Maximize Windows with VB Script

The Versatility of VB Scripting

A significant aspect of my work involves the creation of VB scripts. This encompasses both Windows Script files and VBA scripts integrated within applications. Scripting offers a powerful means to extend application capabilities, overcoming limitations that others might encounter.

Frequently, a core function I implement across numerous scripts is window maximization. This can range from initiating an application via a Windows script to launching Microsoft Excel or Word documents in full-screen mode for presentations.

Accessibility and Broad Application

The advantage of scripting lies in its accessibility; formal programming expertise or specialized software isn't a prerequisite. If you operate on a Windows system, or utilize an application with a VBA foundation, these functions are readily available.

This article will demonstrate three distinct methods for maximizing windows using VB scripts. The techniques presented can be adapted and incorporated into a wider range of scripting projects.

Maximizing Windows with VB Script: Examples

Method 1: Utilizing the AppActivate Command – This approach focuses on bringing a specific window to the foreground before maximizing it.
Method 2: Direct Window Manipulation – This involves directly interacting with the window's properties to achieve maximization.
Method 3: Leveraging the Shell Object – Employing the Shell object provides another pathway to control and manipulate windows.

Each method offers a slightly different approach, catering to various scripting scenarios and preferences. Understanding these options allows for greater flexibility in script development.

The core principle remains consistent: to enhance application functionality and streamline workflows through the effective use of VB scripting. These techniques empower users to tailor their computing experience without extensive programming knowledge.

Initiating Applications in Maximized Window Mode

Let's begin by exploring a method to launch any application directly in maximized mode. This can be achieved through a simple script utilizing the Windows Shell functionality.

The Windows Shell "Run" command incorporates a parameter that dictates the application's launch mode. Employing this parameter allows for the execution of programs in a maximized state. The following script demonstrates this process.

Script Implementation

The core of this functionality resides within a VBScript. This script leverages the Windows Shell object to initiate the desired application with the specified parameters.

<job>

<script language="VBScript">

Option Explicit

On Error Resume Next

Dim WshShell

Dim retVal

Dim myPath

set WshShell=CreateObject("WScript.Shell")

retVal = WshShell.Run("C:\temp\firefox", 3)

WScript.Quit

</script>

</job>

Within the script, the WshShell.Run method is utilized. The first argument specifies the path to the executable file. The second argument, set to '3', instructs the application to launch in a maximized window.

Application Compatibility

To utilize this script, simply replace "C:\temp\firefox" with the path to the application you wish to launch. However, it's important to note that not all applications consistently adhere to this command.

While this technique proves effective with programs like Firefox, others, such as Chrome, may exhibit differing behavior. Despite this, the script remains functional with a broad range of applications.

Maximizing Word Documents with Built-in Features

Achieving a maximized view for any Word document can be accomplished directly within the application, utilizing a command button. The initial step involves activating Developer mode. This is done by accessing Word Options through the Windows start button, located at the bottom of the dropdown menu.

Within the Options menu, the selection "Show Developer tab in the Ribbon" must be made. This action reveals the Developer tab, providing access to advanced functionalities.

Utilizing Design Mode and Command Buttons

With the Developer tab enabled, you can leverage "design mode" to integrate custom functionality into your Word documents. To insert a button capable of maximizing the document, first enable Design Mode.

Then, from the Forms dropdown, select the button object to add it to your document.

3-ways-open-applications-windows-maximized-vb-script-2.jpg

The button can be positioned anywhere within the document as desired. Right-clicking on the newly placed button allows access to the CommandButton Object properties. Selecting View Code opens the Visual Basic Editor.

Code Implementation for Maximization

Within the code editor, two distinct approaches can be employed to maximize the document window. The first method forces the Word application itself to maximize.

This is achieved using the following code:

Application.WindowState = wdWindowStateMaximize

Alternatively, the document can be displayed in full-screen mode, effectively removing the header and toolbars.

The corresponding code for this functionality is:

ActiveWindow.View.FullScreen = True

When full-screen mode is active, only the ruler remains visible, unless disabled via the ruler button in the upper-left corner. Exiting full-screen mode is as simple as pressing the Escape key.

3-ways-open-applications-windows-maximized-vb-script-3.jpg

Practical Applications and Automatic Execution

This feature offers a viable alternative to Microsoft PowerPoint for presentation purposes. Document pages can be advanced by simply scrolling down.

For automatic maximization upon document opening, the aforementioned code can be integrated into the Document_Open() function. This function is accessible within the code editor by selecting "Document" from the left dropdown and "Open" from the right dropdown.

Maximizing Excel Spreadsheets

Similar to Word, VBA functionality can be leveraged within Excel, though with some variations. The Developer toolbar can be enabled using the same procedure as in Word. Upon adding a button, Excel prompts for a Macro assignment.

Simply designate a new Macro and select the "New" option to access the code editor.

3-ways-open-applications-windows-maximized-vb-script-4.jpg

Within this environment, you will input the code necessary to maximize the spreadsheet and eliminate scrollbars.

3-ways-open-applications-windows-maximized-vb-script-5.jpg

For those unfamiliar with VBA coding, a list of accessible objects for code referencing is displayed on the left. Actions can be performed on individual sheets, workbooks, and the objects contained within them.

In this instance, the entire Excel application is being referenced.

Application.DisplayFullScreen = True

Application.CommandBars("Worksheet Menu Bar").Enabled = False

A range of operations can be executed on specific sheets and workbooks, as well as their internal objects. The code provided will transition the Excel window into full screen mode and subsequently disable the menu bar located at the top of the screen.

3-ways-open-applications-windows-maximized-vb-script-6.jpg

As with Word, the Escape key can be used to exit this mode. The same code can also be implemented within the screen. Furthermore, utilizing the Workbook_Open() or Worksheet_Activate() functions allows for automatic full-screen activation without requiring a button.

The method of script execution is entirely at your discretion!

Begin by launching Notepad or MS Office and experimenting with these scripts. Consider any innovative applications for launching maximized applications and share your insights in the comments section below.

Image Credit: Shutterstock