Convert Unix Timestamps to Local DateTime with MarketXLS

Transforming Unix epoch time (either in seconds or milliseconds) into a local date and time has never been easier. Using the UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime function from MarketXLS, you can seamlessly manage data feeds, analyze historical or real-time stock data, and coordinate time-sensitive calculations in your Excel spreadsheets. This function automatically detects whether your timestamp is in seconds or milliseconds, making it a must-have for anyone dealing with time-based data.

Why Use This Function?

• Automatically detects Unix timestamps in seconds or milliseconds.
• Translates numeric epoch values into human-readable date/time in a single step.
• Provides quick timestamp alignment for analytical workflows, including historical data review and real-time feed analysis.
• Integrates effortlessly with MarketXLS for advanced trading, investing, or data-focused strategies.
• Facilitates accurate date and time associations to drive event-based formulas and alerts.

How to Use in Excel

=UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime(UnixTimestamp)

Simply enter your Unix timestamp into the function. The function internally checks the length of the numeric value. If it’s greater than 10 digits, it treats the value as milliseconds. Otherwise, it interprets it as seconds. The returned value is automatically adjusted by +5.5 hours from UTC for local date/time conversion.

Parameters Explained

Example Usage

Basic Examples

1. Converting a 10-digit timestamp (seconds-based):
   • Cell A1 contains 1696062636
   • In cell B1, type: =UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime(A1)
   • The function identifies a 10-digit value as seconds. You’ll get the corresponding local date and time (UTC+5:30).

2. Converting a 13-digit timestamp (milliseconds-based):
   • Cell A2 contains 1696062636000
   • In cell B2, type: =UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime(A2)
   • The 13-digit timestamp is handled as milliseconds. The function returns the correct date/time plus the +5:30 offset.

3. Zero timestamp:
   • Type: =UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime(0)
   • You’ll see the base epoch date (1 Jan 1970) with an additional +5.5 hours, reflecting the local offset.

Advanced Scenarios

• Merging multiple data streams:
Convert different epoch-based feeds to local time and compare simultaneous events in Excel.
• Integrating with formulas or conditional logic:
Generate alerts or conditional formatting by comparing your converted timestamps to thresholds (e.g., trading session boundaries).
• Coordinating with US markets:
If you need a US-specific time zone, note that this function uses a fixed +5.5 hours offset. You can adjust the result or apply further time shifts in Excel if required.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

• “Why doesn’t this match my local time zone?”

• The function uses a fixed offset of UTC+5:30. If you’re in a different zone, consider applying additional adjustments in Excel.

• “Can the function handle extremely large timestamps?”

• Yes, .NET’s DateTimeOffset manages a wide range, but very large or invalid values can still cause errors or unexpected results.

• “Does this account for Daylight Saving Time (DST)?”

• No. This function applies a fixed offset and does not automatically adjust for DST changes.

By using UnixTimestampToLocalDateTime in Excel with MarketXLS, you can seamlessly integrate time-based data into your workflows. Whether analyzing historical data, streaming real-time quotes, or synchronizing trades with market hours, this function keeps you aligned with accurate date and time references—all from within your spreadsheets.