If you have a question please send an email to Support@qmatix.com.

If you do not find the answer here, consult the support page for more information.

  1. How do I enter an option Symbol?
  2. How can I tell if excel is 32 or 64 bit?
  3. How do avoid the prompt "Accept Incoming Connection" when working with InteractiveBrokers?
  4. How do I enter symbols in InteractiveBrokers?
  5. What version of Excel should I use?
  6. What is the difference between "refresh" on the xlq menu in excel and on the Q in the task bar?
  7. Can I prevent my active non xlq workbook from being recalculated, but keep my stock workbook updating?
  8. How can I refresh all historic data for a symbol?
  9. Can XLQ be used from other programs / programming languages?
  10. If I register now, what about future versions?
  11. Does xlq support currencies?
  12. Can I use XLQ with Excel on a Mac.
How do I enter an option Symbol?

Each source has their own syntax for option symbols, and support different amounts of data.

IQFeed use an expiration month code in their symbols,

The symbol for a MSFT July 2012 $30 put, expiring on Saturday 21st, would be:
 (G is the code for a July Call)

  • InteractiveBrokers: MSFT  120721P00030000[SMART,OPT,USD]
    (note that is 2 spaces between root symbol and the rest. If the root is 2 characters that would be 4 spaces etc.)
    They provide realtime data including greeks, as well as intraday backfill and historic data.

  • IQFeed: MSFT1221G30
    If  the amount was 30.50, it would be entered as 30.5
    They provide delayed or realtime data, as well as intraday backfill and historic data, but no greeks.

  • TDA: MSFT_072112P30
    They provide realtime data including greeks, but no intraday backfill or historic data.

  • Yahoo, Tiingo and IEX do not provide option data for download.

  • For more details see the xlq resource page

How can I tell if excel is 32 or 64 bit?

To use xlq with excel it needs to be the same platform, i.e. 64 bit xlq will not run with 32 bit excel etc. Even if you are using a 64 bit version of windows you may still be using a 32 bit version of excel.

Excel 2013 and later: Click File / Account. Then click the About Excel box. The dialog windows will be shown with the full version number and platform shown at the top.

Excel 2010: Click File / Help. The full version number and platform will be shown to the right below the text "About Microsoft Excel".

Excel 2007 and earlier: You are using 32 bit excel and need 32 bit xlq. The first 64 bit version of excel is 2010.

Since xlq 4.9 it is also possible to right click the xlq Q in the task bar and choose view data / status. Then click the General Tab. The default version of excel detected on the computer will be shown, including whether it is 32 or 64 bit.

How do avoid the prompt "Accept Incoming Connection" when working with InteractiveBrokers?

You need to enter 127.0.0.1 (i.e. your local computer) as a trusted IP address into the trader workstation configuration option (in the API section). In TWS choose the menu Configure / API. Also consult the xlq help file which includes instructions with images.

How do I enter symbols in InteractiveBrokers?

For options see above.

As they cover numerous markets, and allow you to choose the origin of the data, xlq allows you to enter the exchange and currency along with the symbol. i.e. the symbol format is symbol[exchange,type,currency],

e.g. hae[nyse,stk,usd].
The default parameters are smart, stk, usd, in which case using the symbol hae would be sufficient.

A cross rate would be EUR.USD[IDEALPRO,CASH,USD]

 The type, is per their api settings, and can be STK, OPT, FUT, IND, FOP, CASH and BAG

The exchange can be SMART (global), or depending on the symbol a specific exchange may be chosen.

To help determine the symbol to use, within their Trader Workstation, you may right click a row, and choose Contract Info / Description, and use the symbol, exchange and currency mentioned.

What version of Excel should I use?

XLQ will work with any version of Microsoft Excel starting from 2000.

XLQ is optimized for Excel 2002 and later. XLQ uses real-time data functionality available in these versions, allowing for much faster processing and greatly reduced calculation times.

For even better performance Excel 2010 and later is recommended.

What is the difference between "refresh" on the xlq menu in excel and on the Q in the task bar?

