GetASCII — Command Line / File Interface
Text API — The most versatile integration method for PageGate
The Command Line ASCII Text API is capable of monitoring a directory or a series of directories on the local hard drive or across the network, for an ASCII/text file output. The interface also provides a command line interface (executable) for other applications to use. The messages can then be formatted or directed to mobile phones or wireless devices.
The Text API allows many 'off the shelf' and custom applications, such as network monitoring applications, computer aided dispatch applications, building control software and many others, to deliver messages when specified events occur or thresholds are met.
In addition, the Command Line / ASCII Text API can scan one or more directories (networked or local) for text files (ASCII files) containing messages. PageGate can 'watch' one or more files and folders for new text files, that contain messages (this is a common integration method for 3rd party applications). This is an excellent front-end when used as a tool for developers and system integrators, to allow text messaging from within applications.
Command Line ASCII — Text API Can Accept Messages
from a command line executable
Can extract message information from plaintext formatted ASCII files, regardless of the source of the plaintext
Basic polling module looks for text files with a predefined file format in a single location. Advanced polling is also available which allows for the GetASCII interface to read files from multiple folders that are not in a standard format. GetASCII can even “watch” files for additions or changes, then extract message data from them.
Can accept messages that are passed to it via the Windows registry. Messages written to a predefined location in the registry will be picked up by the GetAscii interface. The application to be integrated with PageGate MUST be running on the same computer as the GetASCII module to use this integration method.
Can accept messages sent by using the SendMessage() Windows API call. The application to be integrated with PageGate MUST be running on the same computer as the GetASCII module to use this integration method.
Benefits
Send messages from existing software without any coding changes or modifications.
Send messages automatically when they are triggered through file polling or from other applications.
Configure custom templates and format for messages.
Determine the frequency with which files are polled.
Use pattern recognition to determine what represents the start and end of valid data.
Ad-hoc recipients lets you pass the phone number or contact information of the device you want the message delivered to.
Easily track all messages sent with robust logging and reporting.
System Requirements
| Processor | 1.0 GHz Processor or better |
| Memory | 1 Gig RAM |
| Hard Drive | 100 Mb of free disk space (for application and database) |
| Connectivity | Depending on your method of delivering messages, your needs will vary. To send SMS messages an Internet connection or a cellular modem is necessary. To send messages to a paging terminal, a direct serial connection or a modem connection is necessary. Phone based protocols, like Touch Tone and TAP require an analog modem. 2-way messaging and message replies, where supported, typically require a cellular modem or account with an Internet based messaging service. |
| Operating System | Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11, Server 2012, Server 2016, Server 2019, Server 2022, Server 2025 |
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