Flight Simulator Cockpit Builders

As computers become more powerful and simulation software becomes more realistic many flight simulation fans seek even more realism. More and more simulator fans are building cockpits to add to that realism. A cockpit, no matter how simple or complex, really does add to the enjoyment of flight simulation, it takes a way the feeling of flying a computer screen with a keyboard. One of the coolest feelings is that you are inside the aircraft, with the addition of  large screens and multiple monitors the realism can't be surpassed. Some, unfamiliar with the thrill of flight simulation, may consider the cockpit builder a tad off center, if that's the case more enthusiast  are going off center everyday. There is no age limit, simmers from the youngest to the oldest enjoy this hobby. Skills in building these wonders range from simple to complex but it seems that all of these simmers quickly pick up the ability to wield a saw, screwdriver and soldering gun and do whatever it takes to fulfill their dream. They say a picture is worth a thousand words so here is a small montage of  homebuilt cockpits form simple to complex. from all over the world.

From the simple to the extreme, cockpit building has become a hobby in itself. To view a cockpit that has taken the hobby to an art form click  http://www.simpit.net  to view an amazing accomplishment.  If you've been thinking about it, do it,  you won't regret it. Surf the net and see what's out there then go for it. I might add that our KwikPit plans built cockpit  (Plug!) is an ideal project to ease you into the world of cockpit building.
 

                    Monitors

Playing simulations or games today on a computer is an all encompassing process. We no longer  listen to beeps and play in 16 colors. Today we are able to become totally immersed the gaming experience. To accomplish this immersion, the game or simulation must provide excitement and playability. The system must provide realistic sound, speed, and great graphics.

The most important element is visuals,  you need a good monitor and graphics card to take advantage of the fantastic games available today.

For gaming you want the largest monitor you can afford, most serious gamers will not sport less than a 19" monitor. Many of the newer systems today come with a minimum of a 17" CRT monitor or a LCD screen as an option. If you do not own a newer system and are looking for a replacement, 19" monitors don't cost much more than 17" monitors. Expect to pay an extra $50-$100 to get a 19" monitor. If you want a larger monitor perhaps a 21" monitor may suit, they are still relatively expensive weigh about 75 pounds and take up a huge amount of desk space.

There are two types of CRT monitors, the aperture grill monