Hi,
After 20 years of FS using one computer, A joystick Pedals, and loads of free/payware scenery and aircraft, it is now time to move on.
I have recently had both the opertunity of 4 hrs in an FFS MD82 sim, and a MD82 jump seat trip. This reignited the dream of a more realistic setup.
Although my current favorite machine is the Maddog2006, I am heading in the direction of developing a wider A320 implementation.
As with most I am troubled with Time, Space and to some extent also budget constraints. For this reason, and following advise I am starting slow, but want to plan for an expandable concept.
I have therefore looked into what a singleperson A320 setup would cost, and have been in discussion with Peter Cos about FDS options.
I can see that I could easily end up spending 10-15 000 EUR before having a complete setup including AST software - if I was opting for ready to install FDS panels.
Although I have an understanding wife, this investment is not realistic, and I have therefore queried FDS for kits, which I could then assemble myself. Although I have several FS friends that have obtained this previously it seems that FDSs business focus has changed and therefore is reluctant to sell kits.
My question to you dear panel is therefore if you have any suggestions, as to how to bring down cost through the recommendation of appropriate kits. (I will not succeed if I have to go out and buy all the items for the panels individually).
Current setup:
- FS9 on optimized PC with 24" widescreen LCD monitor
Loads of scenery and aircraft- CH Pedals
- Logitech Sidewinder Joystick
My thoughts on the initial layout is as follows:
- AST Software (w interactive Overhead, PFD/ND, ECAM/Backup Instr, MCDU)
- FCU Panel
- EFIS Panel
- Throttle Quadrant
- Radio Management Panel
- (MCDU)
- Flaps Panel
- Speedbrake Panel
- Engine Start Panel
- ECAM select Panel
To refer to the survey of being a builder more than a flight simmer, my focus is definetely on realistic flying.
Hope you can help...
Thanks in advance.
Stephen