Refresh on the xlq menu in the task bar is used if you want to force a refresh of data from the internet from one or more data sources. Once the data has been retrieved, excel etc. will be notified of updates, and only values that have changed will be updated.

Refresh on the xlq menu in excel will force every xlq formulae in open workbooks in the specific instance of excel to refresh the data from xlq and be redisplayed. This will reload the values from xlq, but not force xlq to retrieve the values from the web (which will continue to done at the interval chosen in preferences).

Can I prevent my active non xlq workbook from being recalculated, but keep my stock workbook updating?

Microsoft Excel automatically recalculates all workbooks that are open, so if both are open in excel at the same time, both will be recalculated. However it is possible to have more than one copy of excel running. And if only one is connected to xlq, you may view your stocks updating in one while working in the other without any interfering recalculations.

How can I refresh all historic data for a symbol?

If you would like to force the re-retrieval of all data for a symbol for either daily or historic data, the fastest method is to delete the symbol from the data source. To do so select the xlq stock manager by double clicking the Q in the task bar. Choose the data source from the tabs. Choose your symbol and check the delete column. If you would like to select multiple symbols, highlight each row you would like to delete with the mouse, using the ctrl or shift keys to select the range, and then either press delete, or right click and select delete. Then press apply/refresh.

The stocks will again be automatically added as they are used in excel, or they may be added manually.

Can XLQ be used from other programs / programming languages?

Yes, from version 2.2 you may use xlq from any language or program supporting COM. 

If I register xlqPlus, what about future versions?

You are entitled to all upgrades released during a period of 1 year. After 1 year, you may continue using the last entitled version of xlq, or purchase a 1 year renewal license at a reduced rate.

Note that the program itself does not expire, only the right for new versions.

Does xlq support currencies?

Yes. See xlqDemo.xls for an example. 

Can I use XLQ with Excel on a Mac.

No, xlq will only run on a Windows platform. (i.e. it can be used on a mac but via parallels etc. running windows)

New Tips and Tricks Page
  • A quick reference guide to using xlq with excel including shortcuts, tips etc.

  • Examples and explanations for all user levels.
Also available via the Resource menu above, along with references for formulae, symbols etc.

LATEST NEWS:

5 December 2023

XLQ2 23.7 released

  • Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) added as new source
    • covers Multiple markets
    • Realtime Snapshot data
    • Historic day / week / month (may be dividend adjusted)
    • Financials
    • Earnings
    • Dividends, splits
    • Historic intraday
    • Insider transactions
    • Subscriptions start at $9.50 per month
    More >>
  • Yahoo - xlqhName and xlqhExchange are now supported.
  • Tiingo - xlqName and xlqExchange are now supported.
  • More. >>

Current Offers

1 year of upgrades included
Purchase xlq2Lite for $159
Purchase xlq2 for $299

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or feel extra has been earned?

Your acknowledgement is appreciated.
Thank you

User Comments

It is so uncommon in this day and age to receive top-level, human support and I appreciate that immensely. The quality, breadth and utility of your product is incredible, but even more impressive is the level of support you provided to me, just one individual customer. You may quote me on that. Thank you.

- C.B.

Wow, you did a lot of work on this version. New interface and other things as well. I must give you credit for being the most responsive software engineer that I've ever encountered. Every question that I've sent you over the many years (since 2003!!!) has been answered quickly and professionally. I just wanted to let you know that it is appreciated.

- M.N.

I have to say Leo that the last two versions have made some tremendous improvements to what has been for years an outstanding application. Thank you for your continued efforts.

- C.A.

Just to let you know that, the new version works much better & faster than the older one. I like it a lot, fantastic job you did!!!

- R.S.

Many thanks indeed for your clear and very rapid reply. I am not used to this type of quality service - I thought it went out of fashion years ago !!

- P.G.

In only 40 some days XLQ has helped me with a number of research projects I couldn't possibly have done without it and I'm now using it to help manage and track current trades and to alert me to potential new trades.

