My parents have bought me a webcam so we can hook up via video link (they miss their granddaughter!). The web camera is working fine, but I'm having a lot of trouble setting up Skype.
Here's the specs:

I have an eMac, Mac OS X Version 10.3.9
Processor 1 GHz PowerPC G4
Memory 256 MB SDRAM

I downloaded the most recent version of Skype which downloaded fine, but then would not open.
I read later (after much searching on the Skype site) that system requirements includes 512 MB RAM which means I need more memory.
So then I wondered if I could download an older version of Skype that suits my memory capabilities... I cannot afford to purchase more memory right now.
I've tried Skype 2.6.0.137 (30 MB) and Skype 2.5.0.85 (22 MB) and basically, they download without any problems. Skype instructs users to put the Skype logo into the Applications folder, then eject the Skype "disk". Once this is done, I click on Skype (in Applications) but it just fades away and won't launch. I don't have any other IM programs on my computer that may interfere with it.

I chose Skype initially because my parents are on a PC and I was told that it's best if both ends are using the same messenger. Is that right?
I'm completely new to this instant messenger stuff and especially Skype, so any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

If you have any suggestions for a better messenger service for both myself and my parents (particularly one suited to my computer with only 256 MB RAM) I would be eternally grateful!!

How do you mean: it just fades away ?

Okay, so it doesn't launch, but are you saying that its icon "visually" fades away, or that it just won't launch?

just on a side note, I've found that a lot of applications in Mac OS 10.3.9 don't work anymore, and that much of everything is improved with the installation of Mac OS 10.4.11 - also known as Tiger.

Sorry, I did sound vague!
When I double click on it in applications, it quickly appears on the dock then disappears again.
It's still in applications, but hasn't launched.

Do you think I should upgrade to Tiger (even though Skype says 10.3 version is fine)?

One possibility is that although it tells you the minimum requirement is Mac OS 10.3.9 (Panther), it really needs Mac OS 10.4.11 (Tiger).

I would definitely upgrade to Tiger and increase the RAM.

All in good time, hey?

Try downloading an earlier version of Skype by clicking here.

cheers,

cw