I hope the mods wont mind this thread here. 
Its not a techie problem.
All I want to know is if someone has ever used regular video phones? Not using a PC. these devices are much like telephone sets and come with built in cam and lcd screen. Ususal price is US $800-1600 for a pair.
It would be interesting to know if someone has used these devices for trans-continental video confs.
Azkar