Is it possible to start a configured task also from the command line ?

I have a series of commands which refresh data periodically. Beside that I would like to have the possibility to run it on demand without entering the program through GUI, but from the command line (command prompt). Is this possible ?

#41/therube. Please read more carefully before you comment. I specifically(!) referred to the "Select Action" window which canNOT be resized.

Kailey or anyone with issues using a regular mouse. I just got my eeZee Mouse PRO unit & found it to be a great alternative to the standard mouse. I am able to click with a microphone & move the cursor without using my hands. www.lazeetek.com/html/eezee_mouse_family.html
Welcome to the 21st Century!!!

When I try to install the update I get a Windows message telling me it can't install because the program is running. I can't figure out how to find where the program is running. Could someone tell me how to manage this? I REALLY want this program.

And, thanks to everyone at GAOTD for all the great programs you offer us.

#22, have you tried going to System Tools - Services and setting RoboTask to be manual start-up?

Can ROBOTASK automate the FIND option in EXCEL? I always have to change the defaults that EXCEL's FIND option offers in their FIND dropdown menus (ex: change to WORKBOOK instead of SHEET). Takes but a moment but would nice to be able to automate it.

Had this on prior computer from prev GAOTD. Didn't use as program except to customize their samples. Found two things that come with it as examples VERY useful.
View & delete temp inet files over week old.
Check under new examples, simple for the first, and complex for other.

Nice giveaway. Very useful. Thanks again GAOTD for a fantastic freebie. I will recommend it to others.

Hi,

Downloaded & installed fine in XP Pro SP2 - and had to shut down and reboot the machine for the software to register.
I guess it'll keep me bussy for quite a while. Jufging from the 222page manual the learning curve looks fairly steep indeed...

Could anyone tell us here where we can find explanations for thesamples in http://www.robotask.com/samples/ ? I guess you just copy & paste the sample code into Robotask and "give it a twirl". Still, I'd very much like to know what these samples do before running them - and before I have learnt Robotasks macrolanguage.
But perhaps I should just check out the forums first?.. Haven't had time for that yet :-(

Anyway, thanks for any suggestions...
& thanks to Neowise and GAOTD for today's challenging application!

Pat.

So whats the difference between using this program and doing something with AutoIt or scripting with powershell or wmi?

RMSe17

Marginally off-topic, I know, but I've used Neowise's freeware CarbonFTP utility for many years to simplify the manual uploading of results from our bridge club to our Web site (for the very non-tech-savvy users there).

The only times that CarbonFTP hasn't worked flawlessly is on the rare occasions when the club's Internet connection has had problems; so as a company, I'd rate Neowise very highly, if that helps anyone still trying to decide whether to try RoboTask.

Oh, and @Dido (#49): I suppose you know there is a freeware NeoDownloader Lite? Admittedly that's limited to downloading JPEG files, and has a few other restrictions.

A must to have if you are an IT, very usefull.
Thank you.

Installed fine on Vista64-bi.To disable at startup,download Autoruns [a GREAT program by Mark Russinovich @ Microsoft,by the way],disable@startup/logon,done.GREAT program,[Robotask,I've been waiting quite some time for this one to come back around],Thanks,GOTD!!!!!

Seem complicated. maybe, I am not enough asvance user - but 73% in favor, Maybe - I notice they make NeoDownloader, which I have been using for years and love! Maybe giveaway of the day might give a free update of NeoDownloader!!!!

@#4 (or anyone with arthritis issues)
You might try a wireless trackball. I use the Logitech Cordless Trackman: http://www.logitech.com/en-us/mice-pointers/trackballs/devices/189
It has good signal with good batteries, and you can set it anwhere (on the desk, in you lap, on the armchair.) The trackball requires less movement. Your wrist stays perfectly still while your fingers do the motions. It will take any mouse user some time to get used to, but it is well worth it IMHO. I've been using trackballs for 16 years now and I have no pains whatsoever. I don't however have arthritis (only 36) so I can't say that it will be better, but it might be! Good Luck!!!

Downloaded and installed fine on my Win 7 x64 BUT... as someone else said here...I did have to reboot my computer for the free registration to "take." Looks good. Thanks, GAOTD and Neowise!

Nice program. Not as difficult, reading some of these comments, to understand as I thought it would be. I WOULD however recommend at least reading the Quick Start Guide portion of the manual before jumping in, unless you have experience with these types of programs. Thanks to everyone involved with writing this program, and bringing it to us for free

Does this program monitor keystrokes and mouse movements to record tasks? I hate this method as I tend to move icons around my desktop and then the program does not work!!

