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Send Key

Sends keystrokes to a UI element, simulating keyboard input.

Common Properties

  • Name - The custom name of the node.
  • Color - The custom color of the node.
  • Delay Before (sec) - Waits in seconds before executing the node.
  • Delay After (sec) - Waits in seconds after executing node.
  • Continue On Error - Automation will continue regardless of any error. The default value is false.
info

If the ContinueOnError property is true, no error is caught when the project is executed, even if a Catch node is used.

Inputs

  • Handle - The handle of the window containing the element.
  • Window Selector - The selector for identifying the target window.
  • Element Selector - The selector for identifying the target element.

Options

  • Key Modifier 1 - First modifier key to press along with the main input.
  • Key Modifier 2 - Second modifier key to press along with the main input.
  • Key Modifier 3 - Third modifier key to press along with the main input.
  • Text - The text or key to send to the element.

How It Works

The Send Key node simulates keyboard input by sending keystrokes to a UI element. When executed, the node:

  1. Uses the Window Selector and Element Selector to locate the target element
  2. Constructs a keystroke sequence by combining up to three modifier keys with the specified text
  3. Sends the complete keystroke sequence to the element
  4. Verifies that the element still exists after sending the keys

Requirements

  • Both Window Selector and Element Selector are required to identify the target element
  • At least one of the key options (modifier keys or text) must be specified

Error Handling

The node will return specific errors in the following cases:

  • Empty or invalid Window Selector or Element Selector
  • Element not found
  • Invalid key combination

Usage Notes

  • Modifier keys include Ctrl, Shift, Alt, Windows key, and function keys (F1-F12)
  • Special keys like Enter, Esc, Tab, and arrow keys can be sent as modifiers or text
  • Text input is sent as literal characters
  • Multiple modifier keys can be combined (e.g., Ctrl+Shift+V)
  • This node is useful for filling forms, triggering keyboard shortcuts, or navigating applications
  • The element must be able to receive keyboard input (e.g., text boxes, buttons, etc.)