computer help index
 
 
Search:
"Offering free computer help, hints, and tips to the Internet populace." Now with over 3,240 tips!

Windows 2000 and DOS

Change the Colors Programmatically

SUMMARY: Create Windows 2000 batch files that can really get your attention by changing the DOS prompt colors.
 
Need a batch file to really grab your attention, such as when an error condition occurs? Use the COLOR command to change the colors of the DOS prompt text and background. The COLOR takes a two-character argument. The first character signifies the color of the background, the second character, the text color. The characters are as follows:

0 = Black
1 = Blue
2 = Green
3 = Aqua
4 = Red
5 = Purple
6 = Yellow
7 = White
8 = Gray
9 = Light Blue
A = Light Green
B = Light Aqua
C = Light Red
D = Light Purple
E = Light Yellow
F = Bright White

For example, if your batch file needs to report an error condition, consider making the command prompt background red, and show the text in bright white. The following does the trick:

COLOR 4f


 
Add: Del.icio.us | Digg | Furl | My Yahoo!
 
Discuss This Tip

Print This Tip

Get E-Mail When New Tips are Online

Return to the Windows 2000 and DOS page.

RSS Feeds - Subscribe!
 

You want the latest tech tips and tricks in your e-mail Inbox - FREE? Type your e-mail address below and click 'Subscribe'.
 



( sample / details ) ( opt-out instructions )
 


 Free Offer! - Subscribe to the MalekTips computer help list and be one of the first to get new computer tips, articles, and download links! ( privacy policy )  ( opt-out instructions )
This page and its contents are copyright
©1997 - 2008 Envision Programming. ( copyright/disclaimer )

Home | Free Computer Help Newsletter! | Windows | Web Development | DOS and Batch Files | Removing Spyware
Digital Camera and Photography | Computer and Internet | Software | Microsoft Word
Computer Articles | About | Contribute a Tip | Link To Us! | Computer and Technology Links
RSS Feeds |  Contact Us | Advertising | Privacy Policy | Computer Help Forums