accepting Inputs in a batch file 1

[pdb123]

I want to start using batch files to simplify routine parts of my job ie: convert usb keys to NTFS.
The dos commands are easy enough what i need to know is how do i accept an input through dos.

Code example
ECHO Enter Drive Letter?
Get x // I know this wrong

convert x /fs:ntfs

any help would be greatly appreciated

Also if anyone has a good ebook on scripting can thy recomend (preferably free)
cheers

 

[JFBouchard]

Hi, have you tried %1 instead of x

The best book I know about scripting batch files is the old DOS 5.0 "bible". You can certainly have this at your local store for under 10$

Hope this helps. Please let me know if this resolve your issue

Jeff

 

[linney]

This thread has several ideas you could look at to see if they help.

Batch parameter
thread779-279482

 

[pdb123]

thanks JFBOUCHARD,
I have a background in programming c++ and Java and I think it is hindering me at the moment.
Can you spell it out to me what i have is:

LOAD ANSI.sys
ECHO: Enter A value
%1%
convert %1; /fs:ntfs

It is not giving me the option to enter the valu I am fairly confident the command portion would work.

Havn't looked at the link as of yet will do now though.

 

[bcastner]

ANSI.SYS is not needed.

@echo off
setlocal
:getname
cls
set /p drive=Enter drive letter or END to exit.
if /i [%drive%]==[END] endlocal & goto end
if [%drive%]==[] goto getname
if exist %drive%:\ goto do_ntfs
echo Drive %drive% does not exist. Try again.
goto getname
:do_ntfs
echo Converting %drive% to NTFS
convert %drive%: /fs:NTFS
:end
echo done

 

[JFBouchard]

Pdb123, here's your answer from bcastner

A star for you Bill.

Nice day

Jeff

 

[pdb123]

Thanks a lot you guys.
I think I will be able to modify this for other dreary tasks. If theres any thing I can do for you guys never be afraid to ask, but something tells me you wont need it!!
thanks again
PDB123