Batch file behaves differently for win7 pro

Precious versions of the OS allowed you to call an executable located in a different folder as long as the correct path was given. The file would be executed from the folder that contained the batch file. I have discovered that now at least with my test computer, the executable runs from the folder where the executable is located. This is a killer for me, since I do not know where the batch file folder is. The focus or path does not return to the calling directory. This was quit a surprise for me. I do not even know how to find my way back. I am trying to register devices. I am wondering if there is a setting I do not know about or what.