A program for automating manual actions on a computer. Automate routine computer tasks: Windows and Mac
OS Windows has gained popularity primarily due to its convenient and intuitive interface. But if the average user only benefited from this, then for the administrator, push-button control has many inconveniences. Of course, some problems can be solved using console commands and scripts, but not all. And this is where special automation tools come to the rescue.
AutoIt
One of the most popular automation tools among administrators is AutoIt (autoitscript.com/autoit3), which simulates keystrokes, mouse clicks and other similar actions that a user usually performs when working in GUI applications.
Using AutoIt, all of these movements can be programmed using a BASIC-like language. The program can manage processes, access the Windows API and DLL, the registry, clipboard, files (reading, changing, deleting), creating GUI, messages, data entry forms, working with databases (MySQL and SQLite), reading HTML code, download files, send e-mails and much more. In general, it all depends solely on the desire to tinker with the settings. It is gratifying that AutoIt does not require programming skills from the administrator. In scripts, you can easily access window controls with just a couple of lines of code. However, keep in mind that AutoIt works seamlessly with standard Windows windows. If the authors took care of the uniqueness of the interface, you will have to work a little while setting up AutoIt to find the necessary parameters.
Supports Windows from 95 to 2k8, including working in 64-bit versions of the system, and is “friendly” with Vista UAC. Conveniently, scripts can be compiled into an exe and then executed on another machine. No additional applications or libraries are required.
AutoIt is distributed under a freeware license, allowing its use without restrictions, including for commercial purposes. Installation is standard, there are no additional requirements. The current version is 3, which is syntax incompatible with the previous version 2. The program comes with the SciTE4AutoIt3 script editor, the AU3Check.exe syntax checking utility, ready-made examples, the Aut2Exe (and reverse Exe2Aut) compiler, and help. During installation, the *.au3 extension will be mapped to the AutoIt interpreter.
The scripting language used in AutoIt is one of its strengths. It is both powerful and simple. For example, to run the program, just write:
That's it, no more action. AutoIt is a great way to automate the installation process for applications that don't support answer files. To catch windows, the WinWaitActive function is usually used to enter parameters, which interrupts script execution until the window is activated. The function parameters should include the window title and optional additional text. The latter allows you to distinguish different windows of the same program from each other. For example, the AutoIt installer windows contain the same title - AutoIt v3.3.6.1.5, that is, if you use:
WinWaitActive("AutoIt v3.3.6.1.5")
This design will match all installer steps. Therefore, it is better to clarify by entering additional text that is displayed in the window, for example:
WinWaitActive("AutoIt v3.3.6.1.5", "License Agreement")
This will definitely take us to the license agreement window. All that remains is to send him confirmation: Send("!y")
As you can see, everything is simple. Along with the programs, the AutoIt Window Info Tool (AU3Info.exe) utility is also installed, which will help you get all the information on the window title, text (displayed and hidden), status bar, location, color, and so on. We just run it and place a cross on the window, after which we read all the values in the Window Info Tool. With its help, it is much easier to collect the necessary information from the experimental program window. Help in AutoIt is very detailed, it has all the subtleties of using the language. In the documentation on the project website you will find a link to a translated version of the help. Plus, numerous specialized forums usually have a separate thread. There shouldn’t be any problems in learning AutoIt; in one evening you can learn to write simple scripts; complex solutions will naturally require a lot of time.
Xstarter
Another popular program for automating routine system administrator tasks. The developer is our compatriot, Alexey Gilev (xstarter.com/rus), accordingly, xStarter has a localized interface, and most importantly, the program is distributed free of charge for Russian-speaking users.
After installation, xStarter can be launched manually, automatically when the user logs in, or started as a Windows service. The latter option allows you to run a task at exactly the specified time, regardless of the user’s registration in the system and other factors, as long as the computer is turned on. It offers periodic execution of tasks, a composite schedule, setting skips and actions for missed tasks, and triggering by event. In general, there are more than enough options. Using xStarter, you can expand the list of hotkeys or redefine their values globally or locally. For example, you can easily make a task run when you press a key combination
The running program is placed in the tray; by clicking on the icon, we call up the task editor. In the Sections/Tasks window we will find two dozen examples, as they say, for all cases. Enabled tasks are marked with a green icon.
We select the one that is closest in meaning (or create a new task), copy it using the context menu and edit it to suit your needs. Each task is configured in four tabs. So, in the “Schedule and Information” tab we indicate the name of the task, the time or event at which it will be launched, a key combination and an optionally active program window, when it appears, the task should be executed. The macros themselves are written in the “Actions” tab. Click “New Action” - the settings window appears. On the left side we find presets, divided into several groups, then we specify the parameters on the right side. The remaining task tabs allow you to configure variables, set priority, run in a separate process, and log. Everything is very simple and clear.
To activate blocked functions, you must additionally install the xStartHooks module. In this case, xStarter will behave like a typical Trojan or malicious software - it will begin to intercept system calls, “press” keys and send messages, which may not be liked by antiviruses and fireware. But with some antiviruses (for example, NOD32) this can be easily solved; just add xStarter to the exceptions.
