# start the vm
subprocess.call(["C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox\VBoxManage.exe", "startvm", "Win7-IE8"])
time.sleep(50)

# stop a vm
# -set inside the VM from the 'control panel->power options' the os to shutdown when the power button is pressed-
subprocess.call(["C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox\VBoxManage.exe",
                  "controlvm",
                  "WIN7IE8",
                  "acpipowerbutton"])