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MarketPLUS User Guide
(Version 2.1)
"Support the SHAREWARE Concept!"
Copyright (C) 1987-93, F2S Enterprises
All Rights Reserved
VOICE: (713) 471-7998
FAX: (713) 471-7220
January 1993
i
Contents
MarketPLUS Shareware License Agreement iv
About This Shareware Version vi
About This Manual vii
Before Installing MarketPLUS viii
Chapter 1 What is MarketPLUS? 1-1
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup 2-1
2.1 Installation 2-1
2.2 Setup 2-3
2.3 A Word For Mouse Users 2-5
2.4 A Word For Non-Mouse Users 2-5
Chapter 3 Getting Started: A Quick Tour 3-1
3.1 Activate the Program 3-1
3.2 Verify Correct Configuration 3-1
3.3 MAIN MENU 3-1
3.3.1 TABULATE/PRINT/SORT PRICES Option 3-2
3.3.2 VIEW CHARTS AND TECHNICAL INDICATORS
Option 3-4
3.3.3 DATA FILE MAINTENANCE Option 3-7
<1> CREATE A NEW FILE FOR INVESTMENT DATA Option 3-7
<2> CORRECT DATES/PRICES Option 3-8
<3> BACKUP OR DELETE ENTIRE DATA FILES Option 3-8
<4> ADJUSTMENT FOR DIVIDEND, SPLITS OR
CAP. GAINS Option 3-8
<5> ADD NEW INVESTMENTS TO AN EXISTING FILE Option 3-8
<6> DELETE AN INVESTMENT FROM AN EXISTING FILE
Option 3-9
<7> CHANGE DEFAULT DATA DRIVE Option 3-9
<8> RETURN TO MAIN MENU Option 3-9
Data File Maintenance Practice Session 3-9
Chapter 4 Technical Indicators & Graph Settings 4-1
4.1 A Word about Technical Indicators 4-1
4.1.1 Charts 4-2
4.1.2 Straight Lines 4-3
4.1.3 Moving Averages 4-3
4.2 GRAPH SETTINGS Option 4-4
4.2.1 Primary Indicator Screen Settings 4-5
<A> Index Overlay 4-5
<B> Moving Averages 4-5
<C> Investor Defined Studies 4-8
<D> Overbought/Oversold Line Values 4-8
<E> Upper/Lower Trend Line 4-9
<F> Filter Zone 4-10
<G> Chart Presentation 4-10
4.2.2 Secondary Indicator Screen Settings 4-11
<H> Williams Oscillator (William's Percent R) 4-12
<I> Wilder's Relative Strength Index (RSI) 4-12
<J> Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD) 4-14
<K> Bollinger Bands 4-14
<L> Three indicator's Moving Average 4-16
4.2.3 Automatic Features 4-17
Automatic Scaling of the Graph on Y-Axis 4-17
ii
Automatic Scaling of Price Change
Percentage on Y-Axis 4-17
Automatic Spread and Scaling of Data on
X-Axis 4-17
Chapter 5 Investor Defined Studies (IDS) 5-1
5.1 Cone Group Performance Comparison Index
(Cone Index) 5-1
5.2 Price/Moving Average Oscillator 5-2
5.3 Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD) 5-3
Chapter 6 MarketPLUS Data File Format 6-1
Chapter 7 DOS Error Messages 7-1
Chapter 8 Function Keys & HOT Keys 8-1
8.1 Function Keys 8-1
How Function Keys Work in MarketPLUS 8-1
Function Key Definitions 8-1
8.2 HOT Keys 8-3
What are HOT Keys? 8-3
HOT Key Definitions 8-3
Appendix A Commonly Asked Questions A-1
Appendix B MarketPLUS Companion Products B-1
Appendix C Recommended Reading C-1
iii
MarketPLUS Shareware License Agreement
Copyright Statement
MarketPLUS is a copyrighted 1987-93 by F2S Enterprises of
LaPorte, Texas. The entire contents of this program and
documentation are included in this copyright. F2S
Enterprises reserves the right to make changes to the manual
without prior notice.
Shareware Agreement
Shareware users of MarketPLUS are granted license to fully
use the Shareware version for a period not to exceed 60 days.
There is no obligation to register (i.e., pay for continued
use) should the user discontinue using the program after 60
days. The user is required to register the product for any
use beyond the 60 day trial period.
In addition, the user is encouraged to make copies of the
Shareware version of MarketPLUS and share with others, so
long as:
* No fee is charged for duplication.
* Only complete copies of the original distribution
disk are duplicated and shared, with all original
files intact.
Warranty
F2S Enterprises and/or the author(s) make no warranty of any
kind, expressed or implied, for the programs supplied in this
package, including the usefulness or fitness for a particular
purpose or application. F2S Enterprises and/or the author(s)
will not be held liable for any damage or loss arising from
the use or misuse of the program. In addition, F2S
Enterprises and/or the authors will not be held liable for
any damage to data, property, or other material assets which
may be caused directly or indirectly by use of the program.
F2S Enterprises does not warrant that the functions contained
in the programs will meet your requirements or that the
operation of the programs will be uninterrupted or error
free.
Neither F2S Enterprises nor the author(s) of MarketPLUS are
registered investment advisors. The user is fully
responsible for the use and interpretations of the programs
in their investment decisions. Gains and losses can occur
when investing in the market, using this or any other
investment program.
iv
Acknowledgments
Trademarks, such as IBM, Microsoft, Logitech, Epson, Hewlett
Packard, and others, are hereby recognized as trademarks of
their respective companies.
MarketPLUS uses Quick Windows Advanced User Interface
Library and is Copyrighted 1990 by Software Interphase, Inc.
MarketPLUS was developed using Microsoft BASIC Professional
Development System (version 7.0).
v
About This Shareware Version
The Shareware version you have purchased contains all the
features of the registered version, except for the following
differences:
* A single file can maintain a maximum of 5 securities
versus 50 in the registered versions.
* Documentation is provided as an electronic text file
versus the printed and bound manual (with
illustrations and charts) in the registered versions.
* 3 Investor Defined Studies are available versus 8 or
16 in the registered versions.
* Registered versions have the added capability of
printing to *.PCX graphics files, as well as
printers.
So while you are using your Shareware version, think about
choosing any of the following versions of MarketPLUS that
best fits your needs. There are three registration levels to
choose from:
MarketPLUS Level 1:
This version maintains up to 50 securities in a single file.
This version includes a 50/130 database (maintain up to 50
investments with 130 days, weeks, or months of prices in each
single file), PCX file saver, 8 Investor Defined Studies,
printed and bound manual with illustrations and charts, quick
reference card, and author support. MarketTOOLS and
MarketVIEW are also included! $ 85.00
MarketPLUS Level 2:
Includes all items listed for Level 1 plus a total of 16
Investor Defined Studies and the MarketCONVERT program disk.
$ 115.00
MarketPLUS Level 3:
This version includes all items listed for Levels 1 and 2
except the 50/130 database size is "expanded" to 50/540
(requires a minimum of 512K RAM). $ 145.00
To order, write:
F2S Enterprises
P.O. Box 1011
La Porte, TX 77572-1011, USA
To call/FAX:
Voice: (713) 471-7998
FAX: (713) 471-7220
vi
About This Manual
This manual contains all the information necessary to
install and use MarketPLUS. Please take a few minutes and
acquaint yourself with its contents before using MarketPLUS.
While many of our users feel that MarketPLUS does not require
documentation to use the program, the mere fact that
MarketPLUS is a complete, self-contained, investment package
(complete graphics tools, report generating, database
management, editing features, and its own database format)
lends us to believe that this manual might come in handy!
Do not consider this manual to be a substitute for a
practical text on the theories and applications of technical
analysis. By carefully studying historic investing data and
the application of technical analysis, you can make extremely
profitable trades.
Contents of This Manual
This manual provides a step-by-step approach to using the
features of MarketPLUS: from creating a new file for your
investments, creating a report summary, changing graph and
indicator settings, to adjusting for splits or distributions.
While most references in this manual apply to the Shareware
version, all commands and instructions are identical to and
apply equally to the 50/130 and 50/540 versions.
This manual is divided into the following chapters:
Chapter 1 What is MarketPLUS?
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup
Chapter 3 Getting Started: A Quick Tour
Chapter 4 Technical Indicators & Graph Settings
Chapter 5 Investor Defined Studies
Chapter 6 MarketPLUS Data File Format
Chapter 7 DOS Error Messages
Chapter 8 Function Keys & HOT Keys
Appendix A Commonly Asked Questions
Appendix B MarketPLUS Companion Products
Appendix C Recommended Reading
Product Support
As a registered user of the program, you will have the
privilege of calling, faxing, or writing us for help if you
have any questions, suggestions or comments. If you have a
question about MarketPLUS, look in this manual first . If
you cannot find the answer in this manual, then contact F2S
Technical Support. Non-registered Shareware users of
MarketPLUS may receive limited technical help and answers to
general questions.
vii
Whether you call or write, please provide the following
information:
The version of MarketPLUS.
The type of hardware you are using.
A description of what happened and what you were doing
when the problem occurred.
The exact wording of any messages that appeared on your
screen.
If you are a user of Prodigy, you may wish to leave us brief
note in the MONEY TALK board, in the subject "Other
Investments," under the topic "MARKETPLUS." We review
messages on a regular basis.
Special Terms & Conventions
The MarketPLUS manual uses a few special symbols and
conventions.
The Keyboard
The keys on your keyboard may not be labeled exactly as they
are in this manual. All key names appear as small capital
letters inside a pair of brackets. For example, the Enter
key appears as <ENTER>; the Alternate key appears as <ALT>.
Text
DOS commands, prompts, and similar on-screen information
appear exactly as they are on your monitor. For example, the
DOS prompt appears as C> or C:\.
Specific text you are to type appears in bold. For example,
if the manual says to type cd test, you type the lowercase
letters "cd" followed by a space and the lowercase word
"test." What you type appears in lowercase letters, unless it
must be typed in uppercase letters to perform properly.
Place holders that you must supply yourself appear in italics
(such as filenames). For example, when you are asked to type
cd directory name, you type the letters "cd" followed by a
space and the name of a directory. For a directory called
"stocks," you would type cd stocks.
Before Installing MarketPLUS
Read the Shareware License Agreement
Read the MarketPLUS Shareware License Agreement provided in
the beginning of this manual.
Make Backups
Be certain to use the original distribution disk to make a
backup to guard against accidental data loss.
viii
Verify Your System Setup
Make certain that your system includes the proper hardware
and software. The following list identifies the minimum
system configuration required to run MarketPLUS.
Minimum Configuration
An IBM Personal Computer (or compatible), or an IBM Personal
System/2 Series personal computer
DOS 2.1 or higher
A hard disk and a floppy disk drive (for 3 1/2" or 5 1/4"
diskettes)
512K of available memory for DOS
A Color Graphics Adapter (CGA) graphics card [640x200 B&W
mode]
A monitor compatible with the graphics card you are using
80-column dot matrix printer with Epson-compatible graphics
capability
Recommended Configuration
F2S recommends the following system configuration.
An AT-class (or faster) computer
DOS 2.1 or higher
512K of available memory for DOS
A hard disk with 720K (minimum) for storage and performance
requirements
Math co-processor card Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA)
graphics card [640x350 color mode] [640x350 color mode] OR
Video Graphics Array (VGA) graphics card [640x480 color mode]
A monitor compatible with the graphics card you are using
HP Laserjet printer
A mouse. If using a mouse, ensure the mouse driver is loaded
and is 100% Microsoft compatible prior to running MarketPLUS.
!! MarketPLUS does not support monochrome graphics equipped
systems.
Read Important Considerations
ix
Error Handling
While every effort has been taken to provide basic error
handling throughout the program, it is possible that we have
missed something, or your system is configured dramatically
differently than other systems. Should you find an error,
try to duplicate the procedure and document exactly what may
have happened. If an error number is displayed, refer to
chapter 7. If no error number is displayed, contact F2S
Technical Support for assistance.
