Help For MS-DOS Shell for MS-DOS 7
----------------------------------
!I!@
MS-DOS Shell Help Index
To see a topic:
- Double-click the topic.
Or
- Press TAB to select the topic you want, and then press ENTER.
KEYBOARD HELP
-------------
" General MS-DOS Shell Keys "~K101~
" Movement Keys "~K102~
" Help Keys "~K109~
" Active Task List Keys "~K103~
" Program List Keys "~K104~
" File List Keys "~K105~
" File Selection Keys "~K106~
" Directory Tree Keys "~K107~
" Drive Selection Keys "~K108~
COMMANDS HELP
-------------
File List Menus
" File Menu "~I205~
" Options Menu "~I202~
" View Menu "~I203~
" Tree Menu "~I204~
" Help Menu "~I210~
Program List Menus
" File Menu "~I201~
" Options Menu "~I202~
" View Menu "~I209~
" Help Menu "~I210~
View Screen Menus
" Display Menu "~I207~
" View Menu "~I208~
" Help Menu "~I210~
PROCEDURES HELP
---------------
" Basic Procedures "~R100~
" File List Procedures "~R101~
" Program List Procedures "~R102~
" Running Programs "~R103~
" Other MS-DOS Shell Procedures "~R104~
MS-DOS SHELL BASICS HELP
------------------------
" Welcome to MS-DOS Shell "~$100~
" Menus and Commands "~$103~
" Dialog Boxes "~$105~
" File List and Program List "~$114~
" File List Overview "~1N~
" Program List Overview "~I099~
" How to Leave MS-DOS Shell "~$125~
USING HELP
----------
" Requesting Help Directly "~H100~
" Using Help Buttons "~H102~
" Using Help Menu Commands "~H103~
" How to Learn About MS-DOS Shell "~H104~@@
!R!@
Procedures
Each of the following topics contains a list of procedures.
To see a list of procedures:
- Double-click the topic.
Or
- Press TAB to select the topic you want, and then press
ENTER.
" Basic Procedures "~R100~
" File List Procedures "~R101~
" Program List Procedures "~R102~
" Running Programs "~R103~
" Other MS-DOS Shell Procedures "~R104~@@
Following is F1 Help (context-sensitive) for menus, commands, dialog boxes, options, command buttons, and messages, in all views including the Help window itself.
-----------------------PROGRAM LIST F1 HELP-----------------
!PMHD!!1MHD!@
File Menu
You can use commands on the File menu to add, open, copy, delete, and change the properties of program items and groups. You can also add files to groups and change the order in which program items and groups are listed. In addition, you can quit MS-DOS Shell, or run a program.@@
!PMAA!!1MAA!@
New Command
Adds a new group or program item to the currently selected group.
Related Procedures
" Adding and Changing Program Groups "~I100~
" Adding Program Items to Program Groups "~I102~@@
!1DSS!@
New Program Object Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can choose whether you want to create a new program item or a new group. Select either Program Item or Program Group, and choose the OK button.
A program item contains start-up instructions for a program. It's not the program file.
A program group is a collection of program items in the program list.
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.
Related Procedures
" Adding and Changing Program Groups "~I100~
" Adding Program Items to Program Groups "~I102~@@
!PDSR!!PDSS!@
New Program Item or New Program Group
Select either Program Item or Program Group, and choose the OK button.
A program item contains start-up instructions for a program. It's not the program file.
A program group is a collection of program items in the program list.@@
!PD3Y!!1D3Q!@
Add Program Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can type information about the program item you are adding. You must type a name for the program item and a command that starts the program.
Related Procedure
" Adding Program Items to Program Groups "~I102~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PD3Q!!PD:Q!@
Program Title Box
Type a name for your program item in the Program Title box. It can contain up to 23 characters (including blank spaces). @@
!PD3R!!1D3R!!PD:R!@
Commands Box
Type the command that starts the program, including any parameters. It can contain up to 255 characters (including blank spaces).
Replaceable Parameters
----------------------
One kind of parameter you can specify is a replaceable parameter that tells MS-DOS Shell to display a dialog box when the program starts.
For example, if you want MS-DOS Shell to prompt you for a file to open when you start Microsoft Word, you can use the following startup command:
word %1
NOTE: The replaceable parameter must be between 1 and 9. Zero and 10 will not work. For each numeral you set, MS-DOS Shell will display a dialog box.
Using More than One Command
---------------------------
You can type as many commands in the Commands box as you like. To use more than one command, separate each command with a semicolon (;). There must be a space on each side of the semicolon.
Related Topic
" Defining the Prompt Dialog Box "~PD7W~@@
DB displays when choose program item
!PDCW!@
File Dialog Box
In this dialog box, type the name of the file you want the program to open. When you choose the OK button, the program will start and open the file.
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PD7W!@
Defining the Prompt Dialog Box
You can define the dialog box that MS-DOS Shell displays when you choose the program item. You can specify the title of the dialog box, explanatory information, the prompt message, and parameters that allow you to open files without using a dialog box.
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PD7Q!@
Window Title Box
Type or edit the title of the dialog box that you are defining.@@
!PD7R!@
Program Information Box
If you like, you can type or edit text that will appear at the top of the dialog box.@@
!PD7S!@
Prompt Message Box
If you like, you can type or edit a prompt for the text box. For example, the message, "File to Edit?" prompts you to type a filename in the text box.@@
!PD7T!@
Default Parameters Box
You can specify a default parameter, such as a filename, that will appear in the Prompt dialog box whenever you choose the program item.
There are two parameters you can use to open files directly.
MS-DOS Shell will suggest the file specified by the following parameters:
To suggest Type this parameter
---------- -------------------
The file selected
when you start the
program %f
The parameter
used the last
time the program
was used %l@@
!PD3S!!PD:S!!1D3S!@
Startup Directory Box
You can type the path to the directory that contains the data files the program uses.
This directory will become the current directory when you choose the program item.@@
!PD3T!!1D3T!!PD:T!@
Application Shortcut Key Box
You can add or change a shortcut key combination for the program. When you choose the Enable Task Swapper command, you can use the shortcut key combination to move to the program if it is running. The shortcut key does not start the program.
To create the shortcut key combination, press either SHIFT, CTRL, or ALT, and a letter. After you create it, it will appear next to the program name in the Active Task List.
NOTE: Some key combinations are not available. Do not use the following combinations:
CTRL+C
CTRL+M
CTRL+I
CTRL+H
CTRL+[
CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
SHIFT+CTRL+M
SHIFT+CTRL+I
SHIFT+CTRL+H
SHIFT+CTRL+[
SHIFT+CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
Related Procedure
" Adding Program Items to Program Groups "~I102~@@
!PD3U!!1D3U!!PD:U!@
Pause After Exit Check Box
If you select this check box, when you quit the program MS-DOS prompts you to press any key to return to MS-DOS Shell. If you don't select it, you return immediately to MS-DOS Shell when you quit the program.
Pausing is useful if you want to read text that your program displays after it finishes running, before you return to MS-DOS Shell.@@
!PD3V!!1D3V!!PD:V!@
Password Box
You can type a password up to 20 characters (including blank spaces). If you don't want to use a password, leave the Password box empty.
A password protects a program item by limiting access to those who know the password. After you change a password, write it down and keep it in a safe place. A dialog box will prompt you for the password every time you use the program item.@@
!PD3Z!!PD:Z!@
Advanced Button
Displays another dialog box where you can specify additional properties.@@
!PD8]!@
Advanced Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can add Help text and specify memory, video mode, reserved shortcut keys, and program switching.
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PD3Q!!PD8Q!!PD0U!!PDBU!@
Help Text Box
You can type up to 255 characters (including blank spaces) of Help information for the program group or item. If you don't want to use Help text, leave the Help Text box empty.
Line Breaks
-----------
In the Help Text box, pressing ENTER doesn't indicate a line break.
To indicate a line break:
- Type a caret (^) followed by the letter m.
Viewing the Help Text
---------------------
You can read this Help text by selecting the program item or group and pressing F1.@@
!PD8R!@
Conventional Memory KB Required Box
You can specify in kilobytes the minimum amount of memory required to run this program when using task swapping. The default value is 128.
If less memory is available when you start a program, MS-DOS Shell will display a message.@@
!PD8S!@
XMS Memory KB Required Box
You can specify in kilobytes the minimum amount of extended memory required to run this program when using task swapping. The default value is zero.
If less memory is available when you start a program, MS-DOS Shell will display a message.@@
!PD8T!@
XMS Memory KB Limit Box
You can specify in kilobytes the maximum amount of extended memory that can be used by the program. This option controls the amount of memory that can be swapped by the program. The default value is 384 on systems that have at least this much memory. Otherwise, the default value is the total amount of extended memory.@@
!PD8U!!PD8V!@
Video Mode Option
This option reserves memory for screen display information during task swapping. Usually the memory reserved by Text mode is enough, but you may need more memory if you are running a CGA video adapter.
Select this option If
------------------ --
Text The program runs in text mode. Consider
using text mode if the program doesn't
need to display graphics. It will speed
disk swapping. Text mode is the default
option.
Graphics The program runs in graphics mode. This
option is needed only if you are running
a CGA video adapter.@@
!PD8W!@
Prevent Program Switch Check Box
Turns off task swapping when the program is running. When this check box is selected, you must quit the program to return to MS-DOS Shell.@@
!PD8X!!PD8Y!!PD8Z!!PD8X!!PD8Y!!PD8Z!@
Reserve Shortcut Keys Check Boxes
Turns off the specified shortcut keys in MS-DOS Shell so that the program can use those keys.
Selecting
this Turns off the shortcut to
--------- -------------------------
ALT+TAB Toggling between two programs.
ALT+ESC Displaying the next program.
CTRL+ESC Returning to MS-DOS Shell from a program.@@
!PDBZ!!1DBV!@
Add Group Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you specify information about the new group you are creating. You must type a name for the group. You can also type Help information for the group, and a password to limit access to the group.
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PDBT!!PD0T!@
Title Box
Type a name for the new group. A title is required. It can contain up to 23 characters (including blank spaces).@@
!PDBW!!PD0W!@
Password Box
You can type a password for the group in the Password box. It can contain up to 20 characters (including blank spaces). If you don't want to include a password, leave the Password Box empty.
A password protects a group by limiting access to those who know the password. After you change a password, write it down and keep it in a safe place. A dialog box will prompt you for the password every time you use this group.@@
!PD1Q!!PD1T!!1D!@
Password Dialog Box
You must type the password before you can use this program item or group.@@
!PMAB!!1MAB!@
Open Command
Starts a program and an associated file (if there is one) or displays the contents of a group.
Related Procedures
" Opening Files "~I131~
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~@@
!PMAC!!1MAC!@
Copy Command
Copies a program item to the group you specify. After you choose the Copy command, open the group you want to copy the program item to, and then press F2.
Related Procedure
" Copying Program Items and Program Groups "~I114~@@
!HC!@
Copy Program Items
You are in the middle of copying a program item to a group.
To continue:
1. Double-click the destination group.
2. Press F2.
Or
1. Move the selection cursor to the destination group and
press ENTER.
2. Press F2.
To cancel the command:
- Press ESC.
Related Procedure
" Copying Program Items and Program Groups "~I114~@@
!PMAD!!1MAD!@
Delete Command
Deletes the selected group or program item from a group. Before deleting a group, you must delete all of its program items.
Related Procedure
" Deleting Program Items and Program Groups "~I116~@@
!PDHS!!1DHQ!@
Delete Item Dialog Box
If you want to delete the selected program item or group, choose 1.
If you do not want to delete the selected program item or group, choose 2 (or press ESC) to cancel the deletion and return to the program list.
Related Procedure
" Deleting Program Items and Program Groups "~I116~@@
!PMAE!!1MAE!@
Properties Command
For a program item, this command specifies the title, the command that starts the program, the startup directory for the program to use, an application shortcut key, Help text, a password, and other properties.
For a group, it specifies the title, Help text, and password assigned to that group.
Related Procedures
" Adding and Changing Program Groups "~I100~
" Changing Program Item Properties "~I104~@@
!PD:Y!@
Program Item Properties Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can specify information about the selected program item. You can change any or all of the information displayed in this dialog box. You must include a name for the program item and a command, including any parameters, that starts the program.
Related Procedure
" Adding and Changing Program Groups "~I100~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PD0Z!!1DBR!@
Program Group Properties Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can change the information about the selected group. You can change any or all of the information displayed in this dialog box. You must include a title for the group.
Related Procedure
" Changing Program Item Properties "~I104~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PMAF!!1MAF!@
Reorder Command
Moves the selected program item or group from its current location to the location you specify. After choosing this command, use the arrow keys to move to the new location, and then press ENTER. You can also double-click the new location.
Related Procedure
" Reordering Program Items in a Program Group "~I133~@@
!HR!@
Reorder Program Items and Program Groups
You are in the middle of moving the selected program item or group to a new location in the program list.
To continue:
- Double-click the new location.
Or
- Move the selection cursor to the new location, and then press ENTER.
MS-DOS Shell inserts the program item or group at the new
location.
To cancel the command:
- Press ESC.
Related Procedure
" Reordering Program Items in a Program Group "~I133~@@
!PMHG!!1MHG!!1MHL!!VMHO!!2MHL!!YMHL!@
Help Menu
You can use the commands on the Help menu to display an index of Help topics, information on the keys you can use with MS-DOS Shell, basic skills for working with MS-DOS Shell, commands, and procedures.@@
!PMBI!!1MBI!!1MEG!!VMFC!!2MEG!!YMEG!@
Index Command
Opens the Help window and displays the MS-DOS Shell Help Index.@@
!PMBJ!!1MBJ!!1MEH!!VMFD!!2MEH!!YMEH!@
Keyboard Command
Opens the Help window and displays a list of shortcut keys you can use with MS-DOS Shell.@@
!PMBK!!1MBK!!1MEI!!VMFE!!2MEI!!YMEI!@
Shell Basics Command
Opens the Help window and displays a list of topics for basic skills you need to work with MS-DOS Shell.@@
!PMBL!!1MBL!!1MEJ!!VMFF!!2MEJ!!YMEJ!@
Commands Command
Opens the Help window and displays a list of all MS-DOS Shell commands, grouped by menu.@@
!PMBM!!1MBM!!1MEK!!VMFG!!2MEK!!YMEK!@
Procedures Command
Opens the Help window and displays a list of topics you can see for help on MS-DOS Shell tasks.@@
!PMBN!!1MBN!!1MEL!!VMFH!!2MEL!!YMEL!@
Using Help Command
Opens the Help window and displays a list of topics which explain how to use MS-DOS Shell Help.@@
!PMBP!!1MBP!!1MEN!!VMFJ!!2MEN!!YMEN!@
About Shell Command
Displays copyright and version information about MS-DOS Shell.@@
--------------------HELP WINDOW F1 Help---------------------
(Close and OK buttons are covered by the Command Buttons topic)
!PDZR!!1DZR!!2DZR!!YDZR!!VDZR!@
Back Button
Displays the previous Help topic.@@
!PDZS!!1DZS!!2DZS!!YDZS!!VDZS!@
Keys Button
Displays a list of topics that show the keys and key combinations you can use with MS-DOS Shell.@@
!PDZT!!1DZT!!2DZT!!YDZT!!VDZT!@
Index Button
Displays an index of Help topics.
Related Procedures
" Choosing Command Buttons "~I109~
" Using MS-DOS Shell Help "~I153~@@
!PDZU!!1DZU!!2DZU!!YDZU!!VDZU!@
Help Button
Displays Help on MS-DOS Shell Help.@@
-----------------FILE LIST F1 HELP-------------------------
!1MHH!!2MHH!!YMHH!@
File Menu
You can use the commands on this menu to carry out actions on files and directories, or to quit MS-DOS Shell. To carry out an action on one or more files or a directory, select the files or the directory before you choose the command. @@
!1MCA!!2MCA!!YMCA!@
Open Command
Starts a selected program and an associated file, if there is one.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Opening Files "~I131~@@
!1MCB!!2MCB!!YMCB!!PMAH!!1MAH!@
Run Command
Displays a dialog box in which you type the name of the program file that starts the program.
Related Procedure
" Starting Programs "~I147~@@
!1DAQ!!2DAQ!!YDAQ!!PDAQ!@
Run Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can start a program by typing the name of its program file and then choosing the OK button. If the file is not in the current directory, you must precede the filename with its complete path. You can use the MS-DOS directory wildcards (.. and .) to specify paths.
Type any parameters for the program after the program filename. For example, to open a file named TEST.DOC in Microsoft Word, you would type the following:
word test.doc.
Related Procedure
" Starting Programs "~I147~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
For more information on MS-DOS commands and wildcards, see the User's Guide.@@
!1MCC!!2MCC!!YMCC!@
Print Command
Prints the selected text file or files. The Print command only works if you have run print.exe at the command prompt.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Printing Files "~I134~
For more information about print.exe, type HELP PRINT at the command prompt.@@
!1MCD!!2MCD!!YMCD!@
Associate Command
Associates all files having the same extension with a program. Instead of your starting the program and then opening the file, MS-DOS Shell does this automatically. When you choose a file with the specified extension, the program starts with the file loaded.
You can also use the Associate command to associate a program with a selected file.
You can also associate files without an extension with a program file.
Related Procedure
" Associating Files with a Program "~I105~@@
!1DDU!!2DDU!!YDDU!@
Associate File Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you type the extension(s) of the files you want to associate with the selected program file. For example, DOC is the extension for the MEMO.DOC filename.
You can also associate files without an extension with a program file, by typing a period instead of an extension. Note that every file without an extension will be associated with the selected program file.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Associating Files with a Program "~I105~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1DDR!!2DDR!!YDDR!@
Extension Box
Type the extension(s) of the files you want to associate. For example, DOC is the extension for the MEMO.DOC file. You can associate multiple extensions, separating them with a single space (you can type up to 79 characters). However, you can associate an extension with only one program at a time.
To associate all files without an extension with a program file, type a period instead of an extension.@@
!1D5T!!2D5T!!YD5T!@
Associate File Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you type the program filename of the program you want to associate with files that have the extension you specified. Each time you open a file with the extension, the program automatically starts with the file loaded.
You can also associate a program file with all files that do not have an extension.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Associating Files with a Program "~I105~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1D5Q!!2D5Q!!YD5Q!@
Program Box
Type the filename and path of the program you want to associate with the selected file or files. For example, type the following:
c:\winword\winword.exe@@
!1MCE!!2MCE!!YMCE!@
Search Command
Finds files on all or part of the current disk drive, depending on what you specify.
Related Procedure
" Searching for Files "~I139~@@
!1DOV!!2DOV!!YDOV!@
Search File Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you type the name of the file you want to find. You can use MS-DOS wildcards (* or ?) to find a group of files with similar names or extensions.
Select the Search Entire Disk check box to search the entire drive rather than just the selected directory.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Searching for Files "~I139~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1DOQ!!2DOQ!!YDOQ!@
Search For Box
Type the name of the file you want to find. You can use MS-DOS wildcards (* or ?) to find a group of files with similar names or extensions. For example, to find all files with a .TXT extension, specify *.TXT.@@
!1DOS!!2DOS!!YDOS!@
Search Entire Disk Check Box
If you want to search an entire disk for a file or files, select this check box.
If you want to search only the currently displayed directory, clear this check box.@@
!SN!@
Search List Window
Displays a file or files found using the Search command. You can run, print, associate, move, copy, delete, or rename any file in the list. You can also select a file or files and change the attributes. You can view the contents of a selected file.
Related Procedure
" Searching for Files "~I139~@@
!1MCF!!2MCF!!YMCF!@
View File Contents Command
Displays the contents of the selected text file or binary file.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Viewing File Contents "~I149~@@
!VN!@
View File Window
Displays the contents of the selected text file or binary file.
To scroll through the file by using a mouse:
- At the top of the window, click the words "PgUp" or
"PgDn," or click the arrows.
To scroll through a file by using the keyboard:
- Press the PAGE UP, PAGE DOWN, UP ARROW, or DOWN ARROW
keys.
You can switch the screen display between ASCII and hexadecimal formats by using commands on the Display menu, or by pressing F9.
To return to the file list:
- From the View menu, choose Restore View.
Or
- Press ESC.
Related Procedure
" Viewing File Contents "~I149~@@
(*View File Screen*)
!VMHM!@
Display Menu
You can use commands on this menu to switch between a hexadecimal or ASCII file display.@@
!VMEO!@
ASCII Command
Switches the file display from hexadecimal to ASCII.@@
!VMEP!@
Hex Command
Switches the file display from ASCII to hexadecimal.@@
(*View File Screen*)
!VMHN!@
View Menu
You can use the commands on this menu to do the following:
* Redraw the screen.
* Return to the file list. You can also press ESC
to return to the file list.@@
!VMFB!@
Restore View Command
Returns to the file list.@@
!1MCH!!2MCH!!YMCH!@
Move Command
Moves the selected file or files from one directory to a directory you specify.
Related Procedure
" Moving Files "~I129~@@
!1DFV!!2DFV!!YDFV!@
Move Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you type the drive and directory you want to move the selected file to.
If you're moving only one file, you can also specify a new name for the file after the path.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" Copy and Move Messages "~I163~
Related Procedure
" Moving Files "~I129~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1DFR!!2DFR!!YDFR!@
To Box
Type the drive and destination directory you want to move the selected file to.
If you're moving only one file, you can also specify a new name for the file after the path.@@
Move's
!1DFQ!!2DFQ!!YDFQ!@
From Box
Lists the name(s) of the file or files you want to move. If there are several filenames, you can scroll through them by using the arrow keys.
If you do not want to move these files, press ESC to cancel the command.@@
!1MCI!!2MCI!!YMCI!@
Copy Command
Copies one or more files in one directory to a directory you specify.
Related Procedure
" Copying Files "~I113~@@
!1D9V!!2D9V!!YD9V!@
Copy Dialog Box
Type the drive and destination directory you want to copy the selected file(s) to.
If you're copying only one file, you can also specify a new name for the file after the path.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" Copy and Move Messages "~I163~
Related Procedure
" Copying Files "~I113~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1D9Q!!2D9Q!!YD9Q!@
From Box
Lists the name(s) of the file or files you want to copy. If there are several filenames, you can scroll through them by using the arrow keys.
If you do not want to copy these files, press ESC to cancel the command.@@
!1D9R!!2D9R!!YD9R!@
To Box
Type the drive and path of the new location for the file or files you want to copy.
To copy a file within a directory, you must give it a different filename. Type the new filename after the path.@@
!1DVR!!2DVR!!YDVR!@
Confirm on Replace Message
A file with this name already exists in the location you specified. Choose 1 to cancel the Move or Copy command. Choose 2 to replace the file in the destination directory with the file you are moving or copying.@@
!1MCJ!!2MCJ!!YMCJ!@
Delete Command
Deletes selected files or directories.
Related Procedure
" Deleting Files and Directories "~I117~@@
!1DJU!!2DJU!!YDJU!@
Delete File Dialog Box
This dialog box displays the name(s) of the file or files you selected for deletion. If you selected several files, you can scroll through them by using the LEFT ARROW and RIGHT ARROW keys.
If you do not want to delete these files, press ESC to cancel the command.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Deleting Files and Directories "~I117~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1DJR!!2DJR!!YDJR!@
Delete Box
Displays the name or names of files you selected for deletion. If you selected several files, you can scroll through them by using the LEFT ARROW and RIGHT ARROW keys.
If you do not want to delete these files, press ESC to cancel the command.
-
-
!1MCK!!2MCK!!YMCK!@
Rename Command
Renames a selected file or directory to the name you specify.
Related Procedure
" Renaming Files and Directories "~I136~@@
!1DRS!!2DRS!!YDRS!@
Rename Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you type the new name for the file or directory you selected.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Renaming Files and Directories "~I136~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1DRT!!2DRT!!YDRT!@
New Name Box
Type a new name for the selected file or directory. You can include as many as 8 characters in the name. You can follow the name with a period and an extension of up to three characters.
If you selected more than one file or directory, rename the first one, choose the OK button, rename the second one, and continue until you have renamed all of them.@@
!1MCL!!2MCL!!YMCL!@
Change Attributes Command
Displays the attributes assigned to a file. Attributes include Hidden, System, Archive, and Read-Only. You can choose this command to assign or remove attributes.
Related Procedure
" Changing File Attributes "~I107~@@
!1D4S!!2D4S!!YD4S!@
Change Attributes Dialog Box
In this dialog box, an arrow indicates attributes currently assigned to the selected file. Use the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys to select the attributes you want, and press the SPACEBAR to assign them, or remove them from the file. You can also use the mouse.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Changing File Attributes "~I107~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1D4W!!2D4W!!YD4W!@
File Attributes
An arrow next to an attribute means it is assigned to the file. Use the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys to select the attributes you want, and press the SPACEBAR to assign them or remove them from the file.
Set this attribute To
------------------ --
Hidden Prevent a file from appearing in
lists on your screen.
System Mark a file as an MS-DOS system
file and prevent it from appearing
in lists on your screen.
Archive Mark a file that has been changed
since it was backed up.
Read-Only Prevent a file from being changed.
Clear this attribute To
-------------------- --
Hidden Allow the file to appear in lists
on your screen.
System Mark a system file as a regular
file so it will appear in lists.
Archive Stop archiving a file.
Read-Only Change a file.
You can display hidden and system files without changing the files' attributes by using the File Display Options command on the Options menu.@@
!1DES!!2DES!!YDES!@
Change Attributes Dialog Box
Select the first option to change the attributes of each selected file one at a time; select the second option to change the attributes of all files at once.@@
!1MCN!!2MCN!!YMCN!@
Create Directory Command
Creates a new directory on the current drive. If a directory is selected, this command creates a subdirectory within that directory.
Related Procedure
" Creating Directories "~I115~@@
!1DGT!!2DGT!!YDGT!@
New Directory Name Box
Type the name you want to give the new directory.@@
!1DGS!!2DGS!!YDGS!@
Create Directory Dialog Box
In this dialog box, type the name of the directory you want to create. The new directory will be a subdirectory of the parent directory listed under Parent Name.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Creating Directories "~I115~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!1MCP!!2MCP!!YMCP!@
Select All Command
Selects all files in the currently selected directory.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Selecting All Files in a Directory "~I141~@@
!1MDA!!2MDA!!YMDA!@
Deselect All Command
Cancels all selections except one in the currently selected directory.
MS-DOS Shell displays error messages in the dialog box. To get Help on these messages, see
" File List Messages "~1DMK~
Related Procedure
" Selecting All Files in a Directory "~I141~@@
!PMAJ!!1MAJ!!1MDC!!2MDC!!YMDC!@
Exit Command
Quits MS-DOS Shell and displays the MS-DOS command prompt.@@
!PMHE!!1MHE!!1MHI!!2MHI!!YMHI!@
Options Menu
You can use the commands on the Options menu to view and change options associated with files and groups. Commands are also provided for using the MS-DOS Shell task-swapping feature and for changing screen colors and modes used to display MS-DOS Shell.
--@@
!PMAK!!1MAK!!1MDD!!2MDD!!YMDD!@
Confirmation Command
Specifies whether MS-DOS Shell should prompt you for confirmation before deleting files and replacing files with duplicate names. The command also applies to mouse actions that involve moving and copying files.
Related Procedures
" Deleting Files and Directories "~I117~
" Copying Files "~I113~
" Moving Files "~I129~@@
!PDNS!!1DNS!!2DNS!!YDNS!@
Confirmation Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can specify whether MS-DOS Shell should prompt you for confirmation before a file is deleted or replaced, or when you are performing mouse actions that involve copying or moving files.
