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ACTIVE CAMERA 2004 version 2.1

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DESCRIPTION OF THE MODULE

With this module you can enable additional views in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of
Flight. Several new camera views are selectable from the FS 2004 - Options menu. When activated
this module replaces the original tower and virtual cockpit views of FS 2004.
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INSTALLATION

After installation :
ActiveCamera2004.dll is located in the FS 2004 MODULES folder (e.g. C:\Program
Files\ Flight Simulator 9\Modules)
ActiveCamera2004.cfg is located in the FS 2004 MAIN directory (e.g. C:\Program
Files\ Flight Simulator 9).
Sounds files are located in the ActiveCamera Sounds subfolder (e.g. C:\Program
Files\Flight Simulator 9\Active Camera\Sound).
Presets (*.acv) files are located in the FS 2004 MAIN directory (e.g. C:\Program
Files\ Flight Simulator 9).
Documentation is located in the Active Camera Manual subfolder (e.g. C:\Program
Files\ Flight Simulator 9\ActiveCamera\Manual).

Try and Buy

Active Camera 2004 demo is non time-limited and fully functional but limited to the Seattle area
(KSEA). When you leave this delimited zone a message box will be displayed and all the
functionalities will be disabled.

If you wish to test the add-on, go to KSEA airport (FS2004 default start-up situation). If your
start-up situation is other than KSEA and you do not wish to see this message displayed each
time you load FS, simply rename ActiveCamera2004.dll to ActiveCamera2004.bak. This will
disable the module.

How to register.
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Go to http://www.anticyclone.be if you like the program and want to purchase it. When the
transaction is completed you will have to unlock Active Camera 2004 demo.

A. User registration key

1. Open the Active Camera 2004 menu (FS2004) - Options ActiveCamera 2004.
2. Click on Register.
3. Your computer will generate the unique number which is your User registration key (32 digits).
4. Send the User registration key to activation@anticyclone.be. Please keep the same e-mail
address you used for the transaction. To avoid any error, copy this long number to the
clipboard (press CTRL+C) and paste it in your e-mail (press CTRL+V).
5. On receipt of your User registration key we will generate your personal authorization key code.
We will send your authorization key code to you by e-mail, not later than the next day.

B. Hardware / Operating System upgrading

If you ever change your computer hardware or upgrade your operating system you will need a new
authorization key code. Just send us the newly generated User registration key at
activation@anticyclone.be and we will e-mail you a new activation code. Some of you may be
concerned and ask us: What happens if you stop your activities within the next six months? Who will
provide us with a new authorization key code? Do not worry. Two well known FS add-on publishers
have our activation software. They will automatically take over if we stop our activities.

COPYRIGHT

This software (Active Camera 2004) is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as
well as other intellectual property treaties and laws.
Active Camera 2004 demo can be uploaded to any website without prior agreement by the authors.

To use Active Camera 2004 you MUST have Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 installed on your
computer.

This add-on has been specifically designed for use with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 ONLY.

Contents are the exclusive copyright of AntiCyclonE (2004) and no part of this package or any other
files within, in part or in whole, may be copied re-distributed, disassembled, re-packaged or in any way
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be exploited for any purpose whatsoever, whether for commercial or non-commercial reasons without
the express and written permission of AntiCyclonE.

support : support@anticyclone.be
visit our website : http://www.anticyclone.be

Caution :

If you call Setup, Register, Load view config, Save view config in FULL SCREEN mode the window
may not be displayed. Revert temporarily to windowed mode (press ALT+ENTER).

Active Camera 2004 menu

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OPERATION

1. FLY BY
Within the dialog box you can define the duration (in seconds) and the virtual
camera altitude relative to the aircraft (in feet, negative values are accepted).
You can also select the placement of the camera e.g. always right, always left or random.
The camera can travel around the aircraft (check the Do traveling option).
You can define the distance of the camera relative to the aircraft (more effective if Do
traveling option is enabled)
You can define the camera longitudinal angle
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Shortcut: CTRL + F5

A fly by sequence with the Ford Tri-Motor

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2. APPROACH VIEW
You can ask Active Camera 2004 to project the virtual camera on the ground along the current track
flown by the aircraft (Approach View). Above the defined camera transition altitude Active Camera
2004 tracks the aircraft continuously in Fly-By mode. After setting the position of the observer camera
Active Camera 2004 computes the estimated touchdown point and the virtual camera movement
along the ground is frozen. It simulates the position of the observer (spotter). This view is useful if you
are playing a recorded flight video. (your FS2004 directory Options Flight Video).