Printing Safeguard
When a new data file of your stock or mutual funds is
initially created, you are not be able to use the printing or
graphing options until you have acquired at least ten (10)
days of closing prices. This limitation was intentionally
included as a safeguard to prevent the program from
"CRASHING" during calculations of percentages and the minimum
data requirements for indicators.
Editing Text
Always make backup copies of your data files. This is
especially important before editing a *.DAT file in a word
processor. If you edit data files with an ASCII text editor
or word processor, remember to include quotes (") or commas
(,) where they belong. Do not add blank spaces or lines.
Refer to chapter 6 prior to your first attempt at editing a
MarketPLUS *.DAT file.
x
Chapter 1 What is MarketPLUS?
MarketPLUS is a full-featured stock/mutual fund tracking
package with strong graphics capabilities. The program is
written for the individual investor to display with ease, the
price action of individual stocks, mutual funds, or any other
type of security.
Easy to Use
MarketPLUS provides versatile and extremely powerful
technical analysis and charting tools, enabling the
individual investor to make timely investment decisions.
While MarketPLUS appears to be a sophisticated database for
investments and prices, it is really quite easy to master
rapidly. This is due in part to the meaningful prompts and
help screens provided on the screens where you need them.
The simplicity of MarketPLUS comes from the fact that only
one piece of data information (the closing price) is
required for each stock or fund in the file. While the
database design does not maintain the high, low, or volume
data for individual investments, a tremendous amount of
analysis is possible with only the closing price.
Menu-Driven
MarketPLUS is easy to learn and use, and is completely menu-
driven so that you do not have to learn complicated
instructions, or syntax, in order to run and enjoy the
program. While the program features a "point-n-shoot"
structure, pull-down menus, logical prompts within exploding
windows, dialog boxes, and other one or two key command
responses (i.e., "Yes /No" responses), even the most
experienced computer user should invest in a Microsoft or
compatible mouse. A number of graphic commands in MarketPLUS
are enhanced when a mouse is employed. Some of these
features are too obvious and easy to utilize to document.
Easy to Customize
With MarketPLUS you can easily create a database for up to 5
individual stocks or funds (50 with the registered
versions), and up to 130 trading data points (130 days,
weeks, or months) of data can be readily displayed. If you
purchase the 50/540 extended database version, the maximum
data points is 540. You can develop several different data
files for which each can be used to store, print, and plot an
additional 50 stocks or funds. In addition, historic
information for your assets can be backed-up (archived) for
reference at a later date.
The program allows for easy updating of prices, adjusting for
stock splits or dividend payments, correction of prices,
sorting by performance for tabular reports, and charting.
Utilities are built into the program to add new investments,
1 - 1
delete others, and back up data files. Other "off-line"
database editing utilities (file sorts, etc.) are available
also to you.
Useful Analysis Tools
Unlike many "black box" programs that claim to predict what
will happen to the price of an investment in the market,
MarketPLUS provides the tools to help the investor analyze
historic trends, as well as verify what is happening in the
market now. Just as a hammer and level are invaluable to the
skilled carpenter, MarketPLUS becomes invaluable to the
investor willing to develop a sound investment strategy and
educate himself/herself in what the indicators represent.
On-Line Data Services
For investors who follow a large number of investments and
wish to update their data files using the services of a
professional on-line data service, the MarketFON downloader
is available for registered MarketPLUS users by using the
services of Track Data Corporations' Dial/Data system. This
program downloads the data and directly converts it and
updates your MarketPLUS files.
Also available from F2S Enterprises is MarketCONVERT.
MarketCONVERT performs the historic conversion of many data
formats to the MarketPLUS format, and for regular automatic
updating from many of the popular data sources' ASCII output
files (i.e., Prodigy, Dow Jones Newsretrieval, Warner,
CompuServe, etc.).
1 - 2
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup
2.1 Installation
Since the size of MarketPLUS requires many files to run, we
recommend installation with systems equipped with one or two
floppy drives (720K minimum) and a hard (fixed) disk.
Installing Version X.X Over an Earlier Version
IMPORTANT! If you are upgrading from a previous version of
MarketPLUS, locate your previous version of MarketPLUS and
back up all your '.DAT' files. After installing the new
version of MarketPLUS, you can copy these data files into the
new MarketPLUS directory.
If You Have A Single Diskette Drive
If you have only one floppy diskette drive (with 720K),
without a hard disk, you are not able to use MarketPLUS as
received. Please contact F2S Technical Support for
assistance.
If You Have Two Diskette Drives
1.Prepare two blank formatted diskettes (720K minimum
capacity) for use. Label one "PROGRAM DISK," and the other
"DOC/DATA DISK." Set these disks aside.
To format a disk:
a. Turn on your computer.
b. Place a blank diskette in drive A.
c. Close the latch and type the following:
A> format a: and press <ENTER>.
Formatting a diskette erases any files that may
be stored on it, so be sure that you haven't put
the wrong disk in the drive.
d. When it has finished formatting the diskette,
DOS asks you if you want to format another. Type
y and press <ENTER>.
e. Remove the formatted diskette.
f. Insert the other diskette and perform the above
procedure.
2. Insert the DISTRIBUTION DISK for MarketPLUS into drive A.
3. At the DOS prompt, type readme and press <ENTER>. The
screen displays introductory information and three options.
1. To Print latest info, type 'PRINTDOC'
2. To Print order form, type 'ORDER'
3. To Install program, type INSTALL [from:] [to:]
The MarketPLUS Distribution Disk is compressed and cannot be
run directly. You must install the disk according to the
2 - 1
following procedure for the program to work properly on your
system. The Distribution Disk comes with an unpacking
program which expands the program automatically.
4. Type install and specify the drive where the distribution
disk is located, and the drive where you wish to unpack
the MarketPLUS files and support files. Then press
<ENTER>. For example, a> install a: b: <ENTER>.
5. Follow the program prompts and the installation
automatically unpacks, expands, and sets up the program
files on one floppy disk and data and documents on the
other floppy disk.
6. Follow the program prompts to configure and customize
MarketPLUS to your computer's hardware.
If You Have Hard (Fixed) Disk Drive
1. Insert the DISTRIBUTION DISK for MarketPLUS into drive A.
2. At the DOS prompt, type read me and press <ENTER>. The
screen displays introductory information and three options.
1. To Print latest info, type 'PRINTDOC'
2. To Print order form, type 'ORDER'
3. To Install program, type INSTALL [from:] [to:]
3. Type install and specify the drive where the distribution
disk is located, and the drive where you wish to unpack
the MarketPLUS files and support files. Then press
<ENTER>.
For example, a> install a: c: <ENTER>.
4. The installation creates the \MPLUS2 directory and the
MPLUS.BAT file. The installation then automatically
unpacks, expands, and sets up the program files. The
following information is then displayed on your screen.
MarketPLUS Installation Program
Installation was successful...
To run MarketPLUS from the hard drive,
Type: c: then press [Enter].
Type: MPLUS [Enter].
If you have an unsuccessful installation, ensure that you
have 720k space available on the hard drive. Finally, retry
the installation once again.
5. Type c: (or whatever drive you specified) and press
<ENTER>.
2 - 2
6. Type mplus and press <ENTER>. The following information
is then displayed on your screen.
MarketPLUS is not yet configured for YOUR system.
Please answer each question that follows:
Press any key to begin...
7. Follow the program prompts to configure and customize
MarketPLUS to your computer's hardware.
2.2 Setup
Some hardware components connected to your system, such as a
mouse, are dependent on other programs or drivers. If a
mouse is detected, MarketPLUS automatically takes advantage
of its capabilities. Some of the equipment installed needs
be defined for the program the first time you run it. If for
some reason your mouse does not respond well, ensure that you
are using the most recent mouse driver available and that it
is 100% Microsoft compatible.
Setting the Initial Configuration
Initially, the program does not have configuration
information, so you are prompted to provide the following
information:
DRIVE
Designate the new Data drive for storage of investment
prices. To show your selection, move around the window using
the <TAB> key, then press the <SPACEBAR> key when done.
PATH (Only on hard disk drives)
Confirm the new PATH for the data. As mentioned previously,
the installation program creates a default directory on the
designated hard disk drive called \MPLUS2, and installs all
the required files to this drive.
If you are using the default path, tab over to the [OK] box
and press <ENTER>. It is recommended to accept \MPLUS2 as
the default path since you can change it later after getting
better acquainted with the program.
If you are using a path other than \MPLUS2:
1. Change the path name with the <BACKARROW> key.
2. Retype the correct path information.
3. Tab over to the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
Remember, all program files are copied to the \MPLUS2
directory. To specify and create an alternate directory, you
must exit MarketPLUS and copy the SAMPLE.DAT file from
\MPLUS2 to your alternate directory in order to use it
directly.
2 - 3
If the directory you specify does not exist, you are
prompted to identify if you want MarketPLUS to create the
directory for you.
MONITOR
MarketPLUS supports only computers with color capability.
These include CGA, EGA, or VGA. Type c for CGA cards, e for
EGA cards, v for VGA cards. To specify your graphics adapter
card: Tab over to the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
GRAPHICS ADAPTER
The graphics adapter card is inside the computer and
controls the monitor. Generally, you have the same
designation of graphics card as you have monitor. To
specify your graphics adapter card:
1. Type c for CGA cards, e for EGA cards, v for VGA cards.
2. Tab over to the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
PRINTER
MarketPLUS supports Epson and IBM compatible dot matrix
printers, and HP Laser jet or compatibles. To specify your
printer:
1. Type e for Epson or compatible dot matrix printer, l for
HP Laserjet or compatible printer, or n no printer installed.
2. Tab over to the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
After the initial configuring is completed, the initial
configuration screen displays the Data drive and the Data
path where the data files are located, bytes free for DATA on
designated drive, type of monitor connected, video card, and
printer. If this is information is correct, then tab over to
the [OK] box and press <ENTER> (or use your left mouse button
if one is connected.)
From this point on, each time you run MarketPLUS the initial
configuration screen displays all the settings. Press
<ENTER> each time to get to the MAIN MENU, or select to the
[OK] box with the mouse.
Changing the Current Configuration
When you install different equipment on your system, such as
higher resolution color graphics, or a new laser printer, you
must change the configuration as shown above. To change your
configuration:
1. Tab to CHANGE and press <ENTER>.
2 - 4
2. Change one of the following:
Configuration for designated data drive and path,
Designation for the type of video monitor and card, or
Type of printer that you are currently using.
3. When correct, tab over to the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
2.3 A Word For Mouse Users
You're in luck! MarketPLUS is written to take full
advantage of Microsoft, Logitech, or compatible mouse. Ensure
your mouse driver is loaded prior to running the MPLUS.BAT
file. To load your mouse driver automatically:
* Add a line at the top of the MPLUS.BAT.
* Add a line to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file or
* Load the driver via your CONFIG.SYS file.
Once again, if you need help, please do not hesitate to
contact F2S Technical Support.
2.4 A Word For Non-Mouse Users
If you do not own a mouse, you should try one out on
MarketPLUS!
2 - 5
Chapter 3 Getting Started: A Quick Tour
Quick Tour Assumptions
The instructions in this chapter are written under the
assumption that MarketPLUS files are installed on the fixed
disk drive ("C" drive) and your DATA is located in the
\MPLUS2 directory. Data files always have the suffix
".DAT." The data file that came with the MarketPLUS
distribution diskette is named "SAMPLE.DAT."
If you installed the MarketPLUS files on a two floppy disk
drive system, then place the PROGRAM WORK DISK in drive A and
the DATA DISK in drive B.
3.1 Activate the Program
At the DOS prompt, type mplus and press <ENTER>. This
activates MarketPLUS with the configuration settings
specified during the installation process.
(NOTE: The MPLUS.BAT file resides in the root directory of
the fixed disk drive partition you specified. If MarketPLUS
was installed on a two floppy drive system, the MPLUS.BAT
file would resides on your PROGRAM WORK DISK.)
3.2 Verify Correct Configuration
After MarketPLUS is loaded, the configuration screen is
displayed. The current data drive and path, the video
monitor and graphics card, and the type of printer installed
are displayed.
