installing skype for ubuntu

go on to Skype.com and make an account

I am trying to use the free video calling feature of skype. at this point i don't think i need an account since that part is free. i have downloaded skype for ubuntu. it is there as an icon and does come up. maybe the software i received the quickcan orbit af from logitech can't be read properly. i don't get prompts from the software to proceed. i'm just guessing what to do! do you know if the software that comes with the quickcam orbit is necessary for skype to work? still stuck in florida - any help would be greatly appreciated. if you need further details i'll attempt to provide them. thanks.

You will still need a password. No Skype account - no calls.

So just create one at skype.com.

Hey James.

I'm assuming that when you say you've downloaded Skype for Ubuntu, you have done so by adding a repository, and downloading it with Synaptic or the add/remove apps gizmo. If you just downloaded the executable installer from the skype page, you'll need to run it in order to install Skype.
Once installed, you should find an icon to launch Skype under Applications->Internet->Skype.

Markus and Matthaeus are correct - you will need to register in order to use Skype. This sets you up with a username that others can search for or connect to etc. It does NOT involve having to pay any money - there are separate options on the Skype website if you want the 'upgraded' account that costs money (and can call normal phones etc).

You can do this registration either by going to the Skype website and making a note of the username and password you end up with, or if you just launch Skype without having registered, I think the window it brings up initially has a "Don't have a Skype name yet?" link which you can click on to quickly register one.