Tips and Tricks for Improving Thinkorswim App Performance

Introduction

• Presenter: Matt from the Trade Brigade
• Focus: 3 Tips to improve speed and efficiency of the Thinkorswim app

Tip 1: Adjust Memory Allocation

• Step 1: Go to the login screen and click the gear icon in the lower left corner.
• Step 2: Locate 'Memory Usage' at the bottom.
  • Adjust according to the amount of RAM in your computer.
  • Example settings for 32 GB RAM:
    • Low end: 1024 MB
    • High end: 6144 MB
• Note: Increase memory if using multiple screens to avoid lag.
• Final Step: Click 'Save' and log into the platform.

Tip 2: Set Quote Speed to Real-Time

• Issue: Default quote speed is set to moderate, causing a 3-second delay.
• Solution: Change to real-time for best data accuracy.
  • Step 1: Go to the gear icon labeled 'setup'.
  • Step 2: Navigate to 'Application Settings'.
  • Step 3: In the sidebar, go to 'System'.
  • Step 4: Change 'Quote Speed' from 'Moderate' to 'Real-Time'.
  • Final Step: Apply settings.

Tip 3: Use a Dedicated Window for Active Trader

• Issue: Multiple tasks in one pane cause strain and lag.
• Solution: Use separate windows for Active Trader and other functionalities.
  • For Stocks and ETFs:
    • Use a dedicated window for the Active Trader ladder.
    • Example: Type in 'SPY' for a dedicated ladder window.
  • For Options:
    • Options code needs to be in a separate window to match the chart correctly.

Bonus Tip: Monitor and Manage Free Memory

• Step 1: Navigate to the 'Help' tab in the top right corner.
• Step 2: Go to 'System'.
• Step 3: Check 'Free Memory' in the top right corner.
  • If less than 500,000, click 'Collect Garbage'.
  • This typically rebounds memory to about 800,000.
• Additional Tip: If the lag persists, consider resetting the platform by logging out and back in.

Conclusion

• Tips covered:
  • Adjusting memory allocation
  • Setting quote speed to real-time
  • Using dedicated windows for Active Trader
  • Monitoring and managing free memory
• Community Interaction: Encourage comments or thumbs up for feedback.