If the configuration displayed is correct, highlight the [OK]
box and press <ENTER>.
If the configuration is not correct, select the items to be
corrected and then highlight the [OK] box and press <ENTER>.
If additional configuration information is needed, please
review Changing the Current Configuration.
After the configuration is correct, the program accesses the
MarketPLUS MAIN MENU.
3.3 MAIN MENU
The MAIN MENU lists the name and version number of the
program, shows the copyright notice retained by the authors,
and lists the following menu options:
M A I N * M E N U
1.) UPDATE CLOSING PRICES FOR INVESTMENTS
2.) TABULATE / PRINT / SORT PRICES
3.) VIEW CHARTS & TECHNICAL INDICATORS
4.) DATA FILE MAINTENANCE
5.) EXIT TO DOS
3 - 1
3.3.1 TABULATE/PRINT/SORT PRICES Option
The TABULATE / PRINT / SORT PRICES option enables you to
inspect the performance of your stocks or funds during five
time periods.
1. Select option #2 by typing 2 or by moving the arrow keys
until option #2 is highlighted in the menu.
2. Press <ENTER>. The following information is then
displayed on your screen.
Please Select File to TABULATE.
3. Move the highlight bar with the cursor keys until the
SAMPLE.DAT file is highlighted.
4. Press <ENTER>. At this point, the program opens the file
and reads in the data.
Note: The Commands box is displayed on the bottom of the
screen. Most commands in Market PLUS give a listing of
options and how to activate them, or they require simple
responses to choices offered. In either case, you never have
to learn or remember complicated commands or syntax.
After the file is loaded, the following information is
displayed on your screen.
You have 130 as the last DAY of Data.
Enter number of DAYs (prior to 130)
for the 'CUSTOM' percent change column:
Number of DAYs ____
5.Enter the number of the day (prior to 130) for the "Custom"
percent change column and press <ENTER>.
For example, if you want to sort the investments based on the
performance over the past 3 days, type 3.
A vertical column is displayed on your screen listing the
fund or stock names to the left of the screen with six more
columns of numbers.
Column 1: lists the individual stocks or funds in the file
(most likely the SAMPLE.DAT file will include mutual funds
from the Fidelity family of funds).
Columns 2-4: (FUND %CHGE) lists the various percent changes
for the previous two weeks (days 1 through 10).
Column 5:(ALL DATA) lists the total percent gain or loss for
the entire data file (the last 130 days of closing prices).
3 - 2
Column 6:(CUSTOM) is a custom sort that allows you to view
the percent change in performance from the last day (130)
back whatever number of days you indicated on the last
screen. As you can immediately see, this can be quite a
valuable tool in comparing the recent performance of
securities for various time frames.
As you can see, the file holds up to 5 stocks or funds. For
longer listings, the second and third screens continue to
show all the data.
At the bottom of the screen, the following is displayed:
<S>ort <V>iew again <P>rinter <Q>uit
Sort Option
The <S>ort option enables you to sort selected information.
Let's sort the funds in order of the "% CHANGE IN DAY."
1. Press <S>. The heading "SORT" appears at the top of the
column.
2. Press <SPACEBAR> until the word "SORT" is in the "1 DAY"
column.
3. Press <ENTER>.
The sorting is done quickly. Now you should have a listing
of the fund that did the best (or had the highest percent
gain) over that one day, down to the fund that did the worst.
The names of the funds in descending performance are listed
at the far left-hand column.
Now is the time to experiment with the sort, so move around
and sort each of the columns and review the results.
View Again Option
The <V>iew again option enables you to relist the file's
investments based on the last sort (if a sort was performed).
Printer Option
The <P>rinter option enables you to print the sorted data.
Before selecting this option, ensure that your printer is on
and contains paper. The funds are printed in compressed
mode. Not only do all of the funds and percent values fit on
a single sheet, but they include the actual closing prices of
each fund for the past ten trading days.
Quit Option
The <Q>uit option enables you to return back to the MAIN MENU
when you are done viewing the screen report.
3 - 3
Now return to the MAIN MENU.
(HINT: If you desire several "CUSTOM" sorts, select option #2
from the MAIN MENU again and view this file over and over,
selecting any number of values for the custom sort column
without ever needing to reload the data file!)
3.3.2 VIEW CHARTS AND TECHNICAL INDICATORS Option
The VIEW CHARTS AND TECHNICAL INDICATORS option TBD.
1. Select option #3 by typing 3 or by moving the arrow keys
until option #3 is highlighted in the menu.
2. Press <ENTER>. If you have been on this tour since the
start, the following information is then displayed on your
screen.
CURRENTLY LOADED
C:\MPLUS\filename
Do you wish to
GRAPH/VIEW
the Data in the file?
This feature allows you to continuously reuse the data in
memory (the current data file loaded at any given time) for
all MAIN MENU and all DATA FILE MAINTENANCE options if you so
desire.
3. For right now press <ENTER> as the default response is "Y"
for YES. (By responding with "N" for NO, you can load any
other data file on the default drive.)
View Graphs Based on Last Sort?
<Yes/No>.
4. Press the "N" key for No. The following information is
then displayed on your screen.
View/Change Current Graph Settings?
<Yes/No>
5. Press "Y" to take a sneak preview of the CURRENT SETTINGS
FOR GRAPHS screen. This screen shows the default or
previous setup of the graphical presentation and status of
technical indicators selected for the two indicator
screens (primary and secondary). The purpose of this
screen is to not only provide you the full status of each
of the features for the Primary and Secondary Indicator
screens at a glance, but also to make changes rapidly and
with ease. The status of many of these items can be
turned ON or OFF, and changed to fit your individual needs
and investment strategy. More on customizing the output
to fit your requirements later. Remember, the charts you
see generated reflect immediately all settings of the
graph settings screen.
3 - 4
6. At this time you are probably anxious to view a graph, so
press <ENTER>.
If the setting of <A> Index Overlay was set to <ON>, then the
next screen displayed is a list of the funds or stocks in the
SAMPLE.DAT file.
7. Select any one of these funds to be used as an index for
constant reference on all funds. The Index overlay
feature automatically scales data based on the time frame
selected, and compares investments on an equal dollar-for-
dollar basis. After you set these to your liking, the
following information is displayed on your screen.
Currently there are 130 DAYs of data that can be graphed.
Please define the STARTING and ENDING DAYs for the graphs:
The default starting day is day 1. The default for the
ending day is the last day for which data is available.
NOTE: You can select any range of data to be displayed. The
maximum range being from the first to last day of data
available in the file, while the minimum range being any ten
day span.)
8. Select the FUND to graph. You can choose from among the
stocks listed by moving the arrow keys up and down. Once
you settle on the stock you want graphed, press <ENTER>.
Primary Indicator Screen
Now the graph of the selected security appears on the screen
(the Primary Indicator screen). The upper and larger of the
two view ports on the Primary Indicator screen displays the
price action (green line) of the selected investment, and any
technical indicators or moving averages set. The lower and
smaller view port displays the current "Investor Defined
Study" as set by option <C> of the Graph Settings screen.
9. To see the next graph in the file, press <F5>, or you can
access the pull-down menu system by pressing the <ALT> <S>
keys simultaneously. This activates the screens menu in
the upper left corner, from which you can select the
Automatic Next Screen <F5>.
10. To list the investments of the current file , press <F4>.
This takes you back to the securities or funds listed in
the file. This helps you to decide which one you want
charted next.
11. Choose a security or fund by moving the cursor and
highlighting the desired stock. Then press <ENTER>.
3 - 5
To return to the MAIN MENU (exiting you from the graphing
option), press <ESC>. The standard method to exit back to
the MAIN MENU is by pressing <F10> from the Graph Settings
screen. You can also press <ALT><U> to go to the Utility
screen, move the cursor key to highlight the exit option and
press <ENTER>.
Back to the charts...
12. If you feel a bit adventurous at this point, press <Fl>
to bring up the HELP screen for the pull-down menus. After
you get through reading any of the help items, press <Q>
to return immediately to the graph you left previously.
Try any of the commands you have immediate interest in.
Secondary Indicator Screen
In addition, MarketPLUS provides a very powerful secondary
indicator screen with four fully-adjustable view ports. If
you are still viewing a graph, press <F3> to display this
screen. The real power of this screen comes from the ability
to set each of the four view ports individually, thereby
being able to confirm or reject a technical market condition
via all four view ports (and naturally, using your trading
strategy). As in the Primary Indicator screen, you can
access all the features of the pull-down menus. For example,
you can draw lines and place points anywhere on the graphs,
print out a hard copy, change graph settings, etc.
13. Now press <F10> to exit back to the MAIN MENU.
As you have seen so far in this QUICK TOUR, there is quite a
bit of performance in using this program to aid the
individual investor. Of course, you can utilize this program
fully by creating your own data files (MAIN MENU option #4,
then DATA FILE MAINTENANCE MENU option #1).
3 - 6
3.3.3 DATA FILE MAINTENANCE Option
The DATA FILE MAINTENANCE option enables you to complete file
maintenance (or utility) functions.
1. Select option #4 by typing 4 or by moving the arrow keys
until option #4 is highlighted in the menu.
2. Press <ENTER>. The following information is then
displayed on your screen.
DATA FILE MAINTENANCE MENU
1.) CREATE A NEW FILE FOR INVESTMENT DATA
2.) CORRECT DATES/PRICES
3.) BACKUP OR DELETE ENTIRE DATA FILES
4.) ADJUSTMENT FOR DIVIDEND, SPLITS OR CAP. GAINS
5.) ADD NEW INVESTMENTS TO AN EXISTING FILE
6.) DELETE AN INVESTMENT FROM AN EXISTING FILE
7.) CHANGE DEFAULT DATA DRIVE
8.) RETURN TO MAIN MENU
<1> CREATE A NEW FILE FOR INVESTMENT DATA Option
The CREATE A NEW FILE FOR INVESTMENT DATA option enables you
to create a new file.
1. Select option #1 by typing 1 or by moving the arrow keys
until option #1 is highlighted in the DATA FILE
MAINTENANCE menu. A list of all the files on the default
drive you selected is displayed.
2. Select a NEW file name OTHER THAN THOSE SHOWN ON THE
SCREEN. You can have up to eight characters as the file
name. We like to use the name MY FIRST so that you know
that this is your first created data file.
3. Press <ENTER>. Once a new file has been entered it is
immediately created.
4. Specify how often to update this file: <D>aily, <W>eekly,
<M>onthly. Enter your choice.
5. Select the screen title to BEST describe your data:
<F> = Fund
<S> = Stock
<I> = Index
<C> = Commodity
<O> = Option
You are then prompted to specify how many funds you want to
track (up to a maximum of 5).
3 - 7
6. Enter the names of all the investments you want to track
in this file (1 to 5). Keep in mind, you can add
investments to an existing data file by using option #5 of
this menu. Remember that up to 13 characters can be used
as a name for an investment or security. By creating
longer length names, the remaining characters (beyond 13)
are dropped when saving this file.
IMPORTANT: Since MarketPLUS doesn't include an editor for
names, be sure to enter your investment names correctly (as
you want them).
<2> CORRECT DATES/PRICES Option
The CORRECT DATES/PRICES option enables you to correct dates
or prices easily. This feature on the Utility menu is useful
when you discover that you entered the wrong date or saved a
false quote on a stock or mutual fund, or a change in price
was made (after you saved the data). You can use option #2
to correct the date or price easily.
<3> BACKUP OR DELETE ENTIRE DATA FILES Option
The BACKUP OR DELETE ENTIRE DATA FILES option enables you to
backup or delete files. Naturally, you will want to backup
your file at least every 130 days to review previous trends
of a given stock or mutual fund. You can also use this
option to make exact copies of a file. (HINT: Use this
option now to make a backup of SAMPLE.DAT, under the name
TEST.DAT, and test all the remaining DATA FILE MAINTENANCE
options!)
<4> ADJUSTMENT FOR DIVIDEND, SPLITS OR CAP. GAINS Option
The ADJUSTMENT FOR DIVIDEND, SPLITS OR CAP. GAINS option
enables you to adjust all the data in a file whenever a
capital gains distribution or dividend payment drops the
listed price of the stock or fund. This helps to maintain
accurate changes in percentages, or strengths/weaknesses
indicated on the graphs.