For convenience, macros can be compiled into an exe file; under certain settings, all necessary libraries can be automatically added here. Then we distribute such files to other systems and execute them.
It remains to add that all Windows operating systems from NT4 to 2k8/7 are supported.
On the project forum you can find examples of some popular tasks, including uploading files, sending SMS and e-mail, backup and data synchronization.
A special version of Starter Job Scheduler for Firebird/Interbase is also available on the site; it is designed to execute SQL scripts, backup and restore data in these DBMSs. Another unique feature is remote control of task launches, as well as viewing the log using the special xStarter Web Pilot application.
Automate
Probably the most famous commercial program for automating tasks is AutoMate, developed by Network Automation, Inc (networkautomation.com). Its main feature is the creation of tasks using a convenient GUI, without the need to write code. The entire process is simplified through the use of wizards and a special task editor, Task Builder. The program contains a large number of ready-made action templates and reactions to them, which further simplifies the process of creating a chain of actions. The current version of AutoMate 7 at the time of writing supports more than 230 preset actions that allow you to schedule tasks, work with files and databases, transfer data via FTP/SFTP, encrypt using PGP, monitor systems, access WMI and much more.
AutoMate is available in four editions, all tailored to specific uses: AutoMate Professional and Premium, AutoMateBPAServer 7 Standard and Enterprise. The simplest - AutoMate Professional - provides a convenient interface for creating tasks on the local system. The most advanced - Enterprise - provides the ability to easily manage accounts and roles, work in AD, provides centralized management of several machines, SNMP support, a telnet and terminal emulator.
All Win OS from XP SP2 to 2k8/7 are supported. For installation you will need the Microsoft .NET Framework version 3.0.
The actual management is carried out using two consoles - Task Builder and Task Administrator. Tasks are created in Task Builder. This process is quite simple: in the panel on the left, from the 29 available groups, select the desired action and move it with the mouse to the middle field. A wizard appears to help you refine your settings. For example, let's create an action that allows you to get data on a hard drive partition. Go to the menu System –> Get Volume Information, a wizard of the same name appears, consisting of four tabs.
We need to go through and select the parameters in each of them sequentially. In General, we indicate the disk partition and the parameters that we want to receive: type, label, file system, location. Alternatively, you can immediately select All volumes and then, by clicking the icon next to the field, set the verification condition. The program provides a number of built-in variables, functions and triggers that can be used in this field. You can also create your own condition. In other tabs, a description of the task and action in case of errors are specified.
After you create a task, it appears in the list in the middle, where you can edit it, move it, disable it, and so on. Next, select and enter other Actions in the same way. For debugging, you can add breakpoints to the job (Breakpoint,
Task Administrator is designed to manage all tasks, both on a local and remote system. Having selected any task in it, we can view its properties, activate it, or create a new task. In the properties of the task, triggers, priority, protection, and the account on behalf of which it will be executed are prescribed. There are many settings, they are very diverse. Tasks are saved in files with the *.aml extension.
AutoHotkey
AutoHotkey (autohotkey.com) is a fork of AutoIt v2. Its author, Chris Mallett, proposed adding hotkey support to AutoIt, but the idea did not find a response, and as a result, the Initial release was released in November 2003. Unlike its parent product, AutoHotkey is available under the GNU GPL license.
The language syntax is based on AutoIt v2, some ideas are taken from v3. With its help, you can easily automate repetitive tasks: launching a program, sending mail, editing the registry. It supports working with files, simulating mouse button presses, and it is possible to create a GUI. The program can monitor system events and perform actions when they occur.
But the trick of AutoHotkey is the management of hot keys. For example, to launch a calculator with the combination
The hash mark "#" corresponds to a key
Scripts (*.ahk extension) can be compiled into an exe file and executed on any computer.
Automatically install Firefox using AutoIt
AutoItSetOption("WinTitleMatchMode", 2)
AutoItSetOption("WinDetectHiddenText", 1)
WinMinimizeAll()
Sleep (1000)
Run("FirefoxSetup3.6.6.exe")
WinWait("Install Mozilla Firefox")
Send("(ENTER)")
WinWait("Mozilla Firefox Installation", "Installation Type")
Send("(ENTER)")
WinWait("Install Mozilla Firefox", "Summary")
Send("(ENTER)")
WinWait("Install Mozilla Firefox", "Shutdown
installation wizard")
Send("(ENTER)")
Exit
AUTOMATION ANYWHERE
The development of the Californian company Tethys Solutions, LLC () has already earned recognition from administrators and received awards from various media publications. With Automation Anywhere, you can easily automate any repetitive task, simple or complex, without the need for programming.
I’ll say right away that the product is very serious and has a huge number of possibilities. The program can work with files, send mail, run tasks according to a plan or when a trigger is fired, use VBS and JavaScript scripts and much more. The technology, called “SMART Automation Technology,” eliminates the need for an administrator to also be a programmer. Recording can be done automatically, when the computer records all user actions. In the future, such a task, immediately or after editing, can be “scrolled” on other systems, watching how the mouse itself runs across the screen and presses buttons. The program offers two recorders: Object Recorder for desktop applications and Web Recorder for recording sequences of actions in a web browser.
