Using a Macro to Open a file using keyboard commands

[semodlin]

I am trying to learn to use Macro Express Pro better in order to automate many of my office functions. I have been using it for a while and can do some basic things. I ran into a problem that I can't figure out.

 

I want to create a macro that will open Excel and then Open a specific file on my server in Excel.

 

My macro will open Excel.

 

However, I can't figure out how to make the Macro to give Excel the keyboard command ALT F so that I can open the file.

 

Any help would be appreciated.

[Cory]

I use the program launch command but instead of a program I enter the Excel file name. The Windows file extension association kicks in and will load the file in Excel based on your handling settings.

[semodlin]

I didnt think of that. However, once you open the file and do whatever the macro needs to do in the file, how do you save the file?

[acantor]

I think what Cory was suggesting is a way to NOT use a program's menus (or ribbons) to open a specific file.

 

Program Launch: "EXCEL.EXE" (Normal)
Parameters: "c:\tmp\test file.xls"

 

As for your question about saving the file... are you asking how you do it with a macro? It helps to know the keyboard shortcut, Ctrl + s, or using the Ribbon, Alt + f followed by s...

 

// Use Excel's built in hotkey to save...
Text Type (Simulate Keystrokes): <CONTROL>s

 

// Interact with the ribbon via typing simulation to save....
Text Type (Simulate Keystrokes): <ALT>f  // File ribbon
Text Type (Simulate Keystrokes): s // Save

[Samrae]

Note that Alt + F is not the same as Alt +f. Use lower case letters.

 

This is because Alt + F sends:

<Alt Down><Shift Down>f<Shift Up><Alt Up>

 

and Alt + f sends:

<Alt Down>f<Alt Up>

 

Many applications, including Excel, do not like the extra shift down and up.