<5> ADD NEW INVESTMENTS TO AN EXISTING FILE Option
The ADD NEW INVESTMENTS TO AN EXISTING FILE option enables
you to add a new stock or fund to your file (so long as there
are less than 5 investments in the file). Then go back to
DATA FILE MAINTENANCE option #2 to add previously missed
data. The program performs as if you always had it in the
file. The program generates "filler" data between 1 and 1.5
to fill the file until the actual data is entered. You can
also edit the prices with any ASCII text editor.
3 - 8
<6> DELETE AN INVESTMENT FROM AN EXISTING FILE Option
The DELETE AN INVESTMENT FROM AN EXISTING FILE option
enables you to remove any fund or stock in which you are no
longer interested. This is quick and simple and instantly
accomplished. One word of caution is that once the data is
gone, it is gone FOREVER! So be sure that you really do want
to delete a stock or fund.
<7> CHANGE DEFAULT DATA DRIVE Option
The CHANGE DEFAULT DRIVE option enables you to change your
data drive by designating a new data drive or directory to
access or store your data files. Once a drive is selected,
you are returned to the MAIN MENU.
<8> RETURN TO MAIN MENU Option
The RETURN TO MAIN MENU option enables you to exit back to
the MAIN MENU.
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE JUST BEEN READING... let's try a
hands-on exercise.
Data File Maintenance Practice Session
Now that you have a good idea of what the DATA FILE
MAINTENANCE menu options are about, let's try a couple.
1. Select option #3 BACKUP A FILE OF DATA from the DATA FILE
MAINTENANCE menu and press <ENTER>. You are asked if you
want to backup the data currently loaded.
2. If the file you have loaded is still SAMPLE.DAT, respond
YES. If the file you have loaded is not SAMPLE.DAT,
respond NO and select SAMPLE.DAT to backup.
3. When the input box is displayed, enter the name tour with
no extension (without the quotes) and press <ENTER>.
Normally, you would enter any filename for the backup.
You must use a name that does not currently exist on the
disk. The computer checks the present data files and, if
it is a duplicate, does not allow you to make a mistake.
4. The file TOUR.DAT is created and saved. Now you have an
identical clone file of SAMPLE.DAT.
5. After returning to the DATA FILE MAINTENANCE menu, select
option #2 CORRECT PRICES and press <ENTER>.
6. As is evident from your screen, TOUR.DAT file is in
memory. The following prompt is displayed: Do you wish to
EDIT the data in this file?
3 - 9
7. Select YES and press <ENTER>. You are then prompted to
select a stock or fund to edit.
8. Highlight a fund and press <ENTER>. The next screen
displays three columns of dates and prices.
9. Using any of the cursor movement keys identified in the
"commands" window, select any date/price combination to
edit. Then press <ENTER>. A small window in the center
of the screen appears and asks you to enter the correct
price for the date specified.
10. Enter the correct price and press <ENTER>. You are given
a chance to change it through immediate verification.
11. If the new price is correct, respond "Y," otherwise you
can reenter the price. You can correct more prices in
the file loaded prior to saving it. By pressing the
<ESC>, you can back out individually and ultimately
abandon any changes, or you can save the file.
Now after you return to the DATA FILE MAINTENANCE menu, you
can try out any of the other options (i.e., DELETE a file,
ADJUSTMENT for stock split, etc.).
If you use the file TOUR.DAT file which you have created (by
backing up SAMPLE.DAT), you will always have SAMPLE.DAT to
make more backup files if you wish to experiment.
3 - 10
Chapter 4 Technical Indicators & Graph Settings
4.1 A Word about Technical Indicators
Many of our licensed users feel that the technical indicator
tools programmed in MarketPLUS really help enable them to
make sound investment decisions. The key word here is HELP.
We at F2S Enterprises do not recommend that you base all
investment decision making on what you see on the graphs.
While the indicators are fully adjustable and can give strong
indications of how a stock or index will move in the future,
please remember that MarketPLUS's indicators use the closing
prices of previous history. In other words, calculations are
made with PAST data.
So keep in mind, what MarketPLUS tries to do is give you many
of the standard indicators used widely by professional
technicians and individual investors, while giving you an
edge in staying on the right side of the market. It's
completely up to you to determine the settings for each
indicator that best fit your investment strategies.
Putting Indicators in Perspective
Indicators are powerful tools to aid the investor to check
and compare what may happen in the future price action of a
fund, stock, or index. The use of several indicators greatly
magnifies the usefulness of indicators. However, price
action in the market-place is not a result of precise
mathematical functions. Therefore, future market trends can
not be determined through some magical math formula.
There certainly are patterns that repeat themselves in the
price action of stocks and funds. Much insight can
profitably be learned from the interpretation of these
patterns. But always remember, the "mechanical" use of any
particular indicator can give you a false sense of security
that can result in significant LOSSES.
Sometimes, we have users of these programs ask us, "Where
should the indicators be set?" There is no generic right
answer for all securities. You need to change the values,
and compare the results with your trading strategy. By
acquiring a basic understanding of the financial markets, the
fundamental values can be connected to an individual stock or
security, and sound (tried and true) trading strategies can
be applied. MarketPLUS then provides you with the "TOOLS" to
maximize profits and limit losses in the investment world.
4 - 1
Opportunities for Rewards Bring Risk of Losses
In investing for rewards, don' t worry when the market turns
against you and you have a loss. Just keep the loss small
and manageable, then see what you might have overlooked in
making your buy decision. Always strive for preservation of
capital by keeping losses small. Use the charts to tell you
when the risk is low and when risk is high. MarketPLUS helps
you track the history of your investments and helps show you
market tendencies.
The Trend of the Indicators
Much useful information can be gained from using the moving
averages, indexes, and indicators in this program. Such
indicators when used together in a tree-structured decision
process can minimize the "emotion-packed" buys and sells that
at one time or another have cost all of us in the market.
MarketPLUS has the ability to present the data in innumerable
ways. Give serious and careful study on "what the indicators
are showing" and how the indicators behave when certain
things happen to the price of the stock or fund. It is very
easy to change the setup number of days used by the
indicators. Experiment with the indicators to tailor them to
your trading or investing strategy and compare the result.
In this way, you can see relationships unfold in time for
worthy profits.
4.1.1 Charts
The working tools of technical analysts are charts. The
technical analysts uses charts to help explain, interpret,
and analyze the prices and the direction of the securities. A
chart conveys a message that can be easily grasped and
remembered. Charts save time and, best of all, make you
think about bringing out the facts and relationships shown in
the prices and shown in the indicators. Charts facilitate
money management, discipline, and trading decisions. Charts
help you keep the emotional whims out of your investing.
Prices tend to move in trends, a trend that is rising tends
to continue to rise. The stock moving sideways tends to
continue sideways. With charting, you can spot the trend
early and can take a profitable ride on the trend. Very few
trends continue forever.
Sometimes charts can be a self-fulfilling prophesy because so
many other people are also following charts and making their
investment decisions in a similar manner based on the chart
action. Lots of money switches when a stock crosses its
200-day moving average. If you are using a 180-day moving
average, does it matter if you can make some money?
4 - 2
To plot a chart, MarketPLUS puts the price action on the "Y"
up axis, and the time periods on the "X" horizontal axis.
MarketPLUS plots the data and illustrates the fact that
"prices fluctuate" and indeed they do. If there were no
volatility in the price of a security, there would be no
opportunity of profit in it either.
4.1.2 Straight Lines
In technical analysis we are always drawing straight lines
near things. When a line is drawn under the price action of
a security, we call them support lines as if the line can
hold the security price up above the support line (but does
not). If we draw the line on top of the several highest
peaks of the price action, the line becomes a resistance
line. This is the price that in the past has enticed some
investor to sell his stock. When we extend these lines into
the future, they become trend lines. When we want to see how
some change in the price affects changes in the indicators,
we draw vertical lines through the graphs of the price and
the indicator.
We say that when a stock is on the top 20% of our chart it is
over-bought and could begin to start a downward trend. When
the price drops to the bottom 20% of our chart it is
over-sold and could rise in price.
MarketPLUS draws a great variety of straight lines:
* Standard line (with % gain or loss),
* Extended line,
* Horizontal line,
* Vertical line,
* Overbought/oversold lines,
* Fibonnaci studies ( horizontal lines and angles),
* Andrews' Method, and
* Vertical cycle lines.
These line drawing features exist on the MarketPLUS Draw and
Utility pull-down menus.
4.1.3 Moving Averages
Moving averages can be used as a compass for the individual
investor interested in extending his or her investment
horizons. The moving average can be used to smooth out
erratic ups and downs in any kind of market data used for
charting purposes.
You can plot a moving average directly over the price data so
it shows more clearly the overall trend. Often in volatile
markets, the daily up and down squiggles can distort the
overall trend of the price. Rightly or wrongly, certain
standard moving averages such as the 200-day, or 13- week, or
39-week moving averages are used by many people to measure
the profit opportunities in the markets.
4 - 3
The simple moving average is calculated for each interval by
averaging the number of periods of data with each interval,
and dividing the total by the number of periods in the
interval. Thus, a five-day moving average would be the total
of the last five days price of a security divided by five.
MarketPLUS allows for the use of simple (arithmetic),
weighted, and exponential moving averages, the latter two
place more weight on the current values in the interval than
with the earlier values.
Well, so we have constructed a trend length moving average
through the price data. What does it mean? The general
rules are:
BUY when the current rising price rises above the moving
average.
SELL when the current falling price goes below the moving
average.
The moving average is one tool you can use to decide on a
purchase, but it is not a magic wand. It would be silly to
think that all companies below a moving average are unworthy
of investments. Using too short an interval for your moving
average could whipsaw your trades to the point the only one
making any money is your broker. On the other hand, using
too long an interval could trigger a buy signal too late to
make a profit or initiate a sell signal well after the price
has peaked. However, by using moving averages at different
time intervals, you can view the charts and determine past
profitable entry and exit points.
4.2 GRAPH SETTINGS Option
The GRAPH SETTINGS option enables you to set or make any
changes to the information displayed on the graphs. This
option is selected in two ways:
1. Respond "Y" when you first are asked to view the graph
settings. This occurs each time you load a data file and
enter option #3 from the MAIN MENU.
2. While viewing a graph, press <F7>, type g, or select
"GRAPH SETTINGS" from the Utility pull-down menu. While
you can do either of the above, you may find it easier to
initially set the indicators and settings you desire to
maintain, then using method #2 above, experiment with
setting changes. This is especially efficient, since you
will be able to " jump" in and out of any particular
investment graph, immediately display any calculated
changes from the graph settings, without having to
reselect the investment to be displayed.
4 - 4
Keep in mind that many of the indicators and settings that
follow in our discussion can be completely turned "OFF" for
your convenience. Others that are used widely, may be "ON"
at all times, but can be easily set to meet your needs.
The Graph Settings screen contains the current status for
both of the indicator screens: the Primary Indicator screen
and the Secondary Indicator screen. The Primary Indicator
screen displays a large and small graph view port, while the
Secondary Indicator screen displays four separate horizontal
graph view ports across the width of the screen. We will
first discuss the graph settings applied to the Primary
Indicator screen.
4.2.1 Primary Indicator Screen Settings
<A> Index Overlay
When activated, the Index overlay is a dashed white line
super-imposed on the security's graph. The identification of
the Index used is shown on the lower right side of the view
port. The Index is automatically drawn to proper scale based
on the beginning relationship of the Index to the Fund on the
first day shown in the graph. It is both interesting and
important to note that MarketPLUS calculates the starting
price of the Index and the security being compared to an
equal dollar value. This makes it easy to view the
performance differences between the two across the graph.
