new to sims

[juki48]

ok, I need help. I've been flying for a while but I want to get a sim for this winter. I want something for both planes and heli's. I've got a hitec laser 4. what's the best thing to do? I'm also on a tight budget. any tips would be great.

[Wright Flyer]

Google for "Flying Model Simulator" and you'll get to the FMS homepage - it's a completely free sim and is a good place to start if you are on a tight budget. You will need to get an interface to connect your Tx to your PC to control it - just search on Ebay for "FMS interface" and you'll find loads that are suitable sometimes for as little as $10 (but make sure it's compatible with the version of Windows you use)

Cliff

[777]

Cliff is right. If you're on a budget, start here http://n.ethz.ch/student/mmoeller/fms/index_e.html

For a free sim, it's excellent! If you should later decide to go with another sim, you're out nothing but an interface cable.

Brad

[juki48]

Ok, thanks. If my budget wasn't so tight what would you reccomend? I can save up if it's worth it. I flew one at the local hobby store the other day. I think it was a Great Planes sim. it was about $120 I think. lotts of fun but that's way more than I was looking to spend.

[igiveup]

I have the GP RealFlight simulator Tx, can I use this for the FMS system?

[777]

I would suggest AFP or AFP Deluxe (http://www.aeroflypro.com/). AFP is the current version and AFP Deluxe is the newest version coming out soon.

Although it's a matter of some debate, it's typically considered to be the best as far as 3D physics goes. It's pretty affordable as far as the leading sims go. The new Deluxe version has gone on to add "photo-realistic" backgrounds, often a primary selling point of one it's main competitors.

Speaking of competitors, http://www.reflex-sim.de/english/Index.htm is also a well liked sim. Although I've never tried it, I do know that it is more expensive. Maybe someone here will chime in & offer their opinions.

Brad

[Basketcase]

I have the GP RealFlight simulator Tx, can I use this for the FMS system?

My G2 transmitter works fine with FMS. I'm using Win XP, doubt that that makes any difference. Should work with other Windows too as long as the tx is showing up in your game controller list.

At least it doesn't cost anything to try it out. :)

[igiveup]

Thanks Basketcase... I'll give it a shot. :D