Related Procedures
" Deleting Files and Directories "~I117~
" Copying Files "~I113~
" Moving Files "~I129~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PDNT!!1DNT!!2DNT!!YDNT!@
Confirm on Delete Check Box
Select this check box to receive a message before you delete a file or directory.@@
!PDNU!!1DNU!!2DNU!!YDNU!@
Confirm on Replace Check Box
Select this check box to receive a message before you replace a file in the same directory by moving or copying.@@
!PDNV!!1DNV!!2DNV!!YDNV!@
Confirm on Mouse Operation Check Box
Select this check box to receive a message when you perform a mouse action that involves moving or copying a file.@@
!PMAL!!1MAL!!1MDE!!2MDE!!YMDE!@
File Display Options Command
Lists files in sequence by name, extension, date, size, or order on the disk. Also controls the display of hidden and system files.
Related Procedure
" Changing the File Display Order "~I132~@@
!PDLS!!1DLS!!2DLS!!YDLS!@
File Display Options Dialog Box
In this dialog box, you can change the order in which files are listed. You can list files by name, extension, date, size, or order on the disk. You can also specify whether you want to display files with hidden or system file attributes.
Related Procedure
" Changing the File Display Order "~I132~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.@@
!PDLT!!1DLT!!2DLT!!YDLT!@
Name Box
Specify the type of file you want MS-DOS to list by榯yping an exten鏸on. You can use MS-DOQ naming conventaons, including wildcards (* and ?).@@
!PDLU!!1DLU!!2DLU!!YDLU!@
Display Hidden/System Files Check Box
Select this check box to display hidden and system files without changifg their attributes.@@
!PDLV!!1DV!!2DLV !YDV!@
Descending Order Check Box
Select this check box to use reverse alphabetical order, Z to A, to sort by filename and extension. If sorting by date, the Descendinc Order option displays the most recently modified file first. @@
!PDLW!!1DLW!!2DLW!!YDLW!@
Sort By Name Option
Select this option to sort by filename, in alphabetical order from A to Z.@@
!PDLX!!1DLX!!2DLX!!Y@LX!@
Sort By Extensioj Option
Sele#t this option to sort first by the filename extension (for exam0le, .TXT), and then by filenama, in alphabetical order, from A to Z.@@
!PDLY!!1DLY!!2DLY !YDLY!@
Sort By Date Option
Select this option to sort files by the date they were last modified, starting with the oldest file.@@
!PDLZ!!1DLZ!!2DLZ!!YDLZ!@
Sort By Size Option
Select this option to sort by the file 3ize, from the smallert to the largest.@@
!PDL[!!1DL[!!2DL[!!YDL[!@
Sort By DiskOrder Option
Select this optiol to sort by the order of the files on the disk*@@
!PMAM!!1MAM!!1MDF !2MDF!!YMDF!@
Seldct Across Directories Command
Coltrols whether or .ot you can select files in more than one directory. A ma2k next to the command name indic`tes that the command is active.
Related P2ocedure
" Selecting Files Across Eirectories "~I140~@@
!PMDG!!1MDG!!2MDG!!YMDG!!PMAN!@
Show Indormation Command
Displays information on the selected file or files, the directory, and the disk.
Related Procedure
" Viesing File, Di2ectory, and Drive Infgrmation "~I120~@@
!PDYR!!1DYR!! !2DYR!!YDYR!@
Shkw InformKtion Dialog Box
This dialog bkx displays information on the currently selected disk and its direct/ries and files.@@
!PMAO!!1MAO!!1MDH!!2MDH!!YMDH!@
Enable Task Swapper Command
Turns on or off task swapping and displays the Active Task List to the right of the program list. With task swapping on, you can have more than one program open at a time and switch back and forth between programs. A mark next to the command indicates that task swapping is on.
Related Procedures
" Using Task Swapping and the Active Task List "~I152~
" Switching Between Programs "~I148~@@
!PMAP!!1MAP!!1MDI!!2MDI!!YMDI!@
Display Command
Changes the screen mode and resolution used to display MS-DOS Shell.
Related Procedure
" Changing the Screen Display "~I154~@@
!PDXT!!1DXT!!2DXT!!YDXT!@
Screen Display Mode
This dialog box displays the screen mode options available to you, based on information from the video driver and your hardware. Select the screen mode you want to use to display MS-DOS Shell, and then choose the OK button. To see a display mode before you choose it, select it and choose the Preview button.
Related Procedure
" Changing the Screen Display "~I154~@@
!PDXR!!PDWR!!1DXR!!1DWR!!2DXR!!2DWR!!YDXR!!YDWR!@
Preview Button
Temporarily redraws the screen in the display mode or color scheme you selected. You can preview as many options as you like. Choose the OK button to confirm your selection, or the Cancel button to close the dialog box without making a change.@@
!PMDJ!!1MDJ!!2MDJ!!YMDJ!!PMBA!@
Colors Command
Changes the color scheme used for MS-DOS Shell.
Related Procedure
" Changing Colors "~I106~@@
!PDWQ!!1DWQ!!2DWQ!!YDWQ!@
Color Scheme Dialog Box
In this dialog box, select the color scheme you want for MS-DOS Shell and then choose the OK button.
You can see a color scheme before you choose it by choosing the Preview button.
Related Procedure
" Changing Colors "~I106~
To get Help on a dialog box option, select it and press F1.
!PDWT!!1DWT!!2DWT!!YDWT!@
Color Scheme Option
You can change colors or return to the default setting by selecting one of the color schemes provided in this list and then choosing the OK button. You can see a color scheme before you choose it by choosing the Preview button.
Related Procedure
" Changing Colors "~I106~@@
!PMHF!!1MHF!!1MHJ!!2MHJ!!YMHJ!@
View Menu
You can use the commands on this menu to display a single file list, two file lists, or information on files in the current directory.
You can also display a list of groups and program items and a list of files and directories at the same time.@@
!PMBB!!1MBB!!1MDK!!2MDK!!YMDK!@
Single File List Command
Displays a single directory tree and file list for the current drive.
Related Procedure
" Displaying a List of Files in a Directory "~I119~@@
!PMBC!!1MBC!!1MDL!!2MDL!!YMDL!@
Dual File Lists Command
Displays two directory trees and file lists for the selected drive(s) in the file list.
Related Procedure
" Displaying Two File Lists "~I121~@@
!PMBD!!1MBD!!1MDM!!2MDM!!YMDM!@
All Files Command
Lists every file on the current drive, ac well as information about the `rive, its directories, `nd its files.
Related Procedure
" Displaying a List of All Files "~I118~@@
!PMBE!!1MBE!!1MDN!!2MDL!!YMDN!@
Program/File Lists Command
Displays a list of directories and files and a list of groups and programs.
Related Procedure
" Vieuing the File List and the Program List "~I125~@@
!PMBF!!1MBF!!1MDO!!2MDO!!YMDO!@
Program List Command
Displays a list of groups and program items in the current group.
Related Procedure
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~@@
!PMBH!!1MBH!!1MEA!!2MEA!!YMEA!!VMFA!@
Repaint Screen Command
Redraws the screen. The Repaint Screen command does not update the list of files; if you want to update the lists to show changes, use the Refresh command.@@
!1MEB!!2MEB!!YMEB!@
Refresh Command
MS-DOS Shell rereads the disk and updates the lists to show changes such as deleted or restored files.@@
!1MHK!!2MHK!!YMHK!@
Tree Menu
You can use the commands on this menu to display or hide subdirectories in the Directory Tree.@@
!1MEC!!2MEC!!YMEC!@
Expand One Level Command
Displays the next level of subdirectories for the selected directory in the Directory Tree.
Related Procedure
" Expanding Directories "~I127~@@
!1MED!!2MED!!YMED!@
Expand Branch Command
Displays all levels of subdirectories in the selected directory in the Directory Tree.
Related Procedure
" Expanding Directories "~I127~@@
!1MEE!!2MEE!!YMEE!@
Expand All Command
Displays all subdirectories in all directories in the Directory Tree.
Related Procedure
" Expanding Directories "~I127~@@
!1MEF!!2MEF!!YMEF!@
Collapse Branch Command
Hides all currently displayed subdirectories in the selected directory in the Directory Tree.
Related Procedure
" Collapsing Directories "~I112~@@
--------------------- ERROR MESSAGE F1 HELP ---------------
The following are most of the F1 messages, although some messages may be placed near related F1 Help topics.
Also included is Help on common command buttons.
!I163!@
Copy and Move Messages
Following are several specific MS-DOS Shell messages you may receive when moving and copying files and advice about how to handle them.
Invalid Path
------------
Make sure that you specified the correct path for the file or directory (including the correct drive letter). The path is the location of the file or directory in the directory tree. The entire path must not be longer than 66 characters. For more information about paths, see "MS-DOS Basics," in the User's Guide.
File or Drive Does Not Exist
----------------------------
Check to be sure the drive, path, and filename are correct. Use the file list to make sure the file is on the disk in the specified drive. Try using the Refresh command on the View menu to update the file list.
You Have More than One File Selected
------------------------------------
When you have more than one file selected that you want to copy or move, you must specify a destination directory -- not a file. Make sure you specified an existing directory and that its path is correct.
