Installing and Using AIM Pro Software

Installation

1.Visit http://aimpro.premiumservices.aol.com.  Click on the link that appears at the bottom of the screen, ‘Free Download.’
2.A window will appear as the download begins – click ‘Run’ and wait for the download to complete.
3.A second window may appear as a security warning.  Verify that the publisher is AOL LLC and click ‘Run’ again.
4.Follow the instructions on the following screens, choosing next and agreeing to the terms and conditions of the program.
5.When installation is complete, click ‘Start.’  AIM Pro will now open, and a second web browser window may appear.  You may close this web browser window if you wish.

Use

1.If you already have an AOL or AIM screen name, you may enter it in the required fields and choose ‘Sign In’ to immediately begin using the program.  Skip to the section, ‘Making the Connection’ to continue.  If you’ve never used AOL/AIM before, or would like a new screen name, continue to the next step.
2.At Account Sign In choose the ‘Get a Screen Name’ link near the top of the program window.
3.A new web browser window will open.  Follow the instructions to complete sign-up for your new screen name by clicking ‘Continue’ and filling in the required fields.
4.Enter your newly assigned screen name and password into the AIM Pro window and sign on.

Making the Connection

1.If you created a new screen name, your contact list will be blank.  Your contact list comes divided into categories such as Buddies, Family, and Co-workers.  Choose one of these categories and right-click.  A pop-up menu will appear; choose ‘Add New Contact to Group.’
2.The UHCL Writing Center tutors use two screen names: UHCLWC and UHCLWC2.  Add both of these names using the procedure above to any of your contact groups.  You only need to add them once.
3.The Writing Center’s online tutors will not automatically appear in your contact list, even though they may be online.  This is necessary to protect client privacy.  It is therefore very important when making an online appointment, specify what your screen name is so your tutor can contact you. 
4.At the designated time of your online appointment, sign on to the AIM Pro service.  Your tutor will send you an instant message when the session is about to begin.  It is recommended that you sign on at least 15 minutes prior to the beginning of your session, so that any technical problems you may experience do not overflow into your session time.