Batch Bonanza

Lockergnomie Dilip Raj is quite a multitasker: “This tip is for
those who load many programs at startup which are not always
needed - but they're still loaded just so that they do not have to
launch the program when it IS required. For example, I used to
have my IM Client, a program that counts my time online, and
DUMeter (which shows instantaneous connection speeds) all run at
startup - even though I only needed them if I planned to go
online. Now I double-click on a shortcut which loads these three
programs simultaneously and then dials my ISP. Here's how to do
it: (1) Create a new text file. (2) Change the extension from TXT
to BAT. (3) Edit the file in a text editor and insert 'START
[Path]' on separate lines for each program, sans quotes, with
[Path] being the full disk path of (and up to) the EXE file. (4)
Create a shortcut to this batch file. (5) In the shortcut
properties dialog, select Run / Minimized, then tick the checkbox
labeled 'Close on exit.' You could also change its icon and place
this shortcut on the desktop or Quick Launch toolbar.” Very cool,
very easy. Beats the heck out of having to click on several sets
of icons.