On the view screen, Mr Spock ...

A very quick plug here for a system known as Skype. There are various bells and whistles, some of which cost extra and some of which are free, but essentially it allows you to make phone calls to other Skype users via your Internet connection for no cost over and above that which you already pay for accessing the Internet.

Best and most fun of all, it enables you to use your web cam to make video calls - very Star Trek. Practically speaking, you do need Broadband - especially for the video-calling.

On our first foray into Skype, we video-called friends who emigrated to New Zealand about three years ago and have only been in touch with by email and an occasional phone call. It was good to see them, although galling to hear of the 30 degree heat etc and what a nice summer they're having.

You have to download some software from here. It's definitely worth a go.