@43 - nivek. Or even better.

1. Activate the program (it doesn't need to be installed first).
2. Install the program (don't launch at end).
3. Update Program.
4. Use Program.

I installed with no problem, as stated many times what you need to is:
1. First install the program
2. Do Not launch the program
3. After install activate the program
4. Launch the program, it now should be activated
5. Update the program
6. Use as you wish now.

#3, Craig, I certainly wouldn't call RoboTask a "bot program", that's a quite broad interpretation of the term. To me, RoboTask is pretty standard Windows automation via macros and guided scripting. It has a pretty typical group of built-in operations. I think it's a good giveaway, and it's certainly much more useful than a typical macro recorder. Where RoboTask is weak is the UI. It's not as bad as Automise in that regard (Automise is a much more powerful tool, but terrible UI). I don't understand why people have guided scripting and then make it impossible to read the script because you can't tell anything without diving into individual operations (major headache in Automise).

My preferred automation tool remains WinAutomation. It's not as powerful as some, but it's so incredibly easy to use and read. There's some information hiding, but very little, with the essential elements being clearly visible in the script without the clutter of fine details. A couple of things people have mentioned here are notification windows and image searching. WinAutomation does both of those. You may need Windows 7 for reliable image searching, Microsoft added a service to make the contents of windows available, since hardware acceleration is the norm. The expensive version can produce standalone executables.

I tried a RoboTask macro. True, in general you should do as little as possible with macros and as much as possible with direct calls/operations, but I wanted to see how it worked. The results were not good. The documentation says that you should go through the entire macro and fix things up, but it's not readable due to far too much information hiding. RoboTask is a good giveaway, but considering its price point, until improvements are made in the UI and macros, personally I would choose one of several other packages.

I will never understand why programmers make us work in miniature windows which cannot be resized ...

As a Systems Administrator and programmer, I have used RoboTask for the past 10 years. It is, in a word, fantastic! It not only monitors those events that you define, it will take some action(s), which you have also defined, based upon those events.

Is it for everyone? ... perhaps not. But, it you find yourself performing the same series of repetitive tasks on a routing basis, RoboTask will save you hours of tedious work. Give it a try!

Installed on 3 machines. Will not activate on my Win 7 starter netbook, get "Failed to connect."; ran as admin; reboot no help, have activated in past. Suggestions? The two Win 7 64 machines worked fine.

# BUBBY

There are a few small patches available for RoboTask available at http://www.robotask.com/downloads/patches/ which will bring the software current up to today.



Hey Bubby...what do you mean by that?? What are these patches for?

Actually, antoniio (#32) 2011 is already here, in the form of Jaws* and NaturallySpeaking*, which together accomplish for me all that you sigh about and allow me, amid sighs of pleasure, to carry out almost every function after the switch-on and leave my hands free to stir the coffe and tie the bootstraps. [*Alternatives available in both cases.]

What other programs are available that are like this?

I've used the Firefox add-on Selenium, which is quite good for what it does (and is free) but has some limitations. One of it's best features is it's ability to check if certain words or phrases are present in a new window after a web-action has been executed, and then use that information in deciding what to do next. How does RoboTask compare to Selenium?

Installed and activated without hitch (XP sp3). Quick test of simple task worked well. Seems like a perfect application to automate the writing and dissemination of the vacuous repetitive blogs of the sort that litter the 'sphere by the million. Could also be the perfect tool to automate the publishing of a constant stream of 140-character drivel. Thank you Giveaway team and today's developer, Neowise Software.

#32: This would be problematic in an office environment, can you imagine 40-50 people all talking to their computers for 8+ hours a day? The noise would be unbearable.

#10 and #13 - to shut off autoupdate.. Click help and click check for updates - On the popup set the autochecking dropdown to Manually only and close

sigh...isn't it about time for an entirely voice-controlled OS. Isn't it 2011...ALREADY?!!!!

Or am I the only one who notices the elephant-in-the-room of today's "programming world", where THAT deficiency is still allowed to exist? We can take and send images of Mars, and I'm still typing here? Sheeeesh.

Neowise, you folks want to make History, you get Voice-control as an easy OS-shell, and THEN you'd have something! :-) Good luck getting it done (soon!), and to all.

