How can I run an .exe from Matlab that requires user input?

I need to run an executable called program.exe that waits for the user to provide an input (write a file name and press enter). If I write

system('cd path_to_exe\program.exe')

the executable header text starts appearing in the Matlab console, but pauses midway indefinitely and I have to Crt+C to quit the program. Writing

system('cd path_to_exe\program.exe < NUL:')

displays the whole program.exe header, but then I am unable provide the necessary input ('file.txt'). Writing

!start path_to_exe\program.exe

opens the .exe in a cmd console, but I am unable to provide the input ('file.txt') from Matlab. How can I run the .exe and provide the text input from Matlab?

[Jan]

The "cd" seems to be not useful here. If you want to start a program, use system('path_to_exe\program.exe') without "cd".

Answer 1

[Bob Thompson]

Before you run the .exe create an ascii file (text file is fine) which contains the inputs you need for the .exe. Make sure you include \n to simulate pressing 'enter'.

executefile = fopen('executefilename.txt','w');
fprintf(executefile,strcat(fileinput,'\n',input1,'\n',etc.,'\n'));
fclose(executefile);
system('cd path_to_exe\program.exe < executefile');

[Alfonso Velencoso Gomez]

This is utterly useful Bob. Thank you.

But I think there is something wrong in your last line of code. It should be like this:

system('cd path_to_exe\program.exe < executefilename.txt');

[SARA OUANES]

Hello Alfonso,

I tried your code but it did not work because it is not the right syntax for 'system' command. This one worked Fine for me. Note that both files are in my working directory.

[status,cmdout]=system('ExecutableFileName FileName.format');