Copyright: Copyright (C) 1997-2000, America Online, Inc.  All rights reserved.
Citation: Copyright (C) 1997-2000, America Online, Inc.  All rights reserved.


Overview

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) (AIM) service provides the easiest way to let you communicate with your friends.  AIM lets you:

•	Add buddies to your Buddy List and set buddy alerts.

•	Send instant messages to your buddies.

•	Call your buddies and talk either PC to PC or PC to telephone.

•	Chat with groups of friends or family members in your own private chat room.

•	Get the latest news and stock quotes (delayed 15 minutes) and set stock alerts.

•	Set Mail alerts and read mail in any of your e-mail accounts.

•	Transfer files or send pictures and sound files.

•	Control who communicates with you through the buddy privacy feature.  You can allow anyone to send you messages or block messages from specific people.

•	Find your buddies by e-mail address, by name and e-mail address, or by common interest.

•	Invite a friend to sign up for the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

•	Create a personal profile.

•	Use buddy icons to liven up your instant message sessions (cartoon characters, symbols, and pictures) to represent buddies.

•	Warn users who send you annoying or offensive messages.

•	Search the Internet.

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Related Topics

Steps to Get Started

Registering

What to Do After Registering

Signing on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Service

Running the New User Wizard

Creating a Personal Profile

How the Buddy List Works

Sending an Instant Message

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Sending a File to Your Buddy

Getting a File from Your Buddy’s Computer


Steps to Get Started

Follow these steps to help you get started with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service:

•	Register for an AOL Instant Messenger (SM) account, and select a screen name and password.

•	Download and install the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software.

•	Sign on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

•	Start the New User Wizard to help you get started with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

•	Add buddies to your Buddy List.

•	Create a personal profile.

•	Refer to AIM Online Help and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for help and answers to your questions that might already be addressed.

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Related Topics

Overview

Registering

Installing the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Software

Running the New User Wizard

Creating a Personal Profile

How the Buddy List Works


Registering

Before you can use the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service, you need to register and select a screen name and password.

To register, go to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) home page, http://www.aol.com/aim, and follow the registration link.

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Related Topics

What to Do After Registering

Choosing a Screen Name

Installing the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Software


What to Do After Registering

After registering:

1	Confirm your registration within 48 hours after you receive an e-mail confirmation request; enter only the word OK in your response.

2	Download a copy of the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software at http://www.aol.com/aim/download.html.

3	Install the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software , and sign on with the screen name and password you registered.

Note:  Never reveal your password to anyone online. No one from AOL will ever ask you for your password while you are online.

4	Start the New User Wizard if you are using AIM for the first time and if you want a quick overview of the service.

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Related Topics

Installing the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Software

Running the New User Wizard


Choosing a Screen Name

Your screen name is the name by which you are known to everyone who uses the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service, America Online, CS2000, and other services.  Your screen name can be between 3 and 16 characters long, using letters, numbers, and spaces.

Once you register your screen name, you cannot change it to a new one.  You can only format your screen name to change capitalization and spacing.  If you want multiple AIM identities, you must register those screen names.

Note:  You already have an AIM screen name if you have registered at Netcenter, My News, Compuserve 2000, AOL Hometown, or AOL.com's Personal Finance Center.  However, you still need to register the screen name to use it with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

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Related Topics

Removing a Screen Name

Formatting a Screen Name

Using Multiple Screen Names


Removing a Screen Name

To remove a screen name from the Sign On screen:

1	Display the Sign On screen, and select the screen name that you want to delete.

2	Press the Delete key.

Note:  You cannot delete screen names but only remove them from the Sign On screen.

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Related Topics

Choosing a Screen Name

Formatting a Screen Name

Using Multiple Screen Names


Using Multiple Screen Names

If you have registered multiple screen names to use with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service, you can easily sign on with any of them.

To sign on and use a different screen name:

1	Display the Sign On screen.

2	Type your new screen name over the current screen name that is displayed in the Screen Name field.

3	Click Sign On.

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Related Topics

Choosing a Screen Name

Removing a Screen Name

Formatting a Screen Name


Installing the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Software

After you have downloaded AIM, install the service onto your computer:

1	Locate the AIM95 setup file that you downloaded to your system, and double-click it to start the installation process.

By default, the installer stores the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) in your Program Files directory in the AIM95 folder.

2	Follow the installation instructions on your screen.

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Related Topics

Creating a Personal Profile

How the Buddy List Works

Sending an Instant Message

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Uninstalling the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Service


Uninstalling the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Software

To uninstall the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software:

1	Locate your AIM95 folder.

2	Double-click the Uninstall AOL Instant Messenger (SM) icon.

3	Follow the screen instructions to uninstall AIM.

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Related Topic

Installing the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Service


Signing On to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Service

To sign on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service:

1	Display the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Sign On screen.  (If the AIM icon appears in your system tray at the bottom of your screen, click it, and click Sign On.)

2	Enter your screen name in the Screen Name field.

3	Type your password in the Password field.

4	Click Sign On, or press Enter.

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Related Topics

Running the New User Wizard

Creating a Personal Profile

How the Buddy List Works

Sending an Instant Message

Inviting a Buddy to Chat


Connecting Through a Modem

If you want to connect to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service through a modem, you need to dial in to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) first.  Once you are connected to the Internet, sign on to the service.

Resolving Connection Problems

If you experience problems connecting, run the automatic configuration program to find a host and port through which you can connect. You must have a live connection to the Internet to complete this procedure.

To resolve connection problems:

1	Click Setup on the Sign On screen.

2	Click Auto Configure.

The Automatic Configuration program attempts to find a host and port through which you can sign on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

3	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

Note:  If you want to preserve your Internet connection while you are signed on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service, select the Keep connection alive check box. (Some ISPs automatically disconnect you if you have been inactive for a given period.) Every five minutes the program sends a signal to keep your connection alive, even though you may be idle.

Automatically Connecting and Signing On

To make your connection to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service as quick and easy as possible, you can configure the program to start when Windows starts and then automatically sign on when you connect to the Internet through your ISP.

To connect and sign on automatically:

1	On the Sign On screen, enter your screen name and password.

2	Click Setup.

3	Click the General tab.

4	Select the Save password check box.

5	Select the Automatically sign on when AIM starts check box.

6	Select the Start AIM when Windows starts check box.

7	In the Internet Connection box, click Modem.

8	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Overview

Steps to Get Started


Connecting Through a Local Area Network

If you want to connect to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service through a local area network (LAN) (for example, at work or school), you need to have a live connection to the Internet before you sign on to the service.

Resolving Connection Problems

If you experience problems connecting, run the automatic configuration program to find a host and port through which you can connect. You must have a live connection to the Internet to complete this procedure.

If your local area network is behind a firewall, you must use a proxy server to connect to the service. Contact your network administrator to help you determine the configuration settings to enter.

To check and set connection options:

1	Click Setup on the Sign On screen.

2	Enter the settings your network administrator supplies.

3	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

Note:  If you want to preserve your Internet connection while you are signed on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service, select the Keep connection alive check box. (Some ISPs automatically disconnect you if you have been inactive for a given period.) Every five minutes the program sends a signal to keep your connection alive, even though you may be idle.

Automatically Connecting and Signing On

To make your connection to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service as quick and easy as possible, you can configure the program to start when Windows starts and then automatically sign on when you connect to the Internet through your ISP.

To connect and sign on automatically:

1	Enter your screen name and password on the Sign On screen.

2	Click Setup.

3	Click the General tab.

4	Select the Save password check box.

5	Select the Automatically sign on when AIM starts check box.

6	Select the Start AIM when Windows starts check box.

7	In the Internet Connection box, click Local area network.

8	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Overview

Steps to Get Started


Running the New User Wizard

The New User Wizard provides a quick overview of AIM.  It guides you through the basic steps to add or find a buddy and create a personal profile.

To run the New User Wizard:

1	Select the Help menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click New User Wizard.

The Welcome window appears on your screen.  The screen instructions step you through the wizard to help you get started with AIM.

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Related Topics

Overview

Steps to Get Started

Creating a Personal Profile

How the Buddy List Works

Sending an Instant Message

Inviting a Buddy to Chat


Displaying Your Buddy's AIM Capabilities

You can easily determine what features your buddy’s AIM application supports.  This lets you know whether you can communicate with your online buddy, using such features as Talk, File Transfer, IM Images, and others.

To check your buddy’s AIM capabilities:

1	Make sure the Buddy List window is your active window.

2	Move the cursor over your buddy’s screen name.

The service displays user information such as the service your buddy is using, warning level, length of time online, and the software capabilities.

In the Capabilities field, the service lists main features that your buddy’s AIM software can perform.  If your buddy’s software doesn’t include a particular feature that you want him to use, ask your buddy to upgrade to the latest version of AIM at www.aol.com/aim.

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Related Topic

Receiving Automatic Upgrade Notifications


Inviting a Friend to Register for an AIM Account

Expand your circle of friends in your Buddy List by inviting others to become AOL Instant Messenger (SM) members.  Remember, the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) account is free!

To invite a friend to register with AIM:

1	Select the People menu from the Buddy List window.

The Sign on a Friend Today window appears.

2	Click Sign On A Friend.

3	Enter your friend’s e-mail address.

4	If you want to include a personal greeting in the invitation, type it in the text area.

5	Click Next.

6	When you are finished inviting your friends, click Finish.

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Related Topics

Overview

Steps to Get Started

Registering

What do Do After Registering


Exiting AOL Instant Messenger (SM)

Exiting the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) application signs you off, closes the application, and removes the AIM icon from your system tray.

To exit the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) application:

1	Click the AIM icon in the system tray at the bottom of your screen.

2	Click Exit.

Note:  You can also exit the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) application by pressing Ctrl+Shift+F4 when the Sign On screen or Buddy List window is in the foreground.

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Related Topic

Signing Off AOL Instant Messenger (SM)


Signing Off AOL Instant Messenger (SM)

Signing off the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) application, logs you off, closes the application, and leaves the AIM icon in your system tray.  Keeping the AIM icon in the system tray lets you access and sign on to the service very quickly.

To sign off AIM:

3	On the Buddy List window, click My AIM.

4	Click Close.

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Related Topic

Exiting AOL Instant Messenger (SM)


Upgrading AOL Instant Messenger (SM)

When you sign on to AIM using an older version of the software, AIM displays a message giving you an opportunity to upgrade to the latest version.  You can upgrade your software at that time by following instructions in the dialog box, or you can upgrade later while you are running the application.

To upgrade AIM from within the application:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Upgrade AIM.

The system displays a dialog box, indicating what version of the software you are currently running.

3	Click Upgrade Now to download the software, then install it onto your computer.

Note:  If the Upgrade AIM option is not shown on the My AIM menu, it means that you are already running the latest version of AIM (based upon your automatic upgrade setting), and you don’t need to upgrade your software.

To check your automatic upgrade selection, go to the Notify me when a new version is available option under the General Preferences tab.

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Related Topic

Receiving Automatic Upgrade Notifications


Receiving Automatic Upgrade Notifications

You can let AIM notify you whenever an upgraded version of the software is available.  The service usually sends notifications within a few days of the software release.  You can indicate whether you want to receive notifications for beta, final, or both software versions.

To receive automatic upgrade notifications:

1	Select the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Select the Notify me when a new version is available check box.

4	Click OK.

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Related Topic

Upgrading AOL Instant Messenger (SM)


About the News Ticker

Get up-to-the-minute news with the News Ticker.  The News Ticker displays the top five news headlines for Top News, Business, Entertainment, and Sports topics.

AIM displays all news topics in the News Ticker window by default.  If you do not want all news topics to display, you can set AIM to display only those that interest you.  If you do not want to display any news, you can turn off the ticker entirely.

You can also perform these functions:

•	Display your news headlines in bold.

•	Change the speed at which the news headlines scroll across the News Ticker window.

•	Expand the News Ticker window to display a list of news headlines, instead of letting them scroll across the window.

You can move the News Ticker window to any location you want on your screen.

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Related Topics

Displaying the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Displaying Only Selected News Topics

Expanding the News Ticker Window

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

You can change the rate at which the News Ticker headlines scroll on your screen to slow, medium, or fast.  Medium is the default News Ticker display speed.

To change the News Ticker display speed:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Ticker tab.

4	Select the ticker speed from the Display speed field.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Displaying the News Ticker

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Displaying Only Selected News Topics

Expanding the News Ticker Window

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


Displaying the News Ticker

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service displays the News Ticker by default when you first sign on.  If you have closed the News Ticker window, you can easily redisplay it.

To display the News Ticker:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click News Ticker.

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Displaying Only Selected News Topics

Expanding the News Ticker Window

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


Displaying Headlines in Bold

You can display your news headlines in bold or in plain text.  The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service displays the headlines in bold by default.

To display the headlines in bold:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Ticker tab.

4	Select Display headlines in bold.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Displaying the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Only Selected News Topics

Expanding the News Ticker Window

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying When You Sign On

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service displays the News Ticker by default when you sign on.

To stop the ticker from displaying at sign-on:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Ticker tab.

4	Deselect Display Ticker at Signon.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Displaying the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Displaying Only Selected News Topics

Expanding the News Ticker Window


Displaying Only Selected News Topics

The News Ticker window displays the top news headlines for Top News, Business, Entertainment, and Sports by default.  You can remove any of these topics, leaving only those that interest you.

To display only selected news topics:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Ticker tab.

4	Deselect the news topic in the Topics field that you do not want the service to display in the News Ticker window.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Displaying the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Expanding the News Ticker Window

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


Expanding the News Ticker Window

You can expand the News Ticker window to display a list of news headlines, instead of having it scroll across the ticker window.

To expand the News Ticker window, when it is displayed on your screen, double-click the small box in the upper-left corner of the window.  (See example below.)

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Related Topics

About the News Ticker

Displaying the News Ticker

Changing the News Ticker Display Speed

Displaying Headlines in Bold

Stopping the News Ticker from Displaying


About the Stock Ticker

The Stock Ticker lets you track up to 40 stocks and indices in the United States and other regions such as Canada, Mexico, Asia, and Europe.  You can:

•	Add stocks and indices to the Stock Ticker.

•	Scroll quotes at the bottom of your Buddy List window, showing the symbol, price, and change of each stock or index.

•	Display detailed stock information such as last price, high, low, open, and volume data in a separate window.

•	Set stock alerts for stocks and indices that you have added to the Stock Ticker.  Using the Stock Alerts feature, AIM alerts you when your stock or index has reached your price target, enabling you to take advantage of investment opportunities.

Note:  Prices delayed at least 15 minutes.

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Related Topics

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

Setting Stock Alerts


Adding Stocks and Indices

To add stocks or indices to the Stock Ticker:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window, and click Stock Ticker Detail Window.

The Stock window appears on your screen and displays stocks and indices that you have already added to the ticker.

