General questions to get started...

Hello everyone. I recently decided that I wanted to go ahead and build a flight simulator. I have a huge amount of question that I would love some help on before I start to get my ideas onto a piece of paper. Here they are:

1. What are the benefits of hydraulics vs. servos controlled platforms (ie. cheapest, less maintenance, availability, quietest)?

2. How much computer knowledge is needed to build a simulator (is code knowledge needed)?

3. What are the core programs used to run the simulator? I would like to use 2 computers in my setup.

4. Is the OpenCockpit interface a good interface? Is it recommended to go through another company?

These are the base questions that I am curious about. Any help is appreciated.

O'Malley

O'Malley

You have posted some interesting questions. Might I make some comments for you to mill over.

1. What are the benefits of hydraulics vs. servos controlled platforms (ie. cheapest, less maintenance, availability, quietest)?

I don't think there is any benefit to hydraulics but more of a danger. Hydraulics are usually used for high pressure actuators and there are many disadvantages. One is hydraulics can get very messy, leaks can be hard to clean up. Easy to find but hard to clean up. Pressure is very high and a small pin hole can cut right into you or parts near by. Heat, lots of heat is generated from the fluid movement. Heat is one thing you want to avoid as much as passable. The electronics alone will have you putting AC in the sim. A note regarding a motion platform. Make sure you have safety fence around your sim. The last think you want is someone getting under it while in motion. If you noticed most airlines sim such as United have their sims like an island. A bridge to reach it so no one can get close. Got some time in their 777 last year was really great

2. How much computer knowledge is needed to build a simulator (is code knowledge needed)?

Computer knowledge is a big help but you don't have to be a computer geek. Basic operating practices will get you by. Now for the coding. This all depends on your interface. Some will require code work such as EPIC while others like FDT, FDS, and Phidgets have software that is more plug and play with window menu and drop downs. There will be others that can give you more detail that are farther along than I.

3. What are the core programs used to run the simulator? I would like to use 2 computers in my setup.

FS9 and FSX are almost necessary for the platform. Using 2 computer :lol: With running a motion platform you may need 2 just for that. Depending on how realistic you plan on the project and how deep the pocketbook will be may dictate the computer requirement. Many are using 6 - 8 computers to run their sim. Programs such as Project Magenta will require several to maintain all the features.

4. Is the OpenCockpit interface a good interface? Is it recommended to go through another company?

There is a lot of builders working with OpenCockpits interface boards. I don't believe they are ready for true plug & play. Some you have to build by installing the components. There software sounds like it's coming along nicely. Many in Europe are going that way because the cost to them is much cheaper. Conversion rate hurts from US to Europe. Depending on where in the world you live, interfaces from that region are usually the top seller.

These are the base questions that I am curious about. Any help is appreciated.

This is only 4 questions, you haven't even began to scratch the surface of what you think you may need. There is no set rules on what's the best interface, software, hardware panels and computer systems. Each build is unique to the builder. The is no set cost. You can easily spend a few hundred for a desktop sim up to well over $100,000.00 in a project. I have seen basic motion platforms go for $25,000 just to start. Weigh of the sim is important. Matthew (user name 777-300ER) can really give you the hard facts about a motion sim. The biggest thrill is to finally set down and make up your building plan. I needs to cover a few years of time. Even if you are a millionaire you can't just go out and buy all the parts you will need to make the project in a few months. Unless you buy someone Else's project. Have FUN building and take pride in your work. And always be safe :D

Something else you need to think about.
Even if you decide to build a generic cockpit, you still have to decide if it will be a single engine, twin or, a mid-sized transport or will you go full out and build a large ship. Each one of these has different requirements for it and different parts available to the general public.

Thank you. Those questions are just to help direct me to the next step. I appreciate the time you took to respond to my questions thoughtfully. At the moment my plan is to build the simulator in several steps. The first thing I am concentrating on is the platform itself. I have a few more questions based on your answers.

1. What are the limits of a servo? It seems to me they would be cheaper and quieter but more programming would be required?

