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Step 1 - Loading a PowerPoint Add-in

There are actually four different ways you can load an PowerPoint add-in:

1) Using the (Tools > Add-ins) dialog box.

2) Using the (File > Open) dialog box.

3) Using a Registry entry.

4) Using a Startup Switch.

Step 1 - Display the Add-ins dialog box

Display the (Tools > Add-ins) dialog box.

 (Tools > Add-ins) dialog box

Load - Loads the selected add-in into memory and makes its commands and features available to PowerPoint.

Unload - Removes the selected add-in from memory but keeps its name in the Available Add-Ins list. Unloading an add-in does not remove the add-in file from your computer.

Add New - Allows you to add an add-in to the Available Add-Ins list, if its file is available on your computer.

Remove - Removes the selected add-in from the Available Add-Ins list and also from the registered list of add-ins in the registry file. Removing an add-in does not remove the add-in file from your computer.

Cancel - Closes this dialog box and saves any changes you have made.

Step 2 - Install the Add-in

If the add-in you want to install is already in the list you can either tick the corresponding check box or press the "Load" button.

If you install an additional add-in using this dialog box the changes are saved immediately.

Step 3 - Locate the Add-in

If the add-in you want to install is not in the list then select the "Add New" button to browse for the (".ppa") file.

It will then be added to the list in alphabetical order.

Make sure that the check box is ticked and then press "Close".

Step 5 - Things to Remember

If you open an add-in through the (File > Open) dialog box, the add-in is loaded but is not properly installed. The add-in will not be available the next time you open PowerPoint.

It is also possible to always load a PowerPoint add-in without using the (Tools > Add-ins) dialog box. Add the following to the PowerPoint application switch path, e.g. /LS:\Personal\PowerPoint\Automation\Useful.ppa (note no speech marks).

You cannot double click the add-in file as a quick way to load it, you must use the (Tools > Add-ins) dialog box.