You can still use this view in real time but, due to the perspective, it will be a real challenge to perform
a good landing, unless you make an autoland. The Instant Replay option of FS2004 (FS2004
Options Instant Replay) is also a nice feature to use with the Approach View mode.
Shortcut: CTRL + F6

Note: selecting the Approach View automatically switches OFF the Fly By view (and
Vice-versa).

Principles of the Approach view :

1. User defined mode:

In Approach view, the module computes a target touchdown point. Thanks to the point and click
function simply point the mouse cursor on the scenery window. Press SHIFT and click on the right
mouse button. You have set the position of the spotter camera. You must be in virtual cockpit
mode. It is easier to perform this operation during the Instant Replay.
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You are in approach

Point the mouse cursor on the scenery window. Press SHIFT and click on the right mouse button.
You have set the position of the spotter camera. You must be in virtual cockpit mode to do this
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During the Instant Replay you can observe the aircraft

During the Instant Replay you can even change the position of the camera with SHIFT + right mouse
button. Note you can also change the height of the observer camera ( parameter Vertical offset in
the setup menu)
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Above the defined camera transition altitude the Fly-By mode is always active
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At defined camera transition altitude the observer view is automatically switched on

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The virtual camera tracks the aircraft until the end of the video or replay

2. Automatic mode :

At 200 feet AGL (Above the Ground Level) Active Camera 2004 computes the estimated touchdown
point and the virtual camera movement along the ground is frozen. The estimation is based on a
steady 3 degrees descent path.

3. SPOT PLANE VIEW

Important note: A 3-button mouse or a mouse wheel is recommended.

You can pan and zoom with your mouse in spot plane view.

1. Internal Pilot View must be CHECKED (CTRL + F11)

2. Use mouse in spot view must be CHECKED (CTRL +F9)
3. Gradual transition must be UNCHECKED (FS 2004 menu View View options).

Tip : save your default FS startup situation with the Gradual transition unchecked. Next time youll
launch FS2004 this option will be unchecked.

Simply PUSH and HOLD the wheel (or the center button) and while moving the mouse you can look
left, right, up or down. You can zoom in and out using the wheel.

If the Use mouse in spot view option is unchecked, the FS default Spot plane view is active.
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Panning is easy and precise: PUSH and HOLD the wheel (or the center button)
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Rotate the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.

Dolly effect : If you press SHIFT + mouse wheel you will focus on the aircraft only, not on the scenery

wobble camera effect :

In spot plane view mode there is a kind of head latency effect. Best setting is 0.25 to 0.40 (definable
from the Active Camera 2004 setup menu). If you wish to disable this effect simply set the parameter
to zero.
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4. VIRTUAL COCKPIT AND PILOT VIEWS

Important note: A 3-button mouse or a mouse wheel is recommended.

A. Internal Pilot View (virtual cockpit)

In the FS 2004 Options Active Camera 2004 menu, select the Internal Pilot View or press
CTRL-F11. When in the virtual cockpit you can move anywhere in the aircraft. Simply PUSH and
HOLD the wheel (or the center button) and while moving the mouse you can look left, right, up or
down. You can zoom in and out with the wheel. You can even move left, right, back or forward, rotate
left and right (Number pad keys 4, 6, 2, 8, 7, 9). If you use the number keypad be sure the Num
Lock is ON.
A cockpit sound is added to ground turbulence effect when rolling on the runway. Sound is
played with a fading effect when airspeed exceeds 10 knots. This sound can be disabled
through a checkbox in the setup menu
A cockpit sound is added to head latency effect (see further in this chapter) : a kind of
screeching noise when pulling more than +1.8 G or less than +0,0 G. Sounds will be also
played when there is enough turbulence. Since modern airliners do not stress as small
general aviation airplanes do this sound can be disabled through a checkbox in the setup
menu
As soon as the overspeed is exceeded the view point will start to shake and an appropriate
cockpit noise will be played (effect starts at overspeed warning flag x 1.2)
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Push and hold the mouse wheel or center button to pan everywhere in the virtual cockpit.

Tip : adjust the pilot seat height with CTRL+HOME or CTRL+END

Thanks to FS2004 interactive virtual cockpits it is easy to move the mouse, pan and click, so allowing
a more immerse way of flying.
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Rotating the mouse wheel allows you to zoom in and out. It is not necessary to push and hold the
wheel.