Moreover, Web Recorder in the latest version of the program supports all the main technologies used in the web: Java, JavaScript, AJAX, Flash, frames. The process is quite simple: launch Automation Anywhere, select the recorder, and the program begins recording all user actions. To stop, press the combination
The developers have already included several task templates in the program that can be used as examples. Editing a recorded task also does not require knowledge of code. By clicking the Edit button, we will see the entire sequence of actions performed on the screen (mouse movements, keystrokes).
The left editor window shows predefined commands, divided into categories, that can be added to the task. Everything is here: working with files and directories, backup, Excel tables, connecting to the Internet, sending e-mail, capturing desktop images, starting/stopping services. Select the desired task and simply drag it into the right window. A properties editing window immediately opens, in which we fill in the proposed parameters (they are specific for each item). The editor supports additional scripts, working with variables, debugging and much more.
The created task can be exported to an executable file and distributed to other systems.
The task can start by time or when a trigger is fired, this behavior is configured in Trigger Manager, here you can choose: launching a window with a certain text, appearance of a file in the directory, resource load (CPU, memory, free space), start/stop of a process or service, receiving a specific e-mail. The developers did not forget about security - Automation Anywhere allows you to protect the script with a password and encrypt it.
In general, everything you need is in the program, the only thing missing is localization. Automation Anywhere supports all versions of Windows: from XP to 2k8/7.
Conclusion
In fact, there are much more programs for automating routine tasks. Paid versions are distinguished by greater convenience and a friendly interface, the ability to work in a network environment. Although, depending on your preparation and desire to tinker with the settings, you can get by with free programs like xStarter, AutoIt or AutoHotkey.
Standard Windows Task Scheduler
Microsoft finally realized the need for a proper scheduler, and, starting with Vista, the system received an improved Task Scheduler (Administration.. Task Scheduler, or taskschd.msc) - significantly redesigned compared to previous versions. Its interface allows you to connect to another computer for configuration, create (simple and advanced versions) or import a task. Thus, the main elements of the task were Triggers, Actions, Conditions and Settings. The trigger determines when and upon the occurrence of what event to launch the task: by time, when the computer is turned on, when you log in, or when an event appears in the log. In the latter case, you must specify the log where the event will be tracked, the source and event code.
Conditions and parameters clarify the essence of the task, and the action determines what can actually be done (launch a program, send a message). The ability to delay starting a task allows you to delay the start in situations where its immediate start is unacceptable (for example, high system load). Conditions specify other options for executing a task, for example, while the computer is idle.
The article was published on the Boris Lion website June 21, 2008 - http://borislion.ru/ (The initiative to write this article belongs to Boris Lion, for which many thanks to him)
From this article you will learn about automating routine actions on your computer. I will also talk about how and with what help this automation can be organized.
Quite often on a computer you have to do some simple but repeated actions such as mouse movements, keystrokes, and text input.
This is monotonous and completely uninteresting work. I wish I could do it myself! Or, so that the computer would take over its execution.
It is quite possible.
To solve this problem, there are special programs that allow you to record user actions (mouse movements, keystrokes) and then play them back at the right time.
Roughly speaking, you show the computer what it needs to do, and then it itself will reproduce your actions when and as many times as you need.
In this case, the software you work with will consider that the reproduced actions come from the user, from you.
This way, you can automate any repetitive actions on your computer.
I tried several automation programs and what I was most pleased with was the development of Denis Safonov called AutoClickExtreme: .
The AutoClickExtreme program is designed to automate repeated user actions.
Using it, you can process tables in Excel, process a large number of files, make a backup copy of important data, and also transfer databases from one format to another.
This is only a small part of the possible applications of this program. With it you can automate almost any simple, repetitive task.
Here are the useful features of AutoClickExtreme.
- Ability to quickly play back recorded actions. The computer is faster than you and can do the same things tens of times faster.
- Ability to manually edit the result of an action recording. For example, you can remove unnecessary actions in the recording, such as unnecessary mouse movements.
- The ability to insert text of any length instead of any short word (the "autotext" function) in any program.
- The launch of a specific playback can be linked to a hotkey.
- And using this key, launch it at any time you need
- The ability to play back recorded actions in a loop any number of times.
Put in 100,000 cycles and go to sleep, everything will work itself out.
- Possibility of inserting an arbitrary delay into recorded actions. You can delay the start for any period of time, insert a delay command between any actions.
- In addition to the advantages, there are also some limitations when using the AutoClickExtreme program.
Doesn't always adequately reproduce recorded actions in DirectX-based games.
It is not possible to work with console programs, since working with it is based on different principles for entering information from the keyboard and mouse than Windows applications.
- Personal automation is a creative matter; you will probably be able to come up with some of your own, original applications for this program.
- I will now give you some valuable ideas on using AutoClickExtreme.
- In your absence, it is possible to run any programs or processes.
- Moreover, your computer itself is quite capable of doing complex things such as starting an Internet connection, connecting to a specific site and performing some actions on it.
- It is possible to perform actions for programs running with long delays. It is better to leave a “robot” in your absence, which will continue the work after completing any lengthy process.
