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Getting an alert when a command completes

As part of some testing we're doing, I've been running some lengthy command scripts. I don't want to sit and wait for them to finish, and I don't want to get an e-mail when they're done because my e-mail app isn't open. I asked a group of smart friends and here are the two best answers.

First, you can use the echo command to echo a beep. Try it: open up a Windows command prompt and type "echo ^G" (where the "^G" is displayed after you press Ctrl+G). Voila-- a beep.

Second, you can use the very helpful color command. Try this:

dir && color E2 && pause && color

This will print a directory, turn the entire screen yellow, and pause. It's impossible to miss this visual effect as long as any part of the window is open-- especially if you're using Vista. Two thumbs up!