2	Select the Symbol menu, and click Add New Symbols.

The Add Stocks window appears on your screen.

Adding Stocks:

To add stocks, click the Add Stocks tab, select the exchange of the stock that you want to track in the Choose an exchange field, and enter the stock’s ticker symbol in the Enter a stock symbol field.

You can enter up to 40 symbols.  If you do not know the stock’s ticker symbol and want to look it up, click Look Up Symbols.

Adding Indices:

To add indices, click the Add Indices tab, select a region in the Choose a region field, and select the indices you want to track.

3	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the Stock Ticker

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

Setting Stock Alerts


Deleting Stocks and Indices

To delete a stock or an index:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Stock Ticker Detail Window.

The Stocks window appears on your screen.

3	Select the stock or index that you want to delete.

4	Click the minus sign (-) on the toolbar.

The service removes the stock or index you have selected from the Stock Ticker.

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Related Topics

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

Setting Stock Alerts


Displaying the Stock Ticker in Buddy List Window

To display the Stock Ticker at the bottom of the Buddy List window:

1	Select the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Ticker tab.

The Ticker window appears on your screen.

3	Click the Show stock ticker in Buddy List window checkbox.

4	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the Stock Ticker

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

Setting Stock Alerts


Displaying Detailed Stock Information

To display detailed stock information such as trading volume and open, last, high, and low prices:

1	From the Buddy List window, select the My AIM menu.

2	Click Stock Ticker Detail Window.

The Stock table appears on your screen.  To add another stock and display detailed information about it, click the plus (+) button on the toolbar, click the Add Stocks tab, enter the exchange and stock symbol, and click OK.

Shortcut:  Clicking the small box in the lower-left corner of the Buddy List window also displays the Stock table.

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Related Topics

About the Stock Ticker

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

Setting Stock Alerts


Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed

To change the speed at which the Stock Ticker scrolls across your Buddy List window to slow, medium, or fast:

1	Select the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Ticker tab.

The Ticker window appears on your screen.

3	Select Slow, Medium, or Fast from the Display speed field.

4	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About the Stock Ticker

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Setting Stock Alerts


Setting Stock Alerts

To set stock alerts:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Stock Ticker Detail Window.

The Stock window appears on your screen.

3	Click the Alert icon (the Bell symbol) on the toolbar.

The Stock Alert List window appears on your screen.

4	Click Add to display the Stock Alert window.

5	Make sure a check mark appears in the Enabled check box, and select the stock from the Alerts for field.

If your stock is not listed, it means that you have not added it to the Stock Ticker.  You must add all stocks to the ticker before the service can alert you when it reaches your specified price.

6	Select when you want to be notified from the Notify me when field.

If your price target is above or below a certain price, enter the price in the price field.

7	Select how you want to be notified from the Notify me by field.

If you want a window to appear on your screen when the market reaches your price target, select Showing the alert notification window.  To hear sounds when the service alerts you, select Playing sound, and click the down arrow to select the sound that you want to hear, or click Browse.  Click Preview to hear the sound.

8	Click OK, and click OK again to close the Stock Alert List window, then close the Stocks window.

Notes:

•	If you want to be alerted only on weekdays, click Run alerts only on weekdays on the Stock Alert List window.

•	 If you want to be alerted only at specific times, click Run alerts only from, and specify a time range on the Stock Alert List window.

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Related Topics

About the Stock Ticker

Adding Stocks and Indices

Deleting Stocks and Indices

Displaying the Stock Ticker in the Buddy List Window

Displaying Detailed Stock Information

Changing the Stock Ticker Display Speed


How the Buddy List Works

When you sign on to AIM, your Buddy List window appears.  Four groups are automatically created for you in your Buddy List window:  Buddies, Family, Co-Workers, and Offline.  Add your buddies to any of these groups (except Offline) or create additional groups.

The Offline group shows friends who you have added to your Buddy List but who are not signed on; you can not add buddies to this group.  However, you can set buddy alerts for your offline buddies so that the service can notify you when they sign on.

List Setup and Online tabs:

•	List Setup tab allows you to add your buddies' screen names to your Buddy List and create groups for them.  For example, you can create groups for specific interests such as Tennis Pals, Photographers, Classmates, and so forth, then add your buddies to them.   The List Setup tab also lets you delete buddies and groups or rearrange them.

In the List Setup tab:

−	Each group appears as a folder.

−	The buddies in each group appear as branches from the folder. You must expand the group to see buddies in that group.

−	You cannot see which of your buddies is online when you display the List Setup tab. Click the Online tab to see which buddies are online.

•	Online tab lists your buddies who you have added to your Buddy List who are signed on.  Once they are signed on, you can exchange instant messages with them.

In the Online tab:

−	Groups in the Buddy List window are initially shown expanded, displaying all your buddies in each group. You can toggle the display mode between expanded and collapsed by clicking the small triangle to the left of each group name.

−	Each group has a number in parentheses to the right of the group name to indicate how many people in the group are online out of the total number of buddies in the group. For example, (3/9) means that three of the nine buddies in the group are currently online.

−	Buddy names in bold indicate the buddies who signed on most recently. Buddy names in gray and italic indicate the buddies who just signed off.  You can move the cursor over your buddy’s screen name to display information such as the name of the online service that your buddy is using, warnings, and online time.

Tip:  To toggle between the Online and List Setup tabs, press CTRL+TAB.

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Related Topics

Adding a Buddy to Your Buddy List

Adding a Group to Your Buddy List

Rearranging Your Buddies

Renaming a Buddy or Group

Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address

Finding a Buddy by Common Interest

Finding a Buddy by Name and Address

Searching the Internet


Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address

To find a buddy by e-mail address:

1	On the People menu, point to Find a Buddy, and then click By E-mail Address.

The Find a Buddy by E-mail Address appears on your screen.

2	Type your buddy's e-mail address in the E-mail address field.

AIM displays all screen names for the e-mail address you specified.  If multiple screen names appear, select the one you want, and click Next.

If you want to add the screen name to your Buddy List, click the group name and click OK.  If you do not want to add the screen name to your Buddy List, click Cancel.

3	Click Next and follow screen instructions.

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Related Topics

Finding a Buddy by Common Interest

Finding a Buddy by Name and Address

Searching the Internet


Finding a Buddy by Name and Address

To find a buddy by name and address:

1	On the People menu, point to Find a Buddy, and then click By Name and Address.

2	Type the information about your buddy in the fields.

3	Click Next.

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Related Topics

Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address

Finding a Buddy by Common Interest

Searching the Internet


Finding a Buddy by Common Interest

You can search the Internet to find buddies with common interests.  For example, if you are interested in photography, you can search for others who are also interested in photography and send instant messages to them.

To find a buddy with a common interest:

1	On the People menu, point to Find a Buddy, then select By Common Interest.

2	Click Choose Interest.

The service displays a list of interests from which you must select.

3	Select an interest.

4	Click Next to display a list of users who share your interest.

5	Select a user from the Lookup Reply List window.

To display more information about the user, click More Info.

To send an instant message, click IM.

6	Click Finish when you are done.

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Related Topics

Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address

Finding a Buddy by Name and Address

Searching the Internet


Searching the Internet

To search the Internet:

1	Display the Buddy List window.

2	Type the word or phrase that you want to search in the Search the Web field.

3	Click Go.

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Related Topics

Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address

Finding a Buddy by Name and Address

Finding a Buddy by Common Interest


Adding a Buddy to Your Buddy List

You can add up to 150 buddies (friends, family members, and coworkers who are AOL, CS2000, or other registered AIM users) to your Buddy List.

To add a buddy to your Buddy List:

1	In the Buddy List window, click the List Setup tab.

2	Click the folder to which you want to add your buddy.

3	Click the Add Buddy icon:

A branch appears with the default name *New Buddy*.

4	Type the screen name of the buddy you want to add, and press Enter.

Remember to enter just the buddy’s screen name, not your buddy’s full E-mail address. For example, johndoe, rather than johndoe@aol.com.

To see what AIM features your buddy’s application supports, see Displaying Your Buddy's AIM Capabilities.

Notes:

•	If you don't know your buddy’s screen name (from either America Online or the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service), you can find a buddy by e-mail address, by name and address, or by common interest.

•	You can invite friends who have not yet signed up to join the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service. On the People menu, click Sign On A Friend and follow the instructions.

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Related Topics

Adding a Group to Your Buddy List

Rearranging Your Buddies

Renaming a Buddy or Group


Adding a Group to Your Buddy List

To add a group to your Buddy List:

1	In the Buddy List window, click the List Setup tab.

2	Click the Add Group icon:

A folder appears with the default name *New Group*.

3	Type a new name for the group, and press Enter.

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Related Topics

Adding a Buddy to Your Buddy List

Rearranging Your Buddies

Renaming a Buddy or Group


Rearranging Your Buddies

To rearrange your buddies in your Buddy List:

1	In the Buddy List window, select the buddy or group you want to move.

2	Drag and drop the entry to a different location in your Buddy List.

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Related Topics

Adding a Buddy to Your Buddy List

Adding a Group to Your Buddy List

Renaming a Buddy or Group


Renaming a Buddy or Group

To rename a buddy or group in your Buddy List:

1	In the Buddy List window, click the List Setup tab.

2	Select the buddy or group you want to rename.

The name of the buddy or group appears highlighted.

3	Click the right mouse button and choose Edit from the popup menu.

4	Enter the new name for the buddy or group, and press Enter.

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Related Topics

Adding a Buddy to Your Buddy List

Adding a Group to Your Buddy List

Rearranging Your Buddies


Setting Visual Alerts in Your Buddy List Window

You can set visual alerts to let you know when your buddies sign on or off or when they become idle.  To set visual alerts:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Buddy tab.

3	To make your Buddy List window blink for five seconds each time a buddy signs on or off, select the Flash Buddy List window when buddies sign on or off option.

4	To dim the display of buddies who are idle, select the Dim buddies after they have been idle for __ minutes option and enter the number of minutes buddies must be idle. The default is 20 minutes.

5	Click OK to save the changes.

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Related Topics

About Buddy Alerts

Changing the Font in Your Buddy List Window

Docking your Buddy List Window


Changing the Font in Your Buddy List Window

You can change the default font used to display groups and buddies in your Buddy List window.

To change fonts:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Buddy tab.

3	Select the font name and font size you want to use to display your groups and buddies in your Buddy List window.

4	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Setting Visual Alerts in Your Buddy List Window

Docking Your Buddy List Window


Docking Your Buddy List Window

You can dock your Buddy List window on either side of the screen.  When you dock the Buddy List, the service decreases the size of your maximized applications so that your Buddy List is always in view without obstructing the view of other applications.

To dock your Buddy List:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Buddy tab.

The Buddy window appears on your screen.

3	Click Buddy List window can be “docked” on left or right of screen.

4	Click OK.

5	Drag your Buddy List window as far as you can to the left or right of the screen.

The service snaps the Buddy List window in place.  To minimize the Buddy List window while it is docked, right-click in the Buddy List window title bar to display a shortcut menu, and click Minimize.

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Related Topics

Setting Visual Alerts in Your Buddy List Window

Changing the Font in Your Buddy List Window


Locating Your Buddy List Backup File

If you have multiple Buddy Lists on different AOL brand services, AIM now merges your Buddy Lists into one.  This means that you use the same Buddy List whenever you use the service --- no matter what system you are using.

When AIM merges your Buddy Lists, it creates a backup file of each individual Buddy List into a text file in case you want to retrieve any of them.

Your Buddy List backup file is located in the following file on your computer:

C:\windows\aim95\<screen name>\BuddyListBackup.txt

Where <screen name> represents your screen name.


About Instant Messages

You can communicate instantly with your buddies (friends, family, coworkers, and others), who are signed on to AOL, CompuServe 2000 (CS2000), or AIM.  Add your buddies to your Buddy List, send messages to them, and watch as messages pop up on your screen – instantly!  (For information on how to send a graphic or sound file, see Sending a Graphic or Sound File.)

Using the Instant Message feature, you can:

•	Share your favorite Web site with buddies, by including links in your messages.

•	Insert an Emoticon (or smiley) in an instant message.

•	Change the default appearance of your messages by adding color and changing font and size.

•	Time-stamp your messages.

•	Save your instant message sessions.

You can also have fun with AIM by livening up your instant message sessions with buddy icons.

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Related Topics

Choosing Buddy Icons

Sending an Instant Message

Creating a Hyperlink in an Instant Message

Inserting an Emoticon in an Instant Message

Changing Key Bindings for Messages

Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

Viewing the Timestamp in Messages

Saving Instant Messages

Sending a Graphic or Sound File


Sending an Instant Message

To send an instant message to your buddy:

1	Click the Online tab on the Buddy List window, and select your buddy's screen name.

2	Click the Instant Message icon:

The Instant Message window opens.

3	Type your message in the text message area, and click Send.

Tip:  You can use the toolbar as a shortcut to perform functions such as changing text or background colors, changing text size, emphasizing text (bold, italic, or underlining), or inserting links to favorite Web sites, as well as inserting photographs and sound files.  (See the Instant Message toolbar below.)

For information on how to send a graphic or sound file to your buddy, see Sending a Graphic or Sound File.

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Related Topics

About Instant Messages

Choosing Buddy Icons

Changing Key Bindings for Messages

Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

Creating a Hyperlink in an Instant Message

Saving Instant Messages

Viewing the Timestamp in Messages

Sending a Graphic or Sound File


Creating a Hyperlink in an Instant Message

To create a hyperlink in an instant message:

1	In an Instant Message window, type and select the text you want to turn into a hyperlink.

2	Click link on the toolbar.

The Edit Hyperlink window opens.

3	Specify the URL (Internet location) of the site you want the link to point to.

You can also specify an e-mail address as the URL. For example, mailto:johndoe@aol.com.

4	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

Tips:

•	You can also click link with no text selected. If you do this, you need to enter the link text into the dialog box. The link appears at the insertion point location.

•	If you enter an URL as text (for example, http://www.aol.com or mailto:johndoe@aol.com), the text automatically converts to a hyperlink when you send the message.

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Related Topics

About Instant Messages

Choosing Buddy Icons

Changing Key Bindings for Messages

Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

Sending an Instant Message

Inserting an Emoticon in an Instant Message

Saving Instant Messages

Viewing the Timestamp in Messages


Inserting an Emoticon in an Instant Message

You can insert emoticons (or graphical smileys) in your instant messages to help express your emotions.

To insert an emoticon:

1	Open an Instant Message window.

2	Click the Insert Smiley icon on the toolbar.

3	Select the smiley that you want to insert.

Notes:

•	You can also insert emoticons by typing the corresponding characters such as Ctrl+1 or :-) for smiling, Ctrl+3 or ;-) for winking, and so forth.  To display a list of smileys along with their definitions and keyboard shortcuts, in the text message area of the Instant Message window, right-click the mouse to display a shortcut menu, click Insert, and select Smiley.

