submix8c

LL028 : edit: This has been edited for content (now irrelevant)... Not so sure it can be done with an "empty" HDD so it "looks" like a CD-ROM... (remainder truncated) OR (simpler).... just get some CD-RW's; they can be re-formatted and re-written up to (theoretically) 99 times! If you have a CD-burner, it had BETTER be able to burn RW's, or else it must be an ancient prototype!! No such thing as AP-v1.6; you must mean v1.96 (not ready yet). AP-v1.95 PR2 is good enough for your intent... use it's contents with confidence. (p.s. you must install it just be able to copy the required UBCD files PER UBCD INSTRUCTIONS.) The "Lite" version will probably be sufficient... (p.s.-p.s. Maybe start a new "help me, I'm new at this" thread...) OOPS, my bad, you already have a thread: How do I... Stay in that thread from now on; Any takers? the lady needs help... could take a while... Go BACK to here (UBCD main page) and re-read the instructions. You do NOT need a second CD-rom in primary computer; follow "un-zipped" instructions, then my above suggestions/comments

soporific : Perhaps there was an "oddity" in the "4DOS" version I was "working on" (a previous AP version) that caused passed variables to come out wrong ("long path"); perhaps it was simply a "bug" in the previous (now fixed...). It's just a vague memory now, as the latest AP seems to be ok. Will address 4DOS some other time via direct PM (STILL, in my opinion, a wonderful tool), since I prefer to "mod" a stable/nearly-unchanging version. Will wait for v1.96. (I may be "fixated" on this since it has been a long time since I have coded; Mainframe programming languages and scripts are SO much easier to code, including ye olde Assembly Language).ALL: DO NOT bother your heads with "4DOS"; irrelevant for your purpose unless you are interested in using it... YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!! Ok, agreed. However, this will mean that IF you desire a stable, fully-patched Win98SE... "Watch This Space" (including MGDx's/et-al's "Unofficial Patches". It appears that any "fixes" post-July-2006 will NOT appear in WU (although the "unofficial" DO work; ref. the latest "unofficial" DX9 and IE6SP1-Cumulative), so utilizing it is probably no more than an exercise in confirming what AP (and any "unofficial") have provided; may as well DELETE WU from the START menu (since it doesn't work ennyhoo!).Continuing... Preliminary test of AP Full vs Lite versions appears to be consistent (re: "Not In Lite Version"), including the Install results (per the "default" installs). I had first run a Report to check against the previous Lite "Default Install", then did a Full "Default Install". Results: DX9 was "upgraded", WMP7 Legacy Files were installed, and TTFPAK was installed. Methinks I have the gist of the difference 'twixt Default/Master-Menu and Full/Menu-1 (consistent methodology for both Full and Lite versions). However, Unicows just REFUSES to install! I think this was pointed out somewhere else in this thread and a proposed "fix" suggested (renames, then copy, etc etc). Maybe Windows is USING these files and will not let you just "overwrite" them (kinda like XP and the "dllcache" deal...). I have noticed that many "default" installs might be categorized as "optional" (e.g. ADDREMOV). In my definition of "default", it should ONLY include that which is NECESSARY for a Fully Patched installation (i.e. a truly Lite version, including 98->ME stability), no frills at all. How small then (example: if you do NOT use MSN Messenger or do NOT desire to get "MS Evaluation Software", then you have no need for .NET Framework)? Shoot me (metaphorically speaking, of course) for suggesting such an idea...MDGx : Reference to "who did this patch?" was to ADDREMOV... now I know. AND apparently at least one other "fix" was done by an anonymous doner (B. Gates???). Just uncomfortable with not knowing, that's all... Guess I should spend more time in the Complete-List and your Hotfix-Patches threads. Maybe links/references directly in an "AP Help" function would clarify (later, of course, after the GOOD work is done). This way, anyone in the "outer worlds" would also know who to credit this stuff to...

briton / soporific : briton: No problem... Yeah, maybe the Start-Menu version of WU would be the way to go (just replace it via the "WU Fix" install. Appears the ONLY difference in the shortcut is that the original does NOT have a "Start In Folder" value (stuff is set in the registry...). Superceded stuff is already listed in soporific's "Complete List" forum. He's obviously a busy puppy and hasn't gotten around to it. And as a reminder (see my previous post), those noted are UN-official fixes that MS does NOT recognize. Hence, my suggestion to somehow "fix" it so they will not show, although this may depend on some kind of notification for the "unofficial" fixes. soporific: Dang it! A BIG (small) BUG in BOTH Full and Lite! ADDREMOV.EXE/ADDREMOV.INF HKLM,(etc.)\Uninstall\ADDREM9X,DisplayName,,"· Remove Unofficial 2-4 GB Files Errors KERNEL32.DLL Fix" UCopy2GB.EXE/SE.INF HKLM,(etc.)\Uninstall\C2GBP,DisplayName,,"· Remove Unofficial 2-4 GB Files Errors KERNEL32.DLL Fix"First one is wrong (ADDREMOV.INF) and caused a little confusion when I went to Add/Remove Programs until I tracked it down. Easy fix (who's stuff is this? they should be notified!)!

briton/soporific : Thanks for the info... hadn't noticed. Perhaps soporific can "fix" this as you explained. Again, thanks for the info. This gives a clear-cut way of beating it (might have already been explained before...). I had pointed this out before. Both of the applied patches from AP are:-Unofficial KB925454 is NEWER than KB916281 (and contains XPSP2 modules) p.s. per soporific: ALSO XPSP2; maybe just not set in place yet...-The Unofficial U891711 version has NEWER versions (WHERE FROM?) Theoretically, these messages could be ignored, but in the interest of NOT appearing, the OFFICIAL ones could be installed BEFORE the unofficial ones (within the installation sequence) OR the appropriate INF info could be installed (via REG files). -The 34 multi-language updates are already contained in the IE6SP1 module. Just go to Add/Remove, select IE6SP1, and add them in, ONLY if you need/want them. If you install Auto-Language Select instead and browse to a non-english page, it SHOULD automatically install from the IE6 folder (provided that you leave it on your HDD. SO it's irrelevant.-Euro tool might be in the Optional Components section of AP... it IS in the Lite version (have yet to re-test AP Full). Yep, irrelevant! -Microsoft .NET 1.1 is unnecessary as you have installed .NET 2.0. Apparently, MS neglects to detect that you already HAVE the latest. This could also be circumvented (maybe) by a REG file, since installing .NET 2.0 over top of .NET 1.1 clears the .NET 1.1 folders out. BTW, the latest MSN Messenger REQUIRES .NET 2.0 (go figger)! -Notification... has been deemed irrelevant. I THINK it only applies to Windows OS, but MAY apply to non-Windows components. THAT is why a "WU fix" has been implemented. You WILL need any IE6 updates that may come, since it is STILL SUPPORTED! Easier to use WU occasionally than to go and search MS.COM (in the IE6 section). -MS-Agent. You can get this from MS if you want. I have it. It's sole purpose is to allow silly stuff like MS-Merlin to work. Just a nifty display thingy that makes "floating" screen overlays that follow your mouse cursor. Irrelevant... BUT go to MS.COM and do a search; there you will find more info. Whenever "the bossman" has time, perhaps he can re-browse this forum and put together a real nice HELP file. MS provides free software to create/edit .CHM files. OR maybe someone else with time on their hands... Bottom line... it's all good!

