you have done steps 1, 2 and 3 and there are still issues, you should restart your computer and Skype. 

How to Set up Skype on Mac for Tutor Lessons

This page describes how to ensure Skype works on your Mac before the appointment of our tutorial session beings: 

1. Make sure your webcam, headphone and microphone operate correctly

Skype (top-left corner) - Preferences - Audio/Video

From Skype's Audio/Video, you can see your microphone and camera connection. 

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2. Check if a newer version of Skype is available

Skype (top-left corner) - Check for Updates... 

3. Use Skype Test Call to test your sound

Skype search box - type in "Skype Test Call" - Call to test your sound

4. If you have done both steps 1, 2 and 3 and there are still issues, you should restart your computer and Skype.