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For Automated Testing, Better Alternatives To DOS Batch Files?
An anonymous reader writes "I am working on a project that would allow our customers to test out sending different PCL commands to LAN printers. My initial thought was that a DOS batch file will allow users to select some simple options, send the tests to printers, and even generate a small web page which, when launched from the batch file, will provide email feedback on the tool. This all worked. To spice it up I added some ANSI color commands to the menus, though the implementation of that may prove tricky without resorting to .COM files or forcing the load of the ansi.sys via the command.com shortcut. And this implementation goes against my initial idea that I want the entire thing to be contained in a standalone batch file. My questions are: Is there a better option for this? Are DOS Batch files too 1990s to be taken seriously in 2010? The application needs to (1) be simple (2) be easy to update (3) be able to send PCL commands to LAN-attached printers and (4) allow email feedback. I don't know what other programming language would allow this and be as simple. I tend to think that I have found the best tool for the job but if you have another idea let me know. Call me crazy but I love DOS."
Yes, but you also require the user to have Python installed. I know that I don't have Python on my computer.
A Windows batch file requires you to have Windows installed. I know that I do have Windows though...
What complexity does python add (for instance)? .
Since I'm guessing this is a Windows environment -- installing Python. I wouldn't think it would be a big deal if the users were already installing the system being tested. But you did ask, and that is a slight increase in complexity.
I am not a crackpot.
Seriously? Really?
C'mon.
C'mooon.
Enough said.
Barclay family motto:
Aut agere aut mori.
(Either action or death.)