Well, my need is clear, so the result has obtained. Nowhere near as pretty as I'd like, but it is working very well: http://lsn.ponderworthy.com/doku.php/concurrent_patch_management?&#jpct… Its purpose is to start processes and make sure they settle before starting more processes and/or wiring things up with JACK. Use is exemplified here: http://lsn.ponderworthy.com/doku.php/concurrent_patch_management?&#boot… -- Jonathan E. Brickman | jeb(a)ponderworthy.com | (785)233-9977 Ponderworthy | http://ponderworthy.com Music of compassion; fire, and life!!!