Eck / soporific : Eck: Thx, but was already aware... just a "DUH!" on my part... soporific: Using Windows Logon, Reloaded HDD (clean); Installed AP v1.95PR2 Lite *** RENAMED DX9SETUP.EXE to DXSETUP.EXE (has "/SILENT" embedded) *** Stared at screen whole time (ouch!)...-Message in DOS box during MP9+Codecs Install: "2nd installation file not found" (paraphrased) -Unicows refused to install (this was noted in others' previous posts), so I just skipped past it. -After Service9x Install/Reboot Desktop reverted to WebView; reverted back after next Reboot (oddball!) now checking Report (per your info; snapshots truncated for brevity): Above is ODD (note the blanks..)! ? Is the above correct (ref. first quote) ?On the surface, this appears to indicate that the Master Fully Patch is different than the one in Modules Menu Page 1; is this intentional? edit: cleaned post out due to retest... next post for Full Version to come... l8tr

soporific : Ok, clears that up... This was in reference to billygoat's previous posts about the erroneous(?) file-counts, which apparently leads back to the first quote; I guess this old fool can also be confused(???). !SEE NEXT POST!Had MS Network signon... (left notation in so Eck's next post was not confusing) Will re-test this bugger without the Sign-on and see what happens. !SEE NEXT POST! Jeez, all I wanted was to fully update these old PC-gifties... How did I get wrapped around the axle with AP (a rhetorical question)? Just brain-dead, I guess ! Lastly (re: 4DOS), if you REALLY want to, go ahead and mod the BAT files as appropriate. You can flip/flop between DOS7 and 4DOS simply by renaming the AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS back-and-forth then rebooting. 4DOS only "replaces" the shell with equivalent DOS6x/7x functionality plus additional features. Note, however that the output of some (FEW) commands (eg DIR) will be formatted differently and will definitely cause code problems if they depend on a specific format (eg "DIR x >dir.txt"/"NSET var from dir.txt" sequence). This COULD be worked around by simply re-checking which shell is being used OR using a different method (eg VBS). OTHERWISE, don't bother, just keep us all posted as to any fixes, etc., and I will graciously accept responsibility for the appropriate mods ("personal use", remember?) and keep a Very Simple Post back to you as to my progress as a "collaborative effort". If I am successful (The Train That Could), I will be more that happy to pass the modded files back to you for your approval. Also, a nice thing would be to post link(s) to a separate MODS-Only file (as you used to do) so I might be able to use my Comparator to isolate any specific changes. Apologies for long explanations (a personality fault)... Would (in some cases) it be better to PM back-and-forth? Perhaps direct e-mail instead (how does that work?)... Edit: edited for content... see next post...

soporific / irishpancake : One reply at a time (separate replies, each post; this one for irishpancake...): I agree that the problem sounds like hardware. The code in AP (after cursory inspection) does not do anything strange to cause this type of error. Vague recollections of the nature of this type of error, in particular memory. From what I can find, an XPS-D300 is a 300mhz PII with varying amounts of RAM. And, unfortunately, Win98 is never too clear on indicating that Hardware is the problem when this format of message is issued. The processor is MORE than sufficient and just checked a lowly 16MB ram for running AP "Scan For Missing" and it did NOT fail, although you should realize that Win98 really ought to have a minimum of 64MB to run efficiently; 32 is the specified minimum so anything between would be sufficient (although the more the better). A link to Your PC (generic Dxx series specs, etc): http://lyberty.com/tech/sysspecs/dell_xps_d300.html I will tell you that during building one of my old PC's that I had similar problems with one of my 32MB (size being irrelevant) sticks. Windows just kept going "south" (a slang loosely meaning ge-fudged and giving up). SO... I downloaded one particular piece of software, MEMTEST86, and ran it. Sure enough, the problem was memory. After swapping the bad stick, everything was fine. As per soporific's suggestion about the Ultimate Boot CD, I must agree. However, having Dial-Up, I might suggest just getting Memtest86 (listed on the indicated site) and run it. It WILL tell you if a stick is bad. If you have more than one stick, remove the indicated bad stick (if one is bad), swap the remaining stick(s) into the appropriate slots and try again. Also, just for funzies, just try removing/reinserting (reseating) the sticks. The only other thing I can imagine is that you somehow have a corrupt CHOICE.COM located in "C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM". It can be re-extracted from the WIN98_25.CAB (ref. LAYOUT1.INF found in PRECOPY2.CAB also found in C:\WINDOWS\INF). Note also that a bad stick of memory may possibly allow installation of the OS, but will corrupt some modules during the install. "We might also provide PC support as appropriate and as possible within the context; besides, we just LOVE to work on computers!" (although it may be better to PM back-and-forth if the indications become hardware-related)

