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TweakFS Utility
Collection for FSX
As a group these five unique applications each have a different scope and purpose,
but come with a consistent look and feel. Between them they can handle well over
1000 settings and variables in FSX.
VoxATC works with the Microsoft integrated voice recognition and text to speech
engines that are already included as part of Windows XP and Vista. In addition,
the product includes two licensed 16-bit voices from AT&T Natural Voice. These
voices enhance the text-to-speech so it sounds just as natural as recorded WAV
voices in other ATC products that do not include voice recognition.
CODE:
VOXATCX
Price:
US$74.95 // AUD$104.95
*SUB PRICE: US$71.20 // AUD$99.70
All the tools are designed with one important principle in mind - a one-click
restore from backup function. This means an adjustment can be applied with
complete impunity and there is always the bailout option if there are any
funnies, the one justifiable concern that holds many back from making
changes to their FS setup.
CODE:
TFSUCFSX
Price:
US$59.95 // AUD$74.95
*SUB PRICE: US$56.95 // AUD$71.20
FS Repaint is the simplest way to change the visual appearance of your aircraft.
You can easily change the look of your aircraft in a few easy steps:
The 441 Conquest II also includes Flight Ones proprietary Text-o-Matic aircraft
repainting utility. Text-o-Matic allows you to download additional user created
paint schemes and install them on your system with just a couple mouse-clicks.
The 441 Conquest II package also includes extensive documentation, checklists,
specifications and a step-by-step tutorial to get you flying in no time.
CODE:
FSREPV2
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
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CODE:
C441X
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*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
NEW RELEASEThePRODUCTS
latest flight simulator titles in stock!
FS Discover
Price:
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*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
MegaScenery Dallas /
Ft Worth
CODE:
FSDISC
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*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
Cessna Citation X
FS Global X 2008
Once onboard, whichever your piloting knowledge level is, you will be astonished
by its elegantly furnished cabin while comfortably flying at nearly supersonic
speed over the oceans. Jump back in the Pilot seat and you will be amazed by
all latest aeronautical technologies embedded in the cockpit. Some of these dont
even exist in the simulation world yet.
Special animations and features, combined with high quality graphics and
detailed systems simulation make this the business jet add-on of the year!
CODE:
WFCITX
Price:
US$44.95 // AUD$69.95
*SUB PRICE: US$42.70 // AUD$66.45
DC-10 Collection
CODE:
FSGLOB2008
Price:
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*SUB PRICE: US$61.70 // AUD$85.45
Microsoft Flight
Simulator X:
Deluxe Edition
FS Global 2008 comes in two versions in one box. One version is for FS 2004 and
one for FSX. The new scenery concepts in FSX provide a more detailed and realistic
far-distance view, textures adapt better to the mesh, the FSX default scenery is
more precise and causes less (optical) conflicts. This results in some of the best
looking mountain detail ever seen in the simulator!
Price:
US$42.95 // AUD$64.95
*SUB PRICE: US$40.80 // AUD$61.70
Price:
US$69.95 // AUD$114.95
*SUB PRICE: US$66.45 // AUD$109.20
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
BOOKS
&
LEARNING
Knowledge building plublications to make you a better pilot!
Computer Pilot CD-ROM
Reference Collection
- Volume 10 - 2006
Microsoft Flight
Simulator X For Pilots:
Real World Training
Aspiring pilots will learn the skills of flight, how to master Flight Simulator,
and how to utilize the software as a learning tool towards their pilots licenses.
Those who already have their real-world wings will benefit from guidance on
how Flight Simulator X can be used as a continuing learning tool, how to simulate
real-world emergencies, and how to use it for training towards
advanced certifications.
You get all 12 issues of Computer Pilot that were published in 2006 in PDF format
on CD-ROM for viewing and reading on your computer.
Each of the 12 entire 84 page issues are recreated just as they look in print!
Best yet, you save a bundle load on the regular print issue price! You can have
all 12 issues on CD for a fraction of the regular print price!
Plus, use the search features of your PDF reader to find information fast!
CODE:
CPV10DISK
Price:
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CODE:
BKFSXRWT
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This Massive Book weighs in at 725 pages and is packed with detailed
information on using Flight Simulator X for training. It is truly a massive resource
for anyone serious about using simulators to further their piloting skills!
Price:
US$49.95 // AUD$64.95
*SUB PRICE: US$47.45 // AUD$61.70
Adam Howe and Scott Slaughter, two flight sim experts who also have many
years of writing experience, are putting their thoughts to pen for their new book
- Tips, Tricks & Trips for Flight Simulator X.
This is not a users manual for Flight Simlulator X. Instead, its a collection of
right to the point articles that will help you run FSX faster, better, easier. In
short, youll have more fun!.
Tips, Tricks & Trips presents topics that you wont find elsewhere. The aim of this
new book is to put the complexity to rest so that you can enjoy the Flight
Simulator experience rather than fight it. 240 pages.
CODE:
BKTTT
Price:
US$26.95 // AUD$39.95
*SUB PRICE: US$25.60 // AUD$37.95
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
Both Captains give a very extensive presentation of the aircraft, the route, the
operation and many other details pertaining to the airline and last, but certainly
not least, we take to the sky for the first ever air to air footage of a 747 over the
English coast!
The pilots go over their DC10 in detail from the walkaround on the ground to the
cockpit pilot and flight engineer presentations, flight plan loading, fuel system
and much more. They also brief the departures and arrivals so you can follow the
takeoffs and arrivals/approaches.
CODE:
DVDOASIS
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CODE:
DVDGEMINI
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CODE:
DVDHOUSTON
Price:
US$24.95 // AUD$39.95
*SUB PRICE: US$23.70 // AUD$37.95
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
Get the most from the sim experience with these quality products
CH Products Flight
Sim Yoke USB
CH Products Pro
Pedals USB
Price:
US$129.95 // AUD$259.95
*SUB PRICE: US$123.45 // AUD$246.95
Compatible with Windows 98, ME, 2000 & XP for PC (requires Direct X7.0a
or above) and MacOS 8.6 with Input Sprockets 1.7x for Mac
3 axes and 18 buttons (six push buttons, one 4 way hat switch, and one 8
way point of view hat)
Dual rotary trim controls allow for adjustment of ailerons and elevators
Quality components and construction with easy USB installation
Two year limited warranty.
CODE:
CHF16CS568USB
CODE:
CHPROPEDUSB
Price:
US$129.95 // AUD$239.95
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TrackIR 4
Professional
Price:
US$89.95 // AUD$189.95
*SUB PRICE: US$85.45 // AUD$180.45
Imagine controlling your field of view in flight simulators, first person shooters,
racing sims and many other types of games by simply looking around!
The trackIR uses infrared light to track your head movements in much the same
way as ultra-expensive targeting systems used by the military. As you move your
head, the trackIR sends a real-time stream of instructions to your computer via
USB to move the mouse pointer or pan your view in game play. Compatible with
many sims and games including Microsoft Flight Simulator, Lock On etc.
CODE:
TRKIR4PRO
Price:
US$179.95 // AUD$254.95
*SUB PRICE: US$170.95 // AUD$242.20
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
PC AVIATORSInstant
DOWNLOAD
STORE
access to quality flight sim downloads!
Welcome to...
PC Aviators Download Store!
Glasair III
It can be flown completely from Virtual Cockpit or 2D panel, day or night, and
the virtual cockpit features new smooth gauge technology , gauges so smooth
that youll wonder why every aircraft isnt developed in this way. Also included in
this package is Australian Simulations renowned Aircraft Control Panel software,
which allows you to customize your aircraft right down to the gender of your pilot
and passenger and more!
