Clock
Info
The Clock is a Library for MetaTrader 5 that the library (clock. mqh) allows creating analog clocks as.
Usage
This tool is typically used for enhancing chart analysis and decision making.
Platform
This Library works exclusively on MetaTrader 5 (both build 600+ and newer versions).
Setup
Place the downloaded file in MQL5/Libraries folder via File ? Open Data Folder in MetaTrader 5.
How to Install and Use Clock
1. Storage: Place library files in the MQL/Libraries directory to ensure they are accessible to your projects.
2. Implementation: Include the library in your code using the #import directive, ensuring you match the exact function names and parameters.
3. Compilation: Ensure the library is present in the directory before you compile your main EA or script, as the compiler links them during this phase.
4. Management: Keep libraries organized in sub-folders if you manage many custom functions to maintain a clean project structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a library file used for? A: Libraries store reusable code modules, allowing you to centralize common logic used by multiple EAs or indicators.
Q: Is a library executable? A: No, libraries are non-executable files containing functions; they must be imported into an EA, indicator, or script to function.
Q: Can I update a library while the platform is running? A: You should compile your EA or script after updating a library to ensure the latest code changes are integrated.
What this tool does
The library (Clock.
Typical Use Case
This Library excels in automated trading and technical analysis on MetaTrader 5.
Compatible Platform & Setup
This Library works on MetaTrader 5. Place the file in the MQL5/Libraries folder and restart the terminal.
Description & Settings
Related: SL Breakeven - another powerful library for MetaTrader 5 traders.
The library (
Clock.mqh
) allows creating analog clocks as .
Features
The use of the library is shown in the following source code:
Also recommended: Best Interval - similar library with strong performance on MetaTrader 5.
The following clock appears on the chart after refresh:Indicator
The attached cross-platform
Clock.mq5
indicator enables the immediate "out of the box" use of the clock.
Features
Raster (not vector) clock;
Hour hands move without smoothing;
The library can be used in MetaTrader 4/5. How the clock is formed
The originals of clock are taken from the web by searching for flash clock (swf files are available in the ZIP), which are convenient because they contain required graphical representations of clock face, hands, etc. You can use any other sources. For example, you can find ready vector files or draw them yourself.
INI files (see examples) set the parameters of clock formation layer by layer. The below settings can be edited in any text editor
The lower the position of a layer description in the list, the higher it is than previously described layers. There is no special limitation on the number of layers.
This image construction method allows using the library for forming any static/dynamic objects, not only the clock. To provide the clock dynamics, we only needed to set rotation. However, other types of movement (such as shift, scaling, etc.) can be added to the code in just a few lines. The attached source code provides an example of how to implement this approach when describing images.
As for the clock, the layer-by-layer operation allowed us to implement shadows of hands and illumination (as is done in flash clocks).
If you want to make the dial transparent, you should set the Alpha channel in the corresponding INI file less than 100%:
At the time of publication, there were no analog clocks in the Market. I've found in the Code Base.
The new feature of this library is
LAYER::Rotate
used for rotation. Probably, this function will lead to the creation of third-party solutions based on dynamic graphical resources similar to the clock.
You may also like: High-performance i Time Series for time-sensitive applications - excellent alternative for library users on MetaTrader 5.
⚠ 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.