soporific : Interesting... both the Full and Lite version of v1.95PR2 report tha same count of missing modules (re: "count of modules in report is incorrect" problem previously indicated by others). And... in the Lite version DX9.0c is packed and was "not found" during the scan. It must be "unRar'd" into the appropriate folder the same way as with the Full version to be found/installed. Short Path Name still indicated when "If you want to run this again" message is displayed. Try my VBS script that I placed in this forum; It works! I had nearly completed mods to BAT files on v1.95R2 w/Update-1 applied when latest PR2 was issued. The problem was ONLY that Long File Names cannot be passed via BAT parameters (due to embedded spaces). Notice how the LongPath is obtained via modified instructions (START_ME.BAT) and THEN the ShortName is obtained... @echo off :: Start_ME.bat ver 1.95.20 VER | FIND/I "2222" >NUL :::::::::::::::::: Support for 4DOS :::::::::::::::::: :: FIX!!! <<<--- also look for these... :: IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO NOTWIN98 IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO WIN98SE if "%@eval[2 + 2]%" == "4" echo 4DOS is loaded!>nul :: Pause VER | FIND/I "dos 7.10" >NUL IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO NOTWIN98 :WIN98SE :::::::::::::::::: Support for 4DOS :::::::::::::::::: SET DEBUG=N :INITIAL FOR %%! in (ASET.exe FREEMEM.exe GETVER.EXE LOCATE.COM NOW.EXE YANK.EXE NSET.COM) DO IF NOT EXIST .\bin\%%! goto aPROBLEM :: FIX!!! :: This gets the Where-I-Execute-From-directory... :: Notice how a SINGLE INSTRUCTION LINE will DIRECTLY set %LOC8% :: This is more dependable because I can navigate to the primary folder :: in a DOS box and it STILL WORKS (old method gets NULL(?) value) :: I Also convert the LongPath to ShortPath using a VBScript :: .\bin\ASET LOC8 := FPATH('%0') :: .\bin\ASET TP := LEN('%LOC8%')-1 :: .\bin\ASET LOC8 := LEFT('%LOC8%',%TP%) CD | ".\BIN\NSET" LOC8=$0 start /wait "%LOC8%\shortpath.vbs" "%LOC8%" "%LOC8%\bin\NSET" /L1 TP=$0 < "%LOC8%\shortpath.txt" SET LOC8=%TP% SET TP=%LOC8%\shortpath.txt DEL %TP%>nul SET TP= :: FIX!!! IF %LOC8%!==! goto NOWORK IF NOT %DEBUG%!==N! goto Go_Debug :GoSTART :: starts the main program file :: FIX!!! :: Remove quotes (ShortPath now passed) :: %COMSPEC% /E:2048 /K "%LOC8%\code\AutoPach.bat" "%LOC8%" %debug% %COMSPEC% /E:2048 /K "%LOC8%\code\AutoPach.bat" %LOC8% %debug% :: FIX!!! goto END :Go_Debug CLS echo. echo. echo. *** Welcome to Auto-Patcher for Windows 98se *** echo. echo. Please Note: Debug mode (or verbose mode) has been turned on. echo. echo. All variables and label checkpoints are sent to a log file that echo. will show you to some degree what happened while Auto-Patcher echo. was running. This will increase the running time slightly. echo. echo. The log file can be found at: %LOC8%\logs\debug.txt echo. echo. Press any key to continue... PAUSE >nul goto GoSTART :aPROBLEM echo. echo. Auto-Patcher for Windows 98 SE (english) echo. echo. Hi there. The program can't continue because I can't find a file that echo. is necessary for everything to work. If you have downloaded a small echo. RAR file without downloading the main program release (over 200 mb) echo. then you need to get the main program first. Visit the homepage at: echo. echo. [url="http://www.msfn.org/board/index.php?showtopic=80800"]http://www.msfn.org/board/index.php?showtopic=80800[/url] echo. echo. and the download location will be there. echo. echo. If you think this is a program error, then please visit the forum echo. and post about your situation. Sorry to get your hopes up! goto QUIT :NOTWIN98 CLS echo. echo. echo. This is only intended for Windows 98se. Sorry to get your hopes up! goto QUIT :NOWORK CLS echo. echo. *** ERROR *** echo. echo. Auto-Patcher can't find the location of where this program is located. echo. It should be able to do this and it suggests something is going wrong echo. somewhere. Re-check everything and try again ... :QUIT echo. echo. Press any key to continue... echo PAUSE >nul :END CLS EXIT Here (again) is the VBS 'ShortPath.vbs - Gets Short (8.3-style) Path Name. '© None... needed to get it, so I did. ' from within a ".bat" file ' start /wait "%LongPath%\shortpath.vbs" "%LongPath%" ' one-line ShortPath result is in %LongPath%\ShortPath.txt Option Explicit: Dim sp, fso, f, spcf, sptf ' Get the passed variable %LongPath% sp = WScript.Arguments(0) Set fso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject") If sp = Empty Then Else Set f = fso.GetFolder(sp) sp = f.ShortPath End If ' Write a one-line file containing ShortPath in LongPath\ShortPath.txt Set fso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject") sptf = sp & "\ShortPath.txt" Set spcf = fso.CreateTextFile(sptf, True) spcf.WriteLine(sp) spcf.Close The LongName could easily be stored in the same file and either Name accessed at any time via the NSET (rebuilding the file each time started and NOT being deleted right away). Last but not least, 4DOS is ONLY a problem due to (1) not using "comspec" throughout (occasional usage of COMMAND.COM instead) (2) many places in code do not issue ">nul" at the end of commands (e.g. DEL, DIR, etc) Otherwise, the existing BAT files DO function EXACTLY as originally intended. I must insist that 4DOS would allow a much cleaner method of coding as it included FOR-NEXT/ENDFOR and multiple instructions within the structures (eg DO-loops much like newer IBM COBOL). It would also allow elimination of many of those awful GOTO's (the bane of a programmer's existence). BUT... each to his own. You REALLY ought to try making a few samples according the the existing samples and what you can find in the HELP section. Admittedly, HELP is not very friendly, as it is more DOS-oriented in its navigation. Side note: Uninstall does not delete ALL files/folders! Side note 2: Also posted in "WU-Fix" forum that I had boo-boo'ed in my initial instructions; DID use Desktop Shortcut and forgot to tell you... (use Fix1 then Fix3/shortcut). I only told you about Fix1 (excluding the RootsUpd). Back to test/install so I can give these (now 6!) computers away (each with its own valid/legit key, of course )... edit: Well! I just noticed that in the FIRST menu selection screen an option to "Search for Missing Using Selected" and these are the defaults (not ALL), so there is apparently some switches that need set whenever the "Search" function is used on the INITIAL screen (for ALL missing). Sound like the Report Count Error?

soporific : My bad... WAYYYY back on Mar. 7 that is EXACTLY what I had done (created a desktop shortcut with "Start In...")! Glad you caught that. Should have included it in the instructions originally given . Beats me (as well!) as to why it seems to work. Go figger... Also, It should also be noted AGAIN (for everyone else's benefit) that WU seems to like IE6 more than IE5 (something about the v6 site "requiring" it...). Go get the Autopatcher, y'all; it includes it ALL (see forum stickies)... Cheers. edit: Using Clean Install 98SE (IE5 default), MSI Installer v2 (installs when using VPC2004 VM Additions), and WUFix v1.21: Fix #1 alone - nogo Fix #2 NOT APPLIED! Fix #3 after - ok, fine! again... go figger....