I am suprised to hear that AC is something that a sim would actually need :)

2. My personal ability level is nonexistant when it comes to coding. I really could not do it without a step-by-step.Becuase of this I plan on using a plug and play interface.

3. I do not have a huge budget so I will not be able to have as serious a sim as most on here. The reason why I mentioned two computers is becuase I have a spare one laying around that I repaired. I thought this might help me out.

4. I am in Southern California, but even with the conversion rates their product seems the cheapest. I can solder nearly anything so I thought I might be able to save some money by building the kit. I am good with electronics but I am no electronic genius.

O'Malley

*EDIT*

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Originally Posted by AndyT

Something else you need to think about.
Even if you decide to build a generic cockpit, you still have to decide if it will be a single engine, twin or, a mid-sized transport or will you go full out and build a large ship. Each one of these has different requirements for it and different parts available to the general public.

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Just saw your post. I am still deciding where I want to go. Initially I was thinking of a setup similiar to Thanos', then moved to a fighter styled cockpit with more generic features to make it adaptable to various aircraft, and now I'm thinking of a two seater (more fun) with a larger aircraft styled controls. I am still uncertain as I fly various aircraft in FSX and do not have a particular favorite.

If you are planning on having a motion platform then you really need to do some drawings first and better yet, if you know how to use it, GMAX your pit first. GMAX is free, it comes on the FS9 and FSX disk. Its used to create the 3D models in the sim. I'm in the process of learning how to use it because it will in the long run save me huge amounts of time in design. Plus you can easily share the models you create with us here.

You do not have to put AC in your sim but it is a consideration you will want to think about since all the electronics generate quite a bit of heat. Also AC adds to the weight of the sim and you will need to take it into account when planning the weight and balance.

Servos are small electric motors that are very limited in the amount of weight they can move. Use an actual motor instead. You can get motors that are strong enough at All Electronics. For example, here is a wiper motor for less than $20. http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-bi...ER_MOTOR_.html These motors are strong enough to move you and the pit. If you want to add another person then you might consider a larger motor. they have a nice selection of them. http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-bi...ar_Motors.html

I run my pit and sim from 1 computer and have no problems with it. You have an extra one so you already will be better off when it comes to setting up the distruibted computing you will be using to keep everything running smooth. I strongly suggest a cheap 10/100 switch, NOT a router to go between them. Gigabit is better but since you will only be running 2 machines, not really needed. It is better to have the same version of Windows on both machines also.

Programming or Coding is not going to be a factor. Most of the programming you will have to do is;
1. Choose a function (example, Landing gear up)
2. Activate the software (example, FSUIPC or Phidgets or, Open Cockpits)
3. Flip the lever or button you have built for this function.
4. Watch as the software locates and programs your hardware.
5. Save your settings.
6. Fly and test it.

Now, it can be and often does get a bit more complicated than this but not too much. You might have to program in an offset (A number telling the software where to find that function in the sim) or some other simple tasks.

Budget? Whats that? :roll:
I think we have all blown our budgets at one time or another. If you can set aside as little as $25 to $50 dollars a month you can have a pit every bit as good as any you see here. It will just take longer and you will learn some creative techniques to build some of your hardware. (Canabalize other systems that you never use anymore like an old video game controller).

By the time you are done you will have learned many different skills. This is not a 'huge challenge' to overcome, it's more like a fun version of trade school.

One last thing but VERY important,
Are you married? If you are then be sure and plan time with her AWAY from the sim. Guys that have projects like this have a tendancy to get caught up in them and forget about the other half. As long as you make sure not to negelect her then you should be safe. My wife got jealous of my pit a couple of times untill I began making sure we had time away from it. Now, no problem.

Wow. Did I type all that? :mrgreen:

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Originally Posted by AndyT

If you can set aside as little as $25 to $50 dollars a month you can have a pit every bit as good as any you see here.