Access Denied
-------------
You may have tried using a file that you do not have access rights to. Check with your system administrator.@@
!1DMJ!!1DMK!!1DML!!1DMM!!1DMN!!1DMO!!1DMP!!1DMQ!!1DMR!!1DMS!!1DMT!!1DMU!!1DMV!!1DMW!!1DMX!!1DMZ!!2DMJ!!2DMK!!2DML!!2DMM!!2DMN!!2DMO!!2DMP!!2DMQ!!2DMR!!2DMS!!2DMT!!2DMU!!2DMV!!2DMW!!2DMX!!2DMZ!!YDMJ!!YDMK!!YDML!!YDMM!!YDMN!!YDMO!!YDMP!!YDMQ!!YDMR!!YDMS!!YDMT!!YDMU!!YDMV!!YDMW!!YDMX!!2DMN!@
File List Messages
Following are several specific MS-DOS Shell messages you may receive and advice about how to handle them.
The File Doesn't Exist
----------------------
Make sure you specified the correct path and filename.
Access Denied or Invalid Path
-----------------------------
You may have tried one of the following:
* Specifying an incorrect path. Make sure that you
specified the correct path for the file or directory
(including the correct drive letter). The path is the
location of the file or directory in the directory
tree.
* Renaming a file or directory to one that already exists
in the same directory.
* Within a directory, creating a new directory with the
same name as a directory that already exists.
* Deleting a directory that contains files. First you
must delete or move the files.
* Deleting a write-protected or read-only file. Try
changing the file's attributes by using the Change
Attributes command on the File menu.
* Trying to perform operations on a write-protected disk.
Remove the write-protection from the disk.
* Using a file that you do not have access rights to.
Check with your system administrator.
* Creating a directory with a path that's too long.
MS-DOS recognizes paths up to 66 characters (including
the drive and colon [:]). Try specifying a shorter path
for the directory.
For more information about paths, see "MS-DOS Basics" in the User's Guide.
That is the Wrong Floppy Disk
-----------------------------
Be sure you inserted the correct disk in the drive. When you insert the correct disk, MS-DOS Shell will continue with the operation.
That Drive Doesn't Exist
------------------------
Make sure you specified the correct drive letter. If you are using a network, make sure you are connected to it. Try using the Refresh command on the View menu to reread the drives.
Drive Not Ready
---------------
Check the drive to be sure of the following:
* A disk is in the drive.
* The drive door is closed.
* The disk is properly inserted in the drive.
* The disk is formatted.
Unrecognized Disk Error
-----------------------
If you're using a floppy disk, check to be sure that you've inserted the correct disk in the drive, that it is inserted properly, and that the drive door is closed.
Check to see that the disk and the drive are compatible. For example, you may be putting a high-density disk into a drive that only accepts low-density disks.
The disk may contain bad sectors. You can use the CHKDSK command at the command prompt to see if there are bad sectors on the disk.
Error Reading File
------------------
Make sure the file exists on the specified drive.
Error Writing to the Destination File
-------------------------------------
Make sure you inserted the correct disk in the drive. Or, it could be that the disk is damaged.
The File is in Use by Someone Else
----------------------------------
You tried to use a file on a network that someone else is using. To use the file, you must wait until it is available.
Take the Write-Protection off the Disk
---------------------------------------
The disk you are trying to use may have write-protection. This prevents data from being written to the disk. Remove the write-protection, or use a different disk without write-protection.
Error creating a temporary file on a drive
------------------------------------------
MS-DOS Shell cannot find the TEMP or TMP variable and you have tried to start a program from a write-protected disk. Temporary files cannot be created. You can either remove the write-protection from the disk, or set the TEMP or TMP variable in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
For more information about setting these variables, see
"Setting the TEMP or TMP Variable"~I167~
Unrecognized Error
------------------
Retry the operation. If you still get a message, quit MS-DOS Shell and start it again, and then retry the procedure.
Related Procedures
" Changing File Attributes "~I107~
" Copying Files "~I113~
" Expanding Directories "~I127~
" Updating the Lists "~I161~@@
!I167!@
Setting the TEMP or TMP Variable
In the process of starting and quitting programs and MS-DOS Shell, temporary batch files are created and stored in a directory specified in the TEMP or TMP variables in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
You may have to reset the TEMP or TMP variable if:
* The disk you want to restore deleted files from is full.
The temporary files may overwrite deleted files you want
to restore.
* You started MS-DOS Shell from a write-protected disk.
You will not be able to start the program.
When you start a program, MS-DOS Shell first looks for the directory specified in the TEMP variable and then in the TMP variable. If it can't find the directories, MS-DOS Shell will use the directory and drive where the running MS-DOS Shell is stored. If MS-DOS Shell can't create the temporary batch file in any of these directories, it displays the message "Error creating a temporary file to a drive."
The problem may be that you are running MS-DOS Shell from a write-protected disk.
You can try the following:
* Remove the write-protection from the disks.
* Set the TEMP or TMP variable to a directory on a
disk that isn't write-protected.
NOTE: It's best to set the variable to a directory on the RAM drive. If the RAM drive doesn't have enough memory, specify a different directory.
To set the TEMP and TMP variables:
1. Quit MS-DOS Shell.
2. Choose or create a directory for the temporary files --
for example, c:\temp; or if d: is your RAM drive, you
could specify d:\.
3. At the MS-DOS command prompt, use the set command to set
each variable.
To set this variable Type
-------------------- ----
TEMP set TEMP=drive:\directory
TMP set TMP=drive:\directory
Specify the directory that you chose or created in Step
2.
NOTE: The TEMP and TMP variable can specify the same
or a different directory.
NOTE: It's recommended that you set both variables
now so that no matter which program you will be using,
the variable it uses will be set correctly.
4. Press ENTER.
5. Start MS-DOS Shell.@@
!1DME!!2DME!!YDME!@
File Cannot Be Copied to Itself Message
You may have tried to copy a file to itself. You can either copy the file to a different directory or specify a different filename.
Related Procedure
" Copying Files "~I113~@@
!1DMG!!2DMG!!YMDG!@
The Disk is Full Message
There may not be enough disk space to copy the file(s) listed in the dialog box. If you are copying more than one file, you can choose to continue copying the files that will fit on the disk. You can copy the remaining files after you insert another disk or delete a file or files to make room.@@
!1DMI!!2DMI! YDMI!@
File Empty Message
The file you selected to view contains no information.@@
!1DMY!!2DMY!!YDMY!@
Printer Messages
If the printer is busy or the printer queue is full, MS-DOS Shell displays a message for each file not printed. You can try printing the file again, skip printing the file and continue printing the rest of the files, or cancel printing.@@
!1DIQ!!YD1Q!!2D1Q!!PDIQ!@
Drive Not Ready Message
Check the drive to be sure of the following:
* A disk is in the drive.
* The drive door is closed.
* The disk is properly inserted in the drive.
* The disk is formatted.@@
!1DIS!!YDIS!!2DIS!!PDIS!@
Critical Error Message
Try the following:
Retry the Operation
-------------------
If you received a General Failure error, retry the operation. If this doesn't work, continue reading.
Check Your Network Connection
-----------------------------
If you're using a network connection, check to be sure you are still connected and it is working.
For all other messages, continue reading:
Check the Floppy Disk
---------------------
If you're using a floppy disk, check to be sure that you've inserted the correct disk in the drive, that it is inserted properly, and that the drive door is closed.
Check the Formatting
--------------------
The disk may be damaged, or the disk and the drive may be incompatible. For example, you may be putting a high-density disk into a drive that only accepts low-density disks.
Check the Drive
---------------
You may have a problem with your hard drive. Make sure it is properly connected. Consult your hardware documentation for more trouble-shooting advice.@@
!O!!C!!1DUS!!2DUS!!YDUS!!1DVT!!2DVT!!YDVT!@
Command Buttons
Following are several command buttons that may appear in dialog boxes.
OK Button
---------
Choose the OK button to carry out the command or operation specified in this dialog box.
Yes Button
----------
Choose the Yes button if you want to continue carrying out the command or operation as specified.
Cancel Button
-------------
Choose the Cancel button to cancel the command or operation specified in this dialog box. Choosing the Cancel button closes the dialog box.
No Button
---------
Choose the No button if you do not want the command or operation carried out as specified.
Close Button
------------
Closes the dialog box or exits Help.
Related Procedure
" Choosing Command Buttons "~I109~@@
MS-DOS SHELL HELP PROCEDURES, MS-DOS 5.0
!I100!@
Adding and Changing Program Groups
A "group" is a name given to a collection of program items. You can add a new group to another program group in the program list. Once you've added a group, you can add other program items and groups to it.
To add a new group:
1. Open the group to which you want to add a group.
2. From the File menu, choose New.
The New Program Object dialog box appears.
3. Select the Program Group option button and choose the OK
button.
The Add Group dialog box appears.
4. Type a name for the new group (up to 23 characters).
5. If you want, type a Help message and password for the
group.
6. Choose the OK button.
The name of the group appears in the program list. In
graphics mode, a group icon appears next to it; in text
mode, it appears in brackets.
You can change properties or assign additional properties
for all groups except the Main group.
To change the properties of a group:
1. Select the group name using the arrow keys or
a mouse.
