Roster menu

To enable this menu and send messages, add or remove a contact, monitor the presence of other users, or join a group chat users must first connect "Online". Note: When "Online" is selected, the icon in the top left corner changes from a steaming coffee cup to an uppercase "A" on a black background. Serving as a visual cue in the title bar, this icon reverts to its default state whenever a user goes offline, is away from his or her computer, or selects Do Not Disturb.

screenshot of Roster menu

Add Contact

Selecting this option enables users to add other chat members to their list of contacts displayed in the Roster window. Adding contacts allows you to engage in a private chat with any individual in your Roster list by selecting the icon beside the contact's name. It also allows you to send instant messages in the same fashion as ICQ or MSN users by selecting the "letter" icon. When the "Request subscription..." checkbox is checked, it automatically adds the contact to your subscription list (this feature is described in the "Subscribe" section below).

screenshot of Add Contact dialog

Subscribe

When this option is enabled, you will be notified whenever selected individuals become available online and when they leave the system. (Note: you can only track an individual's availability with their permission.) They will also be notified when you're online and able to send/receive messages or have joined a chat room.

screenshot of Subscribe to a Contact's Presence dialog

System messages appear in green type in the subscriber's chat window as follows:

screenshot of system message when contact joins chat room

screenshot of system message when contact leaves chat room

You can automatically add a new contact to your subscription list simply by checking the "Request subscription..." checkbox in the Add Contact dialog described in the section above.

Remove a Contact

Select this option to delete an individual from your Roster and subscription list. Use the pull-down menu to locate the user you wish to remove, highlight their name and then select "OK". Contacts that have been removed can always be added to your Roster list later.

screenshot of Remove Contact dialog

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