- Organizing the launch of certain programs and documents when the computer boots, so that you can immediately start working with them. Another option is to prepare several versions of programs or documents to be launched, depending on the type of work. And you won’t have to waste time preparing before work.
- If you need to automatically number or calculate something in your work, you can use a standard calculator or Excel program, where the data is inserted, the calculation is carried out and the result is then copied to another file.
- It is convenient to distribute information from one document to several different ones.
Why does it make sense to automate your work as much as possible with AutoClickExtreme?
- You will be able to save time and nerves that you would otherwise spend on routine operations.
- By calling recorded actions onto hotkeys, you can give yourself additional tools to work with, saving you even more time.
- You completely eliminate errors. The human factor works, and when performing the same type of work, sometimes there will be shortcomings. The computer doesn't make mistakes.
Overall, I liked AutoClickExtreme. It is interesting that the demo recording draws quite complex images “by hand” in the Paint graphics editor. It's worth a look.
To summarize, I can say that optimizing and automating your work on a computer is an important topic that allows you to get a lot of benefits. AutoClickExtreme is a very useful tool that I encourage you to try and use.
A free program for recording user actions (mouse movements and keystrokes) and then automatically playing them back.
If you actively use a computer, you have probably noticed more than once how good it would be if it itself did certain identical actions instead of you. But thanks to additional utilities, you can “teach” your PC to work independently!
Sometimes there is an urgent need for automation in general. So, for example, this happened to me, which ultimately led to the writing of the article that you are about to read.
If you remember, I recently described a program for emulating a floppy drive, which I installed in our accounting department. It works properly, but after rebooting the computer, the virtual “floppy disk” is automatically unloaded from the “flop”.
In principle, this is not such a terrible problem, but it confused my colleagues. Therefore, it was decided to automate the process of inserting the “floppy disk” back (and at the same time restarting the service, just in case ;)).
I won’t rant for a long time, but will immediately offer the program for your consideration. Ghost Automizer;). This utility belongs to the category of applications that monitor all keyboard presses and mouse movements, and then record them in a special firmware - a macro, which can subsequently be played repeatedly.
In terms of functionality, Ghost Automizer is quite comparable to paid programs like Easy Macro Recorder:
Comparison of Ghost Automizer with its paid counterpart Easy Macro Recorder
If we compare both programs, the only drawback of the free Ghost Automizer is the lack of an autorun option when the system starts. Although, of course, we can manually add the utility to startup, but this still requires additional intervention, but we would like everything at once :). Otherwise, there are no complaints.
Ghost Automizer works without installation, but you must unpack it from the archive, otherwise you won’t expect it to work correctly (tested :)). In the unpacked folder you will find two executable files: Ghost.exe And GhostHot.exe. The first of them is the program itself, and the second is a small utility that expands the capabilities of the main application. Let's launch Ghost.exe:
Ghost Automizer Interface
Before us is the window of the automation program. On the left side of the window there is a control panel with all sorts of settings, and on the right side the code for the future macro will be displayed. The control panel can be divided into two parts: at the top there are buttons responsible for recording, saving and editing macros and their commands, and at the bottom there are settings for recording and playing back scripts.
At the very bottom we see the “Go!” button, which allows you to run the current script.
Program settings
Let's turn to "Settings". Let the first two fields remain checked. Their purpose, I think, is not worth explaining. Let's now look at the "Mouse Buttons" drop-down menu:
If you work only with the keyboard, then processing of mouse events can be completely disabled (first point). If you need a mouse, then in the drop-down window you can set several degrees of movement accuracy depending on your needs (see screenshot above).
Under the mouse settings there is a button that calls up additional settings:
To be honest, there is no particular need to use anything from here.
But we will look at the next section of the settings, which is responsible for the program launch schedule. As a matter of fact, this section is where the main weak point of Ghost Automizer lies. The fact is that we can activate the program only at a certain time on a certain day, after which the next launch will have to be configured manually again :(.
If you plan to run Ghost Automizer infrequently, then manual control is no worse, but if you need to constantly perform one or another action, you will have to resort to the help of scheduler programs:(. As an option, use Ghost Automizer in conjunction with the standard Windows Scheduler .
Recording a sequence of actions in a macro
Let's now try to record some action using Ghost Automizer. To start recording, click the “Record actions” button (if there is already a code on the right side of the window, then before starting recording, click the “New program” button to remove it). A minimized window will appear in the lower left corner of the monitor displaying the current cursor coordinates:
Now, slowly, let’s carry out the sequence of actions that we want to record and at the end press the “F12” key to stop recording. The Ghost Automizer program window will open again, only the macro code will appear on the right side of it, which will repeat our actions:
Macro testing and error correction
Let’s check its functionality by clicking the “Go!” button. We carefully monitor the progress of the script, and if an error occurs somewhere, we can easily correct it by clicking the “Edit command” button:
A window will appear in which we can quite easily and quickly edit the desired parameter without any special programming skills.
Saving a Macro
When the macro is debugged to the required extent, it needs to be saved. To do this, just click the “Save Program” button and in the Explorer window that opens, specify the name and storage location of the script file:
To execute the saved script in the future, just click the “Load program” button and then click “Go!” for start.