- D.P.

I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for creating XLQ. I use it regularly for scanning/monitoring securities in Excel 2007.  I have programmed in trailing stops for securities I own and numerous techniques using indicators for securities on my watch list. The combination of Excel 2007 and XLQ has opened up nearly an unlimited capability that is only constrained by my imagination.

- E.H.

Thank you for the amazing package -- I use it daily and it's ridiculously useful! Others (.....) have added some of the features you have, but none of them even comes close to matching what you've built.

- R.B.

Your product is fantastic, amazing, and really strong. It has real enabling capability. Thank you for putting this into the market!

- R.G.

You have an exceptional customer service, you have always answered my questions, I thank you for that, made it really easy to use this software, will be your long term customer. Thanks.

- A.D.

I was halfway resigned to have to program something like this myself. Only it would have taken me forever, and I couldn't have done it half as well. Thanks!

- M.S.

I also want to thank you for making the XLQ program. It is something that is very useful and incredible helpful. Like it was made for my needs.

- J.T.

I have already modified your demo sheet to fit my needs.  Your program allows me to turn my excel spreadsheet into a total information center that updates automatically. It's elegant.

- W.H.

First, I want to say that your program is probably the finest piece of work I have ever seen. The depth is simply amazing. Congratulations and thanks.

- D.B.

Thanx, Leo.  You're a great sport.  By the way, partially because of the application of xlq in my screen, I have passed 30% up in the market this year!!!!

- B.H.

This is a wonderful product -- simple to use and just plain useful!

- C.B.

I want to say you have created THE ULTIMATE data interface software for traders like me who prefer to use Excel for everything. Thanks a bunch.

- M.Y.

I just wanted to say, that I very much like your xlq package. I have tried many similar products and this is by far the best I have come across. Simple, fuss-free setup, integrates well with Excel, and has its own stand alone interface to track your portfolio throughout the day. Since I am from Europe, and trade US, European and Japanese securities, the ability to use a variety of feeds simultaneously and transparently is particularly valuable to me.

- H.S.

I really appreciate your quick responses. And your program is terrific. The Plus version adds a lot with it‘s AAII interface. I’ll definitely register it since in the last week it has become an indispensable part of my stock analysis.

- R.S.

I found XLQ yesterday afternoon – and I am blown away by how useful it is. You really need to market this thing because it is AWESOME!!!

- D.B.

Your explanation was very good. I understand now and find it very useful. If you always reply so quickly to questions, I will have to believe that you supply the best and fastest support of any software company.

- D.H.

I have “dabbled” for several years creating many of the things you present in this great program. I first began using the “*.iqy” external query (update times horrendous), then Excel VBA and lately attempting to learn “C” or “C++” in order to have smoother, faster updates as well as a great appearing “front end”. Your program certainly is, by far, the leader and has the greater edge over any I have seen, or tried to accomplish. Thank you for such a great program.

- R.H.

You are a very special person to reply so quickly and I want to thank you again. I enjoy your program. It gives me everything I need, and I know there is so much more functionality that I'm not even exploiting.

- F.D.

I love your program. XLQ combined with the power of Excel brings limitless possibilities to manipulate data for better trading. I recommend it to everyone I know interested in trading.

- P.S.

Thanks for such a great program. I have no programming experience and was trying to find a way to do just what you have done. Only you did much more. It’s fantastic and reasonably priced too!

- D.T.

Thank you so much for your help and your phenomenal programming. XLQ is awesome.

- T.K.

I use your XLQ product all the time. Some of the best money I've ever spent on software.

- L.S.

First, a thank you for the excellent and useful adjunct to EXCEL. I seem to discover a new use every day – and I’m sure I haven’t even scratched the surface to utilize XLQ’s full potential. The new version is really great.

- W.H.

First let me say that I feel XLQ is terrific. I really appreciate the versatility you have made possible with this package. I have set up a few worksheets and find it easy to learn and use with the aid of the included demo sheets. This application has the potential in my opinion to be unmatched in power, efficiency and productivity.

