New Interface on the market

[Bob Reed]

Also let me say that Ellie systems sells software that will let you use a matrix, (keyboard encoder) on a variety of switches and program any offset in to it. I am running a full 737 overhead with a keyboard matrix and the KeySim software.

[AndyT]

This is what I have been using:

http://www.lbodnar.dsl.pipex.com/joystick/index.html

Henry

I have to say, I REALLY like this unit. Thanks Henry. That's a great find.

Hey Matt! Can we have a listing of these kinds of things? Not a whole new forum, that would be overkill. Just a place to list the vendors of goodies like this. Or do we already have one? (Thinking about the classifieds)

[JBaymore]

Amongst a bunch of other stuff, I am using two Hagstrom KE-72 keyboard encoders. 72 discrete inputs (not matrixed) each. They will pretty much handle any type of switch and will send a macro up to just about the Gettysburg Address if you want, with a different one on make and on break. I have found them to be incredibly easy to use and VERY robust as far as durability and such. One nice feature is the breakout connectors..... ribbon cables terminated in screw terminals. They are a snap to program too.

http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/


Here's another little cheap controller module for you similar in function to the other one we've been discussing:

http://www.lbodnar.dsl.pipex.com/joystick/index.html


And here is an assortment of handly little controllers that might fit someone's needs:

http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/


best,

..................john

[ajmask]

First, sorry for my english
and now, I use the OPENCOCKPITS "USB Axes".

http://opencockpits.com/modules.php?...howpage&pid=50

You can connect 24 pushbutton or switch button and 5 analog axes. It is a 8 x 3 matrix. To use switch buttons, you need 3 "1N4148" diodes (I can attach a photo if someone want).
Your computer recognise it like a joy, so you can use FSUIPC, but i use FSRemotejoy

http://www.iocpserver.com/download.iocp

You can connect your new "joy" in another computer, it works over a net if you install IOCPServer in your FS computer.

[Geremy Britton]

PLEASE READ: interfaces like this eg from desktop aviator are EXACTLY the same as a keyboard card. no matter how cheap do not waste your money the answer is right under your nose! - literally.

Take a look at this video. I was wondering at first but it is so easy you would have to be absolutely stupid not to be able to do it its more or less fool proof.

Take out the card and solder on the toggle switches you need ( you can only realy use toggle switches as in momentry as in the desktop aviators interface.)

once soldered on flight simulator will pick up the switch presses just like a normal keyboard press because basically the computer thinks you are just pressing a button on the keyboard but you are flicking a swich!

This is definatly the business and total amount free or minimal cost loads of people are throwing out old keyboards nowadays.

the keyboard will need to be a wired one i dont think wireless keyboards work.

Take a look at the video this explains it in better detail.

Trust me - its amazing!

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMwxrVXTH5A"]YouTube - Micro Innovations (diy computer interface)[/ame]

[JBaymore]

Gez,

Yeah,... it is a standard keyboard hack.... but for me, my TIME is worth a lot. I've hacked a keyboard before to interface into the sim..... it is time consuming. Well worth a few bucks for a cheapie "pre-hacked" keyboard sometimes.

best,

....................john

[Geremy Britton]

For me it doesn't take that long to get 6 screws out of the back of the keyboard. Well i'd rather save £40 to spend an extra 30mins using a keyboard card. I personally think it isn't that long to do. But maybe because i've done a few before it's getting simpler

[phil.]

Hello,
is it possible to wire the keyboard card from a normal keybord and have only the F keys to work, i need them in the sim. Or is there an easier way to fix this problem. I don't need the letters to work, only the F-keys.
Phil.

[Geremy Britton]

if you need only the f key you will have to find the right combination following the keyboard track to find the f key. but yes you can just have the f key if you wish.

or to be even simpler put in any key and simply assign the switch to the action you want. this is easier than trying to find a specific key just use any kay and assign that to the action.

hope that helps, geremy

[Capt Bobby]

Hey 737 Gez,

There is nothing wrong with trying to sell people on your version of a keyboard circuit board, but where do you get off discrediting the Digital Switch from Desktop Aviator? In my opinion; your makeshift keyboard is "No Good" and it's a waste of time and money

I have 5 of these boards and I must say that this board is a heck of a lot better looking then your "stuff".


If you want a Good-Looking panel with a High QUALITY (at a reasonable price); Desktop Aviator is the place to go.

Digital Switch Model 2040
http://www.desktopaviator.com/Produc...2040/index.htm

USB to 20 Button Junction Box
http://www.desktopaviator.com/Produc...2050/index.htm