Additional settings
This is where you can complete your acquaintance with the main Ghost Automizer program, however, as we remember, there is another utility in the folder - Hot-Sounds. Let's run the GhostHot.exe file and see a new icon in the tray:
By clicking on it, we will have access to the main application window:
This program allows you to configure the launch of any macro using a combination of “hot keys” that you set yourself! That is, after pressing a certain combination of buttons on the keyboard, the main Ghost Automizer window will automatically launch with the required macro already loaded, which will immediately begin to execute (by the way, here is another option for autorunning the desired action;))!
The following screenshot shows the sequence of creating a new entry:
So, the first thing to do is to enter a key combination that is convenient for us. Please note that pressed function keys are detected automatically. It is also advisable to use several of these keys (for example, Ctrl+Shift or Ctrl+Alt) to avoid overlap with system “hot combinations”.
The second step is to select the desired script. To do this, click the open folder icon in the “File” field and specify the desired macro in Explorer. When all the necessary data has been added, all that remains is to click the “Plus” button in the lower left corner of the Hot-Sounds window. The task has been added, and to be able to call it at any time, simply minimize the utility window to tray.
conclusions
Ghost Automizer impresses with the simplicity of its interface (which, by the way, is in Russian), ease of operation and high-quality playback of recorded macros. Without exaggeration, it can be called one of the best schedulers, even in comparison with paid analogues.
The only thing the utility lacks so far is a competent system for scheduling the launch of individual macros, but this problem can be solved even with standard Windows tools.
If you constantly perform routine work of entering the same texts, receiving email, sorting files or setting up certain programs, then Ghost Automizer is exactly the tool that will help you cope with all these tasks with minimal intervention on your part!
P.S. Permission is granted to freely copy and quote this article, provided that an open active link to the source is indicated and the authorship of Ruslan Tertyshny is preserved.
Hello, dear friends! Recently I needed a program that could record all the mouse actions and repeat my movements. Don't think I was trying to spam. I just decided to experiment with one Internet game, which, according to folk craftsmen, can bring in quite a lot of income. If you use certain tricks, of course.
Today I will tell you what the RoboMouse mouse recording program is, why it is needed and how to use it.
To start recording actions, you must click on the “Record” button or “ALT” + “F9”. After this, the program will be minimized to tray. Now you can make movements to record. When you have completed all the necessary actions, press the “ALT” + “F10” button combination and the recording will stop.
If you want to check whether the actions were recorded correctly, click on the “Play” button or the “ALT” + “F11” button combination. Once you are sure that everything went well, save the recording by clicking on the “Save” button. If the recording is not successful, then click on the “Clear” button and try to play the process again.
If you need this entry to be repeated more than once, specify the number of repetitions in the right part of the program window.
P.S.: For those who don’t understand how to work with it:
Some regularly performed tasks on the computer, such as checking the disk for viruses and/or spyware, backing up and synchronizing data, cleaning the disk from unnecessary files, etc., take up quite a lot of user time, which can be used with much greater benefit. After all, it is not at all difficult to configure a computer to automatically perform these tasks, and at a time convenient for booting the system.
However, the range of tasks that are repeated day after day that can be automated is by no means limited to those listed above. Thus, the computer can be entrusted with independently performing a variety of operations: launching applications, checking and cleaning the system registry, updating anti-virus databases and other necessary data, downloading files, checking, receiving and sending email, archiving data, copying files, generating, sending by email mail, printing documents, etc. At the same time, the PC can perform tasks specified by the user at strictly defined moments: every time Windows starts, when the computer is turned off, daily, weekly and monthly at specified hours, etc., as well as when certain system events occur. In other words, the computer can perform many actions independently, even in the absence of the user - you just need to configure the PC accordingly.
Automating tasks that are regularly performed on a computer is important from two points of view. Firstly, it will allow you to perform many everyday operations almost or completely without user intervention and thus save a lot of time. For example, at the beginning of the working day, a PC can automatically launch applications necessary for work, independently open certain documents and folders, download mail, etc. In some cases, it makes sense to configure the computer to monitor changes - files and directories on the disk (in particular, when changes in a given directory, you can synchronize the entire contents of the directory with another directory) and certain Web pages (for example, notify by letter about the presence of changes on controlled Web -pages) on the Internet. Of particular interest is the automation of work using macros, which contain a sequence of recorded movements and mouse clicks and keyboard button presses in any Windows applications and can be played back at any time according to a schedule or when a certain key combination is pressed. In this way, for example, you can quickly set up a computer for a certain type of activity, opening the necessary applications and/or documents and performing some frequently repeated operations.
Secondly, automation of a number of operations, the need for regular implementation of which users are well aware of, but nevertheless they are neglected, will make work on the PC much more reliable and prevent many stressful situations. Examples of such operations are backup, synchronization, checking the disk for the presence of malicious components, preventative cleaning of the disk and system registry, etc. And if in reputable companies qualified administrators are responsible for these operations, then in small offices and especially at home, users have to independently deal with these tasks. And if you entrust their execution to a computer, the stability of work will increase significantly. So, you can instruct your computer to regularly automatically back up or even simply copy an archive of email messages and folders with important documents, for example once a week, due to which the possibility of losing them will be significantly reduced. If you configure the system for automatic computer spring cleaning, then there will be no unnecessary files on the disk, no outdated data in the registry, and the speed of the computer will be stable.
