System Requirements
Platform
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 / 11 (64-bit) |
| Runtime | .NET Framework 4.8 |
| Trading Platform | NinjaTrader 8.0.27 or later |
MZpack runs exclusively on Windows as a NinjaTrader 8 add-on. macOS and Linux are not supported.
Hardware
MZpack processes real-time market data and renders order flow visualizations using Direct2D. Recommended specs:
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 2.0 GHz | Quad-core 3.0 GHz+ |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB+ |
| GPU | DirectX 11 compatible | Dedicated GPU with 1 GB+ VRAM |
| Display | 1280x720 | 1920x1080 or higher |
| Storage | 500 MB free | SSD w NVMe recommended |
Higher-resolution charts, multiple indicators, and tick-level data feeds increase CPU and memory usage.
Data Feed
MZpack order flow indicators require tick-level market data (Level 1). The mzMarketDepth indicator additionally requires Level 2 (market depth) data.
Compatible data feeds include any provider supported by NinjaTrader 8 that delivers tick data — for example, Rithmic, CQG, Interactive Brokers, or Kinetick.
For the most accurate order flow analysis, use a data feed that provides individual tick updates rather than aggregated snapshots. Rithmic and CQG are commonly used for futures order flow.
NinjaTrader 8 Installation
If you don't have NinjaTrader 8 installed:
- Download NinjaTrader 8 from ninjatrader.com
- Run the installer and follow the setup wizard
- Launch NinjaTrader 8 and connect to a data feed (live or simulated)
MZpack supports both live and simulated (Sim101/Playback) accounts.
Development Requirements
If you plan to build custom indicators or strategies using the MZpack API, you will also need:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| IDE | NinjaTrader 8 or Visual Studio 2022 |
| SDK | .NET Framework 4.8 SDK |
| Language | C# 13 (NinjaTrader v8.1.6 required) |
See the API Reference — Project Setup for development environment configuration.