The issue involving running multiple instances of eSignal is a very common. Typically, this issue can be broken into the three following categories:

Running Multiple Instances of eSignal on the Same PC

Once you start up eSignal, two applications load and start updating: eSignal and the Data Manager. eSignal is the desktop program with charting, quote windows, etc. The other program that connects to our servers via the Internet and manages the data is called the Data Manager.

The Data Manager is a separate application, so it can effectively feed data to multiple programs at the same time, such as eSignal and Metastock Professional. As a result, it is possible to have multiple instances of eSignal running, but only one Data Manager can be in operation.

We have a number of reasons why we do not recommend running several instances of eSignal at the same time on the same PC. To begin with, the impact to CPU usage and RAM could be significant and cause overall performance problems. Secondly, there is only one file structure for eSignal. When you run eSignal more than once, it's very easy to overwrite files accidentally and get confused regarding which files are the most recent.

One instance of eSignal can easily be stretched to cover several monitors. You can also use our pop-out window feature and detach any window (quote window, chart window, etc) from within the eSignal frame and spread out across various monitors. As a result, eSignal can easily support a 6 - 8-monitor set-up with just one instance of eSignal. For more information on pop-out windows, you can refer to our December article.

Running eSignal across Multiple Monitors

As noted previously, it's very easy to run eSignal on multiple monitors. We've had many customers show us eSignal running on as many as 8 monitors at once.

To do so, you will need to make sure eSignal is NOT maximized. To do this, look at the top right corner of that window. If you see a dash, double square and X, it is maximized, and you'll need to click the double square to restore. At this point, you will be able to place your mouse on the edges of the main eSignal window and drag it across to the other screen(s).

If you don't currently have multiple monitors set up, you'll want to make sure that you have the following:

If you want more advice on setting up your hardware, we have a business partner who specializes in PC hardware and concentrates solely on the financial industry. This partner is very familiar with eSignal, most broker applications and many of the key 3P applications available.

The company is called XView (formerly Trikenetics), and we suggest giving XView a call if you’re looking to buy some hardware components or a new PC.

Another suggestion is to leverage the knowledge of other users and search the eSignal Forums for past discussions or post a message directly to ask for advice. When using the search feature, try typing in key words, such as hardware, video monitors, etc.

Running eSignal on Multiple PCs

Every PC connecting to our servers must have its own Data Manager running, and each Data Manager must have a unique Username and Password to function. Therefore, you must set up a paying account for each PC on which you will run eSignal. This is mandated by the exchanges because each PC is considered a "single user"; therefore, each PC should be charged an exchange fee. 

This applies to running eSignal on a LAN or wireless network. Each separate PC that connects to our server farm must have its own username / password. In other words, even on a LAN or WAN, you can't "share" eSignal. 

NOTE: This is also the case if you're running one PC and are trying to build a router with transparent failover redundancy (e.g., ISP goes down and your backup ISP connects without manual intervention). Dual load balancing will not work with eSignal. If you find a custom solution that supports this, please note that eSignal will not support it.
 
There are no exceptions to this rule. We do offer multi-unit discounts for 4+ systems and various other business solutions (TurboFeed, Office Server, etc). Please contact our Sales Department for more information.

U.S. Sales: 800.815.8256
Europe Sales: 44 (0)20 7825 8770