aeeble

Vista Shutdown Timer is a free, lightweight utility designed for Windows users who need to automate shutdown, restart, or standby actions. Ideal for those who want to schedule system tasks, such as virus scans or downloads, and then have their computer automatically shut down, this tool simplifies task management without requiring complex setup.

Key Features and Capabilities

• Schedule various system actions, including shutdown, restart, standby, hibernate, and logoff
• Flexible timing options, allowing users to specify exact times or countdowns for actions
• Customizable on-screen displays and warning sounds to notify users before actions are taken
• Multi-language support, including English and German
• Ability to run batch files before shutdown (in newer beta versions)
• Minimizes to system tray for unobtrusive operation

User Experience and Accessibility

The application is straightforward to use, with a simple interface that lets users select the desired action and timing. It supports various Windows versions, from XP to Windows 7, making it a versatile tool for different environments.

Instructions

1. Download and run the executable (no installation required).
2. Choose the desired system action from the icons (logoff, hibernate, standby, restart, shutdown).
3. Set the timing either by specifying a countdown or selecting a specific time.
4. Customize additional options like on-screen display, warning sound, and sound volume fade.
5. Click 'Run Timer' to start the countdown.

Pros

• Simple, intuitive interface
• Flexible scheduling options
• Customizable notifications
• Supports multiple languages
• No installation required

Cons

• Older interface design
• Limited advanced features compared to more modern task scheduling tools