Any stock, fund, or index can be used as an index through any
review of the funds. This becomes important if you wish to
make direct comparison of the price action and performance
of a fund as directly compared to the Index. If you want to
know how General Motors is doing as compared with Ford,
simply select one as an index, and superimpose it directly on
top of the other.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the Index overlay "ON/OFF":
1. Press <A> while viewing the Graph Settings screen.
2. Respond "Y" to turn the index overlay ON, or "N" to turn
the index overlay "OFF." If you select "Y," choose a
security or investment in your data file to be used as the
index when you leave the Graph Settings screen. A list is
displayed on the screen for easy selection.
<B> Moving Averages
The use of moving averages is a simple trend-following
technique that seems to work very well for many investors. It
works because you must balance it to the market you want to
analyze. Parameters are different for each market.
4 - 5
Moving averages have gained widespread use as a simple, but
effective, technical tool for a number of reasons. One
reason that many investors like to use moving averages is the
"smoothing out" effect that they have on the erratic or
volatile movement in the day-to-day changes of a particular
index or stock. Current and past overall trends can be
interpreted much easier through a moving average than the
jerky peaks and valleys of daily price action.
The "moving" part of moving average simply means that the
above calculation continues for each successive days'
prices. In other words, the sixth day' s price would be
considered in the arithmetic, while the first day' s price
would be removed, and so on. This continuous process
provides a less erratic line displayed on a chart, either
compared with the stock or shown by itself.
Since the moving average displays a calculated line of past
price action, it can be viewed as a continuously changing
line of support and resistance when displayed with the actual
prices. When the price of a stock or index crosses to the
downside of its moving average, this is considered to be a
"SELL" signal or one sign that the stock or index is dropping
in price compared to its own average. If the price of the
stock or index has crossed above its own average, it shows
that the price has outperformed its own average and is
considered to be a "BUY" signal. While it is true that the
moving average line is simply a display of past history, it
can be quite an effective tool in staying on the "right side"
of the market. Try using a wide range of moving average
values that best fit your trading strategies and the stock' s
on-going price action. By using other technical tools and
longer term moving averages such as a 200-day (39- 40 week)
average, a better long term picture of the markets can be
interpreted. (MarketPLUS Extended Database with 540 days
allows the long term moving averages to be practically
implemented.)
Two moving average lines can be superimposed on the price
action of a fund or stock with option <B>. Either one or
both moving average lines can be turned on or off. These can
be set individually according to your wishes. The
identification of the number of days used in each moving
average is shown on the top right of the graph. This
identification is style coordinated by color of the text and
the moving average line style and color for ease of
recognition.
MarketPLUS implements the simple, weighted, and exponentially
weighted moving averages in option <B>. A lot has been said
about exponential moving averages, because the calculation
lends more weight to recent price data and less to past data.
Try all three types of moving averages for yourself. In many
cases, the simple moving average can be more profitable if
applied consistently. The weighted moving average requires
the computer a bit more time to calculate, especially the
longer time frames.
4 - 6
Simple Moving Averages
There are many ways to calculate a moving average. The most
easily understood method is a "SIMPLE" or arithmetic moving
average. As an example, if you were to use a five-day moving
average, it would be calculated by adding together the
individual closing prices for five consecutive days and
dividing their sum total by five:
DAY1 = 12.48
DAY2 = 12.35
DAY3 = 12.26
DAY4 = 12.52
DAY5 = 12.84
(12.48 + 12.35 + 12.26 + 12.52 + 12.84) / 5 =
(62.45) / 5 = 12.49 average price over 5 days
Exponential Moving Averages
Several of our users have asked for the method of calculation
used in the exponential moving averages because it differs
slightly from a simple arithmetic moving average. In
conceptual form, the routine is calculated as
let factor = 2/(movavedays + 1)
let movave(today) = (factor * todays price) + (1 - factor) *
movave(yesterdays)
This weighing is most important when very short time duration
moving averages are used, such as 5 or 7 days, etc. Without
making specific recommendations for specific markets, a good
rule of thumb for moving average values (as a starting point
for daily data) is:
Short-term trading 3 to 14 periods
Intermediate-term trading 15 to 50 periods
Long-term trading 50 to 200 periods
You might also try plotting 2 or 3 moving averages of various
periods (i.e., 30, 50, 150).
EASY SETTING:
To change the settings for moving averages:
1. Press <B> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display moving
averages on the Primary Indicator screen.
2. Respond "N" to turn the moving averages OFF. The moving
averages are not displayed on the Primary Indicator
screen.
4 - 7
3. Respond "Y" to turn the moving averages ON. The moving
averages are displayed on the Primary Indicator screen.
You are asked if you wish to display the first of two
moving average lines. If you answer "Y," you are prompted
first for the type of moving average (simple, weighted or
exponential), then to input the number of days (or
weeks/months) on which to calculate the moving average.
You have the opportunity to set a second moving average in
the same fashion.
<C> Investor Defined Studies
The Investor Defined Studies (IDS) is a series of technical
studies the investor can select at will, to be displayed on
the lower graph view port of the Primary Indicator screen.
Due to the wide diversity of MarketPLUS users, we do not
expect that every study will be utilized by all users.
Therefore, we provide three levels of MarketPLUS (Levels 1,
2, and 3) for licensing. Chapter 5 describes all of the IDS
options available in this Shareware version.
EASY SETTING:
To select an IDS option:
1. Press <C> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. A list
of technical studies is displayed for you to select from.
2. Select an IDS feature and respond to the prompts.
<D> Overbought/Oversold Line Values
Overbought lines appear in the top half of the price graph of
an investment. They serve as a reminder that nothing goes up
forever, and that we might want to give some thought to
selling when the price goes unrealistically high.
Oversold lines appear in the lower half of the price graph of
an investment. They serve as a reminder that a stock or fund
seldom goes down forever, and at some point they may well be
a bargain worth buying.
It is not unusual to see the Overbought line at 0.75 or 0.80,
and the Oversold line at 0.25 or 0.20; however, you can place
these lines wherever you choose.
EASY SETTING:
To change the settings of the Overbought/Oversold lines:
1. Press <D> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to change the OB/OS
line settings.
2. Respond "N" to keep line settings as previously set.
4 - 8
3. Respond "Y" to change the line settings. You are prompted
to enter an overbought factor. Since this sets the
higher of the two lines, the factor should be greater than
0.5 (0.5 to 0.99). Next, you are prompted to enter the
oversold factor. Since this sets the lower of the two
lines, the factor should be less than 0.5 (0.01 to 0.5).
<E> Upper/Lower Trend Line
In set-up mode, you can specify the individual days for the
moving average lines that can be offset from the data and
used to indicate Support and Resistance price levels. These
two trend lines are entirely separate and can be offset from
the data itself by the percentage points that you specify.
For example, you may specify that the Support Moving Average
Line be represented by .98 times the 9-day moving average
line, and the Resistance Line for higher prices be shown as
1.03 times the 21-day moving average line. Plotting these
lines forms a channel in which the price data normally
occurs. It is easy to see exceptions where the price
appears to drop too low, or increases too rapidly. By using
the upper/lower trend lines, you have, in effect, created a
more "custom" pair of trading bands than in option <F>.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the Upper/Lower Trend Lines "ON/OFF":
1. Press <E> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display the upper
and lower trend lines.
2. Respond "N" to turn the trend lines OFF.
3. Respond "Y" to turn the trend lines ON. You are prompted
to enter a LOWER trend line factor.
4. Enter a LOWER trend line factor in percent (i.e., 0.90 to
0.99). You are prompted to enter the moving average
factor for the LOWER trend line.
5. Enter a moving average factor (days/weeks/months).
6. Repeat the same procedure for the UPPER trend line. One
exception, you normally enter a higher percent factor
(i.e., 1.00 to 1.10). By experimenting, you are able to
set the trend lines to "catch" the tops and bottoms of the
past price action.
4 - 9
<F> Filter Zone
Filter Zones are sometimes called "trading bands." A filter
zone is an offset from a moving average of a given
percentage. The best buy/sell signals occur when the price
action is at or near the limits of the trading bands. It is
common to set the width of the filter zone so that it
encompasses most of the price data (90-95%). Buy signals
occur when the price action is at or near the lower band and
sell signals are at the upper band.
Filter Zones are an optional special case of the
Support/Resistance lines. Filter Zones run parallel to the
graph and are formed by selecting one Moving Average Point
and offsetting it the same distance (in percentage) above and
below the stock price data.
One significant difference between the Filter Zones and the
Support/Resistance Zones is that the Filter zones act as a
continuous channel which can be tailored to fit a trading
pattern, including the majority of highs and lows
establishing a continuous short term trading range.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the Filter Zone "ON/OFF":
1. Press <F> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display a filter
zone.
2. Respond "N" to turn the filter zone OFF.
3. Respond "Y" to turn the filter zone ON. You are prompted
to enter a moving average value for the filter zone.
4. Enter a moving average value and press <ENTER>. You are
prompted to enter a percent value that is used equally
above and below the moving average line.
5. Enter a percent value and press <ENTER>. In effect, if
you specify a 3% value, you would draw a moving average
line shifted vertically 3 percent above where the "normal"
moving average line would be plotted. Likewise, you would
have a moving average line drawn 3 percent below the
"normal" moving average line as well - creating a 6% zone
about a typical moving average line.
<G> Chart Presentation
The data graph for the security is shown with a green plot on
the screen. The price movement area of the graph can be
enhanced by using the price lines in option <G> on the
Primary Indicator screen. This cross-hatching brings out the
data for easy viewing and understanding, particularly when
large groups of people are viewing the screen, as in an
investor' s instructional class.
4 - 10
There are four modes in which graphs can be displayed. These
are with Price Lines, Grid Dots, both (price lines and grid
dots) and none. You have the option to display a margin
along the right side of the charts (between the last data
point plotted and the right border of each view port). This
has been found to make chart interpretation much easier for
most investors. You also have great control over the color
presentation of the background surrounding the graph view
ports. There are 38 color combinations to choose from. You
are encouraged to try all combinations of option <G> to find
which settings suit your individual preference.
EASY SETTING:
To change the Chart Presentation setting:
1. Press <G> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to select one of the following:
<G>rid only - This displays a grid dot vertically at
each vertical scale point and at each data point
horizontally.
<P>rice lines - This draws a vertical line from the
base of the graph up to the closing price of each data
point.
<B>oth - This turns both price lines and grid dots on.
<N>one - This leaves the indicator screen background
blank.
As mentioned previously, you can also display a right margin
(or none), and alter the color settings of the background.
4.2.2 Secondary Indicator Screen Settings
The Secondary Indicator screen is composed of four graph view
ports located one above the other. This arrangement, with
the price and the indicators, allows you to compare the
indicators with the actual price chart. The same automatic
spread and scaling features of the data used on the Primary
Indicator screen are continued in the Secondary Indicator
Screen.
Primary features of the Secondary Indicator screen are (1)
the price plot with Bollinger Bands, (2) the Relative
Strength Index, (3) the Moving Average Convergence/Divergence
(MACD), (4) the Williams Oscillator, and (5) moving average
plots in each view port (see option "L").
4 - 11
<H> Williams Oscillator (William's Percent R)
This study is a variation on the basic stochastics. This
study was popularized by Larry Williams. This indicator
oscillates between a value of 0 and -100. We consider -20 as
an overbought area and -80 as an undersold area. This, like
all stochasics, is a powerful short-term trading study. We
have noticed, however, that if longer time periods of 30 to
65 are used, one can develop a system of identifying trading
cycles. The recommended periods for short to intermediate
trading is 9 to 14. Consider a strong buy signal when the %R
has dropped to -100 and has remained at this level for 3 to 5
periods and begins to turn up to the - 80 level. A sell
signal is generated when the %R has peaked at 0 and has begun
to drop and broken the -20 level.
The Williams Oscillator is based on determining how high or
low a stock or fund is in relationship to its trading range
for the last N number of days. When a security's daily
closing price is at the Highest High of the time interval,
the oscillator is at the extreme top line of the plot.
Conversely, when the stock or fund has been falling for X
days, the oscillator is in the -100 bottom.
