Common questions
Short answers for install, first use, and licensing. Step-by-step setup stays on Docs; buy and billing details stay on Pricing.
Product
What is Helm Trader Command Center?
A Windows desktop app for backtesting, optimization (Watcher), and paper / testnet execution from one install. It runs locally on your PC — not a browser SaaS. Overview: Product.
Who is it for?
Traders who want a single Windows workflow for research → optimize → paper trade, with a license key and local settings. It is not a signal service, mobile app, or hosted cloud bot.
Install
How do I install on Windows?
Buy a license on Pricing (or use an existing key), open Download, run the HelmTrader-Setup installer, then launch Command Center from the Start Menu. Full steps: Docs → Install.
Windows blocked the installer — what now?
Prefer More info → Run anyway on SmartScreen. If there is no Run anyway option, see SmartScreen and Smart App Control notes in Docs → Troubleshooting.
How do I update?
License holders get v1.x updates in-app. Command Center shows a notice when a newer build is available. Details: Docs → Updates.
License
How do I activate my license?
Paste the key from your purchase email on the activation screen at first launch. Lost key? Pricing FAQ or Support.
What does a license include?
Full dashboard, Windows installer, in-app v1.x updates, and ticket-based support via Feedback. Founding vs standard price, one-machine policy, and refunds: Pricing.
Trading
What should I do in the first session?
Complete the Getting started checklist in Settings, confirm your shared trading settings file, run a backtest, then use Live Watcher in Paper mode. Checklist: Docs → First session.
Do I need exchange API keys?
Paper live needs Binance testnet credentials in Settings. Keys stay in your local settings file on this PC — never send them in support tickets. See Docs → Testnet keys.
Is this live mainnet trading out of the box?
Start with backtest and paper / testnet. Live Watcher is built around testnet execution first; treat real funds as a later decision after you understand the workflow.
Support
Still stuck? Setup docs → Contact support →