Batch file not working

[rose0001]

Hello,
I'm trying to find a way to start two or more programs with one click (can't find way to do it with shortcuts in Windows XP...is there a way?). Therefore, I decided that a batch file might be the way to go (it's been a long time since I've worked with them). To try it out, I've created a simple batch file:

cd\
c:\progra~1\tapecalc\tapecalc.exe
c:\windows\system32\notepad.exe
exit

Simple enough. However, the third line of the batch won't execute until I close the program opened by the second line. I'd like both programs to open at the same time and then for the DOS window to close. Can someone advise what I've done wrong and how to fix? Thanks.

[2k dummy]

Use the format

@echo off
for %%c in (notepad.exe notepad.exe) do start %%c

Of course is batch only opens 2 instances of notepad. This also assumes you are using W98.

[johnwill]

You could also just add a start to each line, no need for the FOR loop...

cd\
start c:\progra~1\tapecalc\tapecalc.exe
start c:\windows\system32\notepad.exe
exit

[rose0001]

The start command worked. Thanks much.