The calculation is as follows:
(Highest price in N days - Today's price in N days)
W.O. = --------------------------------------------------
(Highest price in N days - Lowest price in N days)
EASY SETTING:
To set the Williams Oscillator:
1. Press <H> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display a filter
zone. This is a constant indicator (as are the others on
the Secondary Indicator screen), so you are only asked for
the time period for the William's Oscillator
(Days/weeks/months).
2. Enter the time period and press <ENTER>.
<I> Wilder's Relative Strength Index (RSI)
The Wilder's Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a momentum
oscillator comparing the strength of the "average ups" to the
"average downs" during the number of days for which the
oscillator is set. For detailed RSI information and
explanation, refer to the book, "New Concepts in Technical
Trading System" by J. Welles Wilder, Jr., P.O. Box 459,
Greensboro, North Carolina, 27402.
4 - 12
The classic RSI was applied to a 14-day period of closes of a
stock or commodity. Typical RSI range is from 40 to 80 in a
bull market, and 25 to 65 in a bear market. A bull market is
indicated by a continuing series of higher highs and higher
lows in the RSI. Lower highs and lower lows are
characteristic of a bear market.
A top failure swing occurs when the peak in the RSI (over 70)
fails to exceed the previous peak in a up trend, followed by
a downside break of the previous trend. A bottom failure
swing occurs when the RSI is in a downtrend (under 30), fails
to set a new low, and then proceeds to a previous peak.
Divergences between the slopes of the RSI and the price are
warnings of an impending price trend direction change. The
change may not always occur immediately, so other tools must
be used to confirm the change!
Classic trend line analysis can be used to determine RSI
support and resistance levels. Moving averages can also be
used for RSI support and resistance. Many time patterns,
such as pendants, head-and-shoulders, etc., are more readily
seen in the action of the RSI than with the price action of
the stock itself.
The calculations are based on the relationship
RSI = 100 - ((100)/(l+RS))
where
RSI = "average ups" for X days/"average downs" for X days"
X = numbers of running days for which the oscillator is set
Commonly used time intervals for the RSI range from 7 to 21
days, depending upon the wishes of the investor. The
shorter the interval in days, the more responsive the
indicator to current events. The RSI graph shows how the
price action has moved compared to itself for various
periods of time. "Is the stock going up faster than it did
last week?" is readily shown by this indicator.
The fact that a moving average of the RSI index is drawn
makes the RSI indicator even more powerful. Consider using
the moving average of the oscillator as a "trigger."
In summary, the Relative Strength Index is a tool that adds a
new dimension in chart interpretation:
Tops and Bottoms are indicated when the RSI goes above 70 or
drops below 30.
Chart Formations may be more apparent in the RSI than in the
plot of the data itself.
4 - 13
Failure Swings above 70 or below 30 on the RSI scale are
strong indications of market reversals.
Support and Resistance often show up more pronounced on the
RSI than on the data itself.
Divergence between the RSI and the price trends is a very
strong indication that a market turning point is very near.
Give this RSI a lot of study along with the price action of
the stock or fund being graphed. It is powerful, especially
if used in conjunction with other studies such as the
Bollinger Bands and MACD.
EASY SETTING:
To change the RSI setting:
1. Press <I> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to enter the time frame (in
days/weeks/months) for the RSI.
2.Enter the time frame and press <ENTER>.
<J> Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD)
A complete description of Moving Average Convergence
Divergence (MACD) is provided in Chapter 5 - Investor Defined
Studies.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the Moving Average Convergence/Divergence "ON/OFF":
1. Press <J> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display the
convergence/divergence of two moving averages.
2. Respond "N" to turn the MACD OFF.
3. Respond "Y" to turn the MACD ON. You are prompted to
enter two different moving average values.
4. Enter two different moving average values and press
<ENTER>.
<K> Bollinger Bands
The top presentation is the price of the fund or stock. This
is a "cameo" of the price action. Although the vertical
scale is reduced, the plot of the price is still totally in
accurate scale. It is on this price plot that the Bollinger
Bands are shown.
4 - 14
The Bollinger Bands have been devised by John Bollinger
(formerly of the Financial News Network). Bollinger Bands
are difficult to calculate because the computer must do a
"ton" of calculations for each data point. To calculate the
Bollinger Bands, the Standard Deviation is calculated for the
moving time interval. Standard Deviation is a statistical
measurement of the variability of a given sample of data. For
normally distributed data (of which stock prices are not!),
it can be shown that 90% of the data will fall within
plus-or-minus 2 Standard Deviation of the mean data point.
Confidence Limits can be developed on this basis. Commonly,
Bollinger Bands are calculated on 2 Standard Deviation based
on the last 20 or 21 (a month for daily plots) days of
trades.
When the Bollinger Bands narrow, this indicates that a
consolidation in price is occurring. It is not uncommon to
have a break-out in price after a period of consolidation. In
many cases, when the price line has passed below the moving
average, the price "tests" the lower band. If the price
breaks outside the lower band, the lower trend most likely
continues for some time. When the price stops "hugging" the
lower band and turns up, it most likely tests the moving
average line before a longer trend is established.
By the same measure, when the price line has passed above the
moving average, the price "tests" the upper band. If the
price breaks outside the upper band, the positive moves most
likely continue. When the price stops "hugging" the upper
band and turns down, it most likely tests the moving average
line before a longer trend is established.
When analyzing the relationship of the price with the
Bollinger Bands, you might observe the current status of the
Wilder's RSI. A divergence of RSI peaks helps confirm the
Bollinger Bands and the eventual price direction.
As with all the mathematical calculations of MarketPLUS, the
Bollinger Band calculation time can be reduced dramatically
if a math co-processor card is installed in your computer. If
your computer does not have a math chip, and the Bollinger
band calculations seem to take too long, don't worry. Just
keep the Bollinger Bands turned OFF most of the time. When
you really want to check out something, turn the Bollinger
bands ON for several individual calculations, the turn them
OFF again. This seems to work O.K. for most users of the
program.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the Bollinger Bands "ON/OFF":
1. Press <K> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to plot the
indicator.
4 - 15
2. Respond "N" to turn the Bollinger Bands OFF.
3. Respond "Y" to turn the Bollinger Bands ON. You are
prompted to enter a standard deviation factor (1 to 3).
4. Enter a standard deviation factor and press <ENTER>. You
are prompted to enter a moving average value for the
bands (7 - 50).
5. Enter a moving average value and press <ENTER>.
<L> Three indicator's Moving Average
The indicators tend to be various kinds of "wiggly" lines
that sometimes are difficult to determine if there is any
"trend" to the indicator, or maybe it is just noise. One
easy way to get a good feel of what is going on with an
indicator is to put a moving average through the indicator.
One of our favorites (with daily data) is 21-day moving
average for the indicators. This is a "month," so trends
show up better when the moving averages are used with the
indicators. The nine-day and fourteen-day values seem to
help trigger buy/sell points as well. You may want to do
some experimentation here.
The real power of this method of transposing a moving average
line is as follows:
Only a single value must be entered.
* Each indicator's calculated values are used in calculating
its independent moving average value. In other words, a
single moving average is not just "overlayed" on top of all
the studies - each moving average is unique to its' own
indicator.
* By using the same time period on each indicator, price
action is sometimes easier to evaluate.
* This option has also been selected to set as a trigger line
(appears as white dots) on a number of the IDS options
displayed in the lower graphics view port of the Primary
Indicator screen.
EASY SETTING:
To turn the three indicators' moving average "ON/OFF":
1. Press <L> while viewing the Graph Settings screen. You
are prompted to indicate if you wish to display the moving
average on the three lower indicators.
2. Respond "N" to turn the moving average display OFF.
4 - 16
3. Respond "Y" to turn the moving average display ON. You
are prompted to enter a moving average value.
4. Enter a moving average value and press <ENTER>. The
minimum value you can enter is 3, while the maximum is 90
percent of the files total prices. For example, if your
file currently stores 129 prices per security, the maximum
moving average value would be 116 (129 X 0.9 = 116.1).
4.2.3 AUTOMATIC FEATURES
Automatic Scaling of the Graph on Y-Axis
Regardless of the movement of the data, the program provides
automatic scaling. This covers the range of the data
movement of the fund or stock for the days graphed. In
addition, if an Index is plotted, the range of the Index is
made available so that all permanent data can be viewed.
Price scaling is shown on the left scale on the graphs. More
decimal places are now shown to this scaling for those people
doing currency trading.
Automatic Scaling of Price Change Percentage on Y-Axis
This useful feature consists of a percentage change scale on
the right-hand side of the Primary Indicator screen. This
simplifies all the mental arithmetic we all do in finding if
this change is a 20% change or what. When the exact
gain/loss is needed, the standard line has a new built-in
price change calculator too.
Automatic Spread and Scaling of Data on X-Axis
The first DATE of interest is shown on the left-hand side of
the screen, while the last DATE for the graph is shown on the
right side of the screen. These are shown on line 2 of the
graphs. With the zoom function you can narrow this range
down to any 10 data point's time interval. This, in effect,
gives an automatic "zoom" effect when you want to very
carefully study only a few days data such as 15 or 20 days in
oration. The appropriate dates are automatically shown just
above the graph on the right and left-hand sides.
4 - 17
Chapter 5 Investor Defined Studies (IDS)
There are three Investor Defined Studies (IDS) available in
this Shareware version:
Cone Index
Price/Moving Average Oscillator
Moving Average Convergence/Divergence
IDS provides some basic insight to these technical studies.
Since MarketPLUS makes use of only the closing price of any
security, some of the IDS formulas presented are slighted
modified in MarketPLUS. For example, Larry Williams'
percent R uses the lowest "low" in N days, whereas MarketPLUS
will calculate Williams' percent R utilizing the lowest
"close" in N days. Keep in mind that most charting programs
use the "high," "low," and "volume," as well as the "close"
of a price. The MarketPLUS database does not allow for these
other values, as this is a tradeoff for the benefits unique
to Market PLUS.
Just as many technicians will argue that technical studies
developed for the futures market find direct application in
stocks and mutual funds, many technicians will agree that
slight differences in programming an indicator are not as
significant as applying these indicators consistently in
trading.
5.1 Cone Group Performance Comparison Index (Cone Index)
The Cone Group Performance Comparison Index (CGPCI) was
developed by Roy T. Cone as a technical study to display the
direct performance of an individual security against the
performance of an entire portfolio of investments or indices.
This indicator is similar in concept to the Comparative
Relative Strength with the added feature of comparing one
security against the mean value of the entire group whether
there are two securities or fifty securities in the file.
Essentially, the Cone Index is very much like a Dow Jones
Industrials or S&P 500 index, except that it includes all the
securities in any one Market PLUS data file. In addition, it
displays the momentum of this difference by allowing you to
specify the time range to compare from with the current
value.
5 - 1
The Cone Index calculation is as follows:
(security price/sec.filter.av)
------------------------------ = Cone Index
(group price/group.filter.av)
where:
N = time frame selected
sec.filter.av = security price(previous - N days ago)+
security price(today - N days ago)+
security price(next - N days ago)
-------------------------------------------
3
groupfilter.av = group average price (previous - N days
ago)+ group average price (today - N
days ago)+ group average price (next - N
days ago)
-----------------------------------------
3
Actually, the Cone Index itself is invisible. What is
plotted is the security's performance against the index.
Simply stated, if the value of the histogram or line is above
the neutral line, the security is outperforming the average
of all the securities in the file. If the oscillating line
is below the neutral, then the security is under performing
the average of the group. If the oscillating line is
directly on the neutral line, then the security is performing
as well as the average of the group.
This can be a powerful tool for finding entry and exit points
because you can graphically see a stock lose momentum against
the average of the group many times before the price peaks
(the security's value begins to drop toward the neutral
(mean) line). We have found that using a time frame of 7 to
25 to be very significant trading sector mutual funds.
5.2 Price/Moving Average Oscillator
The Price/Moving Average Oscillator displays the price of a
security divided by a specified exponential moving average
about a neutral line. The typical entry and exit points of
the basic moving average system seldom are easy to
graphically anticipate until the crossing point actually
occurs. By oscillating the difference between the price and
the moving average about a horizontal line, not only are the
entry and exit points easier to visualize, but the indicator
shows the historical extremes and normal limits of the
differences.