•	To control whether emoticons appear in your Instant Message window and on your right-mouse button menu, see Turning Emoticons On or Off.

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Related Topics

About Instant Messages

Choosing Buddy Icons

Changing Key Bindings for Messages

Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

Sending an Instant Message

Saving Instant Messages

Viewing the Timestamp in Messages


Saving Instant Messages

To save instant messages to a file:

1	In an Instant Message window, choose Save from the File menu.

The Save Text to File window opens.

2	Enter a name for the file in the File name field.

3	In the Save as type field, select Text Only if you want to save just the text of the messages.

If you want to save the text and be able to follow any hyperlinks in the messages, select AOL Rich Text Format. This creates an HTML file you can view with your web browser.

4	Click Save to save the messages that appear in the upper pane of the Instant Message window.

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Related Topics

About Instant Messages

Choosing Buddy Icons

Changing Key Bindings for Messages

Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

Sending an Instant Message

Inserting an Emoticon in an Instant Message

Viewing the Timestamp in Messages


About Talk

The Talk feature lets you speak directly (PC to PC) to your buddies who are signed on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.  You can talk to your buddies for free!

To use the Talk feature, simply send your buddy a Talk invitation, and after he accepts, begin your conversation.  When you are finished talking, just click Disconnect.  It’s that easy!

You can talk in full- or half-duplex mode.  Full-duplex mode allows both parties to speak at the same time.  Half-duplex allows only one voice to be transmitted at a time, which means that each buddy must wait until the other one finishes before talking.

(For information on making PC-to-telephone connections, see About AIM Phone.)

Notes:

•	You must have a sound card and a microphone installed in your computer.

•	Your sound card supports either full- or half-duplex mode.  If you and your buddy are using different modes, the Talk feature uses the lowest mode.  (For example, if your buddy is using a half-duplex sound card, and you are using a full-duplex sound card, Talk places both of you in the half-duplex mode.)

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Related Topics

Inviting your Buddy to Talk Online

Displaying the Talk Start Dialog Box

Specifying the Half-duplex Mode

Talk Tips


Inviting your Buddy to Talk Online

To invite your buddy to talk online:

1	Highlight your buddy’s screen name in the Buddy List window.

2	Click the Connect to Talk icon:

Note:  If you did not select your buddy’s screen name before clicking the icon, enter it in the Screen Name dialog box after it appears on your screen, and click OK.

A dialog box appears on your screen, indicating that the service is dialing.  After your buddy accepts the invitation, you can begin speaking.

3	Make sure you speak into your computer microphone so that your buddy can hear you clearly.

You can control the speaker volume with the on-screen control or use the volume control on your computer.

4	Click Disconnect when you are finished talking.

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Related Topics

About Talk

Specifying Half-duplex Mode

Displaying the Talk Start Dialog Box

Talk Tips


Displaying the Talk Start Dialog Box

A dialog box appears on your screen each time you try to start a Talk session with a buddy, and it remains on your screen until you make a Talk connection.

To stop the start dialog box from displaying:

1	From the Buddy List window, click the My AIM menu.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears.

3	Click the Talk tab.

4	Click Don’t display start dialog.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About Talk

Specifying Half-duplex mode

Inviting your Buddy to Talk Online

Talk Tips


Specifying Half-duplex Mode

To always use the half-duplex mode when you talk to your buddies:

1	From the Buddy List window, click the My AIM menu.

2	Point to Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears.

3	Click Talk.

4	Click Always Talk in Half Duplex mode, even if sound card reports Full Duplex.

5	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About Talk

Inviting your Buddy to Talk Online

Displaying the Start Dialog Box

Talk Tips


Talk Tips

For helpful Talk tips, click the problem that you are experiencing:

•	You cannot talk online.

•	You are having trouble hearing others.

•	Others are having trouble hearing you.

•	You are hearing echoes.


About AIM Phone

The AIM Phone feature allows you to make PC-to-telephone connections over the Internet.  Unlike AIM Talk, which lets you make only PC-to-PC connections and requires your buddy to have an AIM account, you can use AIM Phone to contact buddies on the telephone, and they do not need AIM accounts.

Using AIM Phone to contact your buddies from your PC to a telephone requires a separate registration and additional software that you must download and install on your computer.  (Note that while the Talk feature lets you talk for free, when you use AIM Phone, you are charged in accordance with rates given to you at the time of your registration.)

For buddies you contact frequently, AIM Phone lets you store up to three numbers (home, work, and mobile) for each of your buddies.

For additional information about AIM Phone, please refer to the help menu on AIM Phone or the FAQ (http://aimphone.aol.com/help.html).

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Related Topics

Making a PC-to-Telephone Connection

Storing Numbers for AIM Phone


Making a PC-to-Telephone Connection

When you make a PC-to-telephone connection, be sure to use a 1 + the area code, even for a local call. Dial internationally using 011 + country code + city code + number.

To contact your buddy on the telephone using your PC:

1	Select a screen name on your buddy list.

2	Select the People menu on the Buddy List window.

3	Click Contact using AIM Phone.

One of several things can happen when you select this option:

•	If you have not registered for AIM Phone, the service starts your browser and displays the AIM Phone registration page (http://aimphone.aol.com).  Register and download the software, and try to contact your buddy.

•	If you have not stored your buddy’s telephone number that you are contacting, the service displays a dialog box for you to enter the number.

•	If you have stored only one telephone number for your buddy, AIM dials that number automatically.

•	If you have stored multiple telephone numbers, the service displays a dialog box allowing you to select the number that you want to contact.

The AIM Phone window appears on your screen.

4	Begin speaking into your PC microphone after your buddy answers the telephone.

For additional information on AIM Phone, see the AIM Phone Help.

Shortcut:  Right-click on your buddy’s screen in your Buddy List window, and select Contact using AIM Phone.

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Related Topics

About AIM Phone

Storing Numbers for AIM Phone


Storing Numbers for AIM Phone

To store up to three of your buddy’s numbers (home, work, and mobile) for use with AIM Phone:

1	Right-click on your buddy’s screen name in the Buddy List window.

2	Click Store/Edit Buddy Numbers.

3	Enter your buddy’s numbers in the appropriate fields.

Note:  Be sure to use a 1 + the area code, even for a local call. Dial internationally using 011 + country code + city code + number.

4	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About AIM Phone

Making a PC-to-Telephone Connection


About Chat

The Chat feature lets you exchange messages with several of your buddies in your own private chat rooms.  You can start your own chat room, or you can join popular chat rooms such as Health Chat, Entertainment Chat, Romance Chat, Computing Chat, and a host of others that interest you.

Using Chat, you can also:

•	Invite buddies to a chat room.

•	Create hyperlinks in a chat message.

•	Insert emoticons in a chat message.

•	Save chat messages to a file to read offline or to just keep in your files.

Note:  Only AOL Instant Messenger (SM) users can chat in Buddy Chat rooms.

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Related Topics

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Sending a Chat Message

Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message

Saving Chat Messages


Inviting a Buddy to Chat

To invite a buddy to chat:

1	Click the Online tab on the Buddy List window.

2	Select the screen names of the buddies you want to invite to the chat room.

To select multiple screen names, hold down the Ctrl key as you select each name. You can also select an entire group of buddies.

3	Click the Send Buddy Chat Invitation icon:

The Buddy Chat Invitation window opens.

If you want to send the invitation to additional buddies, type their screen names in the Screen names to invite field.

4	 Click Send to send the invitation.

After your buddy accepts your invitation, AIM displays the message, “username” has entered the room,” in your Chat Room window.  You can start typing your chat messages in the text area after you receive the notification.

Tip:  You can invite a buddy to join a chat in progress. In the Chat Room window, select People on the menu bar and click Invite a Buddy to send an invitation.

Notes:

•	Only AIM users can receive Buddy Chat invitations.

•	You can chat with all users whose service type is Internet.

To see what service your buddy is using, click the Online tab in the Buddy List window, and move the cursor over your buddy’s screen name.  The service displays information about the user along with what service your buddy is using.

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Related Topics

About Chat

Sending a Chat Message

Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message

Saving Chat Messages


Sending a Chat Message

To send a chat message:

1	With the Chat Room window open, type the message that you want to send in the text area box

You can send chat messages with hyperlinks and emoticons (smileys).  You can also format them using different styles such as bold, italic, or underlining.   Using color or a different font can also help emphasize messages you send.

2	Click Send.

When you are finished with your chat conversation, you can save it to a file.

Tips:

•	To stop receiving messages from someone in the chat room, select the person’s screen name in the field that lists everyone in the chat room and click Ignore. An X appears next to the selected screen name. Click Ignore again to toggle the ignore feature off.

•	You can use the toolbar to change text color or emphasize text with bold, italic, or underlining.

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Related Topics

About Chat

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message

Saving Chat Messages


Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

To create a hyperlink in a chat message:

1	In a Chat Room window, type and select the text you want to turn into a hyperlink.

2	Click link on the toolbar.

The Edit Hyperlink window opens.

3	Specify the URL (Internet location) of the site you want the link to point to.

You can also specify an e-mail address as the URL. For example, mailto:johndoe@aol.com.

4	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

Tips:

•	You can also click link with no text selected. If you do this, you need to enter the link text into the dialog box. The link appears at the insertion point location.

•	If you enter an URL as text (for example, http://www.aol.com or mailto:johndoe@aol.com), the text automatically converts to a hyperlink when you send the message.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Chat

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Sending a Chat Message

Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message

Saving Chat Messages


Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message

You can insert emoticons (or graphical smileys) in your chat messages to help express your emotions.

To insert an emoticon:

1	In the text box of the Chat Room window, right-click the mouse.

2	Click Insert, and select Smiley.

A list of smileys appears.

3	Select the smiley that you want to use.

Notes:

•	You can also insert emoticons by typing the corresponding characters such as Ctrl+1 for smiling, Ctrl+3 for winking, and so forth.  The shortcut keys are defined next to each emoticon in the menu.

•	To control whether these symbols appear in your Chat Room window and on your right mouse button menu, see Turning Emoticons On or Off.

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Related Topics

About Chat

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Sending a Chat Message

Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

Saving Chat Messages


Saving Chat Messages

To save chat messages to a file:

1	In a Chat Room window, choose Save from the File menu.

The Save Text to File window opens.

2	Enter a name for the file in the File name field.

3	In the Save as type field, select Text Only if you want to save just the text of the messages.

If you want to save the text and be able to follow any hyperlinks in the messages, select AOL Rich Text Format. This will create an HTML file you can view with your web browser.

4	Click Save to save the messages that appear in the upper pane of the Chat Room window.

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Related Topics

About Chat

Inviting a Buddy to Chat

Sending a Chat Message

Creating a Hyperlink in a Chat Message

Inserting an Emoticon in a Chat Message


About Mail

You can use the Mail feature to let AIM alert you when you have new or unread mail in any of your e-mail accounts.   Once you are alerted, the service lets you display the web page of your mail program, where you can sign on and read your mail.

If you are an AOL member and your AIM and AOL screen names are the same, AIM automatically configures the service to check your AOL mailbox.  If you use other mail services that use the POP3 standard, you can also add those mailboxes to AIM.

The Mail feature allows you to:

•	Add e-mail addresses to the service and specify how often you want it to check your mail.

•	Specify a sound to play when the service alerts you of your mail.

•	Edit or delete any e-mail addresses that you have added to AIM.

•	Display a mail alert window when you have new mail in your e-mail accounts.

•	Keep the Mail alert window on top of other opened windows.

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Related Topics

Adding E-mail Addresses

Reading Mail

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Displaying the Mail Alert Window

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Adding E-mail Addresses

To add e-mail addresses:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Mail tab.

4	Click Add Mailbox.

5	Enter data about your mail account.

You must enter data in each field.  For data field information, see Mail Preferences.

6	Click Save to save your e-mail account information.

7	Click OK.

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Related Topics

About Mail

Reading Mail

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Displaying the Mail Alert Window

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Reading Mail

Before you can read your e-mail, you must add your e-mail addresses to AIM.

To read your e-mail:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Read Mail.

3	Select the mail that you want to read.

4	Sign on and off your mail account as you normally would.

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Related Topics

About Mail

Adding E-mail Addresses

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Displaying the Mail Alert Window

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

To specify a sound to play along with your mail alerts:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Mail tab.

4	Select Play sound, and click the down arrow to select a sound.

To use your own sound, click Browse to locate and select your sound file.  To preview a sound, click Preview.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Mail

Adding E-mail Addresses

Reading Mail

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Displaying the Mail Alert Window

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

To edit or delete an e-mail address that you have added to AIM:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Mail tab.

4	Select the e-mail address that you want to edit or remove.

To edit the e-mail account information, click Edit, and modify the information that you want to change.  To delete the e-mail address, click Remove.

5	Make sure you save the account information that you edited.

6	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Mail

Adding E-mail Addresses

Reading Mail

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Displaying the Mail Alert Window

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Displaying the Mail Alert Window

To display the Mail Alert window:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Display Alert Window.

The service displays the Mail window.  To expand the window to see your mail, click the left arrow inside the window.

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Related Topics

About Mail

Adding E-mail Addresses

Reading Mail

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Keeping the Mail Alert Window on Top


Keeping Your Mail Window on Top

To keep the Mail alert window on top of other opened windows:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Mail tab.

4	Select Keep alert window on top.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Mail

Adding E-mail Addresses

Reading Mail

Specifying Mail Alert Sounds

Editing or Deleting E-mail Addresses

Displaying the Mail Alert Window


About Buddy Alerts

AOL Instant Messenger (SM) can alert you instantly when your buddies sign on to the service or return to the service from an Idle or an Away state. To alert you, the service plays a sound or displays a small window on your screen (with or without sound) when your buddies sign on or return from an Idle or an Away state, depending on how you set up the alert.

You can assign a unique sound to each buddy to easily identify who is online.  If you set the alert to display a window when your buddy signs on or returns to the service after being idle or away, you can also send an instant message to your buddy from that window.

After you set up buddy alerts, you can edit, save, or delete them at any time.

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Related Topics

Setting Buddy Alerts

Editing Buddy Alerts

Deleting Buddy Alerts

Saving Buddy Alerts


Setting Buddy Alerts

Before you can set buddy alerts, you must add your buddies' screen names to your Buddy List.

To set a buddy alert:

1	Right-click on your buddy’s screen name in your Buddy List window.

You can select buddies who are already signed on, or select buddies who are not signed on, appearing in the Offline group.

2	Select Alert me when “screen name” is available, where “screen name” represents your buddy’s screen name.

The Edit Buddy Alert window appears on your screen.

3	In the Notify me when buddy group, select whether you want the service to notify you when your buddy comes online, comes back from an Idle state, or comes back from an Away state.   You can select all three options.

4	In the Notify me by group, indicate whether you want the service to display a window, play a sound, or perform both operations when your buddy signs on.