2. From the File menu, choose Properties.
The Program Group Properties dialog box appears.
3. If you want, change the title.
4. If you want, add or change the Help text and a password.
5. Choose the OK button.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedures
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~
" Adding Program Items to Program Groups "~I102~@@
!I102!@
Adding Program Items to Program Groups
In the program list, you can add a program item to a group. A program item contains startup information about a program file. When you choose the program item, MS-DOS Shell starts the program according to your instructions.
NOTE: A program item is not the program file itself. If you add a program item, you add only the program list's startup instructions for that program. The program itself remains in its directory on your hard drive.
To add a program item:
1. Open the group you want to add a new item to.
2. From the File menu, choose New.
The New Program Object dialog box appears.
3. Select the Program Item option button and choose the
OK button.
The Add Program dialog box appears.
4. Type a name for the program item (up to 23 characters).
5. In the Commands box, type the name of the program file
that runs the program, along with any additional switches
or parameters.
6. If you want, specify a startup directory, application
shortcut key, password, or advanced properties for this
item.
7. Choose the OK button.
To specify a shortcut key combination in the Application Shortcut Key box:
1. Select the Application Shortcut Key box.
2. Press and hold down one of the following keys: SHIFT,
CTRL, or ALT, and then type a letter.
MS-DOS Shell displays the keys you pressed. If [none]
appears in the text box, the shortcut key combination you
entered is unavailable. Try another combination.
For example, if you want to use SHIFT+W to move to Microsoft Word, you would press SHIFT and then type w. MS-DOS Shell would display SHIFT+W in the text box and next to the program title in the Active Task List.
NOTE: Some key combinations are not available. Do not use the following key combinations:
CTRL+C
CTRL+M
CTRL+I
CTRL+H
CTRL+[
CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
SHIFT+CTRL+M
SHIFT+CTRL+I
SHIFT+CTRL+H
SHIFT+CTRL+[
SHIFT+CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedures
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~
" Displaying the File List and the Program List "~I125~
" Starting Programs "~I147~@@
!I104!@
Changing Program Item Properties
You can change a program item's properties or assign additional properties after you've added the program item.
To change the properties of a program item:
1. Open the group that contains the program item.
2. Select the program item.
3. From the File menu, choose Properties.
The Program Item Properties dialog box appears.
4. If you want, change the specified title and
program file.
5. If you want, change or specify any of these
options: Startup Directory, Application Shortcut
Key, Pause After Exit, or Password.
6. To assign or change advanced properties, choose the
Advanced button.
The Advanced Properties dialog box appears.
7. Specify the options you want, and choose the OK button to
close the Advanced Properties dialog box.
8. Choose the OK button.
To specify a shortcut key combination in the Application Shortcut Key box:
1. Select the Application Shortcut Key box.
2. Press and hold down one of the following keys: SHIFT,
CTRL, or ALT, and then type a letter.
MS-DOS Shell displays the keys you pressed. If [none]
appears in the text box, the shortcut key combination you
entered is unavailable. Try another combination.
For example, if you want to use SHIFT+W to move to Microsoft Word, you would press SHIFT and then type w. MS-DOS Shell would display SHIFT+W in the text box and next to the program title in the Active Task List.
NOTE: Some key combinations are not available. Do not use the following key combinations:
CTRL+C
CTRL+M
CTRL+I
CTRL+H
CTRL+[
CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
SHIFT+CTRL+M
SHIFT+CTRL+I
SHIFT+CTRL+H
SHIFT+CTRL+[
SHIFT+CTRL+5 (on the keypad)
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedures
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~
" Displaying the File List and the Program List "~I125~
" Starting Programs "~I147~@@
!I105!@
Associating Files with a Program
Any file in the file list can be linked with a program so that opening the file automatically starts the program. Files are associated by their filename extensions. For example, you could link files that have the .TXT extension with MS-DOS Editor so that when you open a .TXT file, MS-DOS Editor automatically starts and opens that file.
You can also associate files without extensions to a program file. Note that every file without an extension will be associated with the selected program file.
To associate a file with a program:
1. Select the program file that you want to associate
files with.
2. From the File menu, choose Associate.
The Associate File dialog box appears.
3. Type the extensions of the files that you want to
associate with the program, separating each
extension with a space. To associate all files without
an extension with a program file, type a period instead
of an extension.
4. Choose the OK button.
Or
1. Select a file that has the extension you want.
2. From the File menu, choose Associate.
The Associate File dialog box appears.
3. Type the path and program filename of the program you
want to associate with that extension.
4. Choose the OK button.
NOTE: When associating multiple extensions, you can type up to 79 characters in the dialog box. However, you can only associate an extension with one program at a time. For example, you can't associate the extension .TXT with two different text-editing programs at the same time.
Related Topic
" Associated Files "~$123~
Related Procedure
" Opening Files "~I131~@@
!I165!@
Backing Up Files
If you have numerous files to back up, you can use the MS Backup program item in the Disk Utilities group.
To back up files:
1. From the Disk Utilities group, choose the MS Backup program item.
2. Follow the instructions on your screen. If you need help while
using MS Backup, press F1.
3. When the backup is finished, press any key to return to
MS-DOS Shell.
Related Topics
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
" More on MS Backup "~$133~
Related Procedure
" Restoring Backed Up Files "~I166~@@
!I106!@
Changing Colors
You can choose from a variety of color combinations for displaying the MS-DOS Shell window. The number of choices you have depends on the type of system you're using and how it is set up.
To change color schemes:
1. From the Options menu, choose Colors.
The Color Scheme dialog box appears.
2. Select the scheme you want from the list.
3. To see what the colors will look like, choose the Preview
button.
4. Choose the OK button to set the new color scheme.
Available color schemes are defined in the DOSSHELL.INI file. Advanced users can edit this file and define their own color schemes.@@
!I154!@
Changing the Screen Display
You can choose from several screen modes for displaying the MS-DOS Shell window. The quality of your screen resolution depends on the type of system you're using and how it is set up.
To change screen modes:
1. From the Options menu, choose Display.
The Screen Mode dialog box appears.
2. Select the resolution you want from the list.
3. To see what the screen mode looks like, choose the
Preview button.
4. Choose the OK button to set the new screen mode.@@
!I107!@
Changing File Attributes
Files have several MS-DOS file attributes assigned to them. These attributes are as follows:
This attribute Does this
-------------- ---------
Hidden Prevents a file from appearing on your
screen.
System Identifies a file as a MS-DOS system file.
Archive Indicates when a file has been modified.
Read-Only Prevents a file from being modified.
You can change the attributes of files in the file list as needed.
You can display hidden and system files without changing the files' attributes by using the File Display Options command on the Options menu.
NOTE: If files appear in the list from other directories and you don't want to change their attributes, make sure Select Across Directories is turned off, and then try again.
To change the attributes of one file:
1. Select the file whose attributes you want to change.
2. From the File menu, choose Change Attributes.
The Change Attributes dialog box appears.
3. Select the appropriate attributes from the list
by using the arrow keys and the SPACEBAR, or a mouse.
Selected attributes have a mark next to them.
4. Choose the OK button.
To change the attributes for more than one file:
1. Select the files whose attributes you want to
change.
2. From the File menu, choose Change Attributes.
A dialog box appears.
3. Select the first option to change the attributes
for each file selected one at a time; select the second
option to change the attributes for all files at once.
4. Choose the OK button.
5. Select the appropriate attributes from the list
by using the arrow keys and the SPACEBAR, or a mouse.
Selected attributes have a mark next to them.
6. Choose the OK button.
If you selected the first option, Change Selected Files One At A Time, you will need to repeat steps 5 and 6 until all the files you selected have been modified.@@
!I108!@
Changing Confirmation Messages
You can specify whether or not MS-DOS Shell will display confirmation messages when deleting or replacing files or when performing mouse actions that move or copy files.
The confirmation options are as follows:
This option Displays a message before
----------- -----------------------
Confirm on Delete Deleting files
Confirm on Replace Replacing files with other
files of the same name
Confirm on Mouse Operation Copying or moving files by
using a mouse
To specify which messages you want to receive when performing file operations:
1. From the Options menu, choose Confirmation.
2. Select the options you want.
3. Choose the OK button.@@
!I109!@
Choosing Command Buttons
Most dialog boxes have OK and Cancel command buttons. The OK button carries out the action specified in the dialog box. The Cancel button cancels the action and closes the dialog box. Other command buttons are labeled according to the action they take (for example, the Help button displays Help information for the dialog box).
To choose a command button by using a mouse:
- Click the command button.
To choose a command button by using the keyboard:
- Press TAB to move to the command button, and then
press ENTER.
Unless a command button other than OK is selected, pressing ENTER has the same effect as choosing the OK button. Pressing ESC always has the same effect as choosing the Cancel button.
Related Topic
" Dialog Boxes "~$105~
Related Procedure
" Using Dialog Box Options "~I143~@@
!I110!@
Choosing Commands
You choose commands from menus in MS-DOS Shell.
To choose a command by using a mouse:
1. Click the name of the menu that contains the command you
want.
2. Click the name of the command.
To choose a command by using access keys:
1. Press ALT or F10 to select the menu bar at the top
of your screen.
2. Press the underscored letter that corresponds to the
menu you want (for example, V for View).
3. Press the underscored letter that corresponds to the
command you want (for example, S for Single File
List).