This download gives you 2 separate versions in the one download.
One for FSX and one for FS2004. So you get double the value for your money
SKU:
DL-GLSAIR3X
WWW.PCAVIATOR.COM/DLSTORE
X-15-2/3
Cleveland Hopkins
International (KCLE)
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FILESIZE:
89Mb
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FILESIZE:
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120Mb
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
PC AVIATORSInstant
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STORE
access to quality flight sim downloads!
Beech V35 Bonanza
- V-Tail
F-15 Eagle
The aircraft in this product is a true-to-life replica of the model V35 C-Tail
Bonanza. A throaty and lay-you-back-in-your-seat 285 Horsepower Continental
engine with a 170 knot cruise speed and an 18,000 service ceiling gives you a
high performance tourer to cruise the flight simulator skies.
This product recreates all aspects of the real world Bonanza V35 for you to fly in
FSX and 2004 all the way from minute 2D and 3D cockpit detail, to external
surfaces, to authentic engine sounds through to exact flight modeling.
The Bonanza is a favorite in the real world and also a favorite in the Flight
Simulator world. Heres your chance to add the Bonanza to your Microsoft
Flight Simulator aircraft hangar for a lot less than the $400,000 price tag!
SKU:
DL-CARV35
SKU:
DL-OPVX
Price:
US$32.95
FILESIZE:
245Mb
Iris has also once again had the privilege to employ the sound genius of
Christoffer Petersen who has provided us with some excellent sounds for the
F-15 recorded from the real deal which were sure will have you playing with
that volume control!
Price:
US$29.95
FILESIZE:
79Mb
Iris has provided a large amount of custom animations both inside and outside the
aircraft, with the variable position intakes moving according to the aircrafts angle
of attack to ensure optimum airflow into the engines. The variable doors inside
the intakes are also automated to adjust the speed of airflow into the engines for
supersonic flight.
SKU:
DL-F15X
Price:
US$17.00
FILESIZE:
12Mb
Operation Valkyrie
Price:
US$29.95
FILESIZE:
8Mb
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
Dean Bielanowski
Editor
Supplement
your reading in Computer Pilot Magazine
Website: www.computerpilot.com
V11I9
http://www.computerpilot.com
Publications Mail Agreement #: 40720082
Customer #: 7056038
Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:
PC Aviator, inc., PO Box 15907, Surfside Beach, SC 29587, U.S.A.
Computer Pilot Volume 11 Issue 9, September 2007 (ISSN 1324-7336) is published monthly by
PC Aviator, inc., 839 Surfside Drive, SC 29575.
Periodicals postage is paid at Myrtle Beach, SC and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 15907, Surfside Beach, SC 29587.
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C
6. NEWS AND NEW RELEASES
All the latest news and new releases since our last issue.
REVIEWS
Whats a simmer to do. You finally, through extreme hassle, sweat, and headache finally get your simulator up and running on your monitor, but what
do you do next? How do you get something appearing on that new airliner
screen displays? Mike Ray shows you how to get out of the Cold & Dark
dungeon!
If youre bored with watching aircraft taxi, take off, fly, land and even crash,
relief is available. Files available on the Internet for free downloading can
enhance your enjoyment of Flight Simulator X far beyond the runway end
identifier lights.
My purpose for writing this article was to take a trip back in time and revisit the original Airports, VORs and NDBs from BAOs (Bruce Artwick) Flight
Sim and Microsoft Flight Simulator 3. It is my aim to take those of you,
who started in this hobby in the last 10 years, back to an original flight sim
experience. As for the old timers it will be a trip back in time.
Flying on Mars is not quite like flying on Earth. There are numerous factors that
must be taken into consideration, all of which will help you stay airborne in the
hostile environment. In fact, flying on Mars is like flying on an Alien planet, yet
there are no aliens found to date on the red planet!
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82. INBOX
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EZ-GPS Version 4
BY GENE DAVIS
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REVIEW
This all turned out to be a problem with my registry and where
it listed FSX was installed. A simple registry fix is required and all
should be okay afterwards. If you are not comfortable editing your
registry entries, there are some freeware files out there that can help!
EZ-GPS 4
With all of the features of the Garmin GPS in Flight Simulator
what does one need with another GPS in MSFS? Well the answer is
really quite simple. It is simple to use and offers some nice features
List of Features
1. Glass cockpit style displays, useable for any aircraft
2. An easy to read map display that shows roads, VORs,
intersections, airways and airports
3. Easily installs into just about any aircraft
4. Easy to use flight plan mode that allows the user to create a
flight plan on the go
5. Couples with just about any autopilot system
6. Includes a traffic display - TCAS
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ON BOARD TCAS
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AVIONICS DISPLAY
AIRPORT DIAGRAM
THE MENU
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REVIEW
EZ-GPS is a nice addition as it offers a simple and easy way to
create flight plans in an environment where, at times, it can be rather
difficult to get that information off the actual instruments; it was
really nice to have a unit that followed your line of sight rather than
disappearing when you looked left or right.
Lastly, I ended up trying the GPS in the newly released Citabria
for FSX from RealAir Simulations. Installation was a breeze and
everything seemed to work just fine.
Using EZ-GPS
With its slew of features there is quite a lot to cover. All navigation
around the GPS unit is done with your mouse cursor and the click
spots on the bottom of the unit. This is actually easier than it sounds
when compared to that of the default GPS. I found it very easy to find
things and really easy to find airports, in particular.
Most impressive, at least for me, was the map display, as it offers
a whole new environment for VFR flyers. Not only is all of the
traditional navigational information displayed but you will also find
that it includes all major freeways and highways, and this alone was
great when it came to flying around in places like GeoRenders new
Yosemite National Park Series as there is a whole lot of information
on the out of the way airfields in that region. Many are just little strips
of grass, but with the EZ-GPS I was able to locate them and get them
programmed into my planned flight.
Creating flight plans is also another feature that is considerably easier
with the EZ-GPS than the default GPS. You have the ability to create
different legs of the flight using Direct To, VORs and intersections
as well as utilizing your GPS Autopilot to link up to your plane and
actually fly the plane from the GPS on autopilot. This was really handy
when it came to aircraft that didnt have complex autopilots; the EZGPS just links up to the existing aircraft and flies it.
One of the first areas I used the GPS was that of the new Yosemite
National Park scenery from GeoRender. I was actually able to fly an
entire flight using the information provided by EZ-GPS via the roads
below. Selecting the airports is relatively easy as you do the search
via the nearest airport setting in the GPS itself. In the end I was able
to create an entire flight over the Yosemite area with little or no hassle
from the GPS. I didnt have to search for airport IDENT codes or
names as they were all readily available via the main display.
There is also a display that gives the user a glass cockpit style
representation of all of your critical flight information. This was a nice
feature as it really came in handy when flying helicopters as I was
able to watch things like speed and altitude when landing or hovering.
The display also shows all critical navigation information and shows
whether you are on course with your flight plan, or off course.
For aircraft that dont have a built in TCAS, the EZ-GPS offers a
totally functional TCAS system which is nice when flying things like
choppers. I know there are some pretty nice freeware systems out
there, but the TCAS with the EZ- GPS is a nice addition to an already
well rounded product.
Performance in FSX
Surprisingly the EZ-GPS doesnt affect the overall performance
within FSX. The unit works very well and molds together with
FSX nicely. The only problem I had was trying to keep up with the
plane and trying to program the GPS at the same time, and I had to
ultimately pause the sim and work on the GPS.
I was really impressed with the way the GPS upgrades its flight
information. There doesnt seem to be any lag time as the unit works
in real time with your existing flight.