To save the alert, click the Save this alert checkbox.  (Note that if you do not save the alert, the service only alerts you the next time your buddy signs on or returns from an Idle or Away state – not each time.)

5	Click OK.

The service places the Bell icon next to your buddy’s screen name, indicating you have set up an alert.  If you set the alert for a buddy who is already signed you, to see the icon, click the List Setup tab. Moving the cursor over your buddy’s screen name also shows what buddy alerts you have set.

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Related Topics

About Buddy Alerts

Editing Buddy Alerts

Deleting Buddy Alerts

Saving Buddy Alerts


Editing Buddy Alerts

To edit buddy alerts:

1	Right-click your buddy’s screen name in the Buddy List window.

2	Select Change Alert.

The Edit Buddy Alert window appears on your screen.

3	Modify the buddy alert by selecting new options, changing sounds that play when you are alerted, or indicating whether you want the alert window to display when the service notifies you.

4	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Buddy Alerts

Setting Buddy Alerts

Deleting Buddy Alerts

Saving Buddy Alerts


Deleting Buddy Alerts

To delete a buddy alert:

1	Right-click your buddy’s screen name in the Buddy List window.

2	Select Don’t alert me when “screen name” is available, where “screen name” represents your buddy’s screen name.

The service removes the Bell icon from your buddy’s screen name.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Buddy Alerts

Setting Buddy Alerts

Editing Buddy Alerts

Saving Buddy Alerts


Saving Buddy Alerts

To save a buddy alert:

1	Make sure the Edit Buddy Alert window is opened.

2	Click the Save this alert checkbox to place a checkmark in it.

3	Click OK.

The service alerts you in accordance with the options you have selected for notifications.  When you want the service to stop alerting you, delete the alert.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Buddy Alerts

Setting Buddy Alerts

Editing Buddy Alerts

Deleting Buddy Alerts


About File Transfers

The File Transfer feature allows you to share files with your online buddies.  You can:

•	Send files to your buddies.

•	Get files from your buddies' computers.

•	Control who gets your files by allowing anyone or only buddies who are listed in your Buddy List window to get your files.

•	Check files for computer viruses.

•	Specify the folder from which others can get your files.

•	Change your default download folder.

•	Track who gets files from your computer.

Note: Before you begin to transfer files, you should install antivirus software on your computer to protect your computer against computer viruses that can damage files on your system.

___________________________

Related Topics

Accepting File Transfers Automatically

Displaying the Receive File Dialog Box


Sending a File to Your Buddy

You can send files stored on any medium such as diskette, hard or zip drive, or network volume to your online buddies.

To send a file to your buddy:

1	Select the People menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Send File to Buddy.

3	Enter your buddy’s screen name in the Send File dialog box.

4	Click OK.

5	Click Browse to locate and enter the file that you want to send in the File or Directory to send field.

Note that by default, AIM goes to your filelib folder, which was created for you when you downloaded the AIM software; however, you can change the default folder to any folder that you want to store files that you want to send to others.

6	Enter a file description.

This field is optional, but it can provide brief information about the content of the file for your buddy.

7	Click Send.

The File Transfer Status window appears, indicating that AIM is waiting for your buddy to accept the file.  After your buddy accepts your file, the window disappears from your screen.

If you don’t want the File Transfer Status window to appear each time you send a file, you can set your file transfer preference to stop it from appearing.  To cancel the file transfer, click Cancel.

Notes:

•	When you want to send a file, make sure you notify your buddy that you are sending it.  Your buddy must be signed on and cannot be in an idle state.  Once you send the file transfer request, your buddy can accept, reject, or ignore your file transfer request.  Your buddy can also impose a warning on you, which can slow the rate at which you can perform activities in AIM.

•	You can either create a folder that you want to store files that you want to send to others, or use the default directory to store your files.  This ensures that other users do not see any files on your system that you don’t want them to access.

WARNING:  Your buddy can determine your Internet Protocol (IP) address when you send files.  This a potential security risk, so make sure you know and trust the person to whom you are sending a file.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Changing Your Default Shared Folder


Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

To block all incoming file transfers:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

3	The Preferences window appears on your screen.

4	Click the File Transfer tab.

5	Click No One.

6	Click OK.

Note:  If you don’t have antivirus software installed on your system, you should block all incoming file transfers until you install protection software.  You should always make sure you know and trust the person who wants to send files to you.

___________________________

Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Allowing Only Your Buddies to Get Your Files

Stopping Others from Getting Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Checking Files for Viruses

Antivirus software detects and removes viruses in programs and files on disks, in compressed files, and in any file that you download from the Internet.  When you first install AIM, it tries to automatically detect your antivirus software.  If it can't find your protection software, you must install antivirus software on your system and point AIM to its location.

To let AIM automatically check files that you download:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the Virus Checker tab.

4	Make sure Check files for virus after transfer is selected.

If you want to use a different antivirus program than the one AIM is pointing to, click Browse to locate and enter the software in the Virus checker executable path field.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Displaying the Receive File Dialog Box

Virus Checker Preferences


Displaying the Receive File Dialog Box

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service can notify and warn you each time someone tries to send you a file.  This warning also lets you know that you should have antivirus software installed on your system before you receive files from anyone.

To display the Receive File dialog box:

1	Select the My AIM menu on your Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click Display Receive File Dialog for everyone.

5	Click OK.

If you don’t want the service to notify or warn you each time someone tries to send you a file, you can set your file transfer preference to accept files automatically .

___________________________

Related Topic

About File Transfers


Accepting File Transfers Automatically

You can set up the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service to automatically accept file transfers from everyone or accept files only from users listed in your Buddy List.

To accept file transfers automatically:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

To automatically accept files from only users listed in your Buddy List, click Only users on Buddy List.

To automatically accept files from anyone who sends you a file, click Everyone.

4	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Displaying the Receive File Dialog Box

Checking Files for Viruses

Changing Your Default Download Folder

File Transfer Preferences


Getting Files from Your Buddy's Computer

To get a file (text, graphics, or software) from your buddy’s computer:

1	Select the People menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Get File from Buddy.

AIM displays a warning message box, reminding you to install antivirus software.  If you don’t want this window to appear in the future, click Don’t ask me again.

3	Enter your buddy’s screen name in the Get File dialog box.

4	Click OK.

The system displays a list of all the files that are in your buddy’s shared folder.

5	Select the file that you want to download to your system.

To select multiple files, hold the Ctrl key down as you select the files that you want to download.  After selecting your files, the service runs your antivirus program and downloads the file to your AIM download folder by default.  You can change the default download folder if you want to use a different one for storing files.

6	After your antivirus software finishes, exit the program (if it doesn’t close automatically) to return to AIM.

Notes:

•	If you want your buddies to get files from your system, you can store files that you want to share with others in the AIM default folder, filelib, or you can specify a different location to store files you want to share with others.

•	You don’t have to worry about users seeing other files on your system; they can only access files that are in the directory that you specify as a shared area.

•	You can also control who can get your files by allowing anyone to get your files or only buddies that are listed in your Buddy List.

•	Your buddies can only access files that are stored in the folder that you specify as a shared folder.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Checking Files for Viruses

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

Displaying File Transfer Status

Changing Your Default Download Folder

Stopping Others From Getting Your Files

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Stopping Others from Getting Your Files

To stop unauthorized users from getting your files:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click Don’t Allow in these two fields:  For users on my Buddy List and For users not on my Buddy List.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

Displaying File Transfer Status

Changing Your Default Shared Folder

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

By default, no one can get files from your system.

To allow everyone to get your files from your shared folder:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click Allow in these two fields:  For users on my Buddy List and For users not on my Buddy List fields.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Changing Your Default Shared Folder

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Tracking Who Gets Your Files


Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

To allow only the users listed in your Buddy List to get your files:

1	Select the File menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click My Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click All in the For users on my Buddy List field.

Note:  Make sure Don’t Allow is selected in the For users not on my Buddy List field.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Changing Your Default Shared Folder

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Displaying File Transfer Status

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service displays the status of each of your file transfers (for example, sending or getting files) by default.  If you don’t want the status dialog box to appear on your screen:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click Never display Status dialog.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Changing Your Default Shared Folder

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Changing Your Default Download Folder

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service stores all files that you download from your buddy’s computer in your AIM download directory by default.

To change your default download folder:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Enter the complete path of the folder that you want to use as your default folder in the Directory to put files I receive field.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Changing Your Default Shared Folder

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Changing Your Default Shared Folder

When your buddies try to get files from your system, the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service locates your filelib folder in your AIM directory by default.  If you want others to get files stored on your system from a different folder, you must specify the new location.

To change your default shared folder:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Enter the complete path of the folder that you want to use as your default shared folder in the Directory from where others can get my files or I send files field.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Changing Your Default Download Folder

Stopping Others from Getting Your Files

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Tracking Who Gets Your Files

You can keep a record of everyone who gets files from your system.  Each time someone downloads a file from your system, AIM records the file name (along with the date and time the file was downloaded) and user’s name in the logfile.txt file.  The logfile.txt file is stored in your \windows\aim95\username directory.

To track who gets your files:

1	Select the My AIM menu from the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and select Edit Preferences.

The Preferences window appears on your screen.

3	Click the File Transfer tab.

4	Click Keep a record in logfile.txt of who has gotten files.

5	Click OK.

___________________________

Related Topics

About File Transfers

Allowing Everyone to Get Your Files

Allowing Only Buddies to Get Your Files

Blocking All Incoming File Transfers

Getting Files from Your Buddy’s Computer

Changing Your Default Download Folder

Stopping Others from Getting Your Files

Tracking Who Gets Your Files

File Transfer Preferences


Check your desired options.


Check your desired options.


Closes this dialog and saves any changes you have made.


Closes this dialog without saving any changes you have made.


Saves your changes but does not close the dialog.


Select your preferred option.


Select your preferred option.


Select your preferred option.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Check your desired options.


Check your desired options.


Allow all users to see you in  their Buddy List windows and send you messages.


Prevent all users, except those you specify in the Allow List, from seeing you in their Buddy List windows and sending you messages.


Prevent all users from seeing you in their Buddy List windows and sending you messages.


Allow all users, except those you specify in your Block List, to see you in their Buddy List windows and send you messages.


This list box is active if you have selected Allow only the users below. To add a Screen Name, click Add Name, type in the Screen Name, and press Enter. To delete a Screen Name, select the Screen Name and click Remove.


This list box is active if you have selected Block the users below. To add a Screen Name, click Add Name, type in the Screen Name, and press Enter. To delete a Screen Name, select the Screen Name and click Remove.


Prevent all users, except those on your Buddy List, from seeing you in their Buddy List windows and sending you messages.


Add a user to the Allow List.


Remove the selected user from the Allow List.


Add a user to the Block List.


Remove the selected user from the Block List.


Allow other users to see how long you have had an AOL Instant Messenger account.


Allow other users to see whether you are idle.


Specify which users can and cannot contact you with Instant Messages.


Determine whether or not other users can view information on how long you have been idle and how long you have had an AOL Instant Messenger account.


This list box is active if you have selected Allow only the users below. To add a Screen Name, click Add Name, type in the Screen Name, and press Enter. To delete a Screen Name, select the Screen Name and click Remove.


This list box is active if you have selected Block the users below. To add a Screen Name, click Add Name, type in the Screen Name, and press Enter. To delete a Screen Name, select the Screen Name and click Remove.


Specify which information can be obtained through the Find a Buddy feature by users who know your e-mail address.


Allow users who know your e-mail address to obtain your screen name through the Find a Buddy feature.


Allow users who know your e-mail address to learn only that you have an account (but not to learn your screen name) through the Find a Buddy feature.


Allow users who know your e-mail address to learn nothing about you through the Find a Buddy feature.


Specify the pathname of an alternate web browser.


Select an alternate Web browser.


Open each additional Web document in a new window, instead of re-using an open window.


Use your default web browser when you click on Web links.


If you select this option and specify the pathname of an alternate web browser, AOL Instant Messenger will use the browser you specify.


Use the default e-mail program specified in your registry when you click on mailto links.


Use the e-mail program included with your Web browser.


If you select this option and specify the pathname of an alternate e-mail program, AOL Instant Messenger will use the e-mail program you specify.


Specify the pathname of an alternate e-mail program.


Select an alternate e-mail program.


Enter the command line arguments that your e-mail program requires to address a message. Use the argument %1 to specify where to put the e-mail address. For example, mailto:%1.


Specify which Web browser AOL Instant Messenger uses when you click on a link to a Web document, and whether additional Web documents should be opened in new windows.


Specify which e-mail program AOL Instant Messenger uses when you click on a mail link.


Select this option to conduct a Web search.


Choose a font from the list.


Choose a point size from the list.


Select this option to dim the display of your buddies after they have been idle for the specified number of minutes.


Enter your input in this field.


Select this option to flash the Buddy List window for five seconds when your buddies sign on or off.


Click this button to make your choice.


Choose an item from the list.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Click this button to make your choice.


Check your desired options.


Click this button to make your choice.


Closes this dialog without saving any changes you have made.


Supply information about yourself that you would like others to be able to access. (For example, your name, hobbies, etc.)


Supply information about yourself that you would like others to be able to access. (For example, your name, hobbies, etc.)


If you select this option and enter a message, the message will be automatically sent to those who send you a message after your computer is idle for more than ten minutes.


Enter your idle message.


If you select this option and activate your away message, the message will be automatically sent to those who send you a message. Your away message will also appear in the Personal Profile section of the Buddy Info window when someone requests information about you.


If you select this option and activate your away message, the message will appear only in the Personal Profile section of the Buddy Info window. An automatic response will not be sent.


Select an away message for use or removal.


Add the new message you have entered to your Away messages list.


Remove the selected message from your Away messages list.


Display the selected away message.


Enter new away messages. After you have entered a new message, click the Add Message button.


Specify and enable your idle message.


Specify and control your away messages.


Save your password between sessions, so you don't have to enter it each time you sign on. Note that saving your password is less secure, since another person could easily sign on using your screen name.


Automatically connect to the AOL Instant Messenger service each time you launch the program. This option is only available if you have selected the Save password option.


Select a default font style and size for the Instant Message window.


Select a default background color for the Instant Message window.


Select this option if you want the Enter key to insert a line break. Deselect this option if you want the Enter key to send your message.


Select this option if you want the Tab key to insert a tab. Deselect this option if you want the Tab key to toggle among fields in the Instant Message window.


Select this option if you want the messages you send and receive to be marked with the time they are sent.


Customize the default font and window color used in your Instant Message window.


Automatically start AIM when Windows starts. Once started, AIM will wait until it detects an Internet connection. When it does, it will log on automatically.


Select this button if you connect to the Internet by a modem (dialup) connection.


Select this button if you connect to the Internet by a local area network connection.


Customize the default font and window color used in your Instant Message window.


Customize the appearance and behavior of your Instant Message window.


Customize your sign on preferences and specify the type of Internet connection you use.


