Allison is coding...

Automating PicList with Obsidian: A Batch Script Approach

This guide demonstrates how to create a batch script to automatically start PicList whenever you launch Obsidian and automatically close PicList when Obsidian is closed.

Scenario:

You frequently use PicList alongside Obsidian and want to simplify your workflow by automating their launch and closure.

Solution:

This can be achieved using a simple batch script.

Batch Script:

@echo off
start "Obsidian" "C:\Path\to\Obsidian.exe" 
start "PicList" "C:\Path\to\PicList.exe"

:wait_for_obsidian 
tasklist /FI "IMAGENAME eq Obsidian.exe" | findstr /I "Obsidian.exe" >nul 
if errorlevel 1 goto exit_piclist

timeout /t 1 >nul 
goto wait_for_obsidian

:exit_piclist
taskkill /IM PicList.exe /F
exit

Explanation:

  1. Start Both Applications: The script initiates the launch of both Obsidian and PicList using the start command.
  2. Monitor Obsidian’s Status: The script enters a loop that continuously checks if Obsidian is still running.
  3. Close PicList if Obsidian Exits: If Obsidian is no longer detected, the script proceeds to the exit_piclist label, where it forcefully closes PicList using taskkill.
  4. Exit the Script: The script then terminates itself.

How to Use:

  1. Save the Code: Save the code above as a .bat file (e.g., “Start_PicList_with_Obsidian.bat”).
  2. Replace Placeholders: Update the paths to your Obsidian and PicList executables within the start commands.
  3. Create a Shortcut: Create a shortcut to the .bat file on your desktop.
  4. Minimize Shortcut: Right-click the shortcut, go to “Properties,” select “Minimized” in the “Run:” section, and click “Apply.”
  5. Run the Shortcut: Double-click the shortcut to execute the script. The command prompt window will appear minimized, and the script will operate in the background.

Note:

  • This script provides a basic implementation. Adjust the timeout value (currently 1 second) as needed.
  • Consider alternative methods for closing PicList if forceful termination is not suitable for your workflow.

By following these steps, you can effectively automate the launch and closure of PicList based on the state of Obsidian, streamlining your workflow and improving efficiency.