1. Confirm the product
Record the exact MT5 EA name, build, manual and preset. ExpertCodeFX MQL5 products are for MetaTrader 5; cTrader products are separate cBots.
MT5 EA setup
Install an MT5 EA and make the first test comparable
A file appearing in MetaTrader 5 does not prove that the intended EA, symbol, inputs or permissions are active.
2. Use the MT5 data folder
Choose File > Open Data Folder, place the compiled EX5 in MQL5/Experts, then refresh the Navigator or restart MT5.
3. Read back the setup
Check the actual broker symbol, timeframe, account mode and loaded inputs. Gold symbols can have suffixes and different contract specifications.
4. Check permissions
For a chart instance, confirm Algo Trading is enabled. Inspect the Journal for permission, volume, session, stop-distance and symbol errors.
5. Run a controlled tester check
Define dates, tick model, spread, commission, swap, balance, sizing and risk controls. Save the complete report and Journal.
6. Separate setup from performance
Distinguish no signal, a filter, missing history and rejected orders before changing inputs. Historical evidence is not proof of future performance.
Keep the evidence together
Save the exact build, preset, symbol, timeframe, dates, capital, risk fields, report and Journal.
Educational checklist only
ExpertCodeFX develops MT5 EAs and cTrader cBots. This is general educational information, not financial advice or a promise of profit, a pass or a live-trading result.