OK here's what I want to do: Simply set up a "Skype-like" audio/video connection with a friend. Thats all nothing fancy.

So I use Empathy right? as I really would like to avoid using Skype. My friend at the other end has Empathy too. However, when I start Empathy I'm lost. I've never even used Skype before. I dont understand what all these terms and concepts mean. I know I have create some sort of account but how/where? And whats the link with say Facebook? or other things like Jabber, googletalk etc etc etc.

Is there anyone here who would be prepared to answer a few basic questions, explain the basic concepts and guide me through setting Empathy up?

Many thanks..