#4: "Hi, could this be used to auto fish in fate/torchlight type games?... by the time she is able to click tho, it is too late. With her hands, she cannot react fast enough to get the fish "

Not sure if it could be done using the Basic module/add-in, but IMHO that would make a game sort of pointless -- it wouldn't be any different than watching a video of the game being played. OTOH you might be able to make it easier for your grandmother to use the PC/laptop so she could better enjoy playing games... For example I use an armrest/support that attaches to the desk, & use a smaller, notebook type mouse set to be fairly sensitive with a higher level of acceleration -- it took a while to learn to use it that way, but once I did there's *Very* little movement required. Because the mouse is small with a rather generic shape, I don't have to worry about gripping or holding it, but just more-or-less lay my hand on top of it, with the side of my hand resting on the desk surface. That does not mean I can come close to the speed & accuracy of my wife or sons playing any game, but I can manage very well & without the pain I'd have otherwise. There are also many alternative designs for mouse-type devices, & 1 of those might be better suited to your grandmother's physical capabilities, like something that's completely hand-held & doesn't require a desk or other surface. You could always look at voice control -- recognizing a specific set of commands is easier than full-on voice recognition, which can seem pretty much unworkable for some folks [myself included]. Depending on how far you're willing to pursue it, brainwave devices [like http://goo.gl/GsTE8 ] should work for most anybody, assuming you can find one to buy, or maybe look at Microsoft's Kinect -- those are being re-purposed like crazy, & it could probably be made to work if your grandmother could move/wave her arm easier than she could use her hands. BTW -- Thanks for thinking of her. :-)

FWIW, something else I've done to make using the mouse easier, also turns out to be something that many without any sort of disability love... I've bought & added extra [Teflon?] pads to the bottom of the mouse [from Deal Extreme], & use sheets of smooth, flexible plastic for a mouse pad -- think flexible roll-up cutting boards/surfaces for the kitchen, or the heavy plastic report covers [I've used both]. The end result feels more like playing air hockey than using a mouse, & for a fraction of the cost of gaming accessories.

* * *

#9: "Does today’s GOTD offering feature functions similar to AutoHotKey?"

Reading the help doc [robotask.com/help/] I don't see any reference to being able to compile a stand-a-lone executable or create/save a script that could be used if someone doesn't have RoboTask installed -- that's something you get with alternatives like AutoIt or scripting with tools from Microsoft, using PHP etc. OTOH you can script as well as record/edit macros, & not every app/tool will let you do the recording part. Overall it reminds me of something like Microsoft's Basic for Applications, only not just for compatible apps, & with capabilities across a network, using remote desktop, running as a service & so on...

kailey (#4), rather than using RoboTask to "auto fish", why not consider another input device? There are multitudes of game pads, joy sticks, touch pads, tablets, etc., that may be preferable to using a mouse (if a mouse is indeed being used). Talk to your Mother about what she can and can't do then find an input controller that better fits her abilities.

To #25 - Run patch #2. When I first installed the program it stated that it was only a 30 day trial version. That disappeared after running the patch.

#10 (Ben) Use Robotask to set a task to shut off Robotask auto updates on 5-2-2012! :^)

RichU

Well This is a good way to start my day. Just what I needed.
See I run Certain Tasks every day at the same time IF I am around my computer, some times I am not so This program will make sure I do not miss my important cleaning and maintenance tasks. And The check email function is good. I have a number of different emails (personal/business/one for registering giveaway software and so on) So instead of taking the time out of my busy day to check all these this software can do it for me. In todays busy world with family and work some times you can forget to preform certain necessary tasks no matter what or how important they may be.

There is a fair size learning curve involved if you have never used this type of software before but the help file is extensive with information Related to:

quick start guide
several practial recommendations
menus
actions: general
dialogs
files and folders
zip
internet
FTP
dial up
variables
task commands,loops and flows and more

Also detailed instructions about triggering events such as scheduler/hot keys/ and every thing you will need to know about setting up this software to preform automated tasks.


After Install The program increases to 10.83MB in size(pretty small) and runs very quietly in the back ground.
Thanks Neowise Software And GOTD For this great giveaway today.
Installed on Windows XP Pro SP3 With no problems and registered very easily.

AND FREE UP DATES UNTIL 03/05/2011!
Thanks Again.

can it answer UAC prompts when automating a task tat requires right elevation under vista and above?

where do I get the registration code from? Please!!!

I have used Robotask for the past couple years and it is the most powerful macro program available that is not completely programmer oriented. If you want serious macro power (variables, loops, etc.) and don't want to "write code" then this is the one.

When trying to install I got the following error....
Unable to execute file c:\Program File(x86) \RoboTask\RoboTask.exe
ShellExecuteEx Failed Code 5
Access is denied

I am running Windows7 64 bit
Run as administrator
Can anyone Help??