Caution: If you wish to zoom by rotating the wheel while the mouse pointer has changed to a
hand you will affect the position of the selected cockpit control (standard FS2004 function). We
have added an option in the menu that disables the wheel mouse zooming function in the
virtual cockpit only (enable wheel zoom in VC, shortcut CTRL + SHIFT + F7)

You can even walk in the virtual cabin as far as you wish. Use number pad keys 4, 6, 2, 8, 7, 9 to
move left, right, back or forward, rotate left and right (see the key summary below).
Note: you can still pan and zoom with the mouse in the virtual cabin.
Walking speed can be defined (meters per second) in the appropriate field (Active Camera Setup
dialog box)
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You can sit as a virtual passenger and create wing views.

Note : you can walk around the virtual cabin of a 747 (e.g. 747 Ready for Pushback). To visit the lower
deck press CTRL+END. To return to the upper deck press CTRL+HOME.

Saving/Loading Presets Views

You can save up to 10 preset for each aircraft. First adjust your preferred view and then hit
CTRL + ALT and a number between 0 and 9 (not the numeric keypad). Now you can recall the view(s)
by pressing CTRL+ n (e.g. CTRL + 1).

Any existing preset view can be edited by the same method. The preset views specific to ANY aircraft
can be saved in an *.acv file (Active Camera View).

The *.acv file MUST BE SAVED in the FS 2004 MAIN directory (e.g. C:\Program Files\ Flight
Simulator 9).

Every time you want to use preset views with a particular aircraft, simply load the aircraft, then load
the related *.acv file through the FS 2004 main directory. You can save as many presets as you wish,
the number of *.acv files is unlimited. You can select a smooth transition between views (enable this
option in the setup dialog box)
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Adjust your view, then press CTRL + ALT and a number between 0 and 9 to save the preset view.
Example: press CTRL + ALT + 3. The preset is now saved. Then you can recall the same view
anytime by pressing CTRL + 3.

We have prepared basic sets of views for each default FS 2004 aircraft. These views are our
preferences and can be edited as the user requires.

Format of *.acv file :

You are allowed to add comments at the end of each data line and at the end to the group. NOT
BEFORE.

View.0=0,-0.3541,0.9805,3.8838,377.2102,1.2489,0.0000,0.7560 // add comment

View.1=0,0.4700,0.9805,3.8867,378.3771,-1.0971,0.0000,0.6563
View.2=0,-0.4957,0.9805,3.7765,27.2222,30.1869,0.0000,0.5806
View.3=0,0.0454,0.9805,3.8626,-20.6867,3.0346,0.0000,0.3871
View.4=0,0.0265,0.9805,4.2729,-81.4703,-0.0053,0.0000,0.6164
View.5=0,-0.1375,0.9805,4.3952,7.8352,-112.0057,0.0000,0.6048
View.6=1,47.4317,-122.3081,130.7590,0.0000,132.2566,0.0000,1.0000
View.7=1,47.4315,-122.3081,130.7590,0.0000,90.8566,0.0000,1.0000
View.8=1,47.4314,-122.3080,130.7590,0.0000,-2.1134,0.0000,1.0000
View.9=1,47.4317,-122.3080,130.7590,0.0000,179.9566,0.0000,1.0000

// view.0 = CTRL-1 shortcut

// view.1 = CTRL-2 shortcut
// view.2 = CTRL-3 shortcut
// view.3 = CTRL-4 shortcut
// view.4 = CTRL-5 shortcut
// view.5 = CTRL-6 shortcut
// view.6 = CTRL-7 shortcut
// view.7 = CTRL-8 shortcut
// view.8 = CTRL-9 shortcut
// view.9 = CTRL-0 shortcut

View.0=0,-0.3541,0.9805,3.8838,377.2102,1.2489,0.0000,0.7560

0 ID for internal view

-0.3541 X coordinate
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0.9805 Y coordinate
3.8838 Z coordinate
377.2102 rotation on X axis
1.2489 rotation on Y axis
0.0000 rotation on Z axis
0.7560 zoom factor

Head latency, ground turbulence and pre-stall buffeting.

In FS 2004 Options Active Camera 2004 - Configuration dialog box you can
define the head latency rate (0-2). We have programmed an algorithm simulating head movement
that is dependent on the aircraft motion (a bit like in real life). Test this amazing feature with turbulence
or playing aerobatics in the default Extra.