EZ-GPS 4 in FS2004
EZ-GPS has been around for a long time. In fact, I think I once
owned an early version of this program, and if I remember correctly,
I was very fond of it. However, as time went on, the need for another
GPS system like this went out the window when the developers of
Flight Simulator included their very own version, and this is what
brings us to FS2004.
I have always used the default GPS with FS2004 and the only time
I strayed away from it was with products from Reality XP, or if the
aircraft utilized some sort of Flight Management System. So, when
I made the move to this unit within FSX I was quick to also give
it a try in FS9. It, of course, functions the same as the one in FSX,
but I found that, again, it was much easier to create flight plans and
navigate through the systems different modes. I quickly became a
believer with EZ-GPS 4, as it really is E-Z to use!
In The End
This product has to be a matter of choice. If you have issues with
the default GPS then this product is for you. As I spent time with EZ
GPS I grew very fond of it and prefer it now when I am looking up
airports or just need to see a specific area when I am flying in my
virtual skies. EZ-GPS Version 4 is published by Abacus, is compatible
with both FSX and FS2004 and retails for US$19.95 on CD. It is
available from all good flight sim retailers. 4
13
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REVIEW
turbine, shrieking away just behind me. It was like a mad thing trying
to destroy us! Roger had warned me that I needed extremely fine
movements on the cyclic joystick, and I found this really difficult to
do. Were talking millimeter movements here and I didnt do very
well on my first flight. I managed some graceful turns and even
settled into level flight, but hovering absolutely terrified me and I
certainly didnt achieve anything like a sustained hover. Roger said
it took him about ten lessons before it clicked and then he never
looked back. My right arm felt almost bruised from tension because I
just couldnt possibly relax.
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The challenge
Based on my experience with simulated model fixed wing aircraft,
I decided to set two challenges. The first seemingly simple one
would be to take off, fly a circuit, hover and land, all from the Tower
View and with no cockpit window visible.
The second challenge would be to attempt an autorotative landing
following an engine failure.
In FSX the helicopter models have been refined so that theyre
easier to fly which was encouraging. I chose a bright red Bell
Jetranger and set it up on the tarmac at Williams Point Cook,
historic home of the Royal Australian Air Force. I followed Doug
Hortons hint from Volume 11 Issue 5 and set up the Tower Panning
view mode.
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REVIEW
How is autorotation achieved?
Rotor drag is normally overcome by engine power so that the
rotating blades can generate lift. In the absence of engine power rotor
drag will rapidly slow the blades and lift will decrease unless rotor
rpm (Rrpm) can be maintained by some other means. The solution is
to lower the collective gently but completely and allow the craft to
descend quite rapidly. The resulting airflow over the blades will then
maintain Rrpm and therefore lift. When that happens, the helicopter is
in autorotation.
KICKING UP A STORM
My attempts at autorotation
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REVIEW
Conclusion
After many failed attempts I am proud to say that I finally got the
knack and achieved a near perfect autorotative landing. This was a
very challenging exercise but one that paid great rewards in terms of
learning much more about some of the less used features in Flight
Sim, plus I have to admit it a huge, smug sense of satisfaction
when I finally got that little model chopper safely back on the
ground after its simulated engine failure.
Want to spend a few hours trying something completely different?
Give chopper engine failures a go!
Dr David Smith is a scientist-turned-film maker who runs
imaginACTION pty ltd in Melbourne.
Diagrams redrawn from Helicopter Principles of Flight for CAA
Examinations - Cranford Publications, Ashgrove Queensland
Australia 1989. Diligent effort was made to contact Cranford
Publications without success. 4
19
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BY DOUG HORTON
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For those who design airports for Flight Simulator, a very useful
reference for all U.S. airports is the Federal Aviation Administration
Airport Master Record Form 5010-1 (public airports) or 5010-2
(private airports). The master records contain comprehensive data
on airports, runways, lighting configurations, and other information.
The master record is updated annually for those airports where
scheduled Part 121 (air carrier) or Part 135 (commuter and ondemand) operations are conducted. For other airports this data may
not be updated for 3 to 5 years. Access to these forms is provided by
GCR & Associates, Inc., at the following link: http://www.gcr1.com/
5010web, which includes a search form. After you locate a particular
airport, youll see several tabs that include information extracted from
the airports 5010 form. The accompanying image shows runway
information for a typical airport. To see the actual 5010 form for the
selected airport, click the small, light blue circular icon near the upper
right-hand corner of the web page. Its just above the boundary of the
Runway Information and Remarks tabs.
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The FSX mission menu displays all missions and skill levels,
as well as a mission image and description. The missions menu is
classified in two ways: level of difficulty (Beginner, Intermediate,
Advanced, and Expert) and categories (Tutorials, Just for Fun, The
Good Life, Backcountry, Pilot for Hire, Emergency, Airline Pilot, and
Challenges). The selection menu defaults to the level of difficulty
display. After you complete each mission, a large green checkmark
appears in the related mission image.
One of the best features of the mission interface, often useful for
completing missions, is the capability to save flight files mid-mission.
I needed to use this feature for completing the Tokyo and Amazon
missions because I failed several times. As with saved free flight files,
the interface shows a thumbnail view of the state of the mission for
each saved flight.
21
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(FSX)\Addon Scenery\
\(scenery filename)
\scenery\(scenery files)
\texture\(texture files)
You can alternatively place add-on *.bgl files into the existing
Addon Scenery\scenery folder and texture folders, which are active in
the scenery library by default, but youll have much better control if
you place each add-on scenery package in its own folder set.
Some lessons also employ gates through which you need to fly,
as shown in the accompanying screenshot from the Introduction to
Soaring mission. As you fly through a gate, youll hear a whoosh
sound and the gate color will change from green to red.
Adding Scenery
Ive noticed that several add-on scenery authors in their readme
files suggest adding their scenery to the \FSX\Addon Scenery folder.
Thats the general idea, but we need to be somewhat more specific.
The issue is that some authors set up folders with the scenery *.bgl
files directly under the folder that names the scenery. So, you unzip
the scenery with the folder options on, and it doesnt work right when
you try to add such scenery to the scenery library. Recently, Ive seen
many AFCAD for FSX files that are set up this way. The problem,
of course, is that the *.bgl files must be in a \scenery folder thats
under the scenery filename folder. Heres the recommended structure.
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[CameraDefinition.012]
Title =Landscape
Guid = {127193D4-888C-452d-B7D7-F2D274AC820B}
Description = View forward and slightly downward from under aircraft
Origin = Center
SnapPbhAdjust = Swivel
SnapPbhReturn = FALSE
PanPbhAdjust = Swivel
PanPbhReturn = FALSE
Track = None
ShowAxis = FALSE
AllowZoom = TRUE
InitialZoom = 1.0
ShowWeather = Yes
InitialXyz = 0, -10, -10
InitialPbh = 11, 0, 0
XyzAdjust = TRUE
Category=Cockpit
ClipMode=Normal
This wont display any of the aircraft unless you pan upward. You
can select it from the FSX menu by clicking on Views, View Mode,
Cockpit, Landscape. From the keyboard, press the A key from a
cockpit view, or press the S and A keys, to change the view category
CPM. V11I09
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and view while watching the view caption in the upper right-hand
corner of your screen. Ive noticed that occasionally, with aircraft
maneuvering, this view looks rearward from the aircraft. If this
occurs, just press CTRL+Spacebar, and the view will reset to forward.
USER INTERFACE FOR GENERATING GUID IDENTIFIERS
If you own the FSX Deluxe version and youve installed (and
updated with SP1) the SDK files, all lines of code for camera
descriptions are explained in the FSX SDK\Core Utilities Kit\Camera
Configuration folder, in the document Camera Configuration.htm.