@7: Note that you only need to download and install the second patch file since it contains both patches.

Hello and thank you to GAOTD. Nice softwares, usually I download them on the french version of GAOTD. Currently, I test most of them, this one seems to be really useful. Also thank you for pointing out tips especially # 7 Bubby
Have a nice day and best regards from sweetzerland.

120 bucks?!?! Get real! There are tons of freeware (like Do It Again) which can do the same (and with nicer GUI too).

Also worth mentioning: RoboTask attempts to connect to the Internet even if you don't click on "Check for update" (the option to disable auto-updates is not there!)... Nasty habit that one!

I don't like to install something that connects to remote computers without my consent!

Thumbs down on this one, sorry guys!

Install without problem to Vista 32bits。
This type of programs take little times to get used to program.
I wish demo video has more examples. http://www.robotask.com/flash/

To activate the program, seems like one has to close the program once, then restart the program again.

Installed and registered fine on Win 7 x32. Register BEFORE starting the program. The help screen shows that FREE updates are available until 5 Mar 2012. Nice touch!

Program is a bit pricey but if you have many repetitive daily/regular tasks it could be a very good value.

I'm a novice here...but do we need to register this? After Installing and activation says 'evaluation mode..day 1 of 30'
please advise.

OK, I'm more impressed with Robotask after doing some exploring - it's quite a complete package with extensive capabilities well worth taking the time to learn how to use, although I admit the learning curve can be steep!

1) It can automate virtually any task you can think of "within reason" - although I still don't know if it can function within programs such as the game referred to in #4, but I doubt that.

2) It has a free CD/DVD Writer module that can be downloaded and installed to add even further functions - such as backing up to optical media.

3) You can download and install a free BASIC module that extends parameters and functions that can be even MORE complex - handy for programmers (and old-timers like me!) if you understand how to use the language. Don't worry, that's documented quite well also.

3) The PDF support manual is clear, extensive, and detailed enough for almost any task you'd normally like to set up - I suggest everyone interested in using Robotask get it and study it like there's a test tomorrow (j/k) - that, and the free modules, can be downloaded from:
http://www.robotask.com/downloads/
(The Flash demo is helpful, too.)

All in all, this is looking more and more like a well thought out, professionally implemented and extensively equipped, plus well documented piece of software that has the ability to automate virtually any task, as noted... this is a keeper in my book, and gets top marks from someone who's not easily impressed. Despite the (very) steep learning curve, simple tasks are, well, simple to set up, and for demanding users more complex tasks are possible to any extent you can dream up within reason, as far as I can see.

Neowise - I think you have a winner here. Well done!

(As for comment #4 - my Mom has a similar problem; have you tried speeding up and accelerating the mouse, using tails and an enlarged pointer? Those have helped mine to move more quickly and accurately as well as track her motions, and all those settings are available in Control Panel/Mouse properties - give it a try - they may carry over into her game and make it easier.)

I see this program somewhat complex of it's kind. Many of the tools & options for the sole purposes of "Task Automation" is quite a non-essential in my book; for me that is. I mean, my wife and myself have quite alot that we are engaged in as far as tasks are concerned, but we do just fine as far as the need for a program of this sort. I mean let's be honest; I am the administrator in my home and when it comes to scheduling tasks of any kind, I set it up either through the "Windows start menu> all programs> accessories> system tools> scheduled tasks"; or, just schedule a task through the "settings/tools/options of any program you have installed on your system. Honestly, in this economy spending close to a $120.00 for a program like this when many of your programs installed as well as the tools & options already integrated into the (OS); which in my case is Windows XP 32bit (SPS) all have the capability, is in my book somewhat foolish; unless of course you really have a demand for it. I have more than enough tools and/or options available at my disposal as far as "Task Automation" is concerned; I will pass on this one..............................Thank you anyway GAOTD.

Craig @ comment 3. I noticed that you disabled auto update. I can't see an option for that so is it possible to post how to do this please?

Many thanks
Trevor

Installed with no problems in Vista Home 32 and update installed fine for me without closing program, shows as properly registered and updated.

Have not tried to setup any tasks yet because I wanted to post these notes quickly for other GOTD users:

1) You only need to update with patch #2, as that "contains all previous patches."

2) #3 - "About" window shows that updates are free to registered GOTD users until March 5, 2012.

Nice to have a macro/robotask program, have been hoping for one, thanks Neowise and GOTD.