With the Internal Pilot View a recommended limit for the frame rate target is 20-25 fps on some
high performance machines. The offset is computed in real time and if the refresh is too fast a
trembling image may be generated.

In the FS 2004 Options Active Camera 2004 - Configuration dialog box you can define the
ground turbulence rate (0-2) for use when rolling along the runway, as well as the pre-stall
buffeting effect (0-2).

Theory of the pre-stall buffeting:

The reduced airflow over the flight control surfaces affects the control effectiveness. The sound of air
flowing along the fuselage is reduced. Just before the stall vibrations, uncontrollable pitching or
buffeting begins. If the Active Camera 2004 pre-stall buffeting effect is enabled, the module will also
play a stress sound.

Recommended settings are 0.50 to 1.0 (head latency, ground turbulence, pre-stall buffeting). In
order to activate any of these features shortcuts must be checked in the dialog box (or use the
key combination CTRL + 7 for head latency, CTRL + 8 for ground turbulence.

B. External Pilot View

In the FS 2004 Options Active Camera 2004 menu select the "External Pilot view" or press X (the X
key may interfere with some FMCs in airliners re-assign the X key through the Keys option see
further). You are now outside the aircraft. You can move to the left, right, forward or backward and
walk (or even run) around the aircraft (using both number pad keys and mouse). When you move
forward, backward, left or right, your head is balancing or "shaking". You can even crouch in order to
make a virtual pre-flight inspection. The sound of steps is played while the virtual pilot is walking.
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Tutorial:

You are sitting in the virtual cockpit

Select the "External Pilot view or press X. You are now outside the aircraft. Do not worry if you do not
see the aircraft.
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Rotate to the right (number keypad 9). Num Lock must be ON. Alternatively turn to the right with the
mouse wheel (pressed and hold) and then press number pad 8 to move forward.

To stop moving forward release the number pad 8. You can still pan and zoom with the mouse wheel.
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Move everywhere around the aircraft and perform a virtual preflight. You can closely inspect the detail
of the gear mechanisms, for example, in great detail.

The pilot height is approximately 5.85 feet (standing up) and 2.85 feet (crouching down). In the dialog
box, you can define the walking speed (in meters per second, from 0.0 to infinity).
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You can even crouch (number keypad 0). This feature useful for virtual spotters and aircraft designers
who want to verify the attention to detail.

Caution :
This screenshot shows a corrupted appearance, you get there by activating "external pilot view" and
then toggling the S key (cycling between views). At this point the simulator puts you both in the
cockpit AND external, the S key no longer can toggle.
It is because you switched from external pilot view to another view mode, without returning to the VC.
External and internal views are linked in AC2002 code. When you leave the external view it is
therefore advised to revert FIRST to the virtual cockpit.

Walking around on ground:

Move by pressing number keypad 7, 8, 9, 4, 6, 2 (be sure numlock is ON) .
Walking speed can be defined (meters per second) in the appropriate field (dialog box external view)
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Note concerning the ambient sounds :

ALL ambient sounds (steps, buffeting, ground turbulences, overspeed ) can be enabled/disabled
through the Active Camera 2004 menu of Flight Simulator 2004 (Options Active Camera 2004
Sound on).

Limitation of the external view:

There may be some undesired effects with the External Pilot View.
1. Since the terrain is not refreshed correctly some tiles disappear and scenery objects are floating.
2. Use in Southern hemisphere: When using the external pilot view in the Southern hemisphere i.e. in
Australia or South Africa, the co-ordinates system we use is not working perfectly. The closer to the
South Pole, the more the front/back and left/right movements are inverted and not "refreshed" properly
(shocks)
3. If the sky is cloudy the camera generates a very small hiccup every 30 seconds. This is (probably)
due to the FS2004 weather.dll. The phenomenon does not occur when there are no clouds in the sky.

Since its release in 2002 this view is made for virtual external preflight purposes only, not
especially for walking around the airfield or landscape. Although there are a few limitations in
external pilot view many Active Camera 2002 users asked us to implement this feature in
Active Camera 2004. That is the reason why we decided to provide this - buggy or limited -
function as it is.
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In this example as you change the height of the eyepoint (CTRL- HOME or CTRL END) the aircraft
is disappearing into the ground. The runway tiles have also disappeared.

5. PLAYING A RECORDED FLIGHT VIDEO OR INSTANT REPLAY

ALL of the Active Camera views are usable when playing a recorded FS2004 Flight video or Instant
replay.

