Convert Unix Timestamp to DateTime with MarketXLS

The UnixTimestampToDateTime function from MarketXLS lets you seamlessly convert raw Unix timestamps into precise DateTime values directly in your Excel worksheets. Whether you're dealing with millisecond-based or second-based timestamps, this function automates the process and ensures accurate UTC-based dates for analysis, reporting, or portfolio management.

Why Use This Function?

• Effortless Conversion: Transform Unix timestamps (seconds or milliseconds) into DateTime values in one simple step.
• Data Consistency: Works consistently for short (10 digit) and long (13 digit) inputs and automatically determines whether to interpret values in seconds or milliseconds.
• Real-Time Analysis: Essential for stock market research, portfolio tracking, and any scenario requiring time-series data conversions in Excel.
• Global Application: Standardized to UTC, making it easy to compare datasets from across time zones.
• Versatile Usage: Ideal for analyzing price history, corporate actions over time, and any data-driven workflow where precise timestamps matter.

How to Use in Excel

=UnixTimestampToDateTime(unixTime)

1. In an empty cell, type “=UnixTimestampToDateTime(” then select or type your Unix timestamp value.
2. Press Enter, and MarketXLS will return a properly formatted date/time value in UTC.

Provide a cell reference (e.g., A2) instead of a raw number if your timestamp value is stored elsewhere in your worksheet.

Parameters Explained

Example Usage

Basic Examples

1. Seconds-Based Timestamp

   • Suppose A2 contains the value 1672531199.
   • Use “=UnixTimestampToDateTime(A2)”.
   • It will return the UTC date/time corresponding to the 10-digit Unix timestamp in seconds.

2. Milliseconds-Based Timestamp

   • Suppose A3 contains the value 1672531199123 (13 digits).
   • Type “=UnixTimestampToDateTime(A3)”.
   • The function automatically interprets this as milliseconds and converts it to the corresponding date/time in UTC.

3. Direct Entry

   • Directly enter a numeric literal:
     “=UnixTimestampToDateTime(1672531199)”
   • Ideal for quick single-use transformations.

Advanced Scenarios

• Combine with Excel formulas to convert and compare multiple timestamps quickly. For instance, if you have trade logs with millisecond timestamps in column A, you can create a new column with “=UnixTimestampToDateTime(A2)” down the sheet to convert each timestamp to DateTime values, then use standard Excel filtering to analyze market trades by day, hour, or minute.
• Integrate results with other MarketXLS functions to measure performance over specific time ranges. For example, compare stock price data before and after key events, aligning trades to real calendar dates.
• Build dashboards by converting Unix timestamps from external data sources or APIs, enabling a clear timeline of trades, open or close positions, and more.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

• Why is my timestamp off by a few hours?
  • The function returns values in UTC. If you need a different time zone, adjust manually in Excel or use Excel’s time zone conversion approach.
• What if my Unix timestamp is more than 13 digits?
  • Timestamps longer than 13 digits are not supported by this specific function. Consider formatting or trimming the value to match the standard 10 or 13 digit format.
• How do I handle an empty or invalid cell?
  • An error or unexpected date may appear. Double-check that your Unix timestamp is numeric and has the correct length.

By using UnixTimestampToDateTime in your Excel workflow, you can streamline all time-based data analysis in one place. This function’s reliable conversion of both seconds and milliseconds helps ensure data accuracy, making it an essential tool for investors, analysts, and traders working with US market data. Take advantage of MarketXLS’s powerful functionalities and make time-series analysis simpler than ever before.