Select this option if you do not want graphical smilies to appear in your Instant Message window.


Select this option if you want to be able to choose whether to accept messages from people not on your Buddy List.

Deselect this option if you want all messages to appear as soon as they are received.


Play a sound when one of your buddies signs on.


Choose a sound from the list.


Select a sound file to play when buddies sign on.


Hear the sound you have chosen to play when buddies sign on.


Play a sound when one of your buddies signs off.


Choose a sound from the list.


Select a sound file to play when buddies sign off.


Hear the sound you have chosen to play when buddies sign off.


Play a sound the first time you receive a message from a particular buddy, but not on subsequent messages from that buddy.


Choose a sound from the list.


Select a sound file to play the first time you receive a message from a particular buddy, but not on subsequent messages from that buddy.


Hear the sound you have chosen to play the first time you receive a message from a particular buddy, but not on subsequent messages from that buddy.


Play a sound every time you receive a message.


Choose a sound from the list.


Select a sound file to play every time you receive a message.


Hear the sound you have chosen to play every time you receive a message from a particular buddy.


Play a sound every time you send a message.


Choose a sound from the list.


Select a sound file to play every time you send a message.


Hear the sound you have chosen to play every time you send a message.


Control sounds that play when buddies sign on or off.


The settings in this box control sounds that play when you send or receive instant messages.


Specify the server address and port number to be used on the AOL Instant Messenger™ server. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to change these settings. If you should change them accidentally, you can restore the default settings by clicking the Reset button.


This field contains the default Internet address of the AOL Instant Messenger™ server. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to change this field. If you should change it accidentally, you can restore the default setting by clicking the Reset button.


This field contains the default server port number to be used on the AOL Instant Messenger™ server. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to change this setting. If you should change it accidentally, you can restore the default setting by clicking the Reset button.


If necessary, specify proxy server information for using AOL Instant Messenger through a Local Area Network firewall (for example at your workplace). Your network administrator may need to configure these settings.


Activate the proxy server controls.


Supply the name of the proxy server.


Supply the port number to be used on the proxy server.


Select this option if your proxy server uses SOCKS 4 protocol.


Select this option if your proxy server uses SOCKS 5 protocol.


Select this option if your proxy server uses HTTPS protocol.


Supply the authentication username required by the proxy.


Supply the authentication password required by the proxy.


Use the proxy server to act as a name server for hosts that are behind the firewall.


If you click this button, the AOL Instant Messenger™ software will attempt to configure itself to work in your computer's network environment. Try Auto Configure if you are having difficulty connecting with AOL Instant Messenger™ Service.


If you click this button, the AOL Instant Messenger™ software will restore the default Server Host and Port values.


Preserve your Internet connection during idle periods. (Some Internet Service Providers automatically disconnect users who have been inactive for a given period.)


Creating a Personal Profile

You can create a personal profile with information such as your e-mail address or a link to your Web page.

To create a personal profile:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Profiles.

AIM displays a message, reminding you that all AIM members can see information included in your personal profile.  If you do not want to be reminded of this in the future, click the Do not tell me this again checkbox.

3	Click OK.

If you want others to be able to find you, using your name and address, click Allow People to Search for Me, and enter your name and address in the appropriate fields.

4	Click Next.

If you want to chat with others of specific interests, click I am available for chat.  Indicate your interest by clicking Choose Interest and selecting your interest from the list. You can specify up to five interests.

5	Click Next.

6	Type any additional information that you want others to know about you.  Information that you enter is displayed when others click More Info.

7	Click Finish when you are finished creating your personal profile.

___________________________

Related Topics

Editing Your Profile

Creating A Hyperlink in Your Profile

Displaying Information About Someone Else


Editing Your Profile

You can change your profile whenever you are signed on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.  Your profile can also include up to five interests (or hobbies) by which you want others to be able to find you on the Internet.

To edit your profile:

1	On the My AIM menu, click Edit Profiles.

2	Edit the appropriate fields that you want to update.

3	Click Next.

4	Change the interests you want by selecting Choose Interest, then selecting a different area of interest.

If you have not specified that you are available for chat and want to chat with your buddies, click I am available for chat.  If you don’t want to specify your interests so that other users can find you and send messages to you, leave this field unchecked.

5	Click Next.

6	Edit the information that you want to change.

You can use the toolbar to change text and background color or font sizes; to make text bold, italic, or underlined. You can use the link button on the toolbar to create hyperlinks to your e-mail address and web sites.

7	Click Finish when you are finished updating your profile.

Note:  You do not need to fill out this information in order to use the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

___________________________

Related Topics

Creating a Personal Profile

Creating A Hyperlink in Your Profile

Displaying Information About Someone Else


Creating a Hyperlink in Your Profile

You can include hyperlinks in your personal profile (for example, you can link users to your personal web page).

To create a hyperlink in your personal profile:

1	Type and select the text you want to turn into a hyperlink.

2	Click link on the toolbar.

The Edit Hyperlink dialog opens.

3	Specify the URL (Internet location) of the site you want the link to point to.

You can also specify an e-mail address as the URL. For example, mailto:johndoe@aol.com.

4	Click OK to apply your changes and close the dialog.

Tip:  You can also click link with no text selected. If you do this, you need to enter the link text into the Edit Hyperlink dialog. The link appears at the insertion point location.

___________________________

Related Topics

Creating a Personal Profile

Editing Your Profile

Displaying Information About Someone Else


Displaying Information About Someone Else

To display another user’s personal information (such as name, e-mail address, favorite quotation, or web page links):

1	On the Online tab of the Buddy List window, select the buddy whose information you want to see.

The name of the buddy appears highlighted.

2	Click the right mouse button and choose Get Member Info from the popup menu.

The Buddy Info screen is displayed.

3	Click Close when you have finished reviewing the information.

Note:  You can view information only about other AOL Instant Messenger (SM) users. You cannot view the profiles of AOL members.

___________________________

Related Topics

Editing Your Profile

Creating A Hyperlink in Your Profile


About Buddy Icons

Have fun with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service by livening up your instant message sessions with buddy icons.  Buddy icons are images such as cartoon characters, symbols, pictures, and other graphical images you can use to represent yourself or buddies in your Buddy List.  Buddy icons appear in the lower-left corner of your Instant Message windows when you and your buddies send messages back and forth to each other.

The graphics file that you want to use for your buddy icon must be installed on your computer.  If you don’t have images installed, you can choose them from the Internet while you are using AIM, install them, and then select them to be used as your buddy icons.

You can use .BMP, .GIF, .JPG, .ICO, and .XBM file formats for your graphical images. There is no limit to the height and width of the images you use, but you do have disk space limitations.  Your image must not use more than 7,168 KB of disk space.  If you are creating your own icons in a paint program, you should use a size of 48x48 pixels.

Note:  You can download some graphical images from the Internet for free, while some manufacturers require that you purchase their images.

___________________________

Related Topics

Choosing and Sending Buddy Icons

Sending an Instant Message

Buddy Icon Preferences


Choosing and Sending Buddy Icons

To choose a buddy icon for yourself or buddies in your Buddy List:

1	Select the People menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Select Buddy Icon.

3	Click the Buddy Icon tab.

To select a buddy icon for yourself, click My Buddy Icon.  To select an icon for your buddy, click your buddy’s screen name.  To choose an icon to be used for all buddies within a group, select the group name, instead of a buddy’s name.

4	Choose Browse PC to go to the location of the image file, and select the image that you want to use for your buddy.

If you don’t have images installed on your computer, you can select them from sites that are listed in the Buddy Icons Center area in the preferences window.

Note that you can download some graphical images from the Internet for free, while some manufacturers require that you purchase their images.

5	Click OK.

The service sends your icon to your buddy during your instant message session after each person sends several messages back and forth.

___________________________

Related Topics

About Buddy Icons

Sending an Instant Message


How Away and Idle Messages Work

If you need to step away from your computer but do not want to sign off, you can let AOL Instant Messenger (SM) use the Away message and the Idle message to let other users know you are temporarily not available.

For planned absences, you can turn on your Away message to let others know when you will be back. AOL Instant Messenger (SM) displays this message when anyone requests information about you and automatically replies with your Away message to anyone who sends you a message while you are away.

For unplanned absences, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) turns on your Idle message after 10 minutes of inactivity.  The service displays this message when anyone requests information about you and automatically replies with your Idle message to anyone who sends you a message while you are away.

___________________________

Related Topics

Away Preferences

Defining a New Away Message

Deleting an Away Message


Away Message Definition

A message you create for AOL Instant Messenger (SM) to use when you are not at your computer.


Idle Message Definition

A message you create for AOL Instant Messenger (SM) to use when you have not used your mouse or touched your keyboard for a specified time.


Defining a New Away Message

To define (or create) a new Away message:

1	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Edit Options, and click Edit Preferences.

3	Click the Away tab.

4	Select the Auto respond and insert in personal profile option.

If you do not want AIM to reply automatically to messages you receive when you are away, select the Insert in personal profile only option.

5	Click Add Message.

The New Away Message dialog box appears on your screen.

6	Enter a label for the new Away message in the Enter label field.

7	Type the message in the new Away message field.

8	Click Save.

9	Click OK to save your change and close the dialog box.

AIM adds your new message to your list of Away messages.  For example, if you select the My AIM menu and click Away Message, your new message appears in the list of Away messages.  When you want to use the message, select it from the list.

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Related Topics

Away Preferences

Deleting an Away Message

How Away and Idle Messages Work


Turning an Away Message On and Off

To turn an Away message on or off:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Away Message, and then click the Away message you want to use.

The Away message appears on your screen.  If you don’t want messages that your buddies send you to display while you are away, click Hide IM windows while I’m away.  To turn off instant message sounds while you are away, click Disable sounds while I’m Away.

If you want to add a new Away message, refer to Defining a New Away Message.

2	To turn off your Away message, click I’m Back.

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Related Topics

Away Preferences

Defining a New Away Message

Deleting an Away Message

How Away and Idle Messages Work


Deleting an Away Message

To delete an Away message:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Away tab.

3	Select the Away message you want to delete.

4	Click Remove.

5	Click OK to save your change and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Away Preferences

Defining a New Away Message

How Away and Idle Messages Work


Defining an Idle Message

To define (or created) an Idle message:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Away tab.

3	Select the Auto respond with message option.

3	In the text area next to this checkbox, type the message you want to send to anyone who sends you a message while your computer is idle.

4	Click OK to save your change and close the dialog box.

If you do not use your computer for 10 minutes, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) automatically sends your Idle message to anyone who sends you a message. To resume your service, press any key or click a mouse button.

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Related Topics

Away Preferences

Defining a New Away Message

How Away and Idle Messages Work


About Buddy Privacy

You can control who communicates with you while you are using AIM.  You can prevent any user from sending you messages or specify only those users with whom you want to communicate.

This privacy feature is useful if you want to block users who send offensive messages or if you simply don't want to receive messages for a while.

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Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

Blocking a Specific User from Sending You Messages

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


Blocking Specific Users from Sending You Messages

To block a specific user from sending you messages:

1	Right-click your buddy’s screen name in your Buddy List to display a shortcut menu.

2	Click Block Buddy.

The service indicates the user’s blocked status by placing a red circle with a diagonal line next to the user’s screen name.

To unblock the user, right-click the screen name, and click Unblock Buddy.

Note:  You can also block users from sending you messages using the Privacy preferences window or when you receive a chat invitation or an instant message.

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Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages

To block everyone from sending you messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Privacy tab.

3	Select Block all users.

4	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

Blocking a Specific User from Sending You Messages


Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

To allow only buddies to send you messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Privacy tab.

3	Select Allow only the users below.

4	Click Add Name.

5	Type the name of the user you want to add in the Allow List.

6	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

Blocking a Specific User from Sending You Messages

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

To allow everyone to send you messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Privacy tab.

3	Select Allow all users to contact me.

4	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.

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Related Topics

Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

Blocking a Specific User from Sending You Messages

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


How Warnings Work

No one patrols the Internet to make sure people remain polite or decent. If someone else using the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service sends you annoying or offensive messages, you have two ways to respond.  You can issue a warning to the person or you can block the person.

When you issue a warning to another AOL Instant Messenger (SM) user, the recipient’s warning level increases and that user’s ability to send and receive messages decreases. With enough warnings, the user can be prevented from exchanging any messages with anyone and may even be signed off. However, warnings are not permanent; the warning level decreases over time. If a user is warned off the service, the user can return after a "cooling off" period.

You can see someone’s warning level if you let the cursor hover over the person's screen name in your Buddy List window.

Alternatively, you can permanently block one or more people from sending you messages. See Blocking Specific Users from Sending You Messages for more information.

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Related Topics

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages

Warning a User


Warning a User

To warn a user who has sent you an offensive message, click Warn in the Instant Message window in which you received the message.

Warn imposes a warning on the sender, hampering that person's ability to send and receive messages. With frequent warnings, the user will not be able to exchange any messages with anyone. Only after a "cooling off" period can that user send and receive messages again.

You can choose to impose the warning anonymously. Anonymous warnings are less severe and the user you are warning may not know who issued the warning.

Notes:

•	You can issue only one warning for each message someone sends you.

•	If a user warns you, consider ending the conversation. Every additional message you send enables that user to warn you again.

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Related Topics

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


Changing Your Password

You can change your password whenever you are signed on to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service. Your password must contain between 4 and 16 characters.

To change your password:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Change Password.

The Change Password window appears.

2	Type your current password in the appropriate field and then type and re-type a new password in the appropriate fields.

3	Click OK.

Note:  Anyone who knows your password has access to your account. Therefore, you should never reveal your password to anyone online. No one from America Online will ever ask you for your password while you are online.


Formatting Your Screen Name

If you are dissatisfied with the capitalization and spacing in your screen name, you can change (or format) it while you are signed on.  Any other changes constitute a new screen name, and you must register it at the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) web site.

To format your screen name:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Format Screen Name.

2	Change your screen name in the appropriate field.

The only changes you can make to your screen name are the addition or deletion of spaces or the capitalization of letters.  For example, if your screen name is johndoe, you can change it to Johndoe or John Doe.  You cannot change it to Jane Doe.

3	Click OK.

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Related Topics

Choosing a Screen Name

Removing a Screen Name

Working with Multiple Screen Names


Updating Your E-mail Address

One way that others can find you and add you to their Buddy List windows is through your e-mail address. If your e-mail address changes (for example, if you change jobs or switch from one Internet Service Provider to another), you should update your e-mail address to allow others to find you by your screen name.

To update your e-mail address:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Update E-mail Address.

2	Enter your new e-mail address in the dialog box.

3	Click OK.

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Related Topic

Finding a Buddy by E-mail Address


Changing Sounds that Play When You Send or Receive Messages

To change sounds that play when you send or receive messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Sounds tab.

3	Select an option in the IM Sounds group.

4	Click the down arrow to display a list of sounds from which you can select.

To choose one of your own sounds, click Browse to locate and select the sound that you want to hear.