6. SCENERY PADLOCK VIEW

It is possible to padlock any point on the scenery window (Ideal for visual airfield patterns, click on the
runway threshold).

From the virtual cockpit simply click anywhere on the scenery and the pilots head will follow this
point automatically. In the setup menu you can also edit the position of the padlock point if you know
the co-ordinates (latitude and longitude, altitude).
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Press CTRL + Right mouse button to set the padlock anywhere in the scenery window. Then press
CTRL + F12 to enable the padlock point. Press CTRL+F12 again to disable the padlock (and pressing
space bar allows you to return quickly to the instruments for scan).

During the visual approach the selected point on ground is continuously tracked
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Note : you can still reset the padlock point whenever you want (CTRL + right mouse click)

7. AI TRACKING VIEW (Padlock like in combat simulators)

We have programmed a built-in TCAS (Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System) in the Active
Camera 2004 module.

Option in the AC2004 menu: Traffic track view.

With this option enabled you can track any AI traffic flying in the vicinity of your aircraft.

Operational purpose: It can be used if you wish to look out or if you suspect a traffic conflict. This is
useful when, for example, ATC asks you to report traffic in sight or ATC reports you traffic.

New option group Traffic tracking appears in the setup dialog box.

- Max aircraft to track : You can use it to define the maximum number of AI aircraft to
track.
- Max distance (nm) : You can use it to define the maximum distance of AI aircraft to track
relative to your aircraft.

Shortcuts and functions

Important: Internal pilot view must be enabled.

Press CTRL+SHIFT+A, the pilot'

s head will track automatically the nearest AI.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+S to toggle next traffic.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+E to revert to the nearest AI.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+Q if you wish to lock the traffic view on the current AI. To unlock the view press
CTRL+SHIFT+Q again.
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Ability to lock the traffic view on the current AI

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The pilot'
s head tracks automatically the AI
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As soon as you aircraft is airborne the AIs on ground will no longer be tracked.

During tracking the camera movement is limited to 180 degrees on the X axis (90 degrees left, 90
degrees right) and 40 degrees on the Y axis (20 degrees up, 20 degrees down). The aircraft
longitudinal axis is the reference.

Obviously the view will constantly change to the nearest AI if you use this feature in a crowded airport.

Keep in mind that while the option is enabled you can no longer pan with the mouse and / or num pad.
Zooming with the mouse wheel is still allowed.
To revert to the normal virtual cockpit view simply press CTRL+SHIFT+A and then hit SPACE
to reset the VC view.

8. TOWER SPOT VIEW

Press CTRL+SPACE from the virtual cockpit to enable this feature from the virtual cockpit.
With this option enabled you can monitor, track any AI traffic flying in the vicinity of virtual control
tower. Mouse panning and zooming, AI tracking and padlock are allowed.

Option group Tower Traffic Tracking appears in the setup dialog box.

- Max aircraft to track : define the maximum number of AI aircraft to track.

- Max distance (nm) : define the maximum distance of AI aircraft to track relative to the
observation tower.
- Height of the Tower (feet) : define the height of the observation tower (up to 300 feet)

Shortcuts and functions

Press CTRL+SHIFT+A, the observers head will track automatically the nearest AI.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+S to toggle next traffic.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+E to revert to the nearest AI.
Press CTRL+SHIFT+Q if you wish to lock the traffic view on the current AI. To unlock the view press
CTRL+SHIFT+Q again.
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Just for fun: AI spotting - tutorial.

1) Set the Air Traffic density in FS2004 - Options - Settings Traffic to 25% (or more, depending on
rd
your PC performance). There are many 3 party AI traffic add-ons.
2) Position your aircraft near a control tower. From the Virtual Cockpit press CTRL+SPACE (sound
is automatically switched to OFF)

3) Pan around the virtual tower (either with mouse or num pad keys)
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4) Monitor the traffic by using the shortcuts (Pressing CTRL+SHIFT+A enables the AI monitoring,
CTRL+SHIFT+S toggles next traffic. Obviously the view will constantly change to the nearest AI if
you use this feature in a crowded airport.

