Batch Files : Opening Text Files using a .bat file

Welcome to part two! Part one dealt with using a batch file to explore a directory of a CD. In this tutorial we are going to look at creating a .bat file that will open a .txt file. So let's get in to it. So to do this:

1. Open up Notepad and type in the folowing:

@echo off
start instructions.txt

Replacing instructions.txt with the filename of your .txt file.

2. Save type as an "All Files (*.*)" with the filename of your choice ending in .bat, I chose mydoc.bat.

3. In your flash movie you can run this program by putting the following code into a symbol.

On (Release)
FS Command ("Exec", "mydoc.bat")
End On

4. Right click on your .bat file and choose properties. In here, click over to the 'program' tab and put a check in the "close on exit" box, this will close the program window when it finishes executing, and will save your user a bit of trouble. Click OK and you will now see a .pif file in the same directory as your .bat.

5. Burn your cd with your projector .exe file, your .bat file, the .pif file and your .txt file in the root directory. When you run your projector movie and click on the button you scripted in step 3, it will run the .bat file which will open up your .txt file in Notepad. This is a good way to give your user quick instructions etc.

Enjoy!