5	Click OK.

Tips:

•	To test a sound, click Preview.

•	To turn a sound off, deselect the check box for that sound.

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Related Topic

Changing Sounds that Play When Buddies Sign On or Off


Changing Sounds that Play when Buddies Sign On and Off

To change sounds that play when your buddies sign on or off:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Sounds tab.

3	Select an option in the Buddy Sounds group.

4	Click the down arrow to display a list of sounds from which you can select.

5	Select the sound that you want to hear.

To choose one of your own sounds, click Browse to locate and select the sound that you want to hear.

6	Click OK.

Tips:

•	To test a sound, click Preview.

•	To turn a sound off, deselect the check box for that sound.

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Related Topic

Changing Sounds that Play When You Send or Receive Messages


Displaying or Hiding Information About Yourself

You can determine whether or not other users can see how long you have had an AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service account or how long you have been idle. Other users can see this information by holding their cursor over your screen name in their Buddy List windows. You can also determine whether or not other users who know your e-mail address can use the Find a Buddy feature to learn your screen name or whether you have an account.

To display or hide information about yourself:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the Privacy tab.

3	Select the options you prefer in the Allow users to see and the Allow users who know my e-mail address to find groups.

4	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

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Related Topic

Displaying Information About Someone Else


Changing Key Bindings for Messages

You can change the behavior of the Enter and Tab keys in the Instant Message window.

To change key bindings for messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

If you want the Enter key to insert a line break, select the Enter key inserts Return option. (Deselect this option if you want the Enter key to send your message.)

If you want the Tab key to insert a tab, select the Tab key inserts Tab option. (Deselect this option if you want the Tab key to toggle among fields in the Instant Message window.)

3	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.


Turning Emoticons On or Off

You can control whether emoticons (or graphical smileys) appear in your Chat and Instant Message windows.

To turn emoticons on or off:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

If you do not want to see the emoticons in your Chat and Instant Message windows, select the Disable option. The emoticon submenu is also removed from the Insert menu (accessed by clicking the right mouse button in a message).

If you want to see the emoticons in your Chat and Instant Message windows, deselect the Disable option.

3	Click OK to save the setting and close the dialog box.


Changing the Default Appearance of Messages

You can customize the appearance of messages you compose by changing the default font, text color, or window color.

To change the default font used for messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Click Font.

4	Select the font settings you want to use and click OK.

The Font and Size settings affect only the display of messages on your screen. They do not change the font or size of messages you send.

5	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

To change the default window color used for messages:

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Click Window Color.

4	Select the color you want to use and click OK.

5	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.

Note:  If you want to change the size of text you send, use the toolbar to increase or decrease it.


Viewing the Timestamp in Messages

You can have the time included on all of your instant and chat messages.

To view timestamp messages:

1	On the File menu, point to My Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Select the Always view timestamp option.

4	Click OK to save this setting and close the dialog box.

Note:  You can choose Timestamp from the View menu of any Chat or Instant Message window to toggle the timestamp on or off.


Why Save and Load Settings?

Saving and loading (or importing) your AOL Instant Messenger (SM) settings allows you to:

•	Save your AOL Instant Messenger (SM) settings so you can quickly set up your account and list of online buddies on another computer. For example, you can copy your settings from a desktop computer to a notebook computer.

•	Share your AOL Instant Messenger (SM) settings with others. For example, you can copy the settings you use to connect to the AIM server through a firewall and e-mail the file to your coworkers.

Notes:

•	Not all versions of AOL Instant Messenger (SM) can load and save settings.

•	You cannot load or save settings from an AOL account.

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Related Topics

Settings You Can Save and Load

Saving Settings

Loading Settings


Saving Settings

You can save your Buddy List, current preferences, and other configuration settings to import them to another computer where you are going to install the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software.

To save your settings:

1	On the My AIM menu click Save Buddy List.

The Save Buddy List dialog box appears on your screen.  By default, AIM saves all your current preference settings.

2	Select the type of settings you want to save, and click Save.

3	Enter a name for the file you want to save and click Save.

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Related Topics

Why Load and Save Settings

Settings You Can Save and Load

Loading Settings


Loading Settings

To load your settings:

1	On the My AIM menu click Load Buddy List.

2	The Load Buddy List dialog box appears on your screen.

3	Select the file containing the settings you want to load (or import) and click Open.

4	Select the type of settings you want to load.

If you are loading Buddy List Preferences, you can choose whether or not to add the groups to your existing list.  If you want to merge the settings, click Merge with my existing Buddy List. If you choose not to merge the settings, your existing list of online buddies will be replaced by the ones you are loading.

5	Click Load.

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Related Topics

Why Load and Save Settings

Settings You Can Save and Load

Saving Settings


Settings You Can Save and Load

There are six types of settings you can save and load to your copy of the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software:

Connection Preferences

This setting corresponds to the settings on the Connection tab of the Preferences dialog: host server, port, and proxy information. In addition, this setting stores the setting of the Auto-login checkbox on the Sign On screen.

Personal Profile

This setting corresponds to the information you enter on the My Info tab of the Preferences dialog box.

Privacy Preferences

This setting corresponds to the information on the Privacy tab of the Preferences dialog box: your privacy setting, your allow list, your block list, and the settings that allow others to see your idle time or how long you have been a member.

Sound Preferences

This setting corresponds to the settings on the Sounds tab of the Preferences dialog box. The on or off value of each option on the tab is imported or exported, but neither the sound files nor the pointers to them are saved.

Text  Composition and Viewing Settings

This setting corresponds to the default text properties of your Instant and Chat Message windows as you defined them on the General tab of the Preferences dialog.

Buddy List

This setting corresponds to the buddies and groups in your Buddy List window. You can choose to export any or all of the groups. When you import buddy list preferences, you can choose to replace your groups with the ones you are importing or merge them into your existing groups. If you merge a group that has the same name as an existing group in your Buddy List window, the imported buddies are added to the existing group.

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Related Topics

Why Load and Save Settings

Saving Settings

Loading Settings


Sounds Preferences

The Sounds Preferences dialog box allows you to set which sounds, if any, play when your buddies sign on or off and when you send or receive messages.

Play a sound when buddies sign on

Select this option to play a sound whenever one of your buddies signs on.

Play a sound when buddies sign off

Select this option to play a sound whenever one of your buddies signs off.

Play a sound when first message is received

Select this option to play a sound the first time you receive a message from a particular buddy, but not on subsequent messages from that buddy.

Play a sound when receiving a message

Select this option to play a sound every time you receive a message.

Play a sound when sending a message

Select this option to play a sound every time you send a message.

Tip

AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software includes a directory of default sound files. This SOUNDS directory is located in the same directory in which you installed the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software.


General Preferences

Save password

Allows the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service to save your password, so you won’t have to type it for subsequent logins.

Automatically sign on when AIM starts

Allows you to be automatically signed on whenever you launch the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service. This option is active only if you select the Save password option on the Sign On screen.

Start AIM when Windows starts

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) starts automatically when Windows starts.

Notify me when a new version is available

Allows you to be notified whenever a new version of the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service is available.  You can specify whether you want to be notified for beta, final, or both software versions.  The default is both versions.

Internet Connection: Modem

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) uses your modem. This option is active only if you select the Start AIM when Windows starts option.

Internet Connection: Local area network

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) uses your local area network. This option is active only if you select the Start AIM when Windows starts option.

Enter key inserts Return

Select this option if you want the Enter key to insert a line break. Deselect this option if you want the Enter key to send your message.

Tab key inserts Tab

Select this option if you want the Tab key to insert a tab. Deselect this option if you want the Tab key to toggle between fields in the Instant Message window.

Always view time stamp

Select this option if you want the messages you send and receive to be marked with the time they are sent.

When you are finished entering and formatting your information, click OK to apply your changes and close the dialog box.

Disable graphical smileys

Select this option if you do not want emoticons (or graphical smileys) to appear in your Instant Message window. The emoticon submenu is also removed from the Insert menu (accessed by clicking the right mouse button in a message).

Show 'Accept Message' dialog for messages from users not in Buddy List

Select this option if you want to choose whether to accept a message from someone not on your Buddy List. Whenever such a person attempts to start a conversation by sending you a message, a dialog appears asking if you want to accept the message.

If you deselect this option, messages from everyone appear as soon as you receive them.

Font

Click this button to select a font style and size for the Instant Message window.

Window Color

Click this button to select a background color for the Instant Message window.

Text Magnification: 200%

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) displays the text in your Instant Message window magnified by 200 percent. Although the text is magnified in your Instant Message window, it is displayed normally, using the font selections you made, to the buddy who receives your message.

Text Magnification: 133%

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) displays the text in your Instant Message window magnified by 133 percent. Although the text is magnified in your Instant Message window, it is displayed normally, using the font selections you made, to the buddy who receives your message.

Text Magnification: 100%

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) displays the text in your Instant Message window magnified by 100 percent. Although the text is magnified in your Instant Message window, it is displayed normally, using the font selections you made, to the buddy who receives your message.  100 percent is the actual size of the text.

Text Magnification: 75%

If you select this option, AOL Instant Messenger (SM) displays the text in your Instant Message window magnified by 75 percent. Although the text is magnified in your Instant Message window, it is displayed normally, using the font selections you made, to the buddy who receives your message.


Connection Preferences

If you access the Internet through an Internet Service Provider, you most likely will not need to make any changes to the Server or proxy sections of the Connection Preferences tab. However, if you access the Internet through a Local Area Network firewall (for example, at your workplace), then your network administrator may need to configure the proxy section of the Connection Preferences tab.

Server Host

This field contains the default Internet address of the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) server. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to change this field. If you should change it accidentally, click Reset to restore the default address.

Server Port

This field contains the default server port number to be used on the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) server. Under normal circumstances, you do not need to change this field. If you should change it accidentally, click Reset to restore the default port number.

Auto Configure

If you click this button, the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software attempts to configure itself to work in your computer's network environment. Try Auto Configure if you are having difficulty connecting with AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

Reset

If you click this button, the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software restores the default Server Host and Port values.

Connect using proxy

If you select this option, the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software activates the proxy server controls.

Proxy Server Host

Supply the name of the proxy server.

Proxy Server Port

Supply the port number to be used on the proxy server.

Protocol

Specify whether your proxy server uses the SOCKS 4, SOCKS 5, or HTTPS protocol.

Authentication Username

Supply the authentication username required by the proxy.

Authentication Password

Supply the authentication password required by the proxy.

Use proxy to resolve hostnames

Select this option if you want the proxy to act as a name server for hosts that are behind the firewall.

Reconnect automatically

Select this option if you want to be automatically reconnected to AOL Instant Messenger (SM) in the event that you lose your service connection during idle periods.  (Some Internet Service Providers automatically disconnect users who have been inactive for a given period.)

Display reconnect dialog

Select this option if you want to confirm whether or not you want to be reconnected to the service in the event that you lose your service connection.


Privacy Preferences

Allow all users to contact me

Select this option to allow all users to see you in their Buddy List windows and send you messages.

Allow only users on my Buddy List

Select this option to allow only users on your Buddy List to see you in their Buddy List windows and send you messages.

Allow only the users below

Select this option to allow only users you specify to see you in their Buddy List windows and send you messages.

Block all users

Select this option to prevent all users from seeing you in their Buddy List windows and sending you messages.

Block the users below

Select this option to prevent the users you specify from seeing you in their Buddy List windows and from sending you messages.

Allow List

This list box is active when you select Allow only the users below. To add a screen name, click Add Name, type the screen name, and press Enter. To delete a screen name, select the screen name and click Remove.

Block List

This list box is active when you select Block the users below. To add a screen name, click Add Name, type the screen name, and press Enter. To delete a screen name, select the screen name and click Remove.

Allow users to see how long I've been idle

Select this option to enable other users to see whether you are idle when they hold the cursor over your screen name in their Buddy List window.

Allow users who know my e-mail address to find my screen name

Select this option to allow users who know your e-mail address to obtain your screen name through the Find a Buddy feature.

Allow users who know my e-mail address to find only that I have an account

Select this option to allow users who know your e-mail address to find only that you have an account through the Find a Buddy feature.

Allow users who know my e-mail address to find nothing about me

Select this option to allow users who know your e-mail address to learn nothing about you through the Find a Buddy feature.


Buddy Preferences

The Buddy tab of the Preferences dialog box allows you to control the appearance of your list of online buddies.

Font

From the dropdown menu, select a font for the Buddy List window.

Size

From the dropdown menu, select a size for the font in the Buddy List window.

Dim buddies after they have been idle for __ minutes

Dims your buddies’ screen names after they have been idle for the specified number of minutes.  You must specify at least 10 minutes because the AOL Instant Messenger service (SM) may not be able to report your buddies’ idle state until after 10 minutes.

Flash Buddy List window when buddies sign on or off

Flashes the Buddy List window for five seconds when buddies sign on or off.

Show Taskbar button when Buddy List window is minimized

Displays the Taskbar button when you minimize your Buddy List.

Buddy List window can be “docked” on left or right of screen

Allows you to position your Buddy List on the left or right side of the screen.


Away Preferences

The Away Preferences dialog box allows you to define messages that appear to others while you are away from your computer or while your computer is idle.

Auto respond with message (when idle)

If you select this option and enter a message, this message is automatically sent to those who send you a message when your computer is idle for more than ten minutes.

Auto respond and insert in personal profile (when away)

If you select this option and activate your Away message, this message is automatically sent to those who send you a message. Your Away message also appears in the Personal Profile section of the Buddy Info window when someone requests information about you.

Insert in personal profile only (when away)

If you select this option and activate your Away message, the message appears only in the Personal Profile section of the Buddy Info window when someone requests information about you.

Hide IM windows while I’m away

If you select this option, AIM hides all instant messages that your buddies send you while you are away so that they won’t be displayed on the screen.

Disable sounds while I’m away

If you select this option, AIM does not play any sound when your buddies send you instant messages while you are away.

Away messages

Click Add Message and type a label and a new Away message in the text fields. After you have entered a new message, click Save.


Buddy Chat Preferences

The Buddy Chat tab of the Preferences dialog box allows you to set controls for your chat room and sounds.  You can also control whether or not you receive chat invitations.

Set your chat preferences with these options:

•	Chat Room Window

Select the Flash window when message is received option if you want the chat window to flash when someone sends you a chat message while you are working in another window.

If you want the service to display an announcement when users enter and leave a chat room, select the Show announcements when users enter and leave room option.

•	Sounds

Select this option to indicate which sound (if any) plays when your buddies receive your messages and when you send messages:

Play a sound when messages are received

Select this option to play a sound when chat participants receive your message.

Play a sound when sending a message

Select this option to play a sound each time you send a chat message.

•	Block all incoming chat invitations

Select this option if you don’t want to receive any chat invitations.