5) Then lock any AI and follow its path (press CTRL+SHIFT+Q). Keep in mind that while the lock
option is enabled you can no longer pan with the mouse and / or num pad. Zooming with the
mouse wheel is still allowed.
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6) When finished press CTRL+SHIFT+Q to unlock the tracked AI. Press CTRL+SHIFT+S to toggle
next AI traffic.
7) When finished press CTRL+SHIFT+A to quit the AI tracking mode then revert back to normal
virtual cockpit mode (press CTRL+SPACE again)

9. ASSIGNING EVENTS THROUGH AN INTERFACE

Active Camera 2004 uses 50 customized keyboard shortcuts. Some of these shortcuts may be in
rd
conflict with other 3 party add-on you have installed. Instead of editing via the activecamera2004.cfg
you may use the built-in interface. Either keyboard combinations or joystick buttons can be easily
programmed.

1. Open the Keys option in the Active Camera 2004 menu.

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2. Highlight the event you wish to be

assigned/modified.

3. Click on the Modify button.

4. As soon as the message box is displayed press a key combination.
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In this example we changed the default Toggle traffic view shortcut which was CTRL+SHIFT+A
to CTRL+ALT+T

When you edit shortcuts be sure to avoid conflicts with default FS2004 shortcuts.
If you deleted an existing shortcut and you wish to redefine again, click on the Add button and select
one of the 50 key events featured in the list.

10 . SHORTCUTS

Note : Pressing F12 allows you to pan around with the mouse WITHOUT pressing the mouse wheel.

You can access major functions of Active Camera 2004 through shortcuts. All these shortcuts can be
edited/added through the built in interface.
Here is a list of the default shortcuts :

Fly By CTRL + F5
Approach View CTRL + F6
Internal View CTRL + F11
Head latency CTRL + F7
Ground Turbulence CTRL + F8
Use mouse in spot view CTRL + F9
Enable scenery padlock CTRL + F12
Enable wheel zoom in VC CTRL + SHIFT + F7
Dialog Box (setup menu) CTRL + SHIFT + F5
Toggle mouse look F12
External View X
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Key summary:

Move forward Num. pad 8

Move backward Num. pad 2
Step right Num. pad 6
Step left Num. pad 4
Rotate left Num. pad 7
Rotate right Num. pad 9
Crouch down/up Num. pad 0
Look up CTRL + PageUp
Look down CTRL + PageDown
Move eye point up Control + Home
Move eye point down Control + End
Enable virtual Tower view Control + SPACE

Explanation of the key assignments in the configuration file:

It is also possible to assign key commands. The ActiveCamera2004.cfg file can be edited manually.

Example : PilotHeadUp=PAGE_UP,CONTROL,DOUBLE

"PilotHeadUp" is the identifier of the command

"PAGE_UP" is the key code. It can be one of the following:

- a letter or number (using capitals)
- F1 to F12
- NUMPAD_0 to NUMPAD_9
- TAB, SPACE, RETURN
- HOME, END, UP, DOWN, LEFT, RIGHT, PAGE_UP, PAGE_DOWN
- MOUSE_BUTTON_0 to MOUSE_BUTTON_2

"CONTROL" is an optional key modifier, can also be "SHIFT" or "ALT". You can have several
modifiers for one key command (i.e. PilotHeadUp=PAGE_UP,CONTROL,ALT,DOUBLE)

"DOUBLE" means that the key will send a signal when it is pressed and when it is released. In
the above example, when you hold down the page-up key, the head starts to move, and when
you release the key, the head stops. If we remove the "DOUBLE" word, you would have to
press the key a second time to stop the head movement.
The available command identifiers are all in the .cfg file. You can add as many key assignments for
one command as you wish (like in the ToggleMouseLook command).
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. I installed Active Camera 2004 version 2.0 on FS 9.1. The mouse zoom and mouse panning
around the cockpit was not responding and I would CTD within 30 seconds of starting the
game.

R. Microsoft released an update for FS2004. Since FS9.exe has been modified it is obvious that
Active Camera 2004 version 1.1 or later will cause a CTD (Crash To Desktop) with FS2004
update (due to a memory addresses conflict). This warning is also stated in the FS9.1 readme
file. Download and install the appropriate Active Camera version (see the "Download" page at
http://www.anticyclone.be)

_____________________________
Q. I installed the ActiveCamera 2.0, then the Microsoft FS9.1 update and then the ActiveCamera
9.1 patch. Product is registered and no of the AC function works anymore

R. you use the no-cd patch for Fs2004 (9.0). The FS update modified some memory offsets and
pointer variables, Active Camera checks for data in the FS9.exe, which is not the same with the
no-cd exe. If you revert to the original updated FS9.exe our program will work fine, or use a no-
cd patch for FS 9.1