Drugwash : Don't worry about the VBScript suggestion. It's mainly for my own purposes. Forget the 4DOS support. It's for my own purposes. Read my previous posts. I had mainly intended to use it to "revamp" AP into a CDRom-style install/execution. If it works/does-not-work out that way (incorporated into AP), then so be it. I'll be satisfied that it works. I'm already near completion of 4DOS support (Phase 1). Phase 2 is utilizing 4DOS by modifying current processes to use tables and generic processing to shrink the codeset and to allow for easier future modification, mostly via the tables not the codeset (need a new 3dParty/Optional? just plug its definition into the table! menus and installations are DYNAMIC!). Phase 3 is to modify so execution is from CDRom instead of from HDD. Again, my own needs. Just thought it may be useful to the Project. FWIW, here is the VBScript source: 'ShortPath.vbs - Gets Short (8.3-style) Path Name. '© None... needed to get it, so I did. ' from within a ".bat" file ' start /wait "%LongPath%\shortpath.vbs" "%LongPath%" ' one-line ShortPath result is in %LongPath%\ShortPath.txt Option Explicit: Dim sp, fso, f, spcf, sptf ' Get the passed variable %LongPath% sp = WScript.Arguments(0) Set fso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject") If sp = Empty Then Else Set f = fso.GetFolder(sp) sp = f.ShortPath End If ' Write a one-line file containing ShortPath into LongPath\ShortPath.txt Set fso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject") sptf = sp & "\ShortPath.txt" Set spcf = fso.CreateTextFile(sptf, True) spcf.WriteLine(sp) spcf.Close I perform this after obtaining LongPath (the current way), then "read" (using NSET) the one-line ShortPath into another variable. VBScript is, as I had said about DOS Batch, a Scripting language, as is Basic, 4DOS, JScript, Perl, and many, many others. The programs used in this project are also "3dParty" and have specialized functionality (fairly well docomented), similar to non-DOS-batch Scripting language Functions (bet they are written in old Basic, Assembler, or Borland C/Pascal!). Learn all of them you can. It makes you a better programmer. I'm a little gray around the edges but still figured out how to do the above VBScript... (p.s. notice the "Change User Name and Org" component is a VBScript?) Don't be alarmed; all is well !

soporific : Hope u had a good weekend, OK, DUDE??? (oh, sorry... shhhh!) 1) Thanx for the posted info on the Report "oddity"... it will help understanding the process. 2) Please leave "Debug" in for now... also helps to understand (including Named Variables). and finally (ta-da-da-dut-da-dah!)... 3) Have solved the "4DOS Installed" problem (yay!). (3a) AP v1.92 was always (per your suggestion, since it DID "break" otherwise) placed into a ShortPath (eg C:\WINDOWS\TEMP\AutoPach). Using the code I had previously indicated to allow running under 4DOS works in this version (very few and simple changes). (3b) The new v1.95R2 installer places it into a LongPath (eg C:\Program Files\etc.), hence the code changes to pass new variable "%LOC8%" using quotes to avoid separation at "blanks" during "START/CALL/%comspec%/COMMAND/COMMAND.COM". 4DOS, however (under certain circumstances yet to be determined) expands the variable in the CALL'ed module to INCLUDE the qoutes, so when the next CALL to a module is attempted, the instruction DOUBLES (shh!) the number of quotes, and causes it to error out. (3c) The second aspect of 4DOS is the way it handles several "ASET" instructions; the literal string (anywhere within a string!) %+ is reserved in 4DOS, hence the error. (3d) The third aspect of 4DOS is that any and all errors will always be displayed, and any instruction not containing " >nul" will be displayed. This does not actually cause a problem, but isolates those instructions where this method wasn't (it was elsewhere...). I have completed a VBScript for v1.95R2 (and above) that changes the LongPath to a ShortPath and places the value(s) into a file, to be subsequently read to SET "%LOC8" to the ShortPath to "beat" problem (3b). It works fine (about a dozen lines of code) as long as the extra (new) quotes are removed where necessary within the appropriate ".bat" modules. Problem (3c) only occurs in v1.95R2 and appears to only be in the reporting/date conversion routines (%numvar%+1) in "AutoPach.bat". This can be fixed by using the following method (per ASET documentation): wrap both values with single-quotes, as in '%numvar%'+'1', which eliminates 4DOS parsing. "Problem" (3d) above, as I said, can be completely ignored or corrected as you will. I intend to "fix" a copy for my own purposes (the TABLES method...) so I can utilize the 4DOS functions while including 4DOS in the package as a prerequisite. Which reminds me, why are the @Regtest.txt file(s) so large? Under FAT16, it indicates that 3 (count 'em - 3x32kb) blocks are being used in may cases. What on earth are you writing to it? Or is this a "my bad, must be another 4DOS idiosyncracy" deal? It works! However, there appear to be some generated "text" files that are being processed (in one routine only!) that appear as "Not Found". Don't know what instruction was used against it/them, but will isolate and correct, since I am assuming it was pre-existing even for non-4DOS; 4DOS just helped identify it. Will get back to you after I have completed only the necessary (so they will be minimal) changes to support bi-%comspec%-compatability. Which reminds me (again); in some places, you use %comspec%, in other places you use COMMAND.COM, and in one single place you use COMMAND (???). And finally, where did 3dParty Components go? Is this intended to be in a separate/new package along with many other wonderful Freeware utilities (download managers, etc.)? ---- billygoat: REPEAT! If you installed that particular Optional Component at ANYTIME WHATSOVER, you DO have UPnP and it cannot be uninstalled (I think...)! This is part of the XP-OS and can be obtained even without AP! Search the inet for it and do some light reading; it will clarify you understanding of it's purpose. Try another clean install and be selective when patching (i.e. select ALL, then go de-select the indicated Optional Component). If you don't have the time or resources, someone else may do it for you. It could be a possible "bug" (hope not!). ---- (One last note: the Debug file can get LARGE, and requires WordPad to open; better install it, guys!) EDIT: OH S***! Apologies... All references above to v1.92 are incorrect; actually v1.7 DOH! Will quick-check v1.92 to confirm; otherwise v1.92 and v1.95R2 will be considered to be in the same pickle... WHEWWWW (shhhhh)!

