Assign a shortcut to running a script in OS X

Question

Does OS X provide an easy way to bind key combinations to commands which are typically run on the command line?

For example, is there some way to assign ⌘L as a global shortcut for /System/Library/Frameworks/ScreenSaver.framework/Resources/ScreenSaverEngine.app/Contents/MacOS/ScreenSaverEngine?

Answer 1

Yes, you can do this with Applescript or Automator.

The way I've done things like this is to use Automator to create a Service that is available in all applications. A service can be made to run a bash/zsh/ruby/whatever script. Then you can bind a key combination to the service in the Keyboard pane of system preferences.

Near the end of this MacBreak podcast this procedure is shown in detail.

Edit: I just noticed you're not using Snow Leopard. I don't think creating a system-wide service is as easy with 10.5.8. I guess you can't upgrade since it's a Powerbook. You might want to look into FastScripts which allows you to assign keyboard shortcuts to applescripts (free to use for up to 10 keyboard shortcuts) and use the following Applescript:

do shell script "/System/Library/Frameworks/ScreenSaver.framework/Resources/ScreenSaverEngine.app/Contents/MacOS/ScreenSaverEngine"

Answer 2

I currently use FastScripts. It includes all scripts in ~/Library/Scripts/, so you don't have to add files manually. It also supports application-specific scripts and it waits until modifier keys are released before running AppleScripts with key code or keystroke commands.

In Alfred 2 you can make a workflow like this:

Hotkeys have a short delay unless you change the trigger behavior:

Other applications that can be used to assign shortcuts to scripts:

• Apptivate
• BetterTouchTool
• Butler
• Cockpit
• Controller Mate
• iKey
• Keyboard Maestro
• NuKit
• QuicKeys
• Quicksilver
• Shortcuts
• Spark
• ThisService

You could also create an Automator service:

• Open Automator and choose the Service template
• Check that the input type and application scope are correct
• Add a Run Shell Script or Run AppleScript action
• Paste the script and save the service
• Assign a shortcut in the Keyboard preference pane

There is a bug in 10.7 and 10.8 where the shortcuts for services don't always work until you hover over the services menu from the menu bar. Shortcuts for services don't work when the frontmost application doesn't have a menu bar or a services menu. There is also a short delay before services are run.