Note in the code the line that contains GUID= . GUIDs are
globally unique identifiers that are used in FSX and other programs
to identify Microsoft ActiveX classes, objects, and interfaces. A
free Microsoft GUID Generator component lets you generate these
identifiers, and it can be downloaded from http://go.microsoft.com/
fwlink/?linkid=21030.
The final tip for adding camera views is that camera definition
sections, similar to above, appear also in each aircrafts
aircraft.cfg file. Whats available while flying each installed aircraft
is the combination of camera definitions from its aircraft.cfg file
and your cameras.cfg file. So, as an alternative to adding the above
definition section to cameras.cfg for all aircraft, it could be added,
with applicable sequential numbering in the header, to the aircraft.cfg
file(s) of one or more selected aircraft. 4
23
cpm1109.indd 23
8/14/2007 7:37:17 PM
cpm1109.indd 24
BY ROGER CURTISS
The Package
Just Flight, who have a reputation for offering quality aircraft
models, kept their eye on the ball for the Tiger Moth as well. This is
a first class product with compatibility for FS9 and FSX. I tested it in
FS9 and it is nearly flawless.
The product shipped with a DVD and 3 language Pilots Notes
documentation. Installation was a non-event; it loaded and was
available in the aircraft menu. That menu provides 4 model choices:
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:19 PM
cpm1109.indd 25
25
8/14/2007 7:37:22 PM
26
cpm1109.indd 26
ALMOST PERFECT?
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:30 PM
Exterior
The attention to detail is to be respected. The cloth fuselage skin
is nicely represented as well as structural aspects such as the landing
gear and engine cowling. The cowling opens to reveal a rather
detailed engine with functioning throttle linkages and carburetor
butterfly valve. There is even a step cut into the right side of the
cowling so that refuelers will have a foothold to reach the fuel cap.
There are animated touches such as fold-down entryways to the
tandem cockpits and the aforementioned instrument hood.
Interior
This is a basic trainer and the interior complements are just that
basic. The flight instrumentation consists of a large rate-of-turn/side
slip indicator, airspeed indicator, altimeter, engine instrumentation
and not much else. This is a wind-in-your-face, seat-of-your-pants
airplane that keeps the pilot fully involved in its operation.
Flying Characteristics
Bonus
One of the stellar qualities of this product is the sound package.
There are no warning bells or alarms but the engine sounds are superb
and conjure up images of the barnstorming experience and the thrill
of open cockpit flight.
As alluded to earlier, the pilots manual expresses considerable
respect for and obvious admiration of the aircraft. There is a small
section describing the enduring popularity of the Tiger Moth and
an invitation to join the de Havilland Moth Club, a worldwide
organization devoted to preserving and flying this historic model.
This is a well rendered product with great attention to detail and
the US$42.99 suggested retail price is not at all unreasonable. The
Tiger Moth is a very enjoyable yet basic airplane. However, it is this
basic quality that actually makes it a challenge to fly for pilots used
to pushing buttons and watching cockpit electronic display screens to
obtain their flight information. Frankly, I was surprised by how much
I thoroughly enjoyed flying this back to basics airplane. 4
27
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8/14/2007 7:37:37 PM
FREEWAREFRENZY
CESSNA 150
Filename: search for Zeus-cat to find all available missions by this author Filesize: 248 kb
Author: Zeus-cat Available from: mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads&file=details&id=2147
Have you tried Pacific Fighters or IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 and given up
because the learning curve was too steep? This series of nineteen missions
breaks the process of carrier operations into manageable steps. Youll
start with simple objectives: take off from a dirt strip and fly to yonder
river. Once youve mastered that, youll do the same thing with a half-ton
bomb. When youre ready to move on from that, youll work on landings:
first on a dirt strip, then on a dirt strip with the outline of a carrier deck on
it, until eventually youre ready to try the real thing. There are a couple
bombing missions, but the main focus of the missions is learning how
to take-off and land on a moving aircraft carrier: first on one of the big
Lexington-class ships and then, when youre comfortable with that, on
one of the smaller escort carriers. For most of your training, youll be
flying a Dauntless dive-bomber, the hero of Midway. Its ugly, but its
slow! Later missions feature the faster and more glamorous F4F Wildcat,
but the Dauntless grows on you, and I found myself coming back to it
once the training campaign was over.
28
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:39 PM
FS2004 Utility
Filesize: 3,780 kb
Available from: logiquewercks.plymouthreliable.com/accfgtool.html
Until recently, this program was payware. It doesnt work with FSX, and it does take
some getting used to. If you dont like to tinker, leave it alone.
ACT stands for Aircraft Config Tool. In its original form, it made it easier to change
variables like parking type, manufacturer, and ATC model for a given aircraft. That
functionality is still here, but the program has grown into something much bigger.
You can now edit panels, sound configurations, and the basic configuration file for
FS9 itself. But the real power of the program is its ability to manage large numbers
of aircraft as a group. This is especially useful if you download a lot of freeware.
You may have noticed that, over the years, your sim loads a little slower. Every time
you load the sim or choose a new aircraft, FS9 goes through all of your aircraft files
to see what you have. If you have a lot of aircraft, this can take awhile. ACT Hangar
Manager solves this problem by hangaringputting in virtual storageaircraft
you dont use regularly. Its also useful for tidying up. I like to organize my aircraft
by manufacturer (e.g., Hughes for the Apache helicopter). Frequently, though,
developers will use their own name for that field. ACT Hangar Manager makes it
easy to spot these and fix a bunch of aircraft in one go.
A few words about installation. The user name and password for freeware
registration are listed on the download page; youll need them when you start the
program for the first time. Know also that ACT Hangar Manager is extremely
cautious. It wont put entries in your system registry, and its very careful about
making changes in the sim without double-checking. Thats the good news. The grey
news is that, while Windows XP can open most zip files automatically, it has trouble
with this one. Dont fret, just get the freeware utility 7-zip from 7-zip.org. Itll
decompress anything you throw at it, including ACT Hangar Manager.
Battlestar Galactica
Filenames: search for BSG to find all current files
Depending on your television viewing habits, this next collection of items will strike
you as either impossibly cool, or contemptible beyond words. By converting existing
models and textures, Bruce Fitzgerald has created an entire fleet of flyable vehicles
from the science fiction TV show Battlestar Galactica. (This is the new BSG, on
cable, not the network version from the 1980s.) Who among us has not wondered,
What are the stall characteristics of a Cylon Raider? Now you can find out. There
are two Cylon ships, and of course the Galactica with its ragtag, fugitive fleet of
Colonial Vipers, Raptors, carriers, transports, tankers, shuttles, freighters, and flattop
repairships. Parking is not a problem, because Fitzgerald has also provided a pair of
sceneries, located near Pearl Harbor, which float in the clouds and which you can
land on like an aircraft carrier.
cpm1109.indd 29
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA
29
8/14/2007 7:37:40 PM
Back to the real world. Today the Corsair is remembered as one of the great fighters of the
Pacific theater in World War II. But it wasnt an instant classic. Although its upside-down
gull wings were designed for carrier operations, its long snout made for poor visibility in the
landing configuration. Initially the U.S. Navy passed on the fighter, and it was taken up by
the Marines, who flew it from land bases. Eventually it was the British who figured out how
to land the fighter on aircraft carriers, using a curved approach that kept the carrier deck in
sight until the last moment.
The story of the Corsair is well known, but hearing it and flying it are two different things.
This freeware Corsair is a late, post-war model that was built for the French navy. But it
still has all of the power, good looks, and bad habits of the fighter that flew in World War
II. Landings are still tricky, even if youre not chasing a moving carrier deck, because the
Corsair will drop a wing if you stall at low speeds. Gauges are clear, both in the 2D cockpit
and in the VC. Outside views are crisp and detailed; this is another one for the rivet counters.