Tip:  AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software includes a directory of default sound files. This SOUNDS directory is located in the same directory in which you installed the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software.


File Transfer Preferences

The File Transfer tab allows you to set your preferences to receive files and to control who can get files from your computer.  You can set options to control operations such as blocking all incoming file transfer invitations, allowing only certain groups or individuals to get your files, and keeping a log of everyone who gets files from your computer.

WARNING:  Make sure you have installed antivirus software on your system before you receive files from anyone.  Files that you download from the Internet could contain viruses that can damage files on your system or cause it to crash.

Receiving Files

You can control who sends you files with these options:

•	Allow Receive File access from:

−	No One

Set this option if you do not want to receive any file transfer invitations.  This blocks all incoming files.

−	Display Receive File Dialog for everyone

Set this option if you want to confirm all file transfers before you download any file to your system.  The dialog box shows who is sending the file, file name, and file description.

If you do not want the warning to display in future file transfers, click the Don’t ask me again option in the Receive From warning window.

−	Only users on Buddy List

Set this option if you want to receive files automatically from buddies on your Buddy List.  When you select this option, you are not warned about who is sending you files or warned about having antivirus software installed on your system.

−	Everyone

Set this option if you want to automatically accept files from anyone without being warned of who is sending files to you.

Getting Files

You can set preferences with the following options to control who can get files from your system:

•	Allow only users in Buddy group:

−	Allows you to specify the group that you want to get files from your computers.

•	For users on my Buddy List:

−	Allow – allows only users on your Buddy List to get files from your computer.

−	Display Approve Dialog – displays a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject file transfer requests from users who are on your Buddy List.

−	Don’t Allow  - stops everyone on your Buddy List from getting files fromyour computer.

•	For users not on my Buddy List:

−	Allow  - allows users who are not on your Buddy List to get files from your computer.

−	Display Approve Dialog  - displays a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject file transfer requests from users who are not on your Buddy List.

−	Don’t Allow – stops users who are not on your Buddy List from getting files from your computer.

•	Never display status dialog

Set this option if you don’t want a dialog box to appear that shows your file transfer status.

•	Keep a record in logfile.txt of who has gotten files

Set this option if you want to know who has downloaded files from your system.  The logfile.txt file is stored in your \windows\aim95\username directory.

Specifying Directories to Share and Receive Files

You can specify your file transfer directories with these options:

•	Directory from where others can get my files or I send files

Enter the full name of the directory that you want users to be able to download files from your system. Users are also able to download files from any subdirectory within the specified directory.  A maximum of 4000 files will be accessible.

When you send files with the Send File command, the service also uses this directory as the default directory for you to choose the file you want to send.

•	Directory to put files I receive

Enter the directory name that you want to be the default when downloading a file from another user (for both Get File and Send File commands).

Specifying a Port Number

Specify your port number with the following option:

•	Port number to use

If you are unable to perform file transfers with other users, ask your network administrator which port you can use for file transfers in AIM.  If this field is left blank, the service uses the default port 5190.


Virus Checker Preferences

The Virus Checker tab allows you to set preferences to receive files in your system and to indicate the antivirus software that you want to use for files that you send or receive.

You can set these options:

•	View Antivirus Warning dialog box

Set this option to let AIM remind you to check all files that you download from your buddies’ systems.

•	Check files for virus after transfer

Set this option to allow the service to check all files automatically that you download from the Internet.  Even if you know the person who is sending you files, you should check files with your antivirus software.

•	Virus checker location

Enter the location of your antivirus software the service should use when it downloads files or receives them from your buddies.

•	Command line parameters (for advanced users only)

%1 -  indicates the file path.  It refers to the full path name of the downloaded file (for example, “c:\download\test.exe”).

%d -  indicates the directory of the downloaded file (for example, "c:\download").

%f – indicates the file name of the downloaded file (for example, "test.exe").

%L - points to the file name of a listfile, which contains a list of all the files received.  (Note:  Virus programs usually allow you to specify a text file which contains a list of files that you want to scan.)


Buddy Icon Preferences

The Buddy Icon tab allows you to set preferences for whether or not you want to receive buddy icons (images such as cartoon characters, symbols, small drawings, and other graphical images) from your buddies.  AIM displays icons  in the lower-left corner of your Instant Message window while you are having a conversation with your buddy if you accept a buddy icon from a buddy.  (For more information about buddy icons, see About Buddy Icons.)

You can set these options to control the Buddy Icon feature:

•	Never display Buddy Icons

Set this option if you do not want to receive icons from your buddies.  When you set this option, you also won’t be able to see any buddy icons that you have chosen for other buddies.

•	Never accept Buddy Icons

Set this option to prevent others from sending you their buddy icons.  However, when you set this option, you are still able to see buddy icons that you have chosen for your other buddies

•	Accept from users on Buddy List

Set this option if you want to accept buddy icons from only buddies on your Buddy List.

•	Display Buddy Icon Knock-Knock dialog

Set this option if you want to be alerted when a buddy wants to send you a buddy icon.  When enabled, AIM displays a dialog box when another user sends you a buddy icon.  You can either accept or reject the buddy icon.  When you disable this option, you automatically receive buddy icons from users without any warning.

Note:  Setting the Never display buddy icons or Never accept buddy icons option overrides this option setting because you won’t be receiving any buddy icons.


Ticker Preferences

The Ticker tab allows you to set your News and Stock Ticker preferences to change the way you display news and stock quotes.

News Ticker options:

•	Display Ticker at Sign on

Allows you to control whether or not AIM automatically displays the News Ticker after you sign on.  Deselect this option if you do not want AIM to display the ticker.

•	Topics

Allows you to select the news that you want AIM to display in the News Ticker window.  By default, AIM displays news in these categories:  Top News, Business, Entertainment, and Sports.  Deselect any news category you do not want AIM to display in your News Ticker window.

•	Display Headlines in bold

Allows you to control whether AIM displays the News Ticker headlines in plain text or bold.  By default the news headlines are set to display in bold text.  If you want your news headlines in plain text, deselect this option.

•	Refresh every

Allows you to control how often AIM refreshes the News Ticker window.  The default setting is 30 minutes.

•	Display speed

Allows you to control the rate at which the news headlines scroll across the News Ticker window.  You can select Slow, Medium, or Fast.  The default is Medium.

Stock Ticker options:

•	Enter up to 40 symbols separated by commas

Allows you to type symbols of stocks that you want to track.  You must separate each symbol by comma.

•	Look up ticker symbols

Allows you to find ticker symbols of stocks that you don’t know.

•	Refresh every

Allows you to control how often AIM refreshes the Stock Ticker window.  The default setting is 30 minutes.

•	Stock Alerts

Allows you to let AIM alert you when a stock that you are tracking reaches your price target.

•	Show stock ticker in Buddy List window

Allows you to display stock quotes at the bottom of your Buddy List window.

•	Display speed

Allows you to control the rate at which the stock quotes scroll across the Stock Ticker window.  You can select Slow, Medium, or Fast.

•	Scroll stocks

Allows the service to scroll stock quotes, whether they are displayed in a separate ticker window or displayed at the bottom of your Buddy List window.


Talk Preferences

You can set these Talk preferences:

•	Don’t display start dialog – stops the dialog box from appearing on your screen.

•	Use alternate Internet Address – lets AIM use another Internet address if you get an error when running AOL or use two network adapters.

•	Always Talk in Half Duplex mode

Set this option if you want to be able to always talk in half-duplex mode.  Talking in Half-duplex mode means that only one voice can be transmitted at a time.  (For example, each person must wait until the other person finishes before talking.)

When others want to Talk to you, you can set these options:

•	For users on your Buddy List:

−	Allow – allows only users on your Buddy List to send you Talk invitations.

−	Display Approve Dialog – lets AIM display a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject invitations from buddies who want to talk to you.

−	Don’t allow  - allows you to specify users in your Buddy List who you don’t want to send you Talk invitations.

•	For users who are not on your Buddy List:

−	Allow  - allows you to specify whether you want to talk to users who are not on your Buddy List.

−	Display Approve Dialog  -  lets the service display a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject an invitation to talk to a buddy.

−	Don’t Allow – allows you to specify users who you don’t want to talk to.

Talk Sounds:

•	Play a sound when starting or receiving Talk command

Allows AIM to play a sound whenever you start or receive a Talk command.

•	Play a sound when Talk is disconnected

Allows AIM to play a sound when your Talk connection is disconnected.

•	Play a sound when buddy clicks “Stop Talk” in Half Duplex

Allows AIM to play a sound when your buddy clicks “Stop Talk” when you are using the Talk feature in Half-duplex mode.

Note:  For each sound option, click the down arrow to select the sound that you want to hear.   To select your own sound, click Browse to locate your sound file.  To preview sounds, click Preview.


IM Image Preferences

You can set these IM Image preferences:

•	Don’t display start dialog – stops the Start dialog box from appearing on your screen.

•	Don’t display status dialog – stops the Status dialog box from appearing on your screen.

•	Use alternate Internet Address – lets AIM use another Internet address if you get an error when running AOL or use two network adapters.

When others issue the IM Images command, you can set these options:

•	For users on your Buddy List:

−	Allow – allows only users on your Buddy List to send you IM Images.

−	Display Approve Dialog – displays a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject image or sound files from buddies.

−	Don’t allow  - allows you to specify users in your Buddy List who you don’t want to send you image or sound files.

•	For users who are not on your Buddy List:

−	Allow  - allows you to receive image or sound files from users who are not on your Buddy List.

−	Display Approve Dialog  - displays a dialog box, allowing you to accept or reject an IM Image connection.

−	Don’t Allow – allows you to specify users from whom you do not want to receive IM Images.


Mail Preferences

You can set your Mail alert environment with the following options:

•	Play sound

Allows you to select the sound you want to hear when the service alerts you that you have new or unread mail.  Click the down arrow to select from available sounds, or click Browse to select one of your own unique sounds.  To preview a sound, click Preview.

•	Display alert window

Allows the service to display a small window on your screen to alert you whenever you have new or unread mail in your e-mail account(s).  To expand the window to see your mail, click the left arrow in the small Mail alert window.

•	Keep alert window on top

Allows you to keep the Mail alert window in view all the time; the window is always on top of other windows.

•	Display alert tray icon

Alerts you that you have mail by flashing the Mail icon on the system tray.  Note that with this option enabled, the icon continues to flash if there is mail in any mailbox.  If you don’t want the icon to .flash, you must read all your mail.

•	E-mail Addresses to check

Displays all e-mail addresses that you want the service to check.  These are e-mail accounts that you have already added. You can edit or delete any of them.   Note, however, that if your AOL screen name is the same as your AIM screen name, the service checks your AOL mailbox, which you cannot modify or delete.

•	Add Mailbox

Allows you to add your non-AOL e-mail addresses to the service.  The service alerts you whenever you receive mail in any of the e-mail accounts you specify.  To add e-mail addresses, you must enter information in each of the following fields:

•	Type:  Enter the mail type.  Only the POP3 mailbox standard is supported at this time.

•	E-mail Address:  Enter your e-mail account name.  You must enter the complete name of your e-mail account such as name@company.com.

•	Password:  Enter your password for the e-mail account.

•	POP3 Server Name:  Enter the POP3 e-mail server.  If you don’t know the server name, contact your e-mail service provider.

•	POP3 E-mail Program:  Enter the full pathname of your e-mail application.  Note that if you leave this field blank, the service uses your system’s default e-mail application.

•	Check for Mail every ___ minutes:  Indicate how often you want the service to check your e-mail accounts for mail.  Specify the time in minutes.  To let the service check your mail only at the time you sign on, enter 0.  To save your e-mail account information, click Save.  To cancel, click Cancel.

•	Edit

Allows you to edit e-mail account information that you have added.

•	Remove

Allows you to delete e-mail accounts that you no longer want the service to check.


Games Preferences

The Games preferences tab allows you to set the following preferences to play games with your buddies:

Name

Use this field to specify the name of the game.  When you and your buddies play the game, everyone must specify the same game name.  For example, if you have a game called (or configured as) Game X, then your buddy must also have the game configured as Game X in order for AIM to launch it simultaneously for both of you.

Executable path

Use this field to specify the full path to the game’s program file, (for example, C:\GAME\GAME.EXE).  You can click Browse to navigate to the program file on your hard drive.

Command line parameters

These are parameters that AIM uses to launch a game when you receive an invitation for the game from another user.  Parameters are usually not necessary for a game to work, but they can cause the game to launch more smoothly.  Consult your game documentation to decide which parameters, if any, you should use:

•	%i--represents your buddy’s IP address.  Some games, such as Quake 2, allow you to specify the players’ IP addresses on the command line to automatically start a multiplayer game between the users, instead of requiring the players to go into the game menu to connect to each other.

•	%u--represents your IP address.  Use this parameter if the game requires that your own IP address be specified in the command line.

•	%m--represents your buddy’s computer name.  The computer name is specified in the Computer Name field in the Identification tab in the Network control panel.  MS Hearts is an example of a game which uses this value if specified.

•	%p--represents the contents of the Start in (Working Directory) field.

•	%n--represents your screen name.  If a game lets you specify your player name in the command line, then you can use this parameter to let the game use your screen name as your player name.

(NOTE:  MS Hearts works between users on the same local area network (LAN), like those used in some schools and workplaces.  It does not work for users with a dial-up Internet connection.  This is a limitation of MS Hearts and not a limitation of AIM.)

Start in (Working Directory)

Use this field to specify the directory from which AIM launches the game.  If this field is left blank, AIM automatically uses the directory that the program file is located in (as specified in the Executable path field).

URL to application’s home page

You can specify the uniform resource locator (URL) (or Web address) of a game’s home page.  If you specify it, this URL is shown to your buddies if you send them an invitation for the game and they do not already have the game configured in AIM.  This makes it easier for the game invitee to go quickly to the game’s Web site to get more information about the game.

‘App Paths’ Key in Registry

This field can be left empty when you add a new game.  If you specify a value, AIM looks in the system registry for the specified key and uses the path name information in the registry key for the game’s configuration.  If you type “test” in this field, AIM uses the path name specified in the Default value in the “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\test” registry key for the Executable path field.

Hint to aid running program

This field can be left empty when you add a new game.  Any text entered in this field is shown in the Games Center when you send an invitation to a buddy.  It is also shown in the window that you get when you receive a game invitation from a buddy.

Can invite multiple buddies

If this checkbox is selected, you can simultaneously invite multiple buddies to the game.  If you know that the game only works for a maximum of two users, then you should leave this checkbox unselected.  That causes AIM to prevent you from inviting more than one person to play the game so that some users don’t get left out.

Launch application before sending invite

Enabling this option causes the game to be launched on your computer the moment you send the invitation to another user.  Do not enable this option if you have used the %i (your buddy’s IP address) or %m (your buddy’s computer name) parameters in the Server command line parameters field; those parameters are not received from your buddy until your invitation is accepted.

