Scripting with Dash Board
This page is the starting point for scripting with Dash Board. The Dash Board Scripter's Guide and example scripts are now included with every Dash Board download.
Example Scripts
Freeze/Thaw Group - this script will freeze or thaw a group of packages. The example given will freeze or thaw all installed Internet related apps. It is easy to make copies of the script to freeze/thaw your own custom groups of programs.
Get Package Names List - This script will print out a list of the package names of all installed packages. This is intended to help use the Freeze/Thaw group script above, which needs a list of package names (package names can be different from what you see in the Extras Drawer).
Insert Text - this script shows how to insert text at the caret. You can use this script as a starting point for creating a custom set of scripts that allows you to quickly insert commonly used text (such as your address) into the Notes app or other programs. As of Dash Board 1.5, this now also works with Works and other programs that use the word processing text view.
Remind Me - this script shows how to prompt the user for a number of minutes and a reminder text string, and then set a system alarm to remind the user at the appropriate time.
Scripting Links
Innovative Computer Solutions - ICS is the maker of GestureLaunch, a very powerful tool for the Newton scripter. It lets you create scripts and run them by writing a letter on one of the icons on the button bar. For example, you can write "N" on the Names icon, and have your Names app open to "N". A special version of GestureLaunch that works with Dash Board is also available. Recommended!
ICS also makes the PackMan utility, which allows you to create installer packages to archive and distribute your own Dash Board scripts to other Newton users. A must for the serious scripter!