Mainstream Cockpit Hardware & Software

save money Lately I've noticed a more consistent stream of mainstream or entry level hardware & software coming into the market. I think with the increased interest in FSX , the average GA pilot spending more time on the ground due to fuel costs & more people interested in building a simulator, there is a growing need to bring more realism to flight simming.

I am an enthusiast who has no flight time, just a strong interest in aviation and I have been mulling over the costs of building a simulator. Looking at the high cost of most of the available hardware options, I'm faced with the decision to go full steam ahead and spend some serious cash or to step back some and look into less expensive alternatives. Well recently I posted that I was going to build a 777 replica, since doing some research I decided that the cost associated with doing so would be way out of my budget. Additionally if I did decide to build the triple 7 it would take too much time before I could enjoy my efforts, mostly due to costs.

So here is another 180 in my effort to build a functioning simulator. Since I have been contacted by many who are also looking for less expensive options, I want try and ONLY use products, I feel, offer bang for the buck to help others who may want to build a cost effective sim pit.

Below I want to highlight some products that cater to the mainstream.....

GoFlight

GoFlight sacrifices some realism for sturdy, well supported hardware at reasonable prices. The modules can be used either stand alone or with pre-built racks. GoFlight products are connected thru USB and configured with software downloaded from the site. Currently I have a Goflight MCP configured in my cockpit, the design is sturdy and it just works...well actually.

Here is the gear, flaps & trip module (GF-LGT):

Sim Cockpit Systems

Sim Cockpit Systems offers seating and specialty desks specifically designed for the entry level cockpit builder in mind. Although this is a product I'm not interested in I thought it important to mention for those who would sacrifice some realism for low cost, easy to setup simulator cockpit.

Here is the Aircraft Cockpit GX:

Saitek

Saitek is the industry leader in low cost controllers, and they recently have released the Pro Flight Yoke. In addition they offer rudder pedals and the X52 joystick. Saitek is known for its low cost, high quality hardware. With that said be wary of the Pro Flight Yoke, older versions of the yoke were known to have some problems.

Sim-Avionics

The latest and greatest in Boeing style software, cost effective when you factor in the features to cost. The competition doesn't even come close. This software package will allow you to integrate most aircraft systems for a 777 using FSUIPC and networked PC's. If you are interested in a 777 replica, you should look into Sim-Avionics.

FSXpand

FSXpand is the entry level cockpit builders dream. The software will allow you to run custom panels over networked PC's. There is even a set of Boeing style gauges, although limited in function. More for the GA enthusiast, FSXpand will allow you to setup an unlimited amount of panels tailored to specific aircraft, great if your cockpit is the generic type. Once you register you are entitled to unlimited updates, and they are always improving on the software. Highly recommended if your interested in building a generic cockpit.

Touch Buddy

One resource that seems to be overlooked mostly by the flight simulator community is Touch Buddy. A freeware resource that allows you to develop your own touchscreen application which can run locally or on a networked PC. Since shifting gears to a more entry level setup I will rely on Touch Buddy for my control integration.