Ways to solve the automation problem
There are three ways to solve the automation problem. The first way is to choose applications for performing repetitive tasks that have a built-in scheduler that allows you to carry out certain actions on a schedule. Most packages for backing up and/or synchronizing data, as well as for checking the disk for viruses and/or spyware components, have a built-in scheduler. Quite often, applications have the ability to perform scheduled tasks to clean the disk of unnecessary files and to eliminate outdated entries in the system registry. It’s easy to set up download managers to work according to a schedule, which can download the necessary files automatically by independently connecting to the Internet, downloading the data, and then disconnecting and turning off the computer. Some professional bookmark managers can, if desired, be configured to automatically check Web pages for changes, and specific schedules can be defined for different pages. Some programs for monitoring Internet news, etc. can also work according to a schedule.
The second way is to use the standard features of the Windows operating system, which has a built-in scheduler that allows you to automatically launch program files when the system boots or according to a specified schedule (daily, weekly or monthly). This allows you to automate such time-consuming and regularly performed operations as backing up a disk, cleaning it from various file debris, testing the disk for viruses and/or spyware components, etc. In this case, it is not at all necessary to create your own task for each operation - you can first prepare a batch file with the required sequence of commands, which will then launch the scheduler at a time specified by the user. To create the appropriate tasks in the Windows Scheduler, use the Scheduled Tasks panel, which can be opened from the Control Panel or called by the command Start => Programs => Accessories => System Tools => Scheduled Tasks (Fig. 1). To create the necessary tasks, you need to click on the Add task object, which will launch the built-in task wizard, which will guide the user through all stages of its creation. To automatically launch programs through the Windows Scheduler, the Task Scheduler service must run in automatic startup mode, and if for some reason it is disabled, select Start => Run and launch the services administration editor services.msc. Double-click on the name of the Task Scheduler service and on the General tab, set the startup type to automatic (Fig. 2).
Rice. 1. Create a new task using Windows Scheduler
Rice. 2. Enable automatic startup of the Task Scheduler service
And finally, the third way is to use task scheduler programs from third-party manufacturers, which opens up many more possibilities for users. These programs allow you to perform a variety of actions automatically - from opening the necessary folders, applications and documents to carrying out various operations with files for synchronizing directories, archiving data, reproducing certain sequences of keystrokes and mouse manipulations, downloading files, turning off the PC and etc. Solving all these tasks automatically does not require any programming skills or the ability to create batch files. With task schedulers running in the background, you can automate processes at a visual level by simply telling the system what needs to be done and when, and defining execution parameters. This helps to configure the system to automatically solve certain tasks much faster, more conveniently and reliably and save users a lot of time. The range of scheduling programs is quite large and includes both serious, expensive packages for automating a wide range of network and computing operations, such as AutoMate, and designed for IT specialists, and more affordable solutions aimed at the general user.
To automate many operations today in the mass market, the user is offered a huge number of programs: some allow you to launch the necessary applications at a certain time, others speed up and simplify access to various functions using hot keys, others provide a more comfortable and faster installation of applications, and others can close applications independently. , turn off the computer, etc. In addition, there are complex solutions that allow you to automate many computer processes - this is what we will talk about. Most of these applications allow you to automate complex computer tasks without programming knowledge, and any task in them is modeled based on a certain set of actions specified and configured by the user in a visual editor. All applications from this group are quite simple and accessible, do not require much time to master and allow you to achieve results very quickly, however, the range of automation tasks solved with their help is limited to the list of supported actions. The most popular applications in this group are Automize and Workspace Macro Pro.
A number of software packages, in addition to visual task development, provide the user with the ability to create tasks and edit them at the program code level. Of course, this assumes that users have the appropriate knowledge and skills, and the development of each task is a lengthy process, but such packages allow you to automate almost any task. Among the popular and well-proven products is the Macro Scheduler application.
Automation programs
Macro Scheduler 8.0
Developer: MJT Net Ltd
Distribution size: 3.2 MB
Price: Professional - $197, Standard - $87
Running: Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003 Server
Macro Scheduler is one of the best solutions for automating tasks using macros. The application has, among others, a Russian-language interface and is presented in two versions: Professional and Standard (the latter does not have the ability to compile scripts into EXE files).
This application allows you to create macros automatically - by remembering the program of all actions performed by the user and generating the corresponding program code, and therefore is accessible even to beginners. True, the list of tasks that can be automated in this way is limited. In addition, Macro Scheduler implements the ability to develop macros in a visual editor and directly write program code by the user manually (Fig. 3), which allows you to automate almost any task, even the most labor-intensive. In this regard, the program can become indispensable for automating a variety of regularly performed tasks - for performing various work with the disk (backup, copying, synchronization, cleaning, etc.), for generating financial reports, for monitoring the movement of files and downloading emails , for testing and installing software, for transferring files over a local network and downloading files from the Internet, for generating replies to emails, etc. Macro Scheduler is a software-independent solution and can compile scripts into stand-alone EXE files that can be run on any computer running Windows. Of course, all this should be of interest to professionals.