billygoat : Found this right away: http://www.ciac.org/ciac/bulletins/m-030.shtml This indicates that since in the installation of AP's "Optional Components - Windows Networking Tool (from Windows XP)" that UPnP was indeed also installed, hence the application of the patch. Search the net (or go to www.MS. com) for this tool. It is used to simplify home networking. As for the Report... better left to soporific to correctly respond. Back to work... edit: OHHHH! After closer inspection of your report, it DOES look like a minor "bug" in that logging function. Appears to not have a switch set to "already installed" or perhaps de-selected when "installed" for the next pass. Still, it appears that the patching process is working.

soporific : Near a SIMPLE solution to 4DOS being installed. Very few changes necessary and a single SMALL VBScript which I am working on now (nearly completed). Note that I have NEVER written a VBScript, but I am extremely fast on self-teaching. These simple modifications will make the AP compatible with BOTH! Never seen a 'puter beat me yet! Also, only emoticons from now on is the "greets"... decided to be pro about this... Will post patches as soon as worked out. ALREADY tested this on AP v1.92 and it WORKS (not needing the VBScript; special circumstance introduced into v1.95R2)! l8tr, all. P.S. billygoat: AP re-checks after each reboot to see if something was installed in that category, since restarting after reboot currently REQUIRES re-entering the same category/routine. Thatis why it looks so strange (hope I'm correct... "Bueller, Bueller?...") Also UPnP is a Windows Option in the Add/Remove Programs - Windows Components, NOT the BIOS... You must have selected it (somehow). AP will ONLY install the patch if you have installed that Windows Optional Component. Your ok! (p.s. the patch is for hacker-prevention if you have UPnP installed). Hope that helps... and PLEASE, soporific, correct me if I am wrong!

soporific : Sorry for late reply... was downloading/expanding/inspecting new code (as of 3/15/07 4:51am?) Ok... MAY have been hasty (maybe not...) . Here is the "test" check for 4DOS (in AutoPach.bat which is now/also tested for in START_ME.BAT/START_DEBUG.BAT) :::::::::::::::::: Support for 4DOS (I THOUGHT, anyway) :::::::::::::::::: VER | FIND/I "2222" >NUL :: IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO NOTWIN98 IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO WIN98SE if "%@eval[2 + 2]%" == "4" echo 4DOS is loaded! Pause VER | FIND/I "dos 7.10" >NUL IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO NOTWIN98 :WIN98SE :::::::::::::::::: Support for 4DOS :::::::::::::::::: Use this method to bypass 4DOS until I can figger out this bugger... ALSO rename the AUTOEXEC.BAT->AUTOEXEC.4DS/AUTOEXEC.001->AUTOEXE.BAT, likewise for the CONFIG.xxx then reboot. This will allow you to "play" (like I am...). A line got added to each. Navigate to the install folder of 4DOS (under DOS window) and enter "4HELP" to get VERY detailed info. If you do not have the time, no worries, mate; I'm on it 'cuz I STILL want to check out the wonderful functions that may STILL be incorporated... Peace bro! P.S. Never had an application beat me yet!!!! That's why 200+ people in the office I (used to) work in pestered me A LOT for solutions.... (keywords: HIGH-END programmer/analyst) Saved a multi-million project once just 'cause I knew what I thought was obvious to others (yeah, that's a big Toot-Toot, pat-on-my-own-back). EDIT: Confuzed??? here is the result for the NSET question... --- Enter a Filename to find: x CD-Rom not found Finding x; HDD=C: IAM=C: LOCATE=C:\_findcd-long Wanna go again? (y or n) Enter a Filename to find: setup.exe CD-Rom D: found Finding setup.exe; HDD=C: IAM=C: LOCATE=C:\_findcd-long Wanna go again? (y or n) --- DOES work!!! Edit2: DURN! Found the NSET problem ! I gave you: CD | ".\BIN\NSET" LOCATE=$1 Should be : CD | ".\BIN\NSET" LOCATE=$0 From manual: First method truncated at first blank; DOH! (RTFM, rite?) 16-BIT DOS PROGGIES! More on 4DOS later... finding out how it REALLY works. Currently discovered that for variables passed to the next process (e.g. %1, %2, etc.) that you wrap with quotes (to keep them complete, e.g. "FLDR XX") 4DOS takes LITERALLY when evaluating (result will be ""FLDR XX"") and causes some passed (SPECIFICALLY the new LOC8 variable passed from STARTx.bat to AUTOx.bat) to be horked. -- Chug, Chug, will keep goin' --

