DataLoad
Overview
Create a Load
Sending Data
Keystrokes
Commands
Timing & Delays
Running a Load
Step Mode Loads
Load Control
Auto Start
Macro Recorder

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Macro Loads Overview

DataLoad Macro loads control any other application with a front end available on the same PC. While DataLoad is typically used to load data in to ERP & CRM applications, DataLoad can do far more than load data and most activities that can be performed by end users can be automated by DataLoad. Furthermore, while DataLoad often controls applications whose front end forms or windows are running on the same PC as DataLoad, DataLoad can also control applications running within thin client terminal software, e.g. Citrix, Windows Terminal Server or a Telnet/SSH window.

DataLoad controls applications by activating the target application's window and then sending data, keystrokes and mouse clicks to that application. These are used to control the application and load data. The main work involved in building and testing a Macro load is in correctly using and specifying the data, keystrokes and mouse clicks. Delays are used to control the load speed where DataLoad performs actions faster than they can be processed by the target application.

DataLoad contains three spreadsheets, which are a Header sheet, the Main sheet and finally the Footer sheet. The majority of the load is setup in the Main spreadsheet and the Header and Footer spreadsheets are used for one off pre-load and post-load activities respectively. Any combination of these spreadsheets can be used for a load but at least one of them must be used.

When the load is started DataLoad processes the Header, Main and Footer spreadsheets in that order. Within each spreadsheet the cells are processed from top to bottom and left to right. The layout of data and commands within the spreadsheets should take account of this. Furthermore, for the purposes of readability it is recommended that each record to be loaded corresponds to one DataLoad row. Ideally each spreadsheet row should contain a single record that is to be loaded and the use of each column should remain consistent, that is each cell in a given column should contain the same type of data or the same keystroke or command.

The best way to learn how to use DataLoad's Macro loads is to start using DataLoad and experimenting with what it can do. A number of example DataLoad loads are included with DataLoad, while further spreadsheets are included on the web site - http://www.dataload.com. These are ready to use and highlight the features described in this User Guide. These files also make good templates for new loads.

Support for problems encountered building and running loads can be found on the following pages:

Frequently Asked Questions
DataLoad Support