Macros

Macros simplify symbol entry. Macros are special characters you include in an instrument symbol to “control” the way the program displays instruments. This “control” enables you to display instruments in some rather unusual ways. For example, one macro enables you to list of futures, futures options, and stock options while another enables you to display a future, future option, or stock option with specific expiration. Generally speaking, you can use these macros to display instruments in quote windows and chart windows, although some macros have uses in other features, too. The program is equipped with the following macros:

The Expansion Macro

The Pound Sign Macro

Double Back Slash Macro

You will find information on these macros in this chapter. As you read this chapter, try to remember the following definitions:

Expiration Code, n. The letter used in stock option symbols to identify the expiration month, i.e., the letter “D” in IBM_DF.

Master Table, n. An index of instruments in your data base.

Month Code, n. 1. The character in future and future option symbols that identifies the expiration month of the instrument, i.e., the letter “H” in USH5, and the “U” in SPU5C445, or SPU445C. 2. The character in a stock option symbol that identifies the expiration month of the option, i.e., the letter “D” in IBM_DF. (See also Expiration Code)

Option Type Code, or Option Type Specifier, n. A character in an future option symbol that identifies the instrument as a call or a put.

Strike Price Code, n. 1. The number used to identify the strike price of a future option, i.e., the number “445” in the symbols SPU5C445 and SPU445C. 2. The letter used to identify the strike price of a stock option, i.e, the letter “F” in IBM_DF.

Symbol Root, n. The characters used to identify an instrument. For example, US identifies U.S. Treasury Bonds on most data feeds.

Year Code, n. A number used to identify the year in which an instrument expires, i.e., the number “5” in SPZ5.