I want to create a batch file that reads the output from one command and uses this value as a parameter in a subsequent command in the same batch file. I cannot figure out how to use parameters in the batch file. I am running the batch file in a command prompt window in Windows XP. In case this is a bit too cryptic, here is a longer explanation of what I'm trying to do... I am using a code management system to label a software project at a release milestone. In order to automatically restore the project later on, I need to use the version ID at the point when the project was originally labelled. So, when I label the project, I need to additionally retrieve the version ID. I want to use this ID in a new command which I will use if I ever need to restore the labelled software, i.e. ............................................ versionid project > $id versionlabel -c:"LABELXYZ" project echo restore -v:$id project >> restore.bat ............................................

I do not fuly understand the meaning of your commands, but if "Versionid project" displays the id version then the following may fit your need Set /P ProjectId=<versionid project versionlabel -c:"LABELXYZ" project Echo Restore -v:%ProjectId% project >> Restore.bat

IVO, Thanks for taking the time to help me. Yes, "Versionid project" displays the id version. However, when I try to execute the command Set /P ProjectId=<versionid project I get the following error message :- "The system cannot find the file specified." I think the solution will be something like this though.............Martin

Sorry, I put you toward the wrong road, now replace my previous post Set /P ProjectId=<versionid project versionlabel -c:"LABELXYZ" project Echo Restore -v:%ProjectId% project >> Restore.bat with Versionid project> VerProId Set /P ProjectId=<VerProId Del VerProId versionlabel -c:"LABELXYZ" project Echo Restore -v:%ProjectId% project >> Restore.bat where VerProId is a temporary file to hold the project identifier. That should work fine.

IVO, that works, thanks very much for your help.........Martin