API link to IB

[swandro]

I am planning to build my own trading software to link into IB via their API.

I will be using Excel or VB. I wondered if anyone who has already been down this road could give me an idea of what I am to expect.

For example, is the link reliable? Did you encounter any bugs in the API? Any traps I should be aware of? Any documentation you found that might be helpful? Are there any specialist forums I would find helpful?

I know that two of this forum's members - JonnyT and GreyingSurfer have both used the IB API, and I have seen some of their messages about it.

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Rob

 

[Trader333]

Rob,

I have been thinking along the same lines and a colleague gave me this link which is essential if you intend to write your own applications.

www.interactivebrokers.com/html/webhelp/webhelp.htm

If you then click on API it gives information on VB, Java, DDE for Excel etc

Also from what I have read from the likes of JonnyT etc the API is very reliable.


Paul

 

[JonnyT]

There are often quirks in the API so factor in an occaisonal missed trade, missed entry or mixed exit...

You also need to understand the market you are trading to avoid slippage which can be punishing on some instruments.

JonnyT

 

[swandro]

Thanks for the feedback. The webpage looks good and I note the need to look out for missing trades etc.

Rob

 

[trade4peace]

MB trading also provides SDK/API, and there seems to be a couple of more brokers are offering similar things. I am just trying to determine where to start, and would be so thankful if anyone who has practically compared them could share his/her insight?

 

[GreyingSurfer]

Rob,

I haven't much to add to what's been said. However, I've never used Excel or VB for API programming, I use C++, though if I was starting without all my historical baggage I'd almost certainly be using java. In general either of those would be better in the long run, easier to use and more control. However, VB/Excel is likely to be easier for you if that is your background. Something to think about before you get too far down the road is whether it's worth making the break now and starting off using java.

Take a look at the material on the IB site, and at the sample programs that get installed with the API (for Excel/VB/java and C++) and maybe read some threads on the IB API discussion board on the IB site before you get started.

Peter

 

[swandro]

Peter

Thanks for the advice. You are right about moving over to Java but that would probably be too long a learning curve for the timescales I am working to. Let's hope I can get by with VB.

I will take a look at the IB API forum.

Rob

 

[JonnyT]

I had never used Java and it took me two days to get a viable trading App going using the sample App from IB.

The hard bit was working out how the IDE from Sun worked!!!

I would seriously go with the Java as it is easier than the alternatives.

JonnyT