To choose a command by using the keyboard:
1. Press ALT or F10 to select the menu bar at the
top of your screen.
2. Press the RIGHT ARROW or LEFT ARROW key to select the
menu you want.
3. Press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the
command you want.
4. Press ENTER to choose the command.
Related Topic
" Menus and Commands "~$103~
Related Procedure
" Working with a Mouse "~I150~@@
!I112!@
Collapsing Directories
You can collapse a directory you've expanded in the Directory Tree. Collapsing a directory hides its subdirectories.
To collapse a directory by using a mouse:
- Click the minus sign (-) to the left of the
directory name in the tree.
To collapse a directory by using the keyboard:
1. Select the directory name in the tree.
2. From the Tree menu, choose Collapse Branch, or
press the MINUS SIGN key (-).
Related Topics
" Directories "~$117~
" Disk Drives "~$116~
Related Procedure
" Expanding Directories "~I127~@@
!I113!@
Copying Files
In the file list, you can copy one or more files from one directory to another directory or to a disk. To display the source directory and the destination directory when you move files, use the Dual File Lists view.
NOTE: If you've used the Confirmation command to turn off confirmation messages when using mouse operations, you will not see the confirmation messages described in the procedures below.
NOTE: If files appear in the Copy File dialog box from other directories and you don't want to copy them, make sure Select Across Directories is turned off, and then try again.
To copy files from directory to another by using a mouse:
1. Press and hold down CTRL and drag the file you want
to copy onto the directory you want to copy to in the
Directory Tree.
The Confirm Mouse Operation dialog box appears.
2. Choose the Yes button.
To copy files by using the keyboard:
1. Select the file or files you want to copy.
2. From the File menu, choose Copy, or press F8.
The Copy File dialog box appears, listing each file you
selected.
3. In the To box, type the path of the destination
directory.
4. Choose the OK button.
Related Procedures
" Selecting Files "~I146~
" Displaying Two File Lists "~I121~
For information on controlling the display of confirmation dialog boxes when copying files, see
" Changing Confirmation Messages "~I108~@@
!I114!@
Copying Program Items
You can copy a program item in the program list from one group to another.
To copy a program item:
1. Open the group that contains the item you want to copy.
2. Select the item.
3. From the File menu, choose Copy.
4. Open the group you want to copy the item to.
5. Press F2.
You can also duplicate a program item within a group. For example, you might want two instances of Microsoft Word with different documents loaded.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedure
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~@@
!I115!@
Creating Directories
You create directories in the file list on the current drive, and in the current directory if one is selected. If a directory is selected, the new directory is added as a subdirectory. Otherwise, the directory is added to your root directory.
To create a new directory:
1. Select the drive and (optionally) the directory where
you want the new directory created.
2. From the File menu, choose Create Directory.
The Create Directory dialog box appears.
3. Type the name of the new directory.
4. Choose the OK button.
Related Topic
" Directories "~$117~
Related Procedures
" Selecting Directories "~I144~
" Selecting Drives "~I145~@@
!I116!@
Deleting Program Items and Program Groups
When you delete a program item from a group, you remove its title and any properties associated with it. When you delete a group, you must first delete all of its program items.
NOTE: A program item is not the program file itself. If you delete a program item, you delete only the program list's startup instructions for that program. The program file remains on your hard drive and will appear in the file list.
To delete a program item:
1. Open the group that contains the program item you
want to delete.
2. Select the item by using the arrow keys or a mouse.
3. From the File menu, choose Delete (or press DEL).
The Delete Item dialog box appears.
4. Select the first option.
5. Choose the OK button.
To delete a group:
1. Select the group you want to delete.
2. From the File menu, choose Delete (or press DEL).
The Delete Item dialog box appears.
3. Choose the OK button.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedure
" Opening Program Groups "~I123~
For information on controlling the display of confirmation dialog boxes when deleting files, see
" Changing Confirmation Messages "~I108~@@
!I117!@
Deleting Files and Directories
You can delete files and directories in the file list when you are finished with them. Once a file or directory is deleted, it is removed from the disk and can no longer be used.
CAUTION: If you accidentally delete a file that you wanted to keep, you may be able to restore it. You can restore a file with certainty only if no other files have been created or changed on the disk. For more information, see
" Restoring Deleted Files "~I155~
NOTE: If you've used the Confirmation command to turn off confirmation messages when deleting files, you will not see all of the messages described in the procedures below.
To delete one file:
1. Select the file you want to delete.
2. From the File menu, choose Delete (or press DEL).
The Delete File Confirmation dialog box will appear.
3. Choose the Yes button.
To delete more than one file:
1. Select the files you want to delete.
2. From the File menu, choose Delete (or press DEL).
A dialog box will appear listing each file you selected.
3. Choose the OK button to continue deleting those files.
Another confirmation dialog box will appear for each file
you want to delete.
4. Choose the Yes button to confirm each deletion.
NOTE: If files appear in the list from other directories and you don't want to delete them, make sure Select Across Directories is turned off, and then try again.
To delete a directory:
1. Select the directory you want to delete.
2. Be sure there are no files or subdirectories in the
directory; if there are, delete or move them.
3. From the File menu, choose Delete (or press DEL).
The Delete Directory Confirmation dialog box will appear.
4. Choose the Yes button.
Related Procedure
" Selecting Files "~I146~
" Selecting Files Across Directories "~I140~
For information on controlling the display of confirmation dialog boxes when deleting files, see
" Changing Confirmation Messages "~I108~@@
!I118!@
Displaying a List of All Files
You can display a list of all files on a drive in the file list, including all system files. This list also contains additional information on the drive, its directories, and its files.
To display a list of all the files on a drive:
1. Select the drive you want to view.
2. From the View menu, choose All Files.
You can then select a different drive if you want to view its files.
Related Procedure
" Selecting Drives "~I145~@@
!I119!@
Displaying a List of Files in a Directory
You can display a single list of files for a selected drive and directory in the file list. MS-DOS Shell displays the Directory Tree on the left side of the MS-DOS Shell window; on the right, it displays a list of files in the current directory.
To display a single list of files:
1. From the View menu, choose Single File List.
2. Select the drive that contains the directory
you want.
3. Select the directory that contains the files
you want to list.
Related Topics
" File List Overview "~1N~
" File List and Program List "~$114~
Related Procedures
" Selecting Drives "~I145~
" Selecting Directories "~I144~@@
!I120!@
Viewing File, Directory, and Drive Information
You can display additional information about the current drive, directory, and files.
To display information on a drive and its directories and files:
1. Select the drive, directory, and file(s) you want
information on.
2. From the Options menu, choose Show Information.
3. When you're finished reviewing the information,
choose the OK button.
Related Procedures
" Selecting Drives "~I145~
" Selecting Directories "~I144~
" Selecting Files "~I146~@@
!I121!@
Displaying Two File Lists
You can display lists of files for two different directories at the same time in the file list.
To display two lists of files:
1. From the View menu, choose Dual File Lists.
2. For each list, select the drive that contains the
directory you want (to move between lists, press TAB
or use the mouse).
3. Select the directory that contains the files you
want displayed in each list.
Related Topic
" File List and Program List "~$114~
Related Procedures
" Selecting Directories "~I144~
" Selecting Drives "~I145~@@
!I123!@
Opening Program Groups
You can display the contents of any group in the program list.
To open a group by using a mouse:
- Double-click the group name.
To open a group by using the keyboard:
1. Use the arrow keys to select the group you want to open.
2. Press ENTER.
The name of the group you selected appears in the title
bar of the program list. The group's program items and
groups are displayed.
You can display the contents of the group one level up (the group that contains the currently displayed items) for all groups except the Main group.
To display the contents of the group one level up:
- Press ESC.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~@@
!I164!@
Formatting Floppy Disks
You can format disks by using the Format and Quick Format program items in the Disk Utilities group. Format looks for bad sectors on the disk; Quick Format doesn't.
To format a floppy disk:
1. From the Disk Utilities group, choose the Format or Quick
Format program items.
A dialog box appears.
2. To format drive A and use no switches, choose the OK
button, or type the appropriate parameters and switches,
in the Parameters box, and then choose the OK button.
3. MS-DOS prompts you for a volume label for the disk. Type
a name if you want to label the disk. If you don't want
to label the disk, press ENTER.
4. Press Y if you want to format another disk or press N if
you want to return to MS-DOS Shell.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Topics
" More on Format "~$135~
" More on Quick Format "~$136~@@
!I124!@
Using the Command Prompt
There are several ways to use the command prompt without quitting MS-DOS Shell.
* Press SHIFT+F9.
* From the Main group, choose the Command Prompt program
item.
You can also use a command line in the Run dialog box to run a program.
For more information on MS-DOS commands, type HELP at the command prompt.
Related Topic
" How to Start Programs "~$121~@@
!I162!@
Displaying the Program List
You can display the program list that contains groups and program items. If task swapping is on, programs can be displayed in the Active Task List.
To display the program list:
- From the View menu, choose Program List.
Related Topics
" File List and Program List "~$114~
" How to Use More than One Program "~$122~
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
" Program List Overview "~I099~
Related Procedures
" Displaying the File List and the Program List "~I125~
" Using Task Swapping and the Active Task List "~I152~@@
!I125!@
Displaying the File List and the Program List
You can display the file list, the program list, or both lists at once.
