Problem starting a Video Conversation

[Guest]

Folks, I am new at this and the whole thing is an experiment for me. I have a
video cam attached to my computer which I want to use as a web cam with
Messenger. My friend who I wish to contact does not have a web cam. They also
have an aol email address but have synchronised it to be used on Messenger. I
have used the audio/video wizard and all appears to work well. I have sent
out the invitation to start the video conference and the invitation has been
accepted. Meanwhile I do not see any image in the screen of Messenger. Should
I? Messenger tells me it is trying to connect with my friend's computer
(which is using dial up) but after a while it times out. Says it cannot
connect. Have tried it in reverse with my friend inviting me to a video
conversation. Same effect. Each of us get the same message. Coonecting to
party's computer but never links and times out. Both of us have XP Home
edition and the lastest version of Messenger 4.7

 

[Guest]

With messenger,you need to use the instant message feature,both parties need
a passport from microsoft,or go to:http://passport.net Messenger has a audio/
video chk utility,try that also for youre cam.

 

[Guest]

Andrew
Many thanks. I have a passport but will need to check if my colleague does.
Audio/Video check worked fine. Will advise outcome.

 

[Guest]

Andrew
We are both registered with MS Passport. This obviously was not the issue.
As a side item, while I am trying to connect with the other party's computer,
the options menu under the screen does not provide me with a choice. They are
both grey. I sense that I am missing something my end. Also as stated before
the audio/video utility works ok. Mind you we are not using the audio
feature. Is that part of the problem?