There are several repaints available, including the Coca-Cola livery shown here (f4u_coke.
zip); search for bleu ciel to find them all. Even if you dont download any of the repaints,
however, do be sure to get the fix file (cof4ufix.zip), which adds a couple new variations and
improves the flight model.
Antonov An-2
VOUGHT CORSAIR
Filenames: An2T_07.zip, an2t_071.zip, an2t_072.zip Filesizes: 6,850 kb, 2,183 kb, 1,400 kb
Author: Vladimir Zhyhulskiy Available from: avsim.com
This one is for freight dogs. If you like the DHC-2 Beaver that comes standard with FSX
and want to try something even more rugged, this is your number. Apparently the An-2 was
the largest single-engine biplane ever made, and they made a lot of them. Beginning after
World War II, factories in Russia (and later, Poland and China) manufactured almost 20,000
Annushkas, many of which are still in service, ferrying passengers and cargo to remote
locations. The model pictured here is Vladimir Zhyhulskiys third version of the An-2, and
includes a working virtual cockpit, animated pilot figures, and special effects for startup and
snow landings. Two types are available, wheels and skis. Gauges are all legible. As delivered,
sounds are aliased to the Cessna 172 to save on file spaceZhyhulskiy lives in Ukraine, and
uploading large files has been difficult. He recommends, therefore, that you also download
the Junkers Ju-52 by Pierino Primavesi (ju52v50.zip in the AVSIM file library) and use the
sounds from that; this works a treat. Note that the cockpit gauges are metric, with text in
Russian. Fortunately for English speakers, the pop-up tool tips are in English, and so is the
documentationwhich you do need to read. Flying the Annushka isnt difficult, but theres
a trick to the start-up, and in the air you need to allow for wide turns and use a lot of rudder.
Again, dont forget to download and install the two supplemental files, an2t_071.zip and
an2t_072.zip, which correct a couple of details.
ANTONOV AN-2
cpm1109.indd 30
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:40 PM
BY TOM KURTZ
No rush, it is hot as blue blazes out there today. Gotta get out of the
heat.
Janice went back to checking the passenger manifest and mused to
herself about Johns nickname, I wonder if he really drinks Johnny
Walker Red Label Scotch?
Captain Thomas Tom Wrenson was just coming aboard. Janice
welcomed him with her dazzling white smile, Hi Capt.Wrenson,
Scotty is already on board. You look a little under par today, sir.
Are you alright? Tom was only three months from the mandatory
retirement age of 60 and he didnt like people worrying about his
health, I wish people would mind their own business, he thought.
GE
31
cpm1109.indd 31
8/14/2007 7:37:41 PM
Not to worry, its just the heat. It feels good in here though.
Tom went forward to the cockpit and began the pre-flight checklists
with Scotty. The truth of the matter was he had been having slight
chest pains during the last couple of weeks. He had made a secret
appointment with a cardiologist last week and was warned by the
doctor to quit flying until some further tests could be done. Tom
thought it was just indigestion and didnt tell anybody at TCA about
it. He just wanted to keep flying for the next 90 days.
Scotty had already set the Ground Frequency in the COM2 radio.
He selected COM2 and keyed the microphone, Ground, Boeing-PJGCI ready to taxi IFR as filed. Scotty got ready to write again.
Boeing PJ-GCI taxi to and hold short of Runway 29 using
taxiway AEAST. Contact tower on 118.3 when ready. Scotty read
back the instructions correctly and nodded to Captain Wrenson to
begin the push-back.
Scotty was patiently waiting for his promotion to Captain next
month, he had already bought new uniforms. He thought, Next
month I wont be doing all the work! Captain Tom is a good guy, but
I cant wait to be the pilot in command of my own aircraft. Little
did Scotty know that his chance to be in command was coming much
sooner than he expected.
Scotty noticed that the Captain didnt seem like his usual self, Are
you Ok sir? You look a little tired?
I am fine Scotty. It is just the heat. Lets get through these
checklists. The passengers are boarding already.
Janice spoke over the intercom, Captain, the passengers are
briefed, seated, and buckled, we are ready to taxi.
Scotty keyed the microphone, Plesman Tower, Boeing PJGCI ready to copy IFR clearance to 14FA. The tower answered
immediately. The tower always sounded like a robot to Scotty.
Boeing PJ-GCI, cleared IFR to 14FA as filed. Fly runway heading,
climb and maintain 12,000. Departure frequency 119.6, squawk
1517. Scotty wrote down the instructions in his own shorthand he
had devised several years ago then read them back to the tower.
Boeing PJ-GCI read back is correct. Contact ground on 118.3
when ready to taxi.
32
cpm1109.indd 32
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:42 PM
DEPARTING MIAMI
cpm1109.indd 33
8/14/2007 7:37:44 PM
If you havent been to the Cayman Islands before you are in for a
treat. Heres a little history background, the islands were first sighted
by Christopher Columbus May 10, 1503 during his disastrous fourth
and final voyage to the New World. The first recorded English visitor
was Sir Francis Drake in 1586. Drake named the islands Cayman
after the Neo-Taino nation term Caiman for crocodile. There are
still crocodiles on the islands, so be careful! The islands along with
Jamaica were captured, and then ceded to England in 1670 under the
Treaty of Madrid. They were governed along with Jamaica as a single
colony until 1962 when they became a separate British overseas
territory and Jamaica became an independent commonwealth realm.
Im sure I bored you with the history so lets talk about today. Today
the Cayman Islands enjoy one of the highest standards of living
in the Caribbean. Thriving tourism and banking industries aid the
economy. The Cayman Islands have their own currency pegged to
the U.S.Dollar (USD). The KYD or CI$ unit is the dollar. The rate of
exchange today is 1.27 per USD, you will enjoy that too.
There are miles of white sandy beaches to enjoy and lots to do.
You will find a copy of Island Breezes magazine in the pocket of
the seat back in front of you. This month the featured destination is
the Cayman Islands. Look through it for some of the places to see
and things to do like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, golf, and tours
of the island. George Town has great nightlife. Let me tell you the
food is superb. My favorite restaurant is the Casanova. The have
great Italian food. They also serve the best seafood on the island.
My favorite is Caribbean Lobster Tail. Relax and enjoy the flight. If
you need anything just ask our Senior Flight Attendant Janice. Tom
clicked off the intercom and turned and smiled at Scotty, Why the
worried look, Scotty?
Oh, nothing sir, I was just wondering if you are OK now.
Tom smiled, I am feeling just fine. That little break in Miami did
the trick.
When they were near the point of no return Scotty programmed
the Garmin 1000 for the Goran One Arrival into Grand Cayman. He
selected the ATUI Intersection via GCM R-001 then the GORAN
Intersection via R-259 into the airport. They were now flying on
autopilot so Scotty got up, Tom, I am going to take a little coffee
break and stretch my legs, he said.
Ok, but make sure it is coffee and not the champagne.
Yeah right, Scotty thought, he knew the captain was just joking.
He went to the galley.
34
cpm1109.indd 34
8/14/2007 7:37:45 PM
You should take the captains seat. Charlie shook his head no,
Ill fly co-pilot. Charlie took the right hand seat and found the
emergency checklist. He tuned to 121.500 and announced, Pan.
Pan. Pan. This is TCA Honeymoon flight, 737-800 with 162 souls;
the captain is having a heart attack. We request emergency landing
clearance at Roberts International airport, Grand Cayman Island. ETE
is approximately 20 minutes. Roberts ATC responded, TCA squawk
7700. Charlie punched in and transmitted emergency squawk code.
ATC came back, TCA radar contact 110 miles North. Altitude
FL260. You are cleared straight in on Runway 26, wind 260 at 10kts
altimeter 30.20. Ambulance will be standing by.
