Programmatic modification of Tester "From:" and "To:" fields with user32. dll
Info
The Programmatic modification of Tester "From:" and "To:" fields with user32. dll is a Script for MetaTrader 4 that for this script to run properly you must have the strategy tester window open. I made this for the purpose of creating a distributed automated optimization package.
Usage
This tool is typically used for enhancing chart analysis and decision making.
Platform
This Script works exclusively on MetaTrader 4 (both build 600+ and newer versions).
Setup
Place the downloaded file in MQL4/Scripts folder via File ? Open Data Folder in MetaTrader 4.
How to Install and Use Programmatic modification of Tester "From:" and "To:" fields with user32. dll
1. Installation: Move your script file into the MQL/Scripts directory and restart the platform.
2. Execution: Drag the script onto a chart; it will perform a one-time action, such as closing all open orders or clearing chart objects.
3. Editing: Use MetaEditor (F4) to modify code, click "Compile," and verify no errors appear in the terminal before running.
4. Removing: Scripts stop automatically, but you can remove them manually by right-clicking the chart and choosing "Remove Script."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are scripts different from EAs? A: Scripts execute a single action and then stop; EAs monitor the market and trade continuously.
Q: Can I assign a hotkey to a script? A: Yes, right-click the script in the Navigator, select "Set Hotkey," and define your preferred keyboard shortcut.
Q: Why did my script stop? A: Scripts are designed to stop immediately after finishing their programmed command; this is normal behavior.
What this tool does
For this script to run properly you must have the strategy tester window open.
Typical Use Case
This Script excels in automated trading and technical analysis on MetaTrader 4.
Compatible Platform & Setup
This Script works on MetaTrader 4. Place the file in the MQL4/Scripts folder and restart the terminal.
Description & Settings
Related: Trade History Marker 1. 10 - another powerful script for MetaTrader 4 traders.
For this script to run properly you must have the strategy tester window open.
I made this for the purpose of creating a distributed automated optimization package. I was unsatisfied with the available automated optimization code because it necessitates modification of expert advisor code.
Also recommended: Check trading day end is reached - similar script with strong performance on MetaTrader 4.
This was created and tested on Windows 7 64 bit. It is possible that the #define statements need to be changed to point to the proper IDs for your operating system.I was unable to directly send a string to the date field because its control, SysDateTimePick32, is difficult to interface with MQL4.
Instead I used a somewhat round-about method of parsing the control's text and sending UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT keystrokes to adjust the date.
I posted this script because I found it very time consuming to find the necessary information to achieve this (especially for a Windows API newbie like myself). Hopefully this will help others.
You may also like: History Draw - excellent alternative for script users on MetaTrader 4.
⚠ Limitations & Risk Warning
- This tool is provided for educational and testing purposes only.
- Past performance does not guarantee future results.
- Trading involves substantial risk of loss. Use on a demo account first.
- Results may vary depending on market conditions, broker, and settings.
- We recommend thorough backtesting and forward testing before using with real funds.