very basic computer processing question

i'm interested in purchasing diecimila, haven't been able verify can want.

basically want able wire push button switches, , when press buttons want launch apps or macros on pc.

i've found can open serial connection diecimila, , monitor traffic, do it? if there faq somewhere covers appreciate if forward me it.

thank you!

edit: forgot mention wanted on windows pc.

making arduino board read switches , send info pc easy.

but need program on pc can monitor serial port on pc , launch applications depending on data reads port.

this can done in programming languages / environments on pc.

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