How do I configure an indicator not included in the software (custom indicator)?
The NNFX Algo Tester allow you to "import" and use almost any indicator that is compatible with MT4. To do so, you must first add the indicator you want to use to your MT4 indicators folder. (To open that folder, click File > Open Data Folder > MQL4 > Indicators.)
To configure an external indicator in the software, you must pay attention to the following:
- In the "Indicator" section (NNFX Algo Tester settings), double-click in the right-hand column opposite the indicator type (ATR, BASELINE, etc.) and select one of the custom options available. (The custom options all start and end with an asterisk *.)
- It is often possible to use more than one custom option alternative for the same indicator, and to use the indicator in different ways. You must choose the option that adapts to the way you want to use the indicator in your algorithm.
- In the "Indicators Parameters" section, in addition to the Inputs, Levels and MAs used for the included indicators, it is also necessary to include the name of the indicator and, if applicable, its Buffers. The algorithm will not work otherwise.
- Unlike the included indicators, it is not possible to leave the "Indicators Parameters" field empty for custom indicators. You must at least put the name and the Buffers. Some custom options also require one or two levels or MAs in order to work. For example, in the ONE LEVEL CROSS option, you have to indicate the level you want to use.
- If you do not want to change the indicator inputs, you can ignore this part of the configuration by starting with a semicolon ";". In this case, during the backtest, the default values will be used.
- When configuring external indicator inputs, it is not mandatory to place all values (unlike included indicators). You just have to put the values of the inputs up to the last input you want to change. For example, if you want to change the third input, you only have to put the first value, the second and the third, in that order.
- Before you start setting up a external indicator take a look here: https://nnfxalgotester.com/help/custom-indicators/
You will be able to see which is the best custom option that fits your indicator. - In some external indicators you only have to put the inputs, the name of the indicator and one or two buffers. Some Custom indicators options need one or two levels and the LINE CROSS WITH MA option require the user to configure the moving average they want to use. You can learn more about each indicator parameter (Inputs, Name, Buffers, Levels or MAs) in its specific sections, on the help pages.
In the following image you can see some possible configurations for some external indicators in the software:
