Abstract: An interpretive language comprises instructions making up part of the first sequence of instructions (a test "script"). The first language comprises a first set of instructions, the first set of instructions causes a first computer system (a "host" in a preferred embodiment) to issue a series of commands to a second computer system (a "target") in order to cause the second computer system to emulate user activity on the second computer system. User activity includes emulating typing text and/or moving a mouse cursor position. The language further comprises a second set of instructions which cause the first computer system to issue a series of commands to the second computer system in order to cause the second computer system to respond to the first computer system with its state. This state includes user interface objects, and applications running in the target, etc.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing a first computer system. Means for emulating user interaction on the first computer system and a means for determining the state of user interface objects on the display and the operating status of the first computer system is provided. In various embodiments, the means for emulating user interaction comprises a means for emulating keyboard and mouse input on the first computer system. The means for emulating mouse movement comprises a means for updating data structures in the first computer system, such that when the data structures are updated, user control of the keyboard and mouse is emulated. Means for determining the attributes of windows displayed on a display of the first computer system is provided, along with means for determining the attributes of menus on the displayed on the first computer system and means for determining the current position of the cursor of the first computer system, among other user interface objects.