To display the file list:
- From the View menu, choose Single File List, Dual File
Lists, or All Files.
To display the program list:
- From the View menu, choose Program List.
To display both the program list and the file list at once:
- From the View menu, choose Program/File Lists.
Related Topic
" File List Overview "~1N~
" File List and Program List "~$114~
" Program List Overview "~I099~
Related Procedures
" Displaying a List of All Files "~I118~
" Displaying a List of Files in a Directory "~I119~
" Displaying Two File Lists "~I121~@@
!I126!@
Quitting MS-DOS Shell
When you quit MS-DOS Shell, you remove it from memory. First you must quit any programs you have running in the Active Task List.
To quit MS-DOS Shell:
- From the File menu, choose Exit.
To quit MS-DOS Shell when there are programs in the Active Task List:
1. Switch to each program and quit it.
MS-DOS Shell removes the program's name from the Active
Task List.
2. From the File menu, choose Exit.
Related Topic
" How to Leave MS-DOS Shell "~$125~
For information on leaving MS-DOS Shell without quitting it, see
" Leaving MS-DOS Shell "~I160~
" Using the Command Prompt "~I124~@@
!I127!@
Expanding Directories
You can expand either selected directories or all directories in the Directory Tree, to see the subdirectories each contains.
To expand a directory one level by using a mouse:
- Click the plus sign (+) to the left of the directory
name.
To expand a directory one level by using the keyboard:
1. Select the directory name by using the arrow keys.
2. From the Tree menu, choose Expand One Level. You can
also press the PLUS SIGN key (+).
To view all subdirectories under a directory:
1. Select the directory name.
2. From the Tree menu, choose Expand Branch, or press the
ASTERISK key (*).
To view all subdirectories in the Directory Tree:
- From the Tree menu, choose Expand All, or press
CTRL+ASTERISK (*).
Related Topic
" Directories "~$117~
Related Procedure
" Collapsing Directories "~I112~@@
!I128!@
Selecting Windows
To work with a window such as the Directory Tree or the Active Task List, you must first select it.
To select a window:
- Press TAB or click the window you want.
Related Topic
" Welcome to MS-DOS Shell "~$100~@@
!I129!@
Moving Files
In the file list, you can move one or more files from one directory to another directory. When you move a file, it is deleted from the source directory. If you prefer displaying the source directory and the destination directory when you move files, use the Dual File Lists view.
NOTE: If files appear in the Move File dialog box from other directories and you don't want to move them, make sure Select Across Directories is turned off, and then try again.
NOTE: If you've used the Confirmation command to turn off confirmation messages when using mouse operations, you will not see the confirmation messages described in the procedures below.
To move a file or files from one directory to another on the same drive by using a mouse:
1. Drag the file(s) onto the directory you want to move it
to in the Directory Tree.
The Mouse Operation Confirmation dialog box appears.
2. Choose the OK button.
To move a file or files from one directory to another on a different drive by using a mouse:
1. Hold down the ALT key and drag the file(s) onto the
directory you want to move it to in the Directory Tree.
The Mouse Operation Confirmation dialog box appears.
2. Choose the OK button.
To move a file or files from one location to another by using the keyboard:
1. Select the file(s) you want to move.
2. From the File menu, choose Move, or press F7.
The Move File dialog box appears, listing each file you
selected.
3. Type the drive and directory where you want to move
the file.
4. Choose the OK button.
You can move more than one file at a time. MS-DOS Shell will display a Move dialog box for each selected file.
Related Procedure
" Selecting Files "~I146~
For information on controlling the display of confirmation dialog boxes when moving files, see
" Changing Confirmation Messages "~I108~@@
!I131!@
Opening Files
You can open a program file or a data file in the file list. Opening a program file starts the program. Opening a data file associated with a program starts the program and automatically loads the file.
To open a program file or data file by using a mouse:
- Double-click the filename.
To open a program file or data file by using the keyboard:
1. Press TAB to move to the file list to the right of
the Directory Tree.
2. Use the arrow keys to select the file you want to
open.
3. Press ENTER or, from the File menu, choose Open.
Related Topic
" How to Start Programs "~$121~
Related Procedure
" Associating Files with a Program "~I105~@@
!I132!@
Changing the File Display Order
You can change what determines the order of files in the file list.
To change the order in which files are listed:
1. From the Options menu, choose File Display Options.
The File Display Options dialog box appears.
2. Select the option you want.
3. Choose the OK button.
You can sort and display files in the following ways:
Choose this option To sort
------------------ -------
Name By filename in alphabetical order.
Extension By extension, then by filename.
Size By file size, smallest files to largest.
Date By last modification date, oldest
files first.
DiskOrder By the order they are stored on the
disk.
The Descending Order option reverses the order MS-DOS uses to sort files. When you select this option, MS-DOS Shell will:
* Reverse the alphabetical filename order, Z to A.
* List from Z to A by extension.
* List from largest to smallest.
* Reverse the date order, listing the most recent files
first.
You can also select the Display Hidden/System option to display hidden and system files without changing the files' attributes.
Related Topic
" File Information "~$119~@@
!I133!@
Reordering Program Items in a Program Group
You can change the order in which the group names and program items appear in the program list.
To reorder an item in a group by using a mouse:
1. Select the item you want to reorder.
2. From the File menu, choose Reorder.
3. Double-click the new location.
To reorder an item in a group by using the keyboard:
1. Select the item you want to reorder.
2. From the File menu, choose Reorder.
3. Move the cursor to the new location.
4. Press ENTER.
Related Topic
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~@@
!I134!@
Printing Files
You can print files in MS-DOS Shell only from the file list and only if you have run print.exe at the command prompt. Before starting MS-DOS Shell, if you have already not started print.exe, you need to type the following at the command prompt:
print
If you are in MS-DOS Shell and want to use the Print command, but have not already typed print at the command prompt, you need to quit MS-DOS Shell, type print, and then restart MS-DOS Shell.
To print in MS-DOS Shell:
1. From the file list, select one or more files.
2. From the File menu, choose Print.
MS-DOS adds the files to the print queue.
NOTE: If the printer queue is full, MS-DOS Shell displays a dialog box for each file which was not printed. You can try printing the file again, skip printing the file and continue printing the rest of the files, or cancel printing the unprinted files.
NOTE: If you will be printing from MS-DOS Shell often, you can avoid typing the print command each time you use MS-DOS Shell by adding the print command to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
If your AUTOEXEC.BAT file contains a dosshell command, be sure the print command precedes it. For more information about the AUTOEXEC.BAT file, see "Configuring Your System," in the User's Guide.
For more information about print.exe, type HELP PRINT at the command prompt.
Related Procedure
" Quitting MS-DOS Shell "~I126~
" Selecting Files "~I146~@@
!I135!@
Repainting the Screen Display
Occasionally you may want to redraw your screen. The Repaint Screen command does not update the list of files; if you want to update the lists to show changes, use the Refresh command.
To repaint the screen display:
- From the View menu, choose Repaint Screen, or press
SHIFT+F5.
Related Procedure
" Updating the Lists "~I161~@@
!I136!@
Renaming Files and Directories
You can change the name of a file or directory as needed.
NOTE: If dialog boxes appear for files from other directories and you don't want to rename them, make sure Select Across Directories is turned off, and then try again.
To rename a file or directory:
1. Select the file or directory you want to rename.
2. From the File menu, choose Rename.
The Rename File dialog box appears.
3. Type the new name.
4. Choose the OK button.
You can select more than one file to rename at a time. MS-DOS Shell will display a Rename dialog box for each selected file.
Related Procedures
" Selecting Directories "~I144~
" Selecting Files "~I146~@@
!I166!@
Restoring Backed Up Files
You can retrieve files that you have backed up by using the MS Backup program item in the Disk Utilities group.
To restore the files you backed up:
1. From the Disk Utilities group, choose the MS Backup program item.
2. Follow the instructions on your screen. If you need help while
using MS Backup, press F1.
3. When you have finished restoring files, press any key to return to
MS-DOS Shell.
Related Topics
" More on MS Backup "~$133~
" Program Groups and Program Items "~$140~
Related Procedure
" Backing Up Files "~I165~@@
!I155!@
Restoring Deleted Files
Once you delete a file, you may be able to recover it. You can recover deleted files with certainty only if no other files have been created or changed on the disk.
CAUTION: Avoid running or quitting any programs or using any commands other those specified in this procedure until you restore the deleted file or files.
NOTE: If the disk you deleted files from is full, or if the TMP or TEMP variable in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file is set to the RAM drive, you may have trouble recovering deleted files. In the process of quitting programs and MS-DOS Shell, temporary files are created and stored in the directory specified in the TMP or TEMP variable. These temporary files may overwrite deleted files that you want to restore.
For more information about setting these variables, see
"Setting the TEMP or TMP Variable"~I167~
There are several ways to restore files that you deleted. The following chart is to help you figure out the safest way to recover your files depending on importance of the files and the amount of disk space you have.
If Do this
-- -------
The files are critical, Press CTRL+ALT+DEL to restart
or TMP or TEMP is set your computer and use the
to the RAM drive undelete command at the command
prompt.
The files are noncritical Use the Undelete program item, or
press SHIFT+F9 to leave MS-DOS
Shell immediately, and use the
undelete command at the command
prompt.