How do I reinstall iChat, how do PC users video iChat with me, and should I just use skype?

Question

1. I deleted iChat awhile ago by mistake. I searched ichat in Macintosh HD, and the only result was iChat the application file, but its icon is a faded out IWeb icon. When I click on it, it just bounces on my dock, until it disappears and an error message pops up stating it quit unexpectedly. I tried dragging the result to my desktop then redragging it into my Applications folder, but the same thing still happens (faded out iWeb icon instead of iChat icon, bounces, quits, error message). I also tried installing the iChat AV (forgot which version) and iChat Update 1.0 Universal, both of which said I had to have 10.4. I have 10.5.8. Also, if this makes any difference, the current faded out iChat in my Applications folder says its version 4.0.9. I do not have my reinstall CD, and do not want to call support and have them send me one. Considering I bought my macbook in late 2008, and my warranty is up, I'm pretty sure they wouldn't help me anyways. I also do not know of anyone who has a mac so the sharing option can be crossed offed. Is there a downloadable version of iChat for 10.5. users?
2. If I somehow managed to reinstall a working iChat, how would PC users connect to me and vide chat?
3. Should I just use skype? Would i have to download anything? Is skype video chat free? What are the differences between iChat and skype, and which one is better?
Thank you for your time!

Answer 1

Hi,
Reinstall Instructions
Be SURE to Download (Manually) and Install the COMBO version of the last Update to the OS you did as iChat will need to be Updated (Software Update will think it is already done and you need to Fool it)
Re 2).
In theory it is just a question oif you using a valid AIM name in iChat
This could be one registered with AIM or one from @mac.com or MobileMe if paid for or a current trial.
In Practice it can need a bit of tweaking at both ends
They Need to allow the AIM App through the Windows firewall as an Exception (AS with any Non Microsoft app)
They may also need to turn off the "Real Time" option that does not work to iChat and effects A/V chats as well.  (It is Sending as you type). It will be in one of the Menus of their Budy List.
Post back for more if you get stuck.
Re 3)
Skype does offer free Video Chat and some people resort to it when iChat to AIM does not work.
It is free (At present - and you only pay for the Connection to and from real phones)
Skype was bought by Microsoft within the last week and things may change at some point in the future.
iChat has better Video
Audio depends on the capabilities of your Mac and their PC but is probably about equal.
Connection methods differ and iChat's Video and Audio Chats are technically more secure (you can in fact log out of the Buddy List as they adre Peer-to-Peer where as Skype uses a little bit of everyone's bandwidth (Between 40 and 100 other End Users)
Other options are here
Video options are from 8 onwards
Mebeam is now called Koowy. (Video Chatting in a Web Browser using Flash)
NOTES;
Google Do a Plug-in for Intels to allow you to use their Web Mail Page Chat Option
It can Conflict with Flash if you use more than one option.
10:24 PM      Tuesday; May 17, 2011
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