I'm looking for a good instruction guide for batch files; in my case, specifically for Windows XP. I Googled for information, but all I found were guides to write batch files to copy/backup files and folders. Let me give you an example: A while ago, I came across a batch file that changes the priority of a program for you when you run it. It was basically a "copy/paste" kind of thing, where the only instructions were to add the name of the program to the file. There was no explanation on how it actually worked. I used it to make my wife's video games operate on high priority, so that they play more smoothly for her. They work.

I'm guessing that there are many other neat things that can be done with batch files. I'd prefer an actual manual or book, if possible, and am wondering if anyone might have a recommendation for me. Thank you to all who take the time to reply.


Moved from the XP Forum. ~acklan~

If you really want to do batch stuff you might want to look into PowerShell, which is supposed to replace the existing command console in the next version of Windows. Now you can download it as an add-on. It has a scripting language very similar to Visual Basic. Lets you do the same things as batch files and more.

Shoot, I ALMOST posted this in programming, but took a guess that it didn't quite qualify. Thanks, Acklan.

Mr. Alpha: Just took a quick look at your link. PowerShell looks interesting. Thank you for the tip.

You did.

Umm.... No, I didn't.

My pleasure. Glad to help.

Coming to this topic late, but this site imho is the bible in batch programming:

http://www.robvanderwoude.com/robnav.html