Rice. 3. Editing a macro at the code level in Macro Scheduler
Automatic creation of scripts is implemented in Macro Scheduler in the same way as in other applications, the only difference is that it is possible to edit the script generated by the program at the program code level. Writing a script manually is similar to developing a program, so in this case you cannot do without knowledge of the MacroScript scripting language. Moreover, if necessary, VBScript code can be included in scripts, which makes it possible to use the program to automate OLE/ActiveX tasks. The MacroScript language contains more than 200 scripting commands and standard programming constructs, including the ability to send keystroke and mouse click messages to other applications, wait for windows to open and close, give focus to a specific window, perform Internet operations, launch programs and execute commands, read, recording, copying, moving, deleting and executing files, managing applications using dynamic data exchange (DDE), etc. The ready-made macros included in the package (running defragmentation, writing an email message, turning off the computer, etc.), the presence in the help system of a complete list of language operators with detailed examples, and support for the built-in debugger, which will help in creating complex scripts, will help speed up the process of mastering a scripting language.
Automize 6.31
Developer: HiTek Software
Distribution size: 10.25 MB
Distribution method: shareware
Price: $79.95
Running: Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003 Server with support for Suns Java 1.3, Mac OS X versions 10.1 and higher and Linux Redhat
This popular multi-platform task scheduler is a powerful and reliable (if a bit clunky) tool for automating processes. Automize has a convenient, intuitive interface, provides visual creation of tasks, does not require programming skills, and contains templates for performing the most standard tasks - so it can be used by a wide range of users.
Thanks to the presence of a large number of built-in actions, support for dynamic data exchange and the ability to monitor the status of folders, files, sites, tasks, etc., Automize allows you to automate a very wide range of processes (Fig. 4), the main ones of which include the following:
Rice. 4. Create a task in Automize
- managing bat files, scripts and applications (starting on a schedule, interrupting work when certain events occur);
- backup and synchronization of files and folders, archiving folders and files, printing documents and deleting files on a schedule;
- loading a list of Web pages with regularly studied information; transfer and download files via FTP, synchronization with remote FTP servers;
- checking, receiving and sending email, including with attachments (you can also impose various restrictions on received messages);
- control of Web page updates with the ability to automatically download changed pages for further offline viewing, monitoring folders for changes;
- launching Telnet commands on a schedule and saving data about the results of their work;
- testing the TCP/IP network configuration, diagnosing connection errors using the ping command;
- displaying notifications on the screen reminding the user about the start of some events and tasks he has planned.
Automize allows you to manage tasks remotely and can notify you of their progress via email. Tasks can be performed either at a given time or periodically: daily, weekly, monthly, and, if necessary, also when certain conditions are met. Thus, the program's support for dynamic variables, which ensure dynamic data exchange between applications and tasks, allows you to launch certain actions and tasks only in cases where previous actions or tasks have been successfully completed.
Workspace Macro Pro - Automation Edition 6.0
Developer: Tethys Solutions, LLC
Distribution size: 2.91 MB
Distribution method: shareware
Price: Commercial license - $64.95, Personal license - $39.95
Running: Windows NT/2000/XP/2003
Workspace Macro Pro is a robust tool for automating repetitive tasks with macros, which can be created from built-in templates using a wizard, or by directly performing specific actions using the mouse and/or pressing specific keyboard shortcuts. Both options are extremely simple and allow you to generate the necessary macros in a matter of minutes, which allows you to recommend Workspace Macro Pro to a wide user. At the same time, the package supports the development of macros in the visual macro designer, selecting and configuring valid actions from the list (Fig. 5). Although it is more complex and time-consuming, it allows you to automate more complex tasks, and therefore may be of interest to professionals.
Rice. 5. Editing a macro in the built-in designer of the Workspace Macro Pro application
The templates cover standard tasks that most often arise for users and allow you to quickly generate macros for downloading files via FTP, for removing traces of your Internet presence in the system, for turning off the computer, etc. The list of acceptable actions when developing macros in the visual designer is wider and includes downloading applications and opening documents, running other macros, closing windows, connecting to the Internet, opening Web pages, downloading files via FTP, etc. The application provides many options for determining the conditions for executing macros: in addition to the traditional automatic launch options in schedulers, when by pressing a certain key combination when loading the operating system and when exiting it, it is also possible to re-run macros at user-defined intervals and when the computer is idle.
Regardless of the method of creation, macros can be launched automatically in accordance with the launch mode defined for them, or from the system tray through the context menu. For a macro on the desktop, you can additionally automatically create a corresponding shortcut for quick launch and/or copy the corresponding shortcut to the startup folder to automatically execute the macro when Windows boots. For any macro, you can specify the speed of its execution, as well as the number of repeated executions and the conditions for them. If necessary, macros can be password protected from editing by other users; You can also request a password when executing macros.