5 - 2
The Price/Moving Average Oscillator calculation is as
follows:
Price/MA = Price (today) - EXPMA(N days ago)
where:
EXPMA = an exponential moving average
N = moving average periods
5.3 Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD)
This indicator is formed by the difference in two different
exponential moving average lines. This is called the Moving
Average Convergence Divergence (MACD). The difference
between these two moving averages is plotted as one
resulting line oscillating about a neutral line. Finally, a
third moving average is calculated and plotted about the
resulting line, and serves as a "trigger" line to generate
buy/sell signals. This indicator was first written about and
popularized by Gerald Appel in 1979. Merely subtracting the
longer period moving average from the shorter period one
leaves you with an oscillator that gives quicker and more
timely signals. It is common for the longer moving average
to be 2, 3, even 4 times the time length of the shorter time
moving average. While Market PLUS allows you to set any
values you wish, Gerald Appel recommends using a 12- period
and 26-period MACD with a 9-period "trigger" line. To
activate the trigger line, set option "L" of the graph
settings screen.
The MACD is most useful in determining intermediate to long
term trends. Divergences in a security become quite apparent
with the MACD, proving effective for forecasting (a word we
don't use too often) future price direction, if used in
conjunction with other indicators (i.e., Wilder's RSI,
Bollinger Bands, etc.). Finally the trigger line is plotted
about the resulting line.
The MACD calculation is as follows:
MACD = EPMA1-EPMA2
where:
EPMA1= First exponential moving average
EPMA2= Second exponential moving average
5 - 3
Chapter 6 MarketPLUS Data File Format
MarketPLUS was designed to enable the investor to make full
use of a single piece of information, the closing price of a
security or other investment. A tremendous amount of
analysis can be performed with this information as evident in
this program. For those of you who write your own programs,
or wish to utilize MarketPLUS data in other programs or
applications, we include the following example for you to
understand the structure of a "typical" MarketPLUS data file.
You are able to view and edit any MarketPLUS data file by
simply loading it into any standard word processing program
that has the ability to read and write in ASCII format (also
sometimes referred to as "non-document" or "programming"
mode).
Data is written and read sequentially by MarketPLUS. The
following explains how a data file is read in initially. For
our example, we will use a file that stores 3 mutual funds,
containing 8 closing prices each.
1. The file is first opened
2. The number of investments, number of closing prices for
each investment, time frame (daily, weekly, or monthly),
and type of investment (fund, stock, commodity, etc.) is
first read into memory.
3. Each date is read in. The number of dates matches the
number of closing prices per investment (Lines 2 through
9).
4. The first investment name is read into memory (Line 10).
5. All closing prices for the first investment are read into
memory (Lines 11 through 18).
6. Steps 4 and 5 are repeated for each remaining investment
(Lines 19 through 36).
7. After the last closing price for the last investment is
read in, the file is closed.
8. The data remains in memory until another data file is
opened or until one leaves the program.
NOTE: Most word processing programs do not list line
numbers as we have below ! This is provided only to help you
examine the data file more clearly.
6 - 1
Line 1> 3, 8, "Day," "FUND"
Line 2> "07/09/87"
Line 3> "07/10/87"
Line 4> "07/11/87"
Line 5> "07/13/87"
Line 6> "07/14/87"
Line 7> "07/15/87"
Line 8> "07/16/87"
Line 9> "07/17/87"
Line 10> "FIDELITY"
Line 11> 17.25
Line 12> 17.31
Line 13> 17.30
Line 14> 17.48
Line 15> 17.51
Line 16> 17.64
Line 17> 17.68
Line 18> 17.54
Line 19> "GROW&INC"
Line 20> 16.83
Line 21> 16.90
Line 22> 16.74
Line 23> 16.89
Line 24> 16.91
Line 25> 17.01
Line 26> 17.09
Line 27> 16.97
Line 28> "MAGELLAN"
Line 29> 52.31
Line 30> 52.35
Line 31> 52.38'
Line 32> 52.98
Line 33> 52.96
Line 34> 53.43
Line 35> 53.60
Line 36> 53.12
Figure C-1. Typical MarketPLUS Data File
6 - 2
Chapter 7 DOS Error Messages
While MarketPLUS trips for the most common errors, you may
receive one of the code numbers (in rare occurrence) listed
below. These code numbers are returned by MarketPLUS.
Code Message Code Message
1 Next without FOR 51 Internal error
2 Syntax Error 52 Bad filename or number
3 Return without GOSUB 53 File not found
4 Out of DATA 54 Bad file mode
5 Illegal Function Call 55 File already open
6 Overflow 56 FIELD statement active
7 Out of Memory 57 Device I/O error
8 Label not defined 58 File already exists
9 Subscript out of range 59 Bad record length
10 Duplicate definition 61 Disk full
11 Division by zero 62 Input past end of file
12 Illegal in direct mode 63 Bad record number
13 Type mismatch 64 Bad filename
14 Out of string space 67 Too many files
16 Strng form too complex 68 Device unavailable
17 Cannot continue 69 Communication Buffer overflow
18 Function not defined 70 Permission denied
19 No RESUME 71 Disk not ready
20 RESUME without error 72 Disk-media error
24 Device time-out 73 Feature unavailable
25 Device fault 74 Rename across disks
26 FOR without NEXT 75 Path file access error
27 Out of Paper 76 Path not found
29 WHILE without WEND 80 Feature removed
30 WEND without WHILE 81 Invalid name
33 Duplicate LABEL 82 Table not found
35 Subprogram not defined 83 Index not found
37 Argument-count mismatch 84 Invalid column
38 Array not defined 85 No current record
40 Variable required 86 Dupl. value for unique index
50 Field overflow 87 Invalid opern on null index
88 Database needs repair
The following is a list of the codes that have been reported
and the probable reason.
ERROR PROBABLE REASON FOR ERROR
5 Incorrect graphics card or monitor specified in
configuration.
6,9,11,13 Invalid price in the database (i.e., a "O" or "O"
instead of a real value). Also can be caused by a
continuous string of non-varying prices (1.e., 20
days of unchanging prices).
7 - 1
7 Not enough memory in your system to load
MarketPLUS or too large a data file. Also happens
on occasion trying to run MarketPLUS when using
PC_TOOLS. Remove TSR memory resident programs.
24,25,26 Printer is not turned on, is off-line, or is out
of paper.
62 Invalid MarketPLUS database file (or wrong
capacity).
7 - 2
Chapter 8 Function Keys & HOT Keys
This chapter defines function and hot keys and provides a
description of their meanings.
8.1 FUNCTION KEYS
What are Function Keys?
The "function" keys are the 10 to 12 special keys to the
left or on the top row of your keyboard, depending upon your
system. The function keys are special keys that can be used
for programmers and can be preassigned to perform special
features.
How Function Keys Work in MarketPLUS
In MarketPLUS, we have made good use of the function keys for
items that is repeatedly done. Thus, function keys are time
savers. Function keys have been assigned in a logical
sequence, and in keeping with the usage conventions of most
popular software programs. Function keys have global
assignments in the graphics mode, and can be called
immediately.
Function Key Definitions
<F1> HELP
The <F1> key is the familiar "help" key. When this key is
pressed while in the graphics part of the program, the help
text is displayed. You can scroll through the help text to
find the answers to your questions. The help text cannot be
as complete as the documentation, but it answers many
questions quickly, and is a quick reminder of what each
feature does.
<F2> Redraw Pr<I>mary Screen
The <F2> key is available in the Screen pull-down menu. This
key redraws the Primary Indicator screen, clearing any
user-placed lines or symbols. <i> is the HOT key (discussed
later in this chapter).
<F3> Redraw Se<C>ondary Screen
The <F3> key is available in the Screen pull-down menu. This
key redraws the Secondary Indicator screen. <c> is the HOT
key.
<F4> Select <N>ext Graph
The <F4> key is available in the Screen pull-down menu. This
key displays a listing of the next investment for you to
choose for graphing. <n> is the HOT key.
8 - 1
<F5> <A>utomatic Next
The <F5> key is available in the Screen pull-down menu. This
key automatically graphs the next investment in the file.
This will graph the next investment as the investments are
loaded in from disk storage unless the investments have been
sorted over in the tabular sorts. If the file has been
sorted, then the next graph shown will be next in the sorted
listing. <a> is the HOT key.
<F6> <O>B/OS Lines
The <F6> key is available in the Utility pull-down menu.
This key toggles the overbought/oversold lines ON/OFF on
either the Primary or Secondary Indicator screens. The
location of the OB/OS lines can be defined under graph
settings. <o> is the HOT key.
<F7> <G>raph Settings:
The <F7> key is available in the Utility pull-down menu.
This key displays the screen that shows how all the various
indicators for MarketPLUS are setup. Of course, you can
easily change the setup for any indicator. Just follow the
prompts. <g> is the HOT key.
<F8> <P>rint Graph
The <F8> key is available in the Utility pull-down menu.
This key allows the printer driver to be invoked for the
printer defined in the configuration of MarketPLUS. This is
how hard copies of any graph can be easily made. The printer
must be on-line and ready to go. <p> is the HOT key.
<F9> <Z>oom
The <F9> key is available in the Screen pull-down menu. This
key allows you to select any 11 data point or larger portion
of the graph for magnification so you can give it more
careful study. After you have completed your detailed study,
zoom again back to the full size presentation. <z> is the
HOT key.
<F10> E<X>it
The <F10> key is available in the Utility pull-down menu.
This key exits the program and takes you back to the DOS
prompt. <x> is the HOT key.
<ALT><F1> Load New <F>ile
The <ALT><F1> key is available in the Utility pull-down menu.
This key combination takes you back to the list of data files
on the designated drive. This is a time saver if you
maintain several data files of investments. <F> key is the
HOT key.
8 - 2
<F11> Currently Unassigned
<F12> Currently Unassigned
8.2 HOT KEYS
What are HOT Keys?
The HOT keys are comprised of special keyboard assignment of
the regular keyboard keys under special situations. HOT keys
are not global in the graphics mode, in the same way that the
Function keys are global. But HOT keys are handy and can be
a real time saver, bypassing the pull-down menu system.
HOT keys are easy to spot on the color menu screen (EGA/VGA
only), because there is a color change and the HOT keys are
shown in red. Some functions, especially the line Drawing
routines, do not have Function keys assigned, so HOT keys are
the best way to call these powerful routines without having
to access the pull-down menu system.
We are sorry to say that all HOT keys are not intuitive and
match with the first letter of the function to be called.
This is because there are so many HOT keys used. Twenty-two
HOT keys are used, so we are almost out of alphabet. Also,
because of a numerical limit of assigned keys, HOT keys are
inactive when the <CAPS LOCK> is turned "ON." HOT keys only
work in lower case.
HOT Key Definitions Pull-Down Menu Location
<a> <A>utomatic Next SCREEN
<b> <B>uy Symbol DRAW
<c> Redraws Se<C>ondary Screen SCREEN
<d> <D>isplay Status Window UTILITY
<e> <E>xtended Line DRAW
<f> Load New <F>ile UTILITY
<g> <G>raph Settings UTILITY
<h> <H>ortizonal Line DRAW
<i> Redraws Pr<I>mary Screen SCREEN
<l> Standard <L>ine & Gain/Loss DRAW
<m> <M>ulti-plot DRAW
<n> Select <N>ext Graph SCREEN
<o> <O>verbought/Oversold Lines UTILITY
<p> <P>rint Graph UTILITY
<s> <S>ell Symbol DRAW
<t> Flex-plo<T> DRAW
<u> Fibonacci St<U>dies DRAW
<v> <V>ertical Line DRAW
<w> Andre<W>s Method DRAW
<x> E<X>it UTILITY
<y> C<Y>cle Lines DRAW
<z> <Z>oom into smaller/larger data range SCREEN
8 - 3
Appendix A Commonly Asked Questions
Some of our users and potential users of MarketPLUS ask
questions about the program and related products. Here are a
few of them with our responses.
Q: Why is it that MarketPLUS is so affordable?