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WOW!!!! :shock: :shock: :shock: I have spent that much & more just on most visits to a hardware store and there have been lots of visits. Please don't ever say that again....if my wife ever reads this, I'm dead :D

Seriously now, I think you are grossly misleading any new-comer who reads your post. There is no way on earth that with 25-50 dollars a month, you could "have a pit every bit as good as any you see here" unless you are planning to spread it over 50 years or more, or you are just talking about a desktop simulator and not a full flight deck. If you can, please share your magic with those of us who have spend thousands :( & tens of thousands :( :( :cry: and who are still not finished building :D.

Maurice

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Originally Posted by mauriceb

WOW!!!! :shock: :shock: :shock: I have spent that much & more just on most visits to a hardware store and there have been lots of visits. Please don't ever say that again....if my wife ever reads this, I'm dead :D

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:shock: Maurice.. I know what you mean, but the biggest problem is that my wife does read these forums and is around all the time. I am sunk for sure. I only give her half the total I spend.. and she still complains about that! It's been nice knowing all you guys :shock:

Trev

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Originally Posted by Trevor Hale

:shock: Maurice.. I know what you mean, but the biggest problem is that my wife does read these forums and is around all the time. I am sunk for sure. I only give her half the total I spend.. and she still complains about that! It's been nice knowing all you guys :shock:

Trev

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Everything costs $58.00, right Trevor?

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Originally Posted by Trevor Hale

:shock: Maurice.. I know what you mean, but the biggest problem is that my wife does read these forums and is around all the time. I am sunk for sure. I only give her half the total I spend.. and she still complains about that! It's been nice knowing all you guys :shock:

Trev

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Trevor,

I was just kidding. It really only costs about 50 to 100 dollars a month max to build a deck. The money that is disappearing from the bank account must be going on groceries and cosmetics :roll: for our wives. That is the only sensible explanation.

Maurice

$25 to $50 a month is what my budget is set at and I was able to build a pretty nice GA pit for that amount. Like I said above, you will learn 'creative scrounging'. Just be careful that you dont get carried away. Like walking thru the living room and noticing the shelves of the entertainment center are the perfect size for some structural supports under the pedestal...

There are times when you will go over budget as I said above. I have a couple of GoFlight items and they blew my budget for a couple of months. It will take longer with a lower budget but you will still get there.

$50 to $100 is more realistic but it all depends on what you have around and what you are willing to convert.

mauriceb said, "If you can, please share your magic with those of us who have spend thousands :sad: & tens of thousands :sad: :sad: :cry: and who are still not finished building :grin:. "

Not everyone wants or needs a true-to-life full flight deck. For the cost of your shell and display system you can build a full panel with a nice 3 monitor display, and possibly add motion to it. You spend that much because you want to, not because you have to. A generic GA costs less than $1000.00 to completely build. True, its not a 100% replica of any GA craft, but it will give you a nice pit to fly in.


Paitence Grasshopper...

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Originally Posted by AndyT

One last thing but VERY important,
Are you married? If you are then be sure and plan time with her AWAY from the sim. Guys that have projects like this have a tendancy to get caught up in them and forget about the other half. As long as you make sure not to negelect her then you should be safe. My wife got jealous of my pit a couple of times untill I began making sure we had time away from it. Now, no problem.

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THIS is huge. Deal with it at least once a week! Seriously. My compromise is to spend time with her and then a bit on the sim. If that is not possible, then I just let her go to bed and then come back into the office to start working on the sim and stuff. Going to bed at 3 am...uggghhhh....but, I get lots done that way, and she's happy too!

Thanks for the help. I am not married and am to young to worry about that ;).

@ AndyT: Do you need FSX Deluxe for GMAX? Unfortunately I thought Deluxe didn't offer that much more than the normal version, I'm still kicking my self for that decision :(.

Also, how are you guys supporting the platform? I have my own ideas but see potential problems with them if used with servos. I am going to go ahead and look through the huge gallery to see if I can find any answers but any help is appreciated.