Roger, 110 miles North. Cleared for Runway 26. TCA. Charlie
hung up the microphone and looked over at Scotty, By the way,
whats your name?
Oh, sorry, John Walker, but everybody calls me Scotty.
I wonder if he drinks Johnny Walker scotch? thought Charlie.
Pleased, to meet you Scotty.
They landed safely. Captain Wrenson was taken to the hospital in
George Town. Janice stopped Amy and Charlie as they left the plane,
Scotty and I want to thank you again. I just got a call from TCA
and they want to thank you too by paying for your trip and anything
you want to do on the island. Just bring your receipts to the TCA
terminal, she said. Janice watched them walk away Boy, will they
have something to tell their grandchildren, she thought.
Scotty and Janice walked into the terminal together. Scotty took
her arm and turned her around, Will you have dinner with me this
evening. You pick the restaurant? he asked. Janice smiled, I thought
you would never ask. Of course I will. Lets go to the Casanova.
Epilogue: Captain Wrenson recovered and spent the rest of his time
with TCA on extended sick leave. Then took a job in administration.
Scotty and Janices relationship bloomed into marriage and they are
now honeymooning. You guessed it! In the Cayman Islands.
Dr. Amy Benson finished her residency and is now an attending
ER physician at South Miami Hospital. Her husband Charlie was
promoted to Major and is pilot in command of his own B-2 Spirit
bomber. They are planning to return to Grand Cayman Island on
vacation this summer.
Many thanks, to Wikipedia for the historical references and facts.
Happy Landings,
Tom Kurtz 4
35
cpm1109.indd 35
8/14/2007 7:37:45 PM
cpm1109.indd 36
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:46 PM
BILL STACK
Inaccurate stars will no longer detract
from our flight-sim experiences. The
AutoStar X utility adds comets, brighter
planets in the correct position for any
date, eclipses, and even Messier objects.
(Messier objects are celestial objects that
resemble comets but are not such.) If
this package fixes the misplaced moons
that continue to distract me, it would
be worthwhile. Seeing a moon where it
would never be in real life or in a phase
thats impossible for its location is more
irritating than tardy passengers carrying
too much luggage.
37
cpm1109.indd 37
8/14/2007 7:37:50 PM
38
cpm1109.indd 38
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:51 PM
REVIEW
At the Gate
Photograph by Glenn Alderton
39
cpm1109.indd 39
8/14/2007 7:37:57 PM
You Can Cancel At Any Time For Whatever Reason For A ProRated
Refund On Unmailed Issues!
You always wanted a magazine to satisfy your cravings for all
things for Flight Simulation.... Computer Pilot is that magazine!
Its THE Magazine For Desktop Pilots and Flight Simulator
Enthusiasts! Designed and produced to help satisfy your passion
for flight simulation and to guide you through your enjoyment
of flying at your desktop.
40
cpm1109.indd 40
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:38:02 PM
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cpm1109.indd 41
8/14/2007 10:32:45 PM
BY CHUCK BODEEN
HERE ARE TWO SIDES OF MARS FROM THE NSSDC (NATIONAL SPACE
SCIENCE DATA CENTER) PART OF NASA
42
cpm1109.indd 42
8/14/2007 10:32:53 PM
X-PLANE
AT NIGHT, THE MARS SKY IS VERY DARK AND YOU WILL SEE ALL THE
STARS IN THE SAME PLACES JUST AS IF YOU WERE ON EARTH. THE
CONSTELLATION PLEADES (SEVEN SISTERS) IS MAGNIFIED FROM XPLANE ON THE LEFT AND COMPARES VERY WELL WITH THE PICTURE
TAKEN BY NASAS HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE. THE SMALL CIRCLE ON THE
RIGHT IS THE SUN AS SEEN FROM MARS WHEN IT RISES. THE LARGER
CIRCLE IS THE SIZE OF THE SUN AS SEEN FROM EARTH. IF YOU LOOK
CLOSELY AT YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN YOU WILL NOTICE THAT STARS
ARE VISIBLE IN THE DAY TIME ON MARS
THIS CHART SHOWS THE VARIATION OF AIR DENSITY FOR MARS AND
THE EARTH. NOTE THAT THE SCALE FOR MARS IS 1/100 OF THAT FOR
EARTH. OF COURSE WE DONT FLY MUCH BELOW SEA LEVEL ON THE
EARTH, SO THAT BLUE LINE IS EXTRAPOLATED. THE GREEN LINE IS THE
MARS DENSITY DIVIDED BY THAT ON EARTH
The relief map of the Mars terrain also shows the extreme
elevations on Earth as well as on Mars. If we define the roughness
of a planet by the difference between its highest and lowest point
divided by its radius, Mars is 5.6 times rougher than the Earth
assuming the Earths lowest point is the Pacific Trench. If we use only
elevations where one would fly (Death Valley, USA as the lowest)
then Mars is about 10 times as rough. Notice that the elevation of
Mars highest point, Olympus Mons, has a range of values. This is
indicative of the variation in data available. The lower value is the
one used in X-Plane. Incidentally, scientists have defined sea level
on Mars as the elevation of the mean radius of the planet, or 3,383
kilometers (2,102 miles). The average atmospheric pressure there is
only 6.1 thousandths of that on Earth.
The speed of sound is the square root of the product of specific
heat, the specific gas constant, and the atmospheric temperature. All
three of these numbers are smaller on Mars than on Earth. There
is, then, a direct impact on the design of any flying vehicle, since
transonic flow and the increase becomes important at about Mach 0.8
and wave drag due to the formation of shock waves increases. This
applies to propellers as well as wings. The speed of sound on Mars
is only between 70% and 80% of that on Earth, so planes must fly
slower and props turn at lower RPM if they are to avoid transonic
losses. Lift and thrust suffer even more, since they both depend upon
the square of the speed.
DUE TO THE LOW DENSITY, THE SPEED OF SOUND ON MARS (RED LINE)
IS MUCH LOWER THAN IT IS ON EARTH (BLUE LINE). DATA FROM JEFF
SCOTT, EDITOR OF AEROSPACEWEB.ORG
cpm1109.indd 43
8/14/2007 10:32:55 PM
Flying on Mars
44
cpm1109.indd 44
8/14/2007 10:32:59 PM
X-PLANE
PAUL JONES MADE THIS MODEL OF THE AKRON BLIMP WHICH I USED
TO COMPARE LIGHTER-THAN-AIR FLIGHT ON EARTH AND MARS
Details of the CarterGyro concept have not been worked out. From
the discussion above, it is obvious that more and larger rotor blades
will be required. Neither model is in good enough shape to release to
the public yet, but keep watching x-plane.org and then you can enjoy
vertical takeoffs and landings. Because the large battery will be used
for takeoffs, you would not want to stray too far for home base. These
ideas are mine alone and not those of Carter Aviation Technologies.
Ground Travel
THIS IS THE PILOTS VIEW THROUGH THE HUD DISPLAY IN HIS HELMET
ON MARQUES MARSTREK. THERE ARE INDIVIDUAL THROTTLES FOR THE
LEFT AND RIGHT ROCKETS. THE PANEL IS COVERED WITH FINE CUSTOM
INSTRUMENTS. VERY GOOD DOCUMENTATION ACCOMPANIES THIS
PLANE AS WELL
cpm1109.indd 45
8/14/2007 10:33:00 PM
Other Approaches
You will find 57 topics about Mars at x-plane.org. You can read
about Austin Meyers adventures on Mars at http://www.x-plane.
com/mars.html. There is a nice review of X-Plane written by Nancy
Eaton at http://www.apple.com/games/articles/2005/06/xplane/
which mentions NASAs use of the simulator.