soporific et-al : Time lag between Australia and USA? My clock says 9:43am... When do you sleep? (Scratch that... DUH!!!) Ennyhoo, I have done some preliminary testing of 4DOS. Appears to be no problem with the following caveat: must make a SINGLE CHANGE "AutoPach.bat" (VER returns 4DOS plus a perfectly good alternate value to detect Win98SE). In addition, you do NOT have to actually INSTALL 4DOS to utilize it and the results are the same; it will run as a "Secondary %comspec%". Another oddity I have not tried/fixed is (under DOS window) being in another path (e.g. C:\Windows>) then keying the full path (or ..\..\etc.) to the "APfolder\StartPch.bat". Also does not correctly identify the "%LOCATE%" value correctly. WILL find the bugger!!!! So... I will be downloading your latest upload for inspection/testing. If you find/fix any bugs PLEASE upload JUST the "fixed" modules (etc.) for overlay (as in the v1.5->v1.7 scenario) so I won't be too confused (I may have "old-timer's" disease; no offense any of you other oldsters...). In the process of gathering variable names/values used to place into tables. Since 4DOS does NOT have to be installed, plan on utilizing it for Table I/O functions AND the wonderful "IF/THEN/ELSE/ENDIF" sequences. VERY similar to some high-end scripting (and programming) languages and convenient as all HE-double-hockey-sticks! Me likey (as a Programmer)!!! Whenever I have a feasible modified test set, I will inform and upload (e-mail?) to/for you and YOU ONLY (after all, this is YOUR project!) for YOUR inspection/testing. I do NOT plan on changing the code, per-se, JUST the methodology (catch-22; I will be changing code...). Oh yeah, 4DOS also obviates the need for FINDCD.COM... In case U want to check it out (if you already haven't): http://www.jpsoft.com/download.htm 4DOS for DOS/Win9x is free (MS does not support less than Win2K/NTFS-type either) and has been aroud a LOOOOONG time... 4DOS for NT is NOT free (MS still supports NTFS-style greater than NT4). To use as "Secondary %comspec%", just rename the AUTOEXEC.BAT/001 and CONFIG.SYS/001 and reboot (suggest installing into folder "C:\4DOS" for evaluating). P.S. I stumbled across the ERRORLEVEL conversion routine (GETEL.BAT) in one of your modules (MainCode.bat)... $ late and a $ short when I passed it to you; BUT at least a method of utilizing was realized... JEEZ, I'm Trying to be Useful here, since I need this too!!! Don't bother to respond if you don't want to... I KNOW you are busy AND... a month until final release might be realistic; but then again, with all the GREAT feedback and suggestions you've been getting (and hopefully my personal efforts), it may be pushed up. After all the sooner you get to "play with your instrument" the better . edit: AWESOME DOWNLOAD SPEED!!! I use FlashGet and have RoadRunner (cable) and speed is up to 600k/s; time to download-8min!!! l8tr B) ...

soporific: you got it! (side bar; you a musician? notice my ID uses the master section of a mixing board? SoundCraft Spirit Studio 16x8x2 )

Ponch... a little late comment is better than none... Go ahead and use the Win98FE you have, and apply the FE SP2 (per MDGx' suggestion). You can trust that this will fix you up the best it can get for what you've got! It'll probably be the closest you can get to 98SE...

soporific et-al : Congrats on the DUN1.4 fix! Havent downloaded/tested, but I can trust it's all good!! On a side note (kinda), got some more ".bat" info that may help clean up the modules (gotta love me!). Here is a "lengthy" (not that bad) test module; read it; some is good, some you may ignore... @ECHO OFF :::::::::::: From STARTPCH.BAT :: I look for a different module because I use a more efficient method.. :: IF NOT EXIST .\bin\ASET.exe goto aPROBLEM IF NOT EXIST .\bin\NSET.com goto aPROBLEM goto GoSTART :aPROBLEM echo. echo. Hi there. The program can't continue (ya-dee-yah...) echo. echo. Please press any key to exit ... PAUSE >nul goto END :GoSTART :: This gets the Where-I-Execute-From-directory... :: Notice how a SINGLE INSTRUCTION LINE will DIRECTLY set %LOCATE% :: This is more dependable because I can navigate to the primary folder :: in a DOS box and it STILL WORKS (old method gets NULL(?) value) :: .\bin\ASET LOCATE := FPATH('%0') :: .\bin\ASET TP := LEN('%LOCATE%')-1 :: .\bin\ASET LOCATE := LEFT('%LOCATE%',%TP%) :: SET TP= CD | ".\BIN\NSET" LOCATE=$1 :::::::::::: From AUTOPACH.BAT ; %LOCATE% is now "x:\folder" :: check for necessary program files FOR %%! in (ASET.EXE GETVER.EXE NSET.COM) DO IF NOT EXIST "%LOCATE%\bin\%%!" goto MISSING :: I added these (It adds two more and includes LOCATE.COM as well...) FOR %%! in (GETEL.BAT FINDCD.COM LOCATE.COM) DO IF NOT EXIST "%LOCATE%\bin\%%!" goto MISSING :: ========= GOTO GOTEMALL :MISSING echo. MISSING error (BTW, the label ":MISSING" is MISSING...) goto aPROBLEM :GOTEMALL :: =================== A LITTLE NEW CODE FROM HERE DOWN ================= :: This gets both the Windows-drive and the Where-I-Execute-From-drive... :: Notice how the first two instructions will DIRECTLY set %windrive% SET HDD=%windir% "%LOCATE%\BIN\ASET" HDD := LEFT('%HDD%',2) "%LOCATE%\BIN\ASET" IAM := LEFT('%LOCATE%',2) GOTO MAIN1 :MAIN0 ::: junk... commented out ::: CALL "%LOCATE%\TESTX" ::: ECHO. Wanna go again? (y or n) choice>nul /c:yn /n :: This translates the ERRORLEVEL to something useable (binary to ASCII)... :: Convenient if you are using Structured Programming.... :: Useable in your routines??? (My intent for modifying v1.95!!!) :: Notice this is a "CALL"; that means it WILL return TO NEXT INSTRUCTION! :: (as long as CALL'ed does NOT "EXIT"! CALL "%LOCATE%\BIN\GETEL" :: Notice the usage of ERRORLEVEL in branching... :: No "IF" Statements for ERRORLEVEL Here! GOTO MAIN%ERRORLEVEL% ::::: Branch-to for Response=Y :MAIN1 :: This gets a response from User into a variable... :: Used in this test to find the CD-Rom that we need (via FINDCD)... :: ANY name can be give, but MUST include the PATH (case NOT sensitive)! :: example 1: SETUP.EXE <--on root :: example 2: WIN98\OEMSETUP.EXE <--in Win98 Echo. Enter a Filename to find: "%LOCATE%\BIN\NSET" CDN=$0 IF "%CDN%"=="" GOTO MAIN1 GOTO FINDNAM ::::: Branch-to for Response=N :MAIN2 :: Clears remaining vars, then exits... SET LOCATE= SET HDD= SET IAM= SET CDN= SET CDD= SET ERRORLEVEL= SET CMDLINE= GOTO END :FINDNAM :: This attempts to find filename then sets where found (if at all)... SET CDD= "%LOCATE%\BIN\FINDCD" -f\%CDN% | "%LOCATE%\BIN\NSET" CDD=$1 "%LOCATE%\BIN\FINDCD" -f\%CDN% -e CALL "%LOCATE%\BIN\GETEL" IF "%ERRORLEVEL%"=="254" GOTO MAIN254 :: GOTO MAIN%ERRORLEVEL% SET CDD=%CDD%: ECHO. CD-Rom %CDD% found Finding %CDN%; HDD=%HDD% IAM=%IAM% LOCATE=%LOCATE% GOTO MAIN0 :MAIN254 ECHO. CD-Rom not found Finding %CDN%; HDD=%HDD% IAM=%IAM% LOCATE=%LOCATE% GOTO MAIN0 :::::::::::::::::::: DOS-window Test Result :::::::::::::::::::::::: Microsoft® Windows 98 ©Copyright Microsoft Corp 1981-1999. C:\WINDOWS>cd ..\_findcd C:\_findcd>test Enter a Filename to find: x CD-Rom not found Finding x; HDD=C: IAM=C: LOCATE=C:\_findcd Wanna go again? (y or n) Enter a Filename to find: win98\oemsetup.exe CD-Rom D: found Finding win98\oemsetup.exe; HDD=C: IAM=C: LOCATE=C:\_findcd Wanna go again? (y or n) C:\_findcd> ++++ end of test output... ----- Notes on FINDCD.COM: ----- [url="http://www.nu2.nu/download.php?sFile=findcd.zip"]http://www.nu2.nu/download.php?sFile=findcd.zip[/url] Usage: findcd <option> Option: -a All CD-Rom drive letters -r Ready CD-Rom drive letters (with media) -f<file> CD-Rom drive letters containing sample: findcd -f\i386\setupldr.bin -e Return errorlevel only Returns errorlevel: 255: When CD-Rom extensions (MSCDEX) are not loaded 254: No drive(s) found 0-25: Drive letter of first CD-Rom (0=A, 1=B, ...) ----- Notes on GETEL.BAT: ----- [url="http://www.fpschultze.de/smartfaq+faq.faqid+56.htm"]http://www.fpschultze.de/smartfaq+faq.faqid+56.htm[/url] (provides the link to source and further info... VERY compact!) Just "CALL" it... whatever was there will be translated... :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: BTW, "EXIT" goes COMPLETELY out of a module... ... also notice everything from last "GOTO MAIN0" to here ... (including the following "EXIT") is NOT GOING TO BE Syntaxed-out ... since they are NOT IN THE IN-STREAM CODE!!! ... Most script languages are generally considered "Compile/Load/Go", .. similar to mainframe REXX (also availiable for PC), TSO, ISPF EXIT. :END Also, GETEL.BAT has a good example of a FAST way to determine NOT-9x/ME... (the afore-mentioned 4DOS also caught syntax errors previously not trapped...) Hope this helps... B) l8tr... (gotta put more STUB code to test TABLE/Generic into this...) P.S. don't forget to take some time out to relax to some tuneage; clears the peanut out!