O'Malley

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Originally Posted by mauriceb

Trevor,

I was just kidding. It really only costs about 50 to 100 dollars a month max to build a deck. The money that is disappearing from the bank account must be going on groceries and cosmetics :roll: for our wives. That is the only sensible explanation.

Maurice

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ROFL! Umm Yeah Maurice.. Thats it.. Groceries... Ahhh exactly my thought! Thanks, I umm.. welll Cosmetics.. Sure.

Don't think it will help.. LOL

Another major question, where is everyone getting their panel layouts and dimensions from? I cannot find decent detailed pictures on the web of the CRJ or Lear 45.

O'Malley

If you want some L45 'stuff', send me a PM or email.

PM sent.

O'Malley

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Originally Posted by Trevor Hale

ROFL! Umm Yeah Maurice.. Thats it.. Groceries... Ahhh exactly my thought! Thanks, I umm.. welll Cosmetics.. Sure.

Don't think it will help.. LOL

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Why does the grocery bill keep coming to that illusive $58 Trev?;) Remember Gwyn's last big purchase for the sim ie the projector..."this is absolutely the last big thing I need to buy for it...I promise!!" Yesterday he comes into the kitchen announcing the very computer he "NEEDS" is on eBay for a mere $2200....why all of a sudden do we NEED a new computer?!?!?!?!?:mad: (where's the smilie with the steam coming out of it's ears!)

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Originally Posted by Westozy's missus

why all of a sudden do we NEED a new computer?!?!?!?!?:mad:

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Why, why indeed? Because we would still be in the stone age if we always were happy with what we got. :D That is pure human nature and it applies equally to women, so why try to change nature ?? :D

Maurice

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Originally Posted by mauriceb

Why, why indeed? Because we would still be in the stone age if we always were happy with what we got. :D That is pure human nature and it applies equally to women, so why try to change nature ?? :D

Maurice

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Ah but what about the distinction between 'needs' and 'wants'.....

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Originally Posted by Westozy's missus

Why does the grocery bill keep coming to that illusive $58 Trev?;) Remember Gwyn's last big purchase for the sim ie the projector..."this is absolutely the last big thing I need to buy for it...I promise!!" Yesterday he comes into the kitchen announcing the very computer he "NEEDS" is on eBay for a mere $2200....why all of a sudden do we NEED a new computer?!?!?!?!?:mad: (where's the smilie with the steam coming out of it's ears!)

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Yes, that darn 58 $.... What a number Oh Di! Thats an easy one Love.. He needs the new computer otherwise he can't fly online with us buddies. Just like the kids NEED Food and you NEED Jewelery, we boys NEED to fly online.

See not hard, now was it LOL. (If you would put all that STEAM coming out of your ears into support for your husband, we wouldn't have a problem now would we?) LOL.

Too Funny!

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Originally Posted by mauriceb

Why, why indeed? Because we would still be in the stone age if we always were happy with what we got. :D That is pure human nature and it applies equally to women, so why try to change nature ?? :D

Maurice

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LOL I tell my wife this very thing every day! (You can't fight city hall) LOL " I am a man, and just except my flaws"

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Originally Posted by Westozy's missus

Ah but what about the distinction between 'needs' and 'wants'.....

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Yes, but if you are honest with yourself, you would have to admit that you also 'want' a heck of a lot more material things than what you really 'need' to survive. In our society, the distinction between wants & needs has vanished whether we admit it to ourselves or not.

In the end, it's all the same and it's just a matter of degrees of greed if greed is defined as wanting more than what we really need to survive (which is very little in fact). And greed has enabled mankind to rise above the cavemen level.

Of course, there will always be people who dream about the 'good old days' and who conveniently forget about all the hardships of the good old days. Imagine... living without super computers & a home flight deck :roll: :roll:. Just the thought makes my skin crawl :D

Maurice

The one with the most toys at the end wins. :mrgreen:

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Originally Posted by Boeing Skunk Works

The one with the most toys at the end wins. :mrgreen:

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Right, because our families are left with the bills! :-/

:-]