How to Video Chat on a PC
Video chatting on a personal computer is similar to text messaging, but it offers more options. Video chat programs such as Yahoo Messenger, America Online Instant Messenger (AIM) Express and Skype allow instant messaging and a chat experience with someone nearby or far away that includes video and audio.
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Instructions
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Install Yahoo Messenger from the Yahoo Messenger website by clicking on the button titled "Download Now." The website is linked in the Resources section. When prompted, click on the "Run" button in every window it appears. A window titled "Welcome to Yahoo Messenger" will pop up. Opt out of or select any options offered, such as making Yahoo your homepage. Click on "Next" and then "Yes" to accept the product's license agreement, and then press "Install." Yahoo Messenger will start to download; when it completes, select "Finish." Yahoo Messenger will launch, and you may log in with your information or create a new account.
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Download AIM Express from the AIM website. It is linked in Resources. Click on the "Download AIM" button and then "Run" every time you're prompted. Installation options such as setting your homepage to AOL appear, and you may opt out of each option. Then click on "Install" and "Chat Now." The AIM Express window will appear. Enter your credentials or create an account.
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Select "Get Skype" from at the top of the Skype web page that is linked in Resources. A new web page will appear. Click on the "Get Skype for Windows" button on that page, which will direct you to another page. Select "Download Skype" under "Skype Free" on that web page. You will be prompted either to log in or create an account. Once you complete that process, select "Run," and Skype's download will start.
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Tips & Warnings
Desktop shortcuts appear after you download each program. You also can find the downloaded programs on your computer's "Start" menu.
Ensure your computer's firewall settings allow chat programs to download.
If you are unable to install Adobe Flash Player, download the plug-ins for the chat program.
For simple sign-in, click on the "Remember My ID and Password" and/or "Sign In Automatically" options you are offered.
References
Resources
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