Soporific et-al : Well, this bites... I posted a reply, then found out I wasn't logged in ("post saved", but where?). SO, here I go again... What I found (re: WU "Not Installed") ------ Begin notes: 1) Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 (KB916281) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS AFTER IE6SP1 and BEFORE unofficial KB925454 ***** - Unofficial KB925454 is NEWER (and is XPSP2) + includes pgm NIRCMD.EXE (nifty!)! 2) Security Update for Windows 98 (KB891711) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE u891711 ***** - Unofficial version has NEWER versions (WHERE DID THIS PATCH COME FROM?)! 3) Windows Share Level Password Update (Q273991) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE Q273727 ! ***** - Installed correct version with Q273727 ! 4) Q323172: Security Update (Windows 98) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE IE6SP1 ! ***** - Installed correct version with IE6SP1 ! *********** GET THESE TWO *************** 5) Security Update, May 19, 2000 (Q259728) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE Q238543 / Q269388 ! ***** -- Q238543 (older) -- Q269388 (THIS ONE installed) STUPID MS same module! -- ** q238453/q269388 - Hotfix for Spoofed Route Pointer Vulnerability (per AutoPatch) http://download.microsoft.com/download/win.../259728USA8.EXE 6) Security Update, March 17, 2000 (Q256015) ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE Q273017 / (?q301540?) ! ***** -- Q273017 (THIS ONE installed) STUPID MS same module! -- IDE Hard Drive Cache Package for Windows 98se -- http://support.microsoft.com/kb/273017 -- Q301540 (UNOFFICIAL newer dates / NOT INSTALLED) http://download.microsoft.com/download/win.../256015USA8.EXE === Recommended Updates === 1) Internet Explorer Navigation Sound Update http://support.microsoft.com/kb/319303 says to install latest IE Service Pack (applies to IE 6.0)? http://support.microsoft.com/kb/327922 (says go to Windows Update?) (go ahead and download it; I have it stored away; you can too) 2) Mapped Drives Shutdown Update ***** MUST INSTALL THIS ONE ALWAYS BEFORE WIN982ME / (?KB239887?) ! ***** http://download.windowsupdate.com/msdownlo...rtf/en/3662.htm - also see: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/260067 http://download.microsoft.com/download/win.../260067USA8.EXE 3) Microsoft .NET Framework version 1.1 (IRRELEVANT) 4) Windows Critical Update Notification 4.0 (IRRELEVANT) 5) Euro Conversion Tool (IRRELEVANT, unless you want it) === Internet and Multimedia Updates === 1) Agent 2.0 ! Irrelevant (applies to Merlin, etc.) ! ------ Endof notes: Sound familiar? Those that are NOT INSTALLED are because of Registry enries that are MISSING! BTW, I know we discussed this but I have found some interesting tools: 4DOS package - a great COMMAND.COM (comspec) replacement; LOTS of embedded functions! GETEL.BAT - returns a "display-able" ERRORLEVEL ("GOTO LABEL%ERRORLEVEL%") FINDCD.COM - returns the CD-Drive These are free and legit (from reputable sources). I have done rudimentary testing and they are fine. The purpose I intend for them is to modify AutoPatch v1.95 (whenever you are finished) so that it will: 1) "Generi-size" the Batch modules by utilizing Tables for Menus and Modules-to-install-per-selection 2) Introduce OtherThan "C:" drive installation 3) Allow for "Run From CD" Why? * Because it will be cleaner and allow for better HDD utilisation * Because I can (yep, I'm an IBM Mainframe Systems/Applications Installer/Programmer/Analyst/Maintainer, bored due to "who wants one? go find another job!". Need a good Mainframe Geek?) Besides, these old honkers I plan on giving away also need Spyware/Adware/Virus killers and a good Firewall (free from the internet) and my intent is to give a single CD so I can say "NO SUPPORT, You have everything you need". And, in case you didn't notice, if you do a Clean Install (Fisk, Format, Copy WIN98 to Win/Opts/Cabs) then apply patches, it is considered an OEM PC and places copies of update modules in THAT folder AS WELL! Test environment: AMD Duron 1.3G 512MB Ram Virtual PC 2004 (for Win98SE testing) - VM 64MB RAM, 2GB HDD 1.22 GB used / 788 MB free (wowee!!! Clean Install???) Don't leave a lot for those MP3's and that Outlook Express Mailbox if you store a lot (BETTER have a burner!). AND for those po-folk who have older OEM boxes that must re-install using Restore disks on a low-end HDD and no burner... well... gefudged! (You don't think I'm gonna give away MY HDD's, do ya?) SO (whew!), keep up the great work ! Patiently awaiting v1.95 so I can rip IT up instead of repeating the work on BOTH 1.92 AND 1.95! P.S. Kudos to all participants