Hide IMs with “Playing Game Away message”

Select this option if you want AIM to automatically set the Away message feature when you start a game.  The Away message that AIM uses is the one listed as “Playing Game” in the Away preference dialog box.  (Note that you cannot delete this Away message, but you can change the content of the message.)


If You Can't Sign On

Check for one of the following instances:

•	Is the password you entered valid? If not, check your case-sensitive password and try again.

•	Did your request to sign on get denied? If so, you have signed on too many times in a short period. Wait a few minutes and try again. Additional attempts to sign on now will extend the period you need to wait.

•	Are you currently connected to the Internet?  If not, and you have been able to connect before, check the following:

•	Is your Internet Service Provider (ISP) connection operating properly? If not, contact the company supplying your connection and be prepared to change your connection configuration.

•	Is your LAN connection operating properly? If not, contact your LAN network administrator and be prepared to change your connection configuration.

You might not be able to sign on if:

•	Your Internet connection is only 16-bit.  AIM needs a 32-bit connection.  Contact your ISP if you are not sure.

•	There is a DNS problem with your ISP or network.  Contact your ISP or system administrator, or try again later.

•	Your network is using a firewall.  If this is the case, contact your system administrator for information about setting up a proxy server.  After you obtain this information, you must enter it in your Connection preferences.

•	The AIM service is temporarily unavailable.  Try to sign on again later.

If none of the above conditions is true, there is either a temporary problem somewhere in the network that is preventing the connection from completing or the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) server is down. In either case, you simply need to wait and try again later.

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Related Topics

Connecting Through a Local Area Network

Connecting Through a Modem

Connection Preferences


To Change Your Connection Configuration

1	Click Setup on the Sign On screen.

2	On the Connection tab, enter the settings supplied by either the company supplying your ISP connection or your LAN network administrator.

3	Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog.


If You Can't See Anyone in Your Buddy List Window

•	Have you added any buddies to your Buddy List? If not, click the List Setup tab in the Buddy List window and click the Add Buddy icon:

•	Are you viewing the Online tab in the Buddy List window? If not, click the Online tab in the Buddy List window to display your online buddies.

•	Are any of your buddies signed on? If not, they won't appear in your Buddy List. On the People menu, click Sign On A Friend to invite a friend to register with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

•	Is the Block all users option selected? If so, this prevents anyone from seeing you and also prevents you from seeing anyone in your Buddy List window. To deselect the Block all users option, on the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences. Click the Privacy tab and deselect the option.

•	Are all of your buddies blocking you? If so, on the People menu, click Sign On A Friend to invite another friend to register with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

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Related Topics

Allowing Everyone to Send You Messages

Allowing Only Buddies to Send You Messages

Blocking a Specific User from Sending You Messages

Blocking Everyone from Sending You Messages


If You Can't Send Instant Messages

•	Is your buddy blocking your instant message? If so, on the People menu, click Sign On A Friend to invite another friend to register with the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service.

•	Is your buddy signed on? If not, you need to wait and try again later when your buddy is signed on.

•	Did you exceed the rate limit for sending instant messages? If so, wait until the power bar under Send turns yellow or green.


Rate Limit Definition

The rate limit is a technical constraint the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service uses to encourage users to use the service in a reasonable manner. As your rate limit decreases, the rate at which you can send messages decreases. If the rate is low enough, you are unable to send any instant messages. Your current rate limit is displayed in the power bar under Send.

Two factors determine your rate limit:

•	The rate at which you send instant messages

•	Your warning level

If you try to send a lot of messages quickly, you decrease your rate limit. Each time you receive a warning, your warning level increases and your rate limit decreases.

You cannot reset your warning level or your rate limit. Gradually your warning level is reduced and your rate limit increases as it returns to a normal state.


If Your Web Browser Doesn't Open Properly

If your web browser doesn’t open, check to make sure you did not remove your default web browser accidentally.  If you did, you need to either register an existing browser as the default web browser with your operating system's Registry, or you need to install a new web browser.


If Your E-mail Program Doesn't Open Properly

If your e-mail program doesn’t open, check to make sure you did not remove your default e-mail program accidentally.  If you did, you need to either register an existing e-mail program as the default e-mail program with your operating system's Registry or you need to install a new e-mail program.


If You Want to Disable Automatic Launch

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Deselect the Start AIM when Windows starts option.

4	Click OK to save this setting and close the dialog box.


If You Want to Disable Automatic Sign On

1	On the My AIM menu, point to Edit Options, and then click Edit Preferences.

2	Click the General tab.

3	Deselect the Automatically sign on when AIM starts option.

4	Click OK to save this setting and close the dialog box.


If You Can't Talk Online

1	Make sure that neither you or your buddy is simultaneously using any audio software when trying to use the Talk feature.  Using other audio software can prevent the Talk feature from working properly.  (For example, you might be unable to connect to Talk, and if you are able to connect, you might not have any Talk audio.)

2	Try enabling or disabling the Use alternate Internet Address option in the Talk Preference window.

3	Don’t try to talk to two different buddies at the same time; the Talk feature currently only supports one open Talk session at a time.

Note:  Talk connections will not work if one buddy is behind a firewall (a security measure used by offices, schools, etc.) and the other buddy is not behind the same firewall.


If You Are Having Trouble Hearing Others

Make sure that your system audio output levels are set high enough:

1	While in a Talk session with a buddy, move the Volume slider under your buddy's screen name all the way to the right.

2	Increase your system’s Master Volume and Wave Output levels, using the Windows Volume Control window.

There are two ways to display the Volume Control window:

a	If you have the Speaker icon in your system tray (at the bottom of your screen), double-click it.

b	If you don't have the Speaker icon, there should be a Volume Control shortcut in the Start Menu.  Display the Volume Control window, by clicking Start, Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, and Volume Control.  (Note that the path might be a little different on your computer.)

If you can't find the Volume Control shortcut, contact your system manufacturer for assistance.

Once you are in the Volume Control window, make sure that the Master Volume and Wave Output sliders are all the way to the top, and that the Mute checkboxes under those sliders are not checked.

3	Try increasing the volume control on your actual speakers.

4	Make sure you can easily hear sound in all of your other applications.  If you can hear sound in other applications, you should be able to hear it in AIM.


If Others are Having Trouble Hearing You

Make sure that your microphone input level is high enough:

1	While in a Talk session with a buddy, move the Volume slider under your screen name all the way to the right.

2	Increase your system's Microphone level, using the Windows Volume Control window.

There are two ways to get to the Volume Control window:

a	If you have the Speaker icon in your system tray (at the bottom of your screen), double-click it.

b	If you don't have the Speaker icon, there should be a Volume Control shortcut in the Start Menu.  Display the Volume Control window, by clicking Start, Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, and Volume Control.  (Note that the path might be a little different on your computer.)

If you can't find the Volume Control shortcut, contact your system manufacturer for assistance.

Once you are in the Volume Control window:

a	Choose Properties from the Options menu.

b	In the Adjust volume for section of the Properties window, select Recording.

c	In the Show the following volume controls section, make sure that Mic is checked.

d	Click OK to return to the main Volume Control window.

e	Make sure that the Microphone slider is all the way to the top and that the Select checkbox under that slider is checked.

If other users still cannot hear you:

Check to see if the problem is with AIM:

1	Start the Sound Recorder application by clicking Start, Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, and Sound Recorder.  (Note that the path might be a little different on your computer.)

2	Click Record, and start talking into your microphone, and click Stop when you are finished speaking.

3	Click Play.

If you don't hear your voice, then there is a problem with your system configuration.  You should contact your system manufacturer for assistance.  If you do hear something, and your buddies still can't hear you with AIM, then there might be a problem with AIM.  In this case, complete a bug report (from within the Help menu on the Buddy List window).


If You Are Hearing Echoes

If you are hearing echoes during a Talk session with a buddy, your buddy might be listening to you with normal speakers, instead of headphones.

When your voice comes out of your buddy's speakers, it goes back into your buddy's microphone, and you hear it a second later.  If this is occurring, ask your buddy to use headphones and turn off the normal speakers.


Firewall

A firewall is a computer system that is placed between networks to restrict traffic to and from an organization for security reasons.


If You Are Signing on Through an HTTPS Proxy Server

If you are trying to sign on through an HTTPS proxy server and you are not able to connect, try setting the AIM server port to 443 or 563.


Before You Report a Bug

Before you report a software bug, check to make sure it has not already been reported and addressed.  For a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ), select the Help menu, click Frequently Asked Questions, then locate the topic area you want.

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Related Topic

Reporting Bugs


Reporting Bugs

To report bugs that occur while you are using the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) software:

1	Select the Help menu on the Buddy List window.

2	Click Report a Bug.

3	AIM opens your browser and takes you to the Web site for reporting bugs.

4	Enter your name and e-mail address.

5	Enter a description of the problem that you are experiencing.

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Related Topic

Before You Report a Bug


This is a test welcome screen.


Welcome

AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Help

send instant messages • chat with friends

transfer files • talk to buddies

get news and stock quotes

and enjoy much more!

________________________________

Copyright© 1997-2000, America Online, Inc.

All rights reserved.


About IM Images

The Instant Message (IM) Images feature allows you to send graphic and sound files to your buddies.  You can send any sound file, including a 10-second recording of your voice, or send any of your favorite photographs.

There is no file size limitation for any graphic or sound files that you want to share with your buddies.

Notes:

•	A quick way to send a graphic or sound file is to drag and drop the file into your opened IM window.

•	Once you start transmitting a file, you cannot interrupt it.  If you want to cancel the transmission, you must close your IM window.

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Related Topics

Sending a Graphic or Sound File

Saving a Graphic or Sound File


Sending a Graphic or Sound File

To send a graphic or a sound file:

1	Select your buddy’s screen name by clicking on it in the Buddy List window.

Note:  If your Instant Message window is already open, go to Step 5.

2	Select the People menu.

3	Click Send IM Image.

The system warns you of the direct connection that you are making with your buddy.  Once you are connected, your buddy can send you any image, so make sure you know the person with whom you are communicating.

If you do not want the service to display this warning again, click the Don’t display this dialog again checkbox.

4	Click Connect.

5	Click the Insert Picture icon ( [image]) on the toolbar.

6	Locate the graphic or sound file that you want to send, and click Send.

Notes:

You can:

•	Send a 10-second recording of your voice by pressing F12 or by right-clicking in the text area and clicking Insert and Record Sound.

•	Insert pictures or sounds by clicking Insert Picture on the toolbar, by pressing the F10 key, or by right-clicking in the text area and selecting Insert and Picture or Sound.

•	Drag pictures or sounds into an IM Images session directly from Explorer.

•	Paste an image that you have copied by right-clicking in the text area field and choosing Paste Picture.

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Related Topics

About IM Images

Saving a Graphic or Sound File


Saving a Graphic or Sound File

To save a graphic or sound file that your buddy has sent you:

1	With the IM Image window open, right-click on the graphic or sound icon.

2	Click Save.

3	Type the name of the document that you are saving in the appropriate field.

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Related Topics

About IM Images

Sending a Graphic or Sound File


About the Games Center

If you have a favorite game you would love to play with your buddies, you don’t have to invite them to your home.  You can play with them right over the Internet!

The AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service allows you to play games with your buddies using the Games Center feature.  The Games Center provides an easy way for you and your buddies to start and play games simultaneously.  This makes it much easier to start a multiplayer game than if each player were to start the game manually.

The game that you want to play must be installed on both your computer and the computers of your buddies you are inviting to play the game.  In addition, the name of the game must be the same on all computers.

Using the Games Center feature, you can:

•	Add your favorite games to the Games Center.

•	Invite your buddies to play games.

•	Accept or reject game invitations from your buddies.

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Related Topics

Adding Games

Inviting Buddies to Play Games

Accepting a Game Invitation

Playing Games

Games Preferences


Inviting Buddies to Play Games

You can invite your buddies to play any of your favorite games across the Internet.  If they don’t have the game installed on their computers, AIM allows them to add it.

WARNING:  Your buddies to whom you are sending the game invitation can determine your IP address.

To invite one or more buddies to play a game:

1.	Select your buddy’s screen name from the Buddy List window.

2.	Select the People menu on the Buddy List window.

3.	Click Play Game with Buddy to display the AIM Games Center dialog box.

Shortcut:  You can also go to the AIM Games Center dialog box by right-clicking on your buddy’s screen name to display a pop-up window, and selecting Play Game.

To invite other buddies to play the game, enter their screen names in the Screen names to invite field.  (Separate each name with a comma.)

4.	Enter an invitational message in the Invitation Message field.

In your invitational message, you can include the name of the game so that your buddies know what game they are being invited to.

5.	Select the game that you want to play from the Select game field.

6.	Click Send.

AIM sends the invitation and displays the game on your screen.

To play the game, you must follow the game manufacturer’s instructions.  When you are finished, exit the game.

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Related Topics

About the Games Center

Adding Games

Accepting a Game Invitation

Playing Games

Games Preferences


Playing Games

Although the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) service gives you the capability to play games over the Internet with your buddies, it does not provide you with instructions for playing the game.  For information about playing a particular game, refer to the game’s user’s manual.

___________________________

Related Topics

About the Games Center

Adding Games

Inviting Buddies to Play Games

Accepting a Game Invitation

Games Preferences


Accepting a Game Invitation

When you receive an invitation from one of your buddies to play a game, you can either accept or reject it.  If the invitation is from someone who you don’t know, you can impose a warning on the user, which slows the rate at which the user can perform other AIM activities.

To accept a game invitation, click Accept on the invitation dialog box.

Notes:

•	If you do not accept a game invitation within 5 minutes of receiving it, AIM automatically cancels the invitation.

•	If you don’t want to accept a game invitation, you can reject the invitation by clicking Reject.  You can also impose a warning on the user who sent the invitation by clicking Warn.

___________________________

Related Topics

About the Games Center

Adding Games

Inviting Buddies to Play Games

Playing Games

Games Preferences


Adding Games

To add games to the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Games Center:

1.	Select the My AIM menu on the Buddy List window.

2.	Click Edit Options, then click Edit Preferences.

3.	Click Games.

The Games dialog box appears on your screen.

4.	Click Games List to display a list of games.

5.	Select the game that you want to add.

Note:  See the right pane of the dialog box for information about the selected game.

6.	Click Add Game, and locate the game by selecting one of these options:  Browse My PC, Net Find, or Download.)

AIM adds the game to your current list of games in the List of Games field.

7.	After installing or locating the game, click Edit to edit it, changing information such as game name, executable path, and so forth.

Note:  Entering information only in the Name and Executable fields of the Edit Game Info dialog box is all you need to do in order to add your game and invite others to play along with you.

If you are an advanced user and want to enter information in the other fields, see Games Center Preferences.

8.	Click Save if you edited any game option.

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Related Topics

About the Games Center

Inviting Buddies to Play Games

Playing Games

Games Preferences