Starting "on the cheap"....

[stevehookem]

We've decided to start a "cockpit" that doesn't represent any one aircraft but can be used to fly many.

Here's the plan:

[JBaymore]

[quote]We've decided to start a "cockpit" that doesn't represent any one aircraft but can be used to fly many.

Here's the plan:

[stevehookem]

"Cheap" shouldn't have been the word to use. I was comparing what I am planning to building a full scale exact replica using the Engravity desktop parts. We already have a fairly good investment just in the computer and yokes, pedals, etc.

I hate to seem like a dunce but much of this is over my head. I cannot get into wiring switches and lights. I need to stay more into the USB plug-in realm. This is one reason I chose the MCP Combo from VRInsight. It has the MCP, EFIS and Com on one USB connector. Also, the Saitek switch panel has some switches that can be programmed as well. It is also USB.

OK, why do I need a toggle switch? What is that for? Also, can't I control the ND and PFD using the EFIS-MCP-COM from the MCP Combo from VRInsight? Isn't that what it's for?

I will have only two monitors behind the MIP. They are both 15". I will use the left for PFD and ND (squeezed) and the right for Backups/EICAS and Overhead. I do need to switch back and forth. You don't need anything to "click" (or switch) for the EICAS, right? Isn't it just an info screen?

I have planned to use the Ellie Avionics. However, now I'm thinking that I may just undock the controls inside FSX and use those on the other monitors. Is that too limited?

I'm concerned about how to control the avionics if you can't work them in the sim to the second computer. For this starting sim, it may be OK to still use the keyboard and mouse. However, I will consider the other controller but that gets back to my lack of electrical and programming knowledge.

I just wanted something that looks like a panel, sits on a large desk and has separate screens for the instruments.

I know that part of the fun here is building the sim. I don't want my son to have to mess with it (nor do I!)--I want him to boot up and fly without much fuss.

How do I do that easily for him.

[JBaymore]

How do I do that easily for him.

Steve,

Aside from throwing the "Warren Buffet budget" at it... I really don't know.  Again, from what I know, there are no "simple" solutions.  Aside from purchasing an already set up cockpit system.... which ARE available.... and which are BIG bucks.  Even the kinda "generic" ones.

I think that you need to research what each component you are considering can actually DO... and then decide what other "plug and play" components will add necessary functions.  It'll take a lot of research to figure out what is the best combination of things.

One place to look for a lot of "plug and play" functionality (which STILL takes configuration and setup to assign the functions you want it to control) are the Goflight units.  They are highly configurable.  Take a look at their "packages" already set up in metal console cabinets.  I use a number of their panels including the MCP and four of their VRP 166-s for my comm stack; they are GREAT.  

With enough of their units, you could likely eliminate the keyboard and mouse for a lot of aircraft.  Not maybe the more complex aircraft....but certainly the default stuff.  It will be a very generic look......but that is not necessarily bad.  Still a HUGE jump from a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and joystick  ;) .

Undocking screens might be the way to go for you.  But that is a difficult row to hoe too....in getting it all to go where you want and getting it to STAY there.  

I am sure some others will chime in here soon with more thoughts.

best,

..................john  

[JBaymore]

Also, can't I control the ND and PFD using the EFIS-MCP-COM from the MCP Combo from VRInsight? Isn't that what it's for?

Steve,

I don;t know what that particular unit does.  My GUESS is that it will change the stuff on the IN-SIM displays,....but I am not sure.  And I would guess that it also changes stuff on it's own software for other parts of the system.  But it likely will NOT control someone else's software.  MOst of the systems work with themselves.... and that is why you tend to get "tied" to one manufacturer.

Most of the "stand alone" gauges made to run on other computers in a network are sort of "divorced" from many of the "in sim" functions.