You can download the models of Spirit and Lunar Rover from
x-plane.org under Aircraft/ v8 Mars Spacecraft. Admittedly, both
models are relatively crude, but they will give you something to drive
around. Spirit has six wheels. By specifying that the front and back
both steer, X-Plane treats the fronts as if they were the front wheels
on a tricycle landing gear plane. The rears act as if they belonged
to a taildragger. The result is that on one side, at least, they turn in
opposite directions just like the real Mars rovers which can sit still
and turn around on the vertical axis to a new direction. The model
wont do quite that, but almost.
Since there is no way in X-Plane to power the wheels directly, both
models are powered by jet engines if Austin can use a jet on Mars,
so can I!
46
cpm1109.indd 46
8/14/2007 10:33:02 PM
X-PLANE
USING GOOGLE MARS YOU CAN ZOOM IN ON ANY LOCATION. HERE IS OLYMPUS MONS IN ELEVATION, VISIBLE, AND INFRARED RENDERINGS
cpm1109.indd 47
8/14/2007 10:33:03 PM
cpm1109.indd 48
8/14/2007 10:33:05 PM
The FSX Flights and Movies file includes 101 training flights and
33 videos for FSX. I noticed that the first video I tried, Chap_02_
Around_the_lake.FSR, didnt operate properly on my system, and as
a result of my feedback, I know the authors are checking the integrity
of all videos for both Windows XP and Vista installations of FSX.
The Book Images download contains 75 charts and copies of the
Practical Test Standards for Sport Pilot, Private Pilot, Instrument
Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Air Transport Pilot. The accompanying
image shows a portion of the furnished sectional chart thats used in
Chapter 12 for a night flight from KANE (Anoka County, Minnesota)
to KFCM (Flying Cloud Airport, Minneapolis).
cpm1109.indd 49
8/14/2007 10:33:06 PM
cpm1109.indd 50
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend this book for:
Student pilots, who can coordinate working though the book contents
in FSX with their flight instructor and applicable training syllabus
Real pilots, who can experience well organized and rich refresher
training using FSX
Flight simulator pilots, who will learn a great deal more about real
flying than theyve likely experienced in years of simming
Though it would require a huge programming effort, preparing
coordinated lessons with the new mission system would be a great
addition to this book or a future Flight Simulator-coordinated training
program. The book is available from selected flight sim retailers or can
be ordered in from any good book store. It retails for US$29.95. 4
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BY GWYN PERRETT
MY GROWING BOEING,
THREE YEARS IN THE MAKING AND NEARLY FINISHED!
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makes it a lot easier to achieve good results without straying too far
from the original aircraft design. I find that most people who visit my
simulator wouldnt know what a real 737 cockpit looks like anyway!
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Winning In TheHow
Air to gain the advantage
4
BY JOHN ACHOR
Part I - Basics
A Brief History of Air Combat
Even the names have changed. I remember the acronym ACM,
which stood for Air Combat Maneuvering when I did a stint in
fighters. Now its Basic Flight Maneuvers (BFM). No matter what
you call it, many of the essentials remain the same: The guy you
dont see is the one who will kill you. (Brig. Gen. Robin Olds) and
speed is life (author unknown). Those axioms held true on the day
they were uttered... and they will no doubt remain truisms as long as
fighter pilots hurl themselves through the sky in an attempt to best
their adversaries.
BFM dates back to the days of wood and wire in World War I and
continued through WWII. BFM or ACM for jet fighters originated
during the Korean Conflict almost by accident. Major (later Maj.
Gen.) Boots Blesse, along with some squadron mates, created a
monograph describing jet maneuvers and tactics for their F-86 Saber
Jets as they encountered MiG-15s. They called their epistle, No
Guts, No Glory. The U.S. Air Force liked the ideas so much, they
classified the document. I dont remember whether it was classified in
the mid 1950s when I read it, but it was declassified by the late 50s.
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More on Energy
Energy can be reduced to two elements, speed and altitude. You
need at least one of them to have the advantage and stay alive. If you
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are super lucky, you may have both, but generally youll have only
one. You need to recognize which advantage you have, what will
work best against your opponent at this instant, and how to swap
one for the other if necessary. You can trade speed for altitude with a
zoom climb; you gain altitude but you bleed off airspeed unless you
have a high thrust to weight ratio bird.
I remember an F-102 driver telling me about being bounced by an
F-104 at about twenty thousand feet. The F-104 was a plane with high
thrust to weight ratio it could accelerate going straight up. The F102 pilot used his high lift delta wing to turn inside the F-104. But, in
his words, Every time I got close to pulling lead on him, hed punch
in the burner and go up to about forty grand. From there, he could
make strafing runs on me.
Conversely, if you have an altitude advantage, you can covert that
to speed by diving. Now with knowledge of some of the basics we
can apply them to situational awareness.
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a wider view of whats going on out there in the world. Its still a great
view, even at 20,000 feet! That same appreciation can be found while
exploring the simulated world within MSFS. Granted, you wont be
floating in a zero G environment, or sitting shoulder to shoulder with
your passenger in the front seat, but I think you can still get a sense of
what great and wondrous things there are to see in this great big world
of ours (even if it is virtual!).
The Flying Green articles will focus on an area of our planet that is
either in need of protection, endangered, or making a comeback. There
really is no excuse for looking the other way when it comes to the
matters of our home. The Tongass National Park and Glacier Bay areas
are two of these areas that are certainly worth a look, and our attention.
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WHERE ON EARTH?
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A SMOOTH APPROACH!
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APPROACH AT SITKA
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The Glacier Bay area is situated in the northern part of the Tongass
National Park, south of Yakutat (PAYA) and north of Sitka (PASI).
This is a Must See area and if you are into Bush Flying, the odds
are good that you are already familiar with the area and the challenges
and beauty it offers.
Next time we will trot on over to Greenland and take a look for
ourselves at just whats happening to even more of our glaciers, and
in particular, the ice caps.
Have fun and pass the word, take care of Mother Earth,
and stay Green! 4
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For those who seek to improve the experience (and that, I would
venture to say, would include a fair percentage of all flight simulation
pilots and this particular magazines entire readership) but who may
be a bit more monetarily-challenged, there is an option to considerthe Sim Cockpit System. This most impressive piece of hardware
offers a definite opportunity to block out the external environment
and focus on the flying in a bit more affordable fashion
What it is
The Sim Cockpit System (SCS) was designed by Kurt Gamnig
who, in addition to being a flight simulator user, has logged over
21,000 hours of flight time as an instructor, charter, corporate and
airline pilot. With his vast experience, Gamnig recognized the
potential of flight simulation to transcend mere entertainment and its
utility for training and proficiency. Thus the Sim Cockpit System was
born as a relatively economical way to present the instrumentation
and controls to the pilot in a realistic manner. Of course, affordability
is a relative concept and this unit will still set you back $399.00 (a
reduced price Gamnig instituted recently) so it is probably not the
sort of item to be purchased on a whim. That being said, if you are a
serious flight simmer the SCS is definitely worth consideration as it
offers to enhance the experience in a way that few products short of a
fully replicated cockpit are capable of achieving.
Computer Pilot Magazine V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:55 PM
REVIEW
The SCS provides a platform upon which the pilot can mount
flight equipment. What you get is an enclosure mimicking the
left seat position in a cockpit within which monitors can be
strategically placed to show instrument representations in their
proper positions. If a switch is located on the overhead panel,
look up- that panel is displayed on the cockpit ceiling. The
throttle quadrant is on your right side with engine instrumentation
displays portrayed behind it replicating a center display area. This
allows for expandability of functions as dictated by the flight
simmers budget.
