[Quickfix-users] Basic question -- ECN simulation

[Jonathan K. <jon...@gm...>]

Okay, I have done a little bit more research and I think I know what I am
trying to do...

I couldn't find my answers in the FAQ so maybe someone else knows how I can
get started with this.

I would like to set up something using QuickFIX as a backend, looking like
the following:


               Initiator A
                      |
                      |
                      |

Initiator B----- ECN ------- Initiator C


In this picture, the ECN would be a system that runs and listens as an
acceptor, right?  Or is an ECN completely decentralized and merely a series
of tubes (just like the internet) with everyone talking FIX.

Ideally, I'd like for Initiators to be able to join and leave the ECN and
trade with the exchange, instead of completely over the counter.

The idea is to create a generalized system where I can trade one symbol
"MOMO" (which is my dog's name) using some kind of basic trading tool.

It's a simple equity security.  Does FIX have the capacity to allow me to
track things like the order book for MOMO, last trade, volume, etc -- Does
the acceptor automatically calculate that and store it in MySQL, or do I
have to write that capacity myself.  Moreover, will MySQL running on the
acceptor be used only for session data or does it have a component that will
actually track orders and matched trades?

I guess what I am asking is, has someone out there already written an order
management system -- do I even need to write one to have it function as an
ECN?  Oh yes, and I have a shoestring budget so GPL is preferable.  Also, I
want to be able to modify the code and can't really do that with commercial
products...

Jonathan

-- 
--
Jonathan Kalbfeld
ThoughtWave Technologies LLC
www.thoughtwave.com
+1 323 620 6682