AppleScript and PPP Connections.
When I purchased my ISDN PC Card modem, I switched from FreePPP to 0T/PPP to take advantage of the PPC native code. 0T/PPP also seemed to handle the two dialup numbers required for 128k access better than FreePPP.
The one feature I missed from FreePPP was the popup menu to choose multiple dialups. Sure, you can save multiple configurations in Apple's PPP, but for someone with a Powerbook who routinely changes locations several times a day, a better system was needed - a system than allowed me to double-click on an icon, or make a quick menu choice.
Enter AppleScript!
The following script will dial into your ISP, provide a user name and password, and even provide a verbal notice when connected.
on run
RA connect address "555-1212" user name "coyle" password "12345" with show status
say "Connection Complete"
end run
While older connection scripts use PPP connect, under MacOS 8.5, you should use RA connect and the additional show status command. This way you won't loose the status/progress dialog box.
If you have Macintalk installed, the line say "Connection Complete" will be spoken after the connection is complete.
You can create multiple scripts for each dialup number and location you use. Save them as Applications with the box "Never Show Startupscreen" checked. Stick them in the Apple Menu, or in PPPMenu, and you'll never be more than a menu choice away from connecting to the net. |
