Prevent Excel chart flicker,when plots are linked to DDE data
 

I am using Excel 2003 to display an XY plot on a chart. The plot updates
continuously to display real-time information to an equipment operator. The
chart data series, on another sheet, receive their information continuously,
twice a second, through a DDE connection. Whenever the chart updates, the
chart has an annoying flicker. (The chart might be displaying a white
background, then re-displaying the updated plots). Curiously, a textbox on
the chart also updates some real-time data. Rather than flickering, the data
simply changes in the textbox.
I would hope that the plot could be made to similarly update its pixels
without flickering the whole chart.

Prevent Excel chart flicker,when plots are linked to DDE data
 

Hi Cliff,

This is a very old tip that worked on Excel 95. I have not tried it with DDE
refresh, let me know if it works for you.

One way to eliminate flickering - set chart visibility explicitly in code.

Dim MyChart As Object

Set MyChart = ActiveChart
MyChart.Visible = False

' Place code to change chart here e.g.

With MyChart.SeriesCollection(1).Border
.Weight = xlThin
.LineStyle = xlAutomatic
End With

' at the end of chart editing code, make it visible

MyChart.Visible = True

First time I did this, I was amazed at speed difference

Ed Ferrero
Microsoft Excel MVP
http://www.edferrero.com


I am using Excel 2003 to display an XY plot on a chart. The plot updates
continuously to display real-time information to an equipment operator.
The
chart data series, on another sheet, receive their information
continuously,
twice a second, through a DDE connection. Whenever the chart updates, the
chart has an annoying flicker. (The chart might be displaying a white
background, then re-displaying the updated plots). Curiously, a textbox
on
the chart also updates some real-time data. Rather than flickering, the
data
simply changes in the textbox.
I would hope that the plot could be made to similarly update its pixels
without flickering the whole chart.