Optimizing Custom Indicators in MetaTrader – Key Steps to Minimize CPU Usage and Memory Allocation

Written by Fxigor in Indicators,Metatrader

MetaTrader is a popular platform for forex trading, offering robust tools and features for traders. One of its key strengths is the ability to create custom indicators, allowing traders to implement their unique strategies and insights. However, custom indicators can sometimes be resource-intensive, leading to high CPU usage and excessive memory allocation. This can slow down the platform and negatively impact trading performance.

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We will explore essential techniques for optimizing custom indicators in MetaTrader. By following these steps, you can enhance the efficiency of your indicators, ensuring they run smoothly without overburdening your system’s resources. Whether you are a seasoned trader or new to developing custom indicators, these tips will help you achieve a more streamlined and effective trading experience.

Before we talk about indicators optimizing, learn How to Speed up the MetaTrader platform when MT4 is Running Slow:

 

Optimizing a custom indicator in MetaTrader to minimize CPU usage and memory allocation involves several key steps. Here are some general tips and techniques to achieve this:

1. Efficient Looping

Minimize the number of iterations in loops. Avoid unnecessary calculations within loops and reduce the loop range whenever possible.

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int start = MathMax(0, Bars - 1000); // Process only the last 1000 bars
for (int i = start; i < Bars; i++) {
    // Your calculations here
}

2. Use Static and Global Variables

Avoid redeclaring variables inside frequently called functions. Use static or global variables when appropriate.

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double myVar; // Global variable

void OnCalculate() {
    // Use myVar here
}

3. Avoid Redundant Calculations

Store the results of expensive calculations if they must be used multiple times.

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double ema = iMA(NULL, 0, 14, 0, MODE_EMA, PRICE_CLOSE, 0);
for (int i = 0; i < Bars; i++) {
    // Use ema here instead of recalculating
}

4. Optimize Memory Usage

Avoid unnecessary memory allocation. Reuse arrays and other data structures whenever possible.

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double myArray[];
ArrayResize(myArray, Bars);
for (int i = 0; i < Bars; i++) {
    // Fill myArray with values
}

5. Use Built-in Functions

Leverage built-in functions that are optimized for performance.

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double movingAverage = iMA(NULL, 0, 14, 0, MODE_SMA, PRICE_CLOSE, 0);

6. Conditional Statements

Use conditional statements to skip unnecessary calculations.

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if (rates_total < 100) {
    return 0; // Skip processing if there are fewer than 100 bars
}

7. Efficient Data Access

Access price data efficiently using functions like iClose, iOpen, iHigh, and iLow.

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double closePrice = iClose(NULL, 0, 0);

8. Optimize Indicator Buffers

Minimize the number of indicator buffers and their sizes.

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#property indicator_buffers 2
double buffer1[];
double buffer2[];

int OnInit() {
    SetIndexBuffer(0, buffer1);
    SetIndexBuffer(1, buffer2);
    ArraySetAsSeries(buffer1, true);
    ArraySetAsSeries(buffer2, true);
    return INIT_SUCCEEDED;
}

Example of an Optimized Indicator

Here’s an example of an optimized custom indicator:

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#property indicator_separate_window
#property indicator_buffers 1
#property indicator_color1 Red

double buffer1[];

int OnInit() {
    SetIndexBuffer(0, buffer1);
    ArraySetAsSeries(buffer1, true);
    return INIT_SUCCEEDED;
}

int OnCalculate(const int rates_total, const int prev_calculated, const datetime &time[], const double &open[], const double &high[], const double &low[], const double &close[], const long &tick_volume[], const long &volume[], const int &spread[]) {
    int start = prev_calculated > 0 ? prev_calculated - 1 : 0;
    for (int i = start; i < rates_total; i++) {
        buffer1[i] = iMA(NULL, 0, 14, 0, MODE_SMA, PRICE_CLOSE, i);
    }
    return rates_total;
}

Additional Tips

  • Profile Your Code: Use the MetaEditor Profiler to identify performance bottlenecks.
  • Reduce Indicator Updates: Minimize the frequency of indicator updates.
  • Code Optimization: Review and optimize your code regularly.

By following these guidelines, you can create custom indicators in MetaTrader that are efficient in CPU usage and memory allocation.

Fxigor
Latest posts by Fxigor (see all)

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Fxigor

Igor has been a trader since 2007. Currently, Igor works for several prop trading companies. He is an expert in financial niche, long-term trading, and weekly technical levels. The primary field of Igor's research is the application of machine learning in algorithmic trading. Education: Computer Engineering and Ph.D. in machine learning. Igor regularly publishes trading-related videos on the Fxigor Youtube channel. To contact Igor write on: igor@forex.in.rs

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