The outside view can be projected onto a screen in front of the
cockpit windows affording a much greater peripheral view than is
attainable from a single monitor in the cockpit. As stated earlier,
the system provides the platform to enable these features; SCS
does not come equipped with the flight hardware or the electronic
equipment- the monitors or the projection system- these are left to
the owners preference and budget. However, the system is also
designed to be modular and will operate with less than the full
complement of equipment so that users can add functionality as
budgets allow.
The unit is shipped in two large cartons and they contain all
of the 46 structural pieces and the 181 screws, nuts and washers
needed for construction. Assembly is accomplished with just a
Phillips screwdriver and an adjustable wrench, both of which are
also provided.
The unit is very well constructed and is composed of a solid
metal frame with wood platforms for the work surfaces and
the shell. All of the structural parts are cleanly and precision
machined and the wood surfaces feature countersunk screw holes
to allow for a smooth finish. The workmanship is outstanding
and the instruction manual is comprehensive in detailing what
each component is, where it should be located and how assembly
should proceed.
One should take heed to assemble the unit in the room where
it will be situated for use as it quickly grows into a shape that
proves to be unwieldy for maneuvering around corners or
through doorways or so I surmise its not as if this happened
to me! The enclosure stands over 57 tall and is 27 long and
49 wide.
The sheer impressive size of the unit may also be a potential
drawback. There must be sufficient floor space to allow
placement of the SCS in addition to a standard computer setup.
The SCS is designed and intended to be used strictly as a flight
simulator and may not be particularly utile as a desktop in that the
computer keyboard resides on a side table which may be less than
optimum for intensive use. Therefore, it pretty much requires a
dedicated computer monitor setup devoted to flight sim use which
might make it beyond the means of many potential users due to
limitations in available computer hardware or floor space to allow
placement of more than one computer station.
To realize the full benefit of the SCS there is a need for the
following equipment:
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I doubt that most flight simmers have all of these items on hand (I
did not have one LCD monitor-much less 3) thus these requirements
indicate an additional expense to acquire them but the modular
nature of the system allows for such incremental construction.
The SCS is definitely intended to be used by the serious flight
simmer and fully equipping it will require an outlay of close to
$2,000.00 but the result will be a configuration that offers fidelity
equaled or surpassed only by home cockpits costing many times
that amount.
The Experience
Conclusion
The Sim Cockpit System - www.simcockpitsystem.com - is
definitely an upper tier product. But it offers a dramatic improvement
to the simulation environment that justifies its cost, and as improved
software and hardware continue to enter the market, it provides a
stellar platform (literally) in which to enjoy the full potential of these
other products. It will require an investment from the purchaser but
any investment needs to be judged on the basis of its return and the
SCS scores very high in this area, thus justifying itself as a viable
candidate in what promises to be a growing segment of the genre.
Few products are capable of changing the very way flight simulation
is experienced this is one of them. 4
12. SCS WITH YOKE AND THROTTLE QUADRANT
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ROUNDROBIN ADVENTURE
BACK TO BASICS
BY AL PELLETIER
R
If you have undertaken previous Round
Robins, skip the next paragraph, jump right
in, and have fun. For those who are new
to this, Round Robins are published with
the intent of having Flight-Simmers fly,
look at the scenery, refresh our Geography,
practice our cross country navigation,
perform approaches at different airports
all over the world, and have some FUN.
In the message, you will be receiving info
like: airport departure and runway number,
VORs and NDBs enroute, two or three
middle airport destinations, for VFR or
INST approach, and back to your point
of departure (Round Robin). You will also
be given ILS and LOM freq., minimums,
procedures etc. and a little background
on the geography of the area. After you
fly a few of these, you will have a much
better command and understanding of the
different types of published procedures. You
will learn to handle a lot of information in
a very short time, while still maintaining
control of your aircraft..
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SCENERY (Payware):
** Again I was spoiled by my good friend
Justin Tyme at FSGENESIS with awesome
textures for the USA and Canada www.fsgenisis.net
SCENERY (Freeware):
** Tons for scenery available for the Chicago
area at www.avsim.com and
www.flightsim.com
(A lot of notes regarding ATC will pertain
only to FS2002\FS2004\FS-X users)
May I suggest that you READ the route a
couple of times before starting out, so that
youll have the flight plan fairly clear in your
mind. Especially in a fast medium or large
jet aircraft, there isnt much time to spare and
definitely no room for errors.
The scenario and tasking for this exercise:
We are flying a pilot trainer from the
old Chicago Meigs airport down to the
University of Illinois, then to OHare and
back to Meigs. The aim is to re-create and
revisit the original airports, VORs and
NDBs from the earliest Flight Sim of the
early 1980s.
BEGIN
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First leg:
CHICAGO Meigs (KCGX) >>>
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA/University
of Illinois (KCMI)
Approx 135 nm.
Select Chicago Meigs, RWY 36, under
USA airports.
Weather: I selected the standard major
thunderstorm under weather. I wanted
to experience the original effects of
turbulence and winds created by this
selection.
Dial in the CHICAGO HEIGHTS (CGT)
VOR frequency 114.20 on NAV1 and
the KANKAKEE (IKK) VOR frequency
111.60 on NAV2. (The Archer III comes
with an awesome GPS system, the
GARMIN GNS430. If you wish to use that
you can follow right along using the GPS).
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Third leg:
CHICAGO OHare Intl (KORD)
>>> MEIGS Municipal (KCGX)
Approx distance 31 nm.
Weather CAVU (Ceiling and visibility
unlimited).
Tune in the TAFFS (CHICAGO) (IA)
NDB frequency 414 on your ADF and the
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Al 4
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Subject:
Trevor Mackey
Tucson, AZ
[Trevor, thanks for your email. I guess you have a good point in that if everything was included in FSX, there would be nothing new to find. Plus it is
true that many third party developers really push the envelope in terms of
what the simulator software can do, and no doubt inspire the developers
that work on the Microsoft title to set even higher goals for future versions.
Many simmers are download addicts when it comes to flight sim, grabbing
anything and everything that will expand their simulator experience or suit
their needs or requirements, and many of these add-ons, due to developers
Subject:
time constraints at Microsoft/ACES, are better than what you can find
in the original simulator software. This is understandable of course. You
cant have everything all the time, but I guess there are certain things we
should also expect to see in terms of sim development moving forward,
and some of these are what Bill mentioned in his article. But in the end,
we are at the mercy of what the simulator developers wish to offer us,
but thankfully the third party commercial and freeware developers are
there to fill in the gaps! Ed]
Ed,
I would like you to know how much I enjoy the CDs containing the years of
Computer Pilot. I have Volumes 7, 8, 9, and 10. The newest one, Volume 7
- 2003 I just received, and it is very interesting to fly the flights in 2004 and
FSX that were originally discussed for 2002. For instance, the January 2003
issue on page 22 has an article A Pilots Guide to Europe. I have all of the
CP Magazines, but the ability to print the pages I want at any time is worth
the cost of the CD... less than USD$12. Keep em coming.
[Ray, thanks for your email and Im glad to see you enjoy the Computer
Pilot back issue collections on CD. We will be converting more back issue
volumes to CD archives as time goes on (there is quite a bit of work to convert each issue so it does take some time). We produced these collections
in response to quite a lot of reader feedback and suggestions so it is good
to hear the CD collections are being well used by our customers. Look out
for more back issue collections coming soon! Ed]
Ray Bena
Brook Park, OH
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