Batch Link 1.1 is a Windows program that allows the user to create, modify, and run batch files within one program. When a batch file is selected from the list, a description of the batch file will appear to the right so that information about the file is readily available. Files can be edited, viewed, saved, deleted, etc.. The program includes a button to run the PIF editor, as well. You can also restart or reboot the computer within the program. Batch Link is ideal for those who run batch files from within Windows. By simply placing your batch files in one directory, they are easily accessible and run within a single program. If you need a specialized DOS window, one button takes you to the PIF editor where you can just press V to paste the file's path in the filename box. Choose your settings, then just save it. Setup: Unzip the compressed files into the same directory and run the setup program. Make sure you have the two files below first. Note: This program was written using Visual Basic 4.0. Consquently, the file vb40016.dll is necessary before you can run the program. Visual Basic 4.0 also needs some additional files that are not included in this program's zipped file. vb40016.zip and vbfiles.exe can be found at: ftp/pub/pc/win3/programr/vbfiles.exe ftp/pub/pc/win3/programr/vb40016.zip vb40016.zip should be unzipped into the Windows/System directory. Do this first. vbfiles.exe is a self-extracting compressed file. Simply copy it into a separate directory. Then, from the DOS prompt type "vbfiles.exe" and hit . From Windows, double-click on the filename in file manager or use the Run command. Once extracted, run the setup program from windows. Also, Visual Basic 4.0 includes a lot of different files that take up considerably more space than VB 3.0. That is why vb40016.dll was not included. This is how Microsoft explains it: "Visual Basic 4.0 uses the OLE Control architecture on a scale unmatched by any other in the industry. This means that until the OLE Control architecture becomes the industry standard and part of the Windows operating system, Visual Basic programs have to include the support files which enable this powerful new technology. It is expected that as the OLE model becomes integrated at the operating system level, this requirement will fall away and the size of the distributable will drop dramatically." As far as vb40016.dll goes, it is used by all VB 4.0 programs, so you will only need to get it once. If you can't find the file, email me at jhawk@psnw.com. The program is provided as shareware. Take 21 days to evaluate the program, and if you find it useful, the registration fee is $13 and should be sent to: Jim Fishinghawk 2922 W Evergreen Visalia, CA 93277 Until the program is registered a nag screen will appear when the program begins and is exited. It is an annoyance, but it is there to remind users that there was a certain amount of work put into the program for which the author would appreciate acknowledgment lest the strain become unbearable. Comments, suggestions, etc., can be sent to jhawk@psnw.com or jhawk@edstar.gse.ucsb.edu.