Opening a file automatically

Question

Level 1

10 points

Opening a file automatically

I would like to make a script that opens a file when placed into a specific folder.

Can I do this by using a Folder Action, or do I have to make a script in Automator?

The script has to start automatically when a file is placed into the folder.

G5, Mac OS X (10.4.6)

Posted on Aug 24, 2006 12:34 AM

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Answer 1

lc55

Level 3

750 points

Aug 24, 2006 6:27 AM in response to elbeardo77

elbeardo77,

You can do this either way, i.e., you can create an AppleScript Folder Action directly or you can create an Automator workflow and save it as Folder Action plug-in.

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Answer 2

elbeardo77 Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 24, 2006 1:26 PM in response to lc55

How do I do that exactly? I've never used either before, and none of the examples give you that action. I've tried looking up a simple open file when placed in folder action, but can't find one.

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Answer 3

Aug 24, 2006 1:44 PM in response to elbeardo77

To do it in Automator:

Open Automator (in your /Applications folder) then drag the Open Finder Items action (under Finder) to the 'Drag actions here...' area.

Save as Plugin for Folder Actions and select the folder to attach it to.

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Answer 4

emilie.

Level 2

275 points

Aug 24, 2006 1:49 PM in response to elbeardo77

Hi,

Create an Automator workflow by dragging in the "Open Finder Items" action into the workflow. You can either search for the action using the search bar, or go into the "Finder" application category and find the action there.

Then save the workflow as a folder action by going to "Save As Plug-in..." > Plug-in for "Folder Action". Then you can choose the folder you would like to save the workflow as a folder action for.

Hope it helps!

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Answer 5

elbeardo77 Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 24, 2006 2:12 PM in response to emilie.

Cheers mate!

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Answer 6

elbeardo77 Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 24, 2006 2:12 PM in response to Mike-N-nahyunil

cheers mate

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