_____________________________

Q: I'm not able to set up the approach view. In approach view or in flyby mode the camera is
"hanging" behind the plane and doesn't change to observer mode (approach view). I get this
"miles away" from aircraft approach view. The manual states to click in the scenery window
with SHIFT and right mouse button to set the observer viewpoint. When I press this
combination FS comes up with a window asking me to select a view (spot view, tower view,
cockpit view and so on). I have lost my observer view altogether.
R: Go in FS2004 - Options - Active Camera 2004 - Keys, and assign a new combination to the
mouse click.
Example :
1. Highlight Set approach view point
2. Click on Modify
3. the program asks you to set a key or mouse button
4. press CTRL + Left mouse button (or SHIFT + Middle mouse button)
In this case you won't use the right mouse button and won't call the FS window.
The same applies to set scenery padlock point.

How to play an approach view step by step:

1. land and stop aircraft
2. start up instant replay 60 seconds with "repeat" checked
3. during replay go into virtual cockpit mode
4. on approach, press "P" to pause
5. press shift simultaneously right click mouse on the airfield position you wish to view from
(or another key combination you defined)
6. go to your FS2004 menu bar - Options/ActiveCamera/check "approachView"
7. go to your FS2004 menu bar - Options/ActiveCamera/Setup - set the camera transition
altitude to 500 feet
7. press "P" again to unpause
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8. cycle to FS default Tower view

_____________________________

Q: when I turn off the computer I get the closing program for FS9. In other words it has not
closed when I exit Flight Sim some hours before.

R: Due to a conflict with DirectInput on some computers the FS9.exe process is still running
after FS 2004 is shut down. Therefore it was not possible to save the Active Camera settings in
the setup menu.
Download the fix (see the Download page at www.anticyclone.be). This dll fixes the issue. Note
that you will no longer be able to assign Active Camera events to any joystick button.

_____________________________
Q. : When I call AC2004 windows through the shortcuts such as setup or to save preset
settings, or even register FS9 appears to be running, but no screen is displayed.

R. : In FULL SCREEN MODE it is advised to call the windows through the Active Camera menu
rather that with the hotkeys (FS2004 - Options ActiveCamera 2004)

_____________________________
Q. : When I open setup or register windows the sim is crashing (I get a black screen). I have
to reboot FS2004.

R. : In fact the sim doesn't crash at all, FS2004 is still running but the window is not displayed.
It is a known issue with some 3rd party windows open in FULL SCREEN mode. Revert
temporarily to WINDOWED mode (press ALT+ENTER) and the window will be displayed
correctly. Fixed in update 1.1 for some graphic displays.

_____________________________
Q. : When I go in external view the airplane seems out of shape.
 - 40 -

R. : These screen shots show a corrupted appearance. You get there by activating "external
pilot view" and then toggling the S key (cycling between views). It is because you switched
from external pilot view to another view mode, without returning to the VC. External and
internal views are linked in AC2004 code. When you leave the external view it is therefore
advised to revert FIRST to the virtual cockpit.

_____________________________
Q. : Though it looks funny, this is what I get as my User Registration Key: =A

R. : the Register module generates a 32 digits number. Windows 98 platform does not generate
the key properly on some machines. We have fixed this and if you want to register simply e-
mail us so we can send you the dll Win98 SE / ME compatible or download the dll via our
website (download section).

_____________________________
Q. : Is there a solution to have the Gradual Transition constantly disabled. Every time I launch
FS2004 this option is default enabled.

R. : save your default FS startup situation with the Gradual transition unchecked. Next time
youll launch FS2004 this option will be unchecked.

_____________________________
Q. : I have a Logitech wireless mouse with a scroll wheel. It will not allow me to pan the view
from side to side or up and down in VC or Spot view. All I can do is zoom in and out by turning
the scroll wheel. Pressing it down and moving the mouse has no effect on the view
whatsoever.

R. : Click on your mouse icon in the system tray and make sure that the scroll wheel/middle
button is set to "Middle Button". If the default setting for the middle button was set to
"AutoScroll", you have to change it to "Middle Button" to have it function like a standard
mouse in FS2004.

_____________________________

Q. : What is the best setting for the fly-by view ?

R. : it depends on the dimensions of the airplane and its speed. Example : DC-3

fly-by duration : 20 seconds

 - 41 -

camera relative altitude : 0 feet

minimum distance : 2500 feet

set the zoom to 002.5 (FS2004 - View - View Options - Tower)

_____________________________

Q. : When I register the program I have this message key not valid product is in demo mode?

R. : it is because you left a blank space when you copied/pasted the authorization key we sent
you. To avoid any blank spaces type the authorization key manually.

