Advantages from 2002

[Liam]

Ok, so I still haven't upgraded...but I am definately considering it. What are the real main advantages that 04 has that 02 doesn't though?

I'm sure this has been asked before, but I couldn't find anything in the search.

cheers.

[chops]

In my day to day flying I am glad 2004 has:

Better weather - the 3d clouds may yank on frame rates but they are worth it,

[wji]

They say: "Better late than never." but i have my doubts. FS9's been out over one year now so most of us are pretty handy with the latest offering from MicroSoft and can appreciate its many improvements over fs2k2.

If i had to list just one feature worth the $54US it cost, I'd say the $18,000.00 worth of Garmin GPS units which shipped with it.

IMO, it's double its predecessor

[Liam]

Could you explain what you mean by Garmin?

Cheers.

[Iroquois]

Could you explain what you mean by Garmin?
Cheers.

Garmin is a radio manufacturer that makes GPS systems. The GPSs in  FS2004 are based on two real life Garmin GPS models.

Another big advantage is the outstanding historical aircraft that are in FS2004. Also the scenery and meshes are improved and there are more detailed photo real airports. The ATC has also been improved significantly.

[Liam]

Ah I see, thanks. Anyone wanna tell me a few of the good features of the Garmin GPS system?

Cheers.

[Scottler]

I'd also have to add that the inclusion of taxiway signs is one improvement that alone is worth the upgrade.

[ozzy72]

ATC is heaps better

[chops]

I also liked the supermodel who hand delivers each copy and then installs it on your PC while you mist baby oil on her from a spray bottle . . . .

Oh wait, was that just mine?

[Liam]

You're going to have to tell me where you shop, Chops.

I think i'll go & get me a copy at the weekend.

What is the main difference with the Garmin GPS system opposed to the 2k2 version?

Cheers.

[codered]

Everything....

You will have to find out for yourself all the goodies.  Because I don't think Simviation has the room for us to go on and on and on and on about how great this sim is.  You will have your upgrade growing pains, but since most everything has been discovered in one way or another, it should be easy.

[Iroquois]

What is the main difference with the Garmin GPS system opposed to the 2k2 version?

Big difference. First of all, it has a button where you can activate a moving topographic map. Very useful for finding your way. Well it has lots of features. Maybe the good people at Microsoft can explain them better.
http://www.microsoft.com/games/flightsimulator/atc.asp

Basically they've recreated a real aviation GPS instead of the condensed black box in FS2002.

[wji]

Go to Garmin's realworld site http://www.garmin.com/aviation/ and d/l a FREE working model (or several). Oddly enough, the free Garmin GPS simulators are under the Free Simulators link.

I mean, can this get any simpler?

bill

From Garmin Site:
" Free Simulators: Free simulators are available for the 400/500 series and the Apollo CNX80."

P.S. The FS9 Garmins are actually better than the realworld ones as they have a TERRain feature which shows topography

[chops]

I went up for a lesson last weekend and low and behold, there was a garmin in the plane we flew.  Although the focus of the lesson was not navigation, I did get to play with it a bit on the ground.  Functioned EXACTLY like the 2004 sim version and I was able to use it without ever seeing a garmin instruction manual.

[Liam]

Wow you've been a great help, the GPS does look amazing(even if a little confusing).

Cheers for everything....except chops you still haven't told me where to find this super model!