Soporific, et al: DID have a problem with WU (using the Start Menu/Windows Update), and went to folder WINDOWS, created a shortcut to WUPDMGR.EXE and placed it on the Desktop. The difference in the two shortcuts is the "generated" one has "Start In C:\WINDOWS". THAT one worked (beats me )! As for the WU thinks I need updates, NO PROBLEM!; tracked them all down and the SOLUTION is to install certain things (including two you do NOT have) before OTHER certain things JUST SO THE REGISTRY GETS UPDATED! Have not actually tested this yet (getting tired myself...) but will and get back to you. **** MS ! There a a couple more ("Recommended") that are related to others already installed that will never appear again that I also have. Links for all 6 and several extra have been saved (direct downloads). Still testing... (ONE UnOfficial did NOT install due to Offical NOT being installed). BUT, so far, so good. BTW, have you thought of placing the package onto a CD and running it from THERE? Would certainly save a LOT of disk space! (check out FINDCD.EXE; on the WIN98 CD Boot Image). Find the CD drive letter, use THAT as the path to the package, then write logs, etc., to the HDD. Hmmmm??? l8tr, dude: keep it up and you'll have one heckuva package! (oops... **** was NOT that bad, but will refrain from now on...)

Soporific: Good news (I think) The problem to the "You must have a Mac" when going to WU web site APPEARS to be one of MS's making. MAYBE related to "ending support" and MS MAY be transitioning away from the V4 website, or at least away from many supported fixes. I stumbled across a KB article referencing WSUS services that indicates "dropping" many "fixes" from the search engine/.CAB file (an XML document). SO... Using clean install SAME THING! Installed MSInstaller, then installed IE6SP1, then did the following (partial quotes from another source, then modified): ------------------------------------------- For Windows 98 and Windows Millenium Edition. Manually install the latest controls: 1) Download the controls from: http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/cab/x86/ansi/iuctl.cab Save them to your desktop. Extract the .cab file following the steps below: *) Go to the desktop and right click the iuctl.cab file. *) Right-click "Extract to" *) Point to a known location (like the desktop) and click "OK" *) Go to the location you selected and right click on the iuctl.inf file. *) Click "Install." (the two DLL's go to "WINDOWS\SYSTEM") - OR just copy the two DLL's to folder... (faster) - 2) Download: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/v4/iuident.cab *) Create "Program Files\WindowsUpdate\V4\temp" folder(s) *) Copy iuident.cab to BOTH "V4" and "V4\temp" folders *) Go to "V4" folder and right-click "Extract to" *) Point to the "V4" folder (i.e. "Here") and click "OK". 3) Try Again!!! ------------------------------------------- Apparently, there is currently a glitch at WU that refuses you UNLESS you already have these files/folders, because I applied the above procedure to the TEST machine (ALL Autopatch applied, kinda) and it WORKED as WELL . How long this will work? Dunno... NOW back to cross-checking the 6 updates WU THINKS(?) I need... (p.s. Remember, LOCATE.COM is DOS-based and CANNOT find anything OTHER than "8.3" filenames...) l8tr, dude...

Oh yeah, one more thing... "LOCATE", as used, finds the FIRST occurrence of the said "filename" and then does a "CD" (change directory) to the path where found. Hope this doesn't glitch the process; shouldn't IF the 7-zip was installed/found in the default install folder...

HEY!!! Soporific! I found the problem with Optional Components / 3d Party Apps (specifically 7-zip). The problem was the LOCATE program used in routine "MainCode.bat". Here is the code patch I used to (temporarily) "fix" the error (comments included): :DOLOCA :: use the LOCATE.COM method --- this finds a file anywhere on the system :::::::: TEMP CODE ::: Guess what! The LOCATE.COM uses the "SET LOCATE=" variable to ::: utilize default options... (ref. LOCATE.TXT in the package) ::: ::: SO.... ::: we temporarily swap the "LOCATE" variable into a temporary ::: variable for execution and then swap them back afterwards... ::: ::: OR change the variable named "LOCATE" to something else... ::: ::: (p.s.#1: LOCATE.TXT also states use a ":" (colon) for file count...) ::: (p.s.#2: ALSO the "not found" string was wrong...) ::: ::::: TEMP SWAP!!! ::::: SET whyme=%LOCATE% SET LOCATE= ::: old and new instructions follow... :: "%LOCATE%\bin\LOCATE" "%CHECK%" /F1 /G | Find /i "No Matches Found" >nul "%whyme%\bin\LOCATE" "%CHECK%" /F:1 /G | Find /i "No matches found" >nul ::::: SWAP BACK!!! ::::: SET LOCATE=%whyme% SET whyme= :::::::: TEMP CODE IF ERRORLEVEL 1 goto DOFILC2 goto DIALOG3 Hope I did this message right; I'm new to this message board. Haven't fully tested this beast yet, BUT since I have a LARGE background in mainframes and related scripting (".bat" files are similar to JCL) AND have forced myself to learn M$, I thought it prudent to dig into this. I am building several older PC's for kids/friends using 98SE and since I am lazy (and stumbled onto this) I thought I would try it out, letting you do the "heavy lifting". Also, I noted that you had apparently originally (?) intended this to be used from a cd, did you know there are freeware versions of "FINDCD.EXE"? Google it... I THINK there is a legit project out there... l8tr, dude! Back to testing...