_____________________________ _____________________________

HISTORY

Active Camera 2004 v 2.1 (August 25, 2005)

Virtual tower view for AI spotting

Fix - flyby view : Camera longitudinal angle is kept in the registry database
Auto computed approach view restored

Active Camera 2004 v 2.0 (October 10, 2004)

Ability to padlock any point on the scenery window. Ideal for visual airfield patterns
Approach view : ability to position the observer camera on ground by clicking on the scenery.
Vertical offset added. Camera transition altitude added.
wobble camera effect : kind of head latency effect in spot plane view mode.
Cockpit sound added to head latency effect. Cockpit noise when banking, screeching noise
when pulling more than +1.8 G or less than +0,0 G. Sound will be also played when there is
enough turbulence
View point shaking and cockpit noise when overspeed is exceeded
Ability to assign any Active Camera event to any joystick button
Camera longitudinal angle added to the fly by view
Fix : reset of flyby view
Fix : loss of flyby view after Windows XP Service Pack 2 installation

Active Camera 2004 v 1.0 (July 26, 2003)

release

Active Camera 2004 beta 5 (July 13, 2003)

Preset views can be called with/without smooth transition

External views can be saved in preset
External view switches automatically to internal view when airborne

Active Camera 2004 beta 4 (July 7, 2003)

Active Camera patched for FS2004 Gold version
Enable wheel zoom in VC option added (allows the wheel to affect the position of the
selected cockpit control (standard FS2004 function))
 - 42 -

Active Camera 2002 (June 17, 2003)

Conversion of the AC2004 code to Active Camera 2002

Active Camera 2004 beta 3 (June 15, 2003)

Ambient sounds added (steps, wind) when in external pilot view
Stress sounds added to the pre-stall buffeting effect.
Internal pilot view automatically checked when switching to External pilot view
Added shortcut to load the preset views
Enhancement : zooming is now linear
User manual in Adobe PDF format
Installer

Active Camera 2004 beta 2 (June 1st, 2003)

External Pilot View activated
Ability to project the camera on the ground along the current track flown by the
aircraft (Approach View)
Added shortcuts for Dialog Box, Fly By, External View, Approach View
On ground head latency is limited to 0.2 (hard coded) and makes rudder movements more
realistic while taxiing or rolling at higher speed
Bug fixed : pre-stall buffeting is no longer dependant on ground turbulence box checked

Active Camera 2004 beta 1 (May 25th, 2003)

Ability to enable/disable all features via keyboard shortcuts.
Pre-stall buffeting effect.
Enable mouse panning and zooming in spot view.
Recording and recalling up to 10 preset views
Saving and calling a specific set of preset views for an unlimited number of
aircraft. More realistic settings for head latency and ground turbulence features (limited to 2.0,
recommended is 0.60 to 1.0)
Added shortcut for Internal Pilot View

Active Camera 2004 beta 0.9 (February 24th, 2003)

Programming a version for FS2004 from scratch.

Active CameraPro 1.3 (October 11th, 2002)

The user can now move the eye point up or down when in external view (not realistic but
useful for spotters and aircraft designers).
The ground turbulence and head latency can be turned on and off via a keyboard shortcut
(useful while flying).

Active CameraPro 1.2 (October 9th, 2002)

Just after the release of version 1.1 we discovered a minor issue related to panning with a
coolie hat in a particular situation (high bank and pitch attitudes). We have corrected this but
there is still a small undesired effect when you stop to rotate with the hat. Since this effect is
not really disturbing, we will leave it as it is.
A type mismatch has been corrected in the .cfg file (crouch key assignment)

Active CameraPro 1.1 (October 7th, 2002)

A ground turbulence effect has been added (try it while rolling on the runway)
The head latency function has been improved (more natural head movement when turning).
Now the virtual cockpit is panning slightly to the left/right.
Key commands can be assigned via an editable .cfg file (Useful for Track IR users)
The red text witch appeared permanently in the upper right corner (VC mode) has been
deleted
The running speed can be defined in the dialog box (in meters per second, from 0.0 to infinity)

Active Camera for FS2000 (June 30th, 2001)

 - 43 -

Fly by view

CREDITS

Idea, concept, programming : (C) 2001-2005 Guillaume Darier, Serge Baye, Andy Newman