RoboScripter and Java windows

Question:

I am attempting to automate an installation of Oracle 8.1.7. This uses the newer Java based installer, the Oracle Universal Installer. I have automated past Oracle installations using "SendKeysTo" commands, but cannot seem to get the hang of this one, as it is a Java window, and is the same window during the whole install.

Answer:

Java-based applets and applications present windows that are "opaque" in that the Control Manager extender [used by the RoboScripter utility] cannot "see" into them to directly enumerate, interrogate and manipulate control elements like push buttons, list boxes, combo boxes, radio buttons, check boxes, etc... All that Windows knows is that the Java-based applet/application presents a window that has all of its contents drawn by Java itself. The net effect is that automating Java programs via the Control Manager extender is not possible. This leaves you with functions like SendKey() and SendKeysTo(), but those functions are useless if you can't find a set of keystrokes that will allow you to reliably navigate through the Java applet/application window's controls to properly manipulate them.

Try looking for installer-specific instructions for automating the Oracle installation. Not sure if this applies to this version, but go to the Oracle web site and do a search for "Silent Installs". This was doable on Oracle 7. Basically, you "record" your selections interactively and it stores your responses in a text file. You then run the installer with command line switches, point to the "response file" and it does the install. We were able to put the "response files" on a webshare (read only) along with a winbatch exe and techs could install from any network pc. You may need different "response files" for different workstations.

Article ID:   W15834

File Created: 2004:03:30:15:41:04

Last Updated: 2004:03:30:15:41:04

Database Search

TechHome