- C.A.

Your software is on its way to becoming the only window that I need to the market’s numbers. With the ability to arrange thing EXACTLY the way I want them, and the use of conditional formatting to trigger alarms and display changes to suit my needs, I am gradually replacing all of the other market tools I’ve been using. I can’t be a more enthusiastic supporter of what you are doing. Thanks.

- W.G.

I'm wowed by your software!! I used to enter data in my spreadsheet for two hours for each update, and therefore only did it once or twice a week. Now I do it with the close each day - in about 30 seconds!!! And I've added some data points to help with my analysis that I just could not manage to maintain before. Thanks again for a great program, a great deal, and great support!!!!!

- R.K.

Your software is great. I'm hooked on the info I can generate for stock purchasing and selling using your program. In two weeks I've become an XLQ junkie.

- V.D.

Please let me tell you how much I have come to depend on XLQ in a short period. This is a great product!! You have made my job significantly more streamlined, and my tasks simpler and more elegant. Many, many thanks!

- L.D.

I have been evaluating XLQ for the past few weeks and am thoroughly impressed with the product. It is versatile, easy to use, accurate and very intuitive. It is a real bargain compared to competitive products plus it runs right from within Excel. Based on this I just entered my purchase order.

- M.M.

I ADORE your program. It has really helped me to learn about how the markets work, and building my own system indicator by indicator is the best way to learn.

- B.K.

Leo: count me as a satisfied customer. I gave it a good workout for a month, decided to buy it when it saved me 5 hours of administration the first week, and helped me do some studies I had been postponing for months due to slow data retrieval. Your product is smooth, fast and elegant with a very clean presentation. Well done!

- K.L.

The more I work with XLQ, the more I like it. It is fast! And so rich... I like it so much I have decided to adopt it as my #1 tool for the long term.

- S.C.

Thanks very much for writing XLQ - I like it very much as it gives me the opportunity to manipulate data as I want without a very steep learning curve.

- T.B.

I just downloaded a trial of XLQ and have been "playing" with it for hours. I am so impressed. I wish I would have known about your program years ago.

- D.F.

I just purchased your software and think it is the next best thing since the spreadsheet.

- R.D.

Thanks for the best (and least complicated) investing software out there!!

- F.B.

Your software is simply brilliant, for the last week that I have been trying it, I have been impressed no end.

- G.R.

Thanks, Xlq is a great piece of software, its actually saving me a heap of time and time is the precious commodity in these hectic days.

- J.P.

The XLQ interface with Excel is excellent. I have been waiting for this capability for years.

- H.A.

Please accept my thanks for your wonderful product - it is a pleasure to use.

- D.L.

Your software is just what I have needed. It provides me with the capability to customize data and construct charts which give me the views I like - not just what someone thinks I would like.

- D.E.

Firstly, let me say that the philosophy and idea behind XLQ is exactly what I am looking for.

- S.P.

The more I use XLQ the more I appreciate what can be done with it.

- S.M.

Just like to say, excellent work. A potentially good bit of software for me.

- M.C.

I love your product so far. ... Thank you for making such product available.

- A.T.

Thanks for the Tip. You know, your program is really super.

- P.B.

Great software! Simple, elegant, well-thought-out and fast.

- R.M.

I am always finding new ways to use your program in my investment / speculative Market endeavors.

- S.S

Thanks for such a wonderful product. It certainly does handle my most precious need which is to monitor the market realtime..

- W.B

It is a pleasure doing business with such a responsive person who obviously understands the value of good customer service. I have just registered and intend to make good use of this program.

- E.D.

Your fast and thorough answer is more than what I expected. Your service is awesome and your product is very stable. Keep up with your good work. Sincerely appreciated :)

- V.P.

Just a note to let you know that I really like you software. It's a wonderful interface that has been of great utility to me.

- J.B.

Join the XLQ Users Group

Books

xlq has been recommended in the following:

Definitive Guide to Position Sizing

Van Tharp

Paul King