A: MarketPLUS began as a public domain program called
"Market" in 1986. The original program began as a "Labor of
Love," and has been developed to its current state with the
same labor-of-love attitude. Since MarketPLUS is owned by
and under the development of independent programmers and
marketed via shareware, there is very little overhead to pay.
MarketPLUS is popular on its own merits:
A unique database (allowing several investments in a single
data file).
Low cost (well under the $300 to $2500 average cost for this
type of product).
Very easy to learn, use, and maintain.
FAST and powerful features within the program.
Friendly and personalized service for our customers.
Doesn't require EXTERNAL programs to support (spreadsheets,
templates, or databases).
Customer input is well received (and welcomed!).
Satisfied customers all over the world!
Q: How long will it take me to master the commands and
features of MarketPLUS?
A: Unlike most investment program of this type, MarketPLUS
does not require several weeks of learning to use it. Due to
the easy-to-use menus and simple commands, most users learn
to move through the program and use most of the features
within two or three hours after installation.
Q: Will I need to buy other programs to maintain and support
MarketPLUS?
A: No, MarketPLUS does not require you to purchase a separate
database or spreadsheet program to take full advantage of the
program. While MarketPLUS is a self- contained program,
there are some add-on programs you can purchase from F2S
Enterprises to simplify the use of MarketPLUS (see Companion
Products), specifically MarketFON, MarketTOOLS, and
MarketCONVERT.
A - 1
Q: Why don't you include the ADD-ON programs within the
MarketPLUS program?
A: MarketPLUS, like many programs of its size, uses large
amounts of computer memory to speed up its functions and
provide fast output on your display. Since most of the
utilities provided in MarketTOOLS or MarketFON do not require
immediate output, we maintain them as separate programs
(available at a VERY low cost) in order to keep MarketPLUS
fast and easy to use!
Q: Do I need to use a mouse and printer to use the program?
A: No, you do not need to own a mouse. While a mouse is a
very worthwhile investment, and it makes using MarketPLUS a
SNAP!, all commands are easily activated with your keyboard.
No, you do not have to use a printer either to get great
benefit from using MarketPLUS. However, making a hard copy
of an investment's graph or generating a tabular report on
paper will serve you well when referring to why you bought or
sold a security.
Q: Can I download data for MarketPLUS via a modem?
A: Yes, MarketPLUS has a companion product, MarketFON (see
Companion Products) which allows the use of a modem to
download quotes from a very cost effective data supply
service - "DIAL DATA," a division of Track Data Corporation.
(You must establish an account with Track Data Corporation
before using MarketFON.)
Q: I already have some historical data that I have used with
another investment program. Will you convert the data for me
to MarketPLUS's format?
A: No. Since there are a number of data formats in use, and
most require other entries (high, low, volume, etc.), we do
not provide any conversion programs built in to MarketPLUS.
However, should you decide to write your own conversion
routine, we provide you with a complete description and
example of MarketPLUS's data format in Data File Format, as a
guide for your use. We also have an ASCII conversion program
available that converts most any historical ASCII stock data
file to the MarketPLUS data format.
Q: What should I do if I get an error message using the
program?
A: MarketPLUS is equipped with a number of automatic
error-handling routines to make life easier when using the
program. If the error message asks you to do something
(insert the data disk, etc.), simply perform the operation
A - 2
and continue. Most errors are due to incorrect installation
or configuration, so take your time when starting out!
Chapter 7 contains an error list to help you track down what
may have caused the error initially, and a list of possible
reasons.
If you are unable to determine why you received an error, do
the following:
Send us a hard-copy print of the error (or error message),
the Graph Settings screen, and send us the following:
1. Version of MarketPLUS you are using.
2. Your name and registration number.
3. Some general information:
a) Make & model of computer
b) Amount of memory available (run the DOS chkdsk
command to list available memory)
c) type of memory resident programs, if any, and memory
they use
d) type of graphics card and monitor
e) type of printer you are using.
f) description of problem (how it happened).
g) can you duplicate the error?
Q: How will I know about any future versions of MarketPLUS or
any new companion products?
A: By sending in your registration form, you will be listed
on our mailing list. We will contact you immediately when
new versions (discounted to registered users) or new products
become available.
A - 3
Appendix B MarketPLUS Companion Products
IMPORTANT NOTE: Before ordering ANY listed product please
contact us first as prices and products are always subject to
change!
The following products all contain full documentation on
disk.
MarketFON (Version 1.6) $ 24.95
The data downloading and conversion program to be used
specifically with MarketPLUS and Track Data Corporation ' s
Dialdata system for obtaining quotes. You must establish an
account with Track Data Corporation for this program to
benefit you. Contact us for more information.
Features:
Create TICKER.TXT symbol file for data conversion.
Ability to EDIT the TICKER.TXT symbol file.
Capability to DELETE a symbol from TICKER.TXT file.
Download and automatically CONVERT & UPDATE data.
CONVERSION of Dial Data into MarketPLUS format!
HISTORIC DOWNLOAD (Data for any specified number of days,
weeks, etc.).
Make a SINGLE HISTORIC FILE for Stock, Fund, or Index.
APPEND Historic download information to an existing *.DAT
file.
Configuration for Communication ports, baud rate, etc.
Pop-up Windows & Mouse support! (Microsoft & Logitech)
MarketTOOLS (Version 2.0) $ 35.00
MarketTOOLS is an off-line utility program to modify/edit
MarketPLUS data files. Includes useful features to customize
data for specific tracking.
Features:
RENAME INVESTMENT - Change the MarketPLUS name of any
investment, and in any MarketPLUS data file.
HEADER EDIT - Edit the header information of any MarketPLUS
data file, such as investment type and periods (daily,
weekly, etc.)
B - 1
CHOP-DAT - Shorten the length in time frame and amount of
data of any MarketPLUS data file.
SORT-N-SAVE - Alphabetically sort the investments in any
MarketPLUS data file and save this arrangement to disk.
SINGLE-DAT - Copy a single investment from an existing
MarketPLUS data file to a separate free-standing data file.
APPEND-DAT - Join (append) a single investment MarketPLUS
data file to another existing MarketPLUS data file.
FAST-DAT - Create a "FAST-Entry" single investment MarketPLUS
data file quickly with only a list of dates and prices.
DAY to WEEK/MONTH - Convert a daily MarketPLUS *.DAT file to
a either a weekly or monthly *.DAT file.
MAKE-IDX - Convert a single investment MarketPLUS *.DAT file
to a custom index file (*.IDX) for import into the MarketPLUS
investor defined study (IDS) view port.
UPDATE-IDX - Update your custom index files (*.IDX) quickly.
Just enter the date and index value. A custom index file can
represent a market index, volume of a security, or any index
which you have calculated a value off-line (spreadsheet ,
etc.), or any value of your favorite indicator (i.e., T-Bond,
McClellan Oscillator, etc.).
BASIC MATH EDITOR - Perform basic math modifications to all
values of a specific investment in a data file. For
example, you can multiply or divide investment prices by a
value, then add or subtract to or from the results, and so
on.
BACKUP-DELETE - Back-up or delete MarketPLUS *.DAT and *.IDX
files on a regular basis. We highly recommend using the
back-up feature on a regular basis to make a copy of any file
prior to performing MarketTOOLS operations.
PRINT DATA SHEETS - Print data worksheets of any MarketPLUS
*.DAT file, providing a listing of prices and dates of all
investments over a specified time range.
MPLUS-2-QUICKEN - Create an export file of current investment
prices for direct import and updating of any and all Quicken
investment accounts.
Pop-up windows and Mouse support (Microsoft & Logitech)
B - 2
MarketCONVERT $69.95
MarketCONVERT is a collection of powerful programs that were
developed for the investor wanting to acquire, convert, and
maintain data for their MarketPLUS investments with minimum
effort, cost, and time, while providing a wide range of
choices and flexibility.
The programs on the disk include:
ASCII Conversion Manager (updates MP files from ASCII files)
ASCII-2-MarketPLUS (historical converter)
ASCII Fix Utility (changes space-delimited formats to
comma-delimited formats)
MarketLOOK Utility (MarketPLUS file header viewer)
ASCII Conversion Manager
is a dynamic utility program that allows the MarketPLUS user
to update any and all *.DAT file, on a daily basis, from
Prodigy (tm), Compuserve (tm) or any data service which
provides output or export to any of the listed ASCII data
formats. A great way to pick- and-choose your data service
whenecer you wish, and u0pdate your MarketPLUS investments!
ASCII-2-MarketPLUS
is a must for any investor who has historic ASCII data for
all of their favorite stocks, etc., and wants to utilize all
of the powerful charting tools of MarketPLUS. This program
converts single historic ASCII files (most comma-delimited
formats) to a single-investment MarketPLUS *.DAT data file.
MarketVIEW $ 10.00
MarketVIEW allows you to view and print your MarketPLUS *.PCX
files. Prints on Epson and HP LaserJET printers (and
compatibles).
B - 3
Appendix C Recommended Reading
The following is a list of highly recommended publications
for the investor using MarketPLUS.
Appel, G.: Winning Stock Market Systems, Signalert
Corporation., Great Neck, N.Y., 1974.
Appel, G.: The Moving Average Convergence - Divergence
Method, Signalert Corp., Great Neck, N.Y., 1979.
Arnold, Curtis M., and Dan Rahfeldt: Timing The Market - How
To Profit in Bull and Bear Markets With Technical Analysis,
Weiss Research, Inca., Pro bus Publishing, Chicago, Ill.,
1986.
Frost, A.J., and Robert R. Precchter: The Elliott Wave
Principle - Key To Stock Market Profits, 5th Edition New
Classics Library, Chappaqua, N.Y., 1985
Pring, Martin: Technical Analysis Explained, 2nd Edition,
McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York,
N.Y. 10020, 1985
Technical Analysis of Stocks & Commodities, Technical
Analysis, Inc., Seattle, WA., 1992
LeBeau & Lucas: Technical Traders Guide To Computer Analysis
Of The Futures Market, Business One Irwin, Homewood, IL.,1992
Wilder, J. Welles: New Concepts in Technical Trading Systems,
Trend Research, Greensboro, N.C., 1978
C - 1
ORDER FORM: (please check items ordered and fill-in blanks)
**** INVESTORS "BARGAIN PAK" SPECIAL ****
...SAVE by choosing the combination of investment software and tools
that best fits your needs with 3 registration levels to select from:
___ MarketPLUS level 1......................................$ 85.00
Includes 50/130 database (maintain up to 50 investments with 130 days /
weeks / or months of prices in EACH file), PCX file saver, 8 Investor
Defined Studies (IDS), printed & bound manual with illustrations &
charts, Quick Reference card, and author support. ALSO: MarketTOOLS &
MarketVIEW included!
___ MarketPLUS level 2......................................$ 115.00
All items listed for MarketPLUS level 1 PLUS: A total of 16 Investor
Defined Studies (IDS) AND the MarketCONVERT program disk.
___ MarketPLUS level 3......................................$ 145.00
All items listed for MarketPLUS level 1 AND 2 except the 50/130
database size is "expanded" to 50/540 (requires minimum of 512K of RAM).
------ Individual MarketPLUS Support Products ------
___ MarketTOOLS (2.0).........................................$ 35.00
Includes documentation on disk, author support.
___ MarketFON (1.6)...........................................$ 24.95
Includes documentation on disk, author support.
___ MarketCONVERT (1.0)........................................$ 69.95
Includes documentation on disk, author support.
___ MarketVIEW (1.0)...........................................$ 10.00
Includes easy instructions on disk, author support.
Total items selected above: _______ disk size: 3.5"______ 5.25" ______
Subtotal: $_______________
State sales tax (Texas residents): $_______________
Shipping & Handling U.S.A $ 5.00
Shipping & Handling (overseas) $ 15.00
---------------------
Total charges: $_______________
Send to Name:________________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________
City:___________________ State:____ Zip:_____________
Phone #:_____________________________________________
Please make Checks or Money order payable to: F2S Enterprises
P.O. Box 1011
La Porte, TX. 77572-1011
If paying by credit card:
MC ___ VISA___ Card Number_________________________ Expires:__________