Developing C++ applications on top of broker software

[Carbonator]

Hi guys,

Thanks for a great resource. I've been a lurker for some time, but finally decided to sign up.

I am fairly new to investing and trading, and still am in the process of reading bucket-loads of books just to get a hold of the basic ideas.

Anyhow, since I do have some slight experience in C++, I do have some questions regarding the use of my own programming and a broker application.

How limited are my abilities to 'manipulate' the data inputs and outputs I get from the application? Can I, for example, take the real-time feed and process it in an external C++ application? (that is, of course, without me having to enter values manually)
Can I automate a trade from my external C++ application, or would that require the application to have such feature built into it?

What are some general limitations? Are there, virtually, any?

I did a search, and some thread (can't find it; did the search earlier) gave me kind-of a heads-up that it is possible; if anybody could confirm, I'd be grateful.

(using the thinkorswim app. I know it's Java, so please also comment on this if this would create any compatibility issues)

Yours truly,

 

[dcraig1]

Hi guys,

How limited are my abilities to 'manipulate' the data inputs and outputs I get from the application? Can I, for example, take the real-time feed and process it in an external C++ application? (that is, of course, without me having to enter values manually)


Can I automate a trade from my external C++ application, or would that require the application to have such feature built into it?

Of course exact details depends on the feed and/or broker, but in general the answers are yes and yes if they provide suitable APIs. Certainly true for InteractiveBrokers TWS.

You will find life easier if you choose Java rather than C++. You might want to consider if something like Tradestation, NinjaTrader, Amibroker or other platforms meet your needs. Rolling your own is a LOT of work.

 

[nine]

Or use Sierra Chart which has a C++ dll interface so you can create what you want (including calling and using external exes should you find a really special need).

For dlls, you only need the minimum ib compatible SC config.