VistaTask 5.0
Developer: Vista Software
Distribution size: 2.03 MB
Distribution method: shareware
Price: $99
Running: Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003
VistaTask is an effective and reliable tool for quickly automating most tasks that arise when working in Windows. The application features a user-friendly, intuitive and easily customizable user interface, provides a wide range of supported actions and allows users to create action scenarios without programming skills - by visually selecting actions and setting their parameters. The number of actions allowed in scenarios ensures the automation of both simple tasks that arise for home users and some business processes, which is already relevant for companies. The package comes with detailed documentation, complemented by a series of training problems that you can build on and edit to solve your specific problems. The program is relatively easy to learn, although beginners are still better off choosing a cheaper and simpler application.
VistaTask supports a very wide range of tasks, the main ones of which are the following:
- quick launch - launching programs, opening documents, executing MS-DOS programs, starting and stopping services, opening the control panel, etc.;
- working with windows - activation, opening to full screen, minimizing the working window or all open windows, changing the size of the working window, etc.;
- using the keyboard, working with the mouse and using the menu - pressing a certain key combination, blocking/unblocking input, various options for moving and clicking the mouse, highlighting a system or user menu item, etc.;
- working with files and folders - creating a new file, reading, saving and deleting files, copying, renaming and moving files, creating and deleting folders, etc.;
- work on the Internet - downloading an Internet browser, opening and saving a Web page, creating, sending and deleting an email message, downloading and deleting files via FTP, etc.;
- performing system actions - copying text to the clipboard and pasting text from the clipboard, clearing the clipboard, creating a screenshot of the active window, restarting and shutting down the computer, etc.
The list of actions may also contain If and TextLoop statements - the first allows you to perform actions depending on the results of comparing parameters with some specified values, and the second allows you to perform cyclically repeating actions. In addition, actions may include operations such as checking the existence of a specific file, loading a certain program, opening a specific window, etc. The resulting script can be compiled into an EXE file (Fig. 6), which will allow it to be subsequently used outside of VistaTask. To successfully debug complex scenarios, the program provides the ability to implement checkpoints and step-by-step execution.
Rice. 6. Compiling the script into an executable file in the VistaTask environment
It should be noted that the ability to run scripts on a schedule is not provided in this program, since it is assumed that the scripts are launched directly by the user. This to some extent limits the range of tasks to be solved, however, it is quite possible to get out of the situation and automate in VistaTask even those operations that must be performed strictly according to a schedule or in the absence of the user, for which it is enough to prepare the necessary script in the form of an EXE file, and in the Windows scheduler set the start time.
AutoTask 2000 3.68
Developer: Cypress Technologies
Distribution size: 3.68 MB
Distribution method: shareware
Price: $59.95
Running: Windows 95/98/Me/NT4/2000/XP/2003
This very simple tool for automating standard tasks is designed for a wide range of users, as it has a user-friendly interface (Fig. 7) and is easy to learn. The program can help automate processes such as creating backups, downloading applications, cleaning the disk from computer junk, checking email, etc.
Rice. 7. Managing tasks in AutoTask 2000
Tasks created in the AutoTask 2000 environment represent a certain set of linear actions and are created in the task editor by selecting and setting the parameters of the desired action using a wizard. Directly in the task editor, any task action or the entire task can be tested. If necessary, you can immediately edit any of the actions by changing its content and/or position in the list of actions, which is very convenient in practice. Tasks can be executed according to a schedule that is quite flexible and allows, in addition to the usual capabilities, to set time intervals for restarting tasks and clearly define time boundaries when a task can or cannot be executed. In addition, it is possible to execute tasks if certain logical conditions are met: for example, you can ensure that a task is launched if a specific file exists, or a certain program is running, or a certain window is open, etc. The list of actions allowed in tasks includes launching and closing programs, executing DOS commands, opening a window with a message, pressing a key combination, actions with windows (minimizing, maximizing, closing, etc.), system operations (ending a work session, restarting and shutting down the computer ), Internet operations (connection, disconnection, generation of mail message). In addition, it is possible to use actions related to checking various conditions (the state of a program or task), as well as transmitting DDE commands that ensure dynamic data exchange between applications.
xStarter 1.82
Developer: xStarter Solutions, Inc.
Distribution size: 3.83 MB
Distribution method: shareware
Price: $39.5, free for users from Russia
Running: Windows NT4/2000/XP/2003
xStarter is an easy-to-use and very convenient task scheduler that allows you to quickly automate frequently repeated operations (Fig. 8). The program has a Russian-language interface, is accompanied by a detailed help system in Russian and a series of examples, and therefore can become a good automation tool for a wide category of Russian users.
Rice. 8. Automation of reservations in the xStarter program
Tasks can be scheduled or launched when Windows boots, when a user logs on, when certain events occur, or can be called from the context menu. Events mean pressing a certain key combination, creating/activating/closing a Windows window, changes to files in specified directories, etc. Actions in tasks may include launching applications, starting and stopping services, performing file operations (copying, deleting, etc.). etc.), synchronizing directories, archiving data, recording and playing macros, downloading or sending files via FTP and HTTP protocols, displaying a message on the computer screen, establishing an Internet connection, etc. In addition, it is permissible to use If expressions (to perform an action in depending on the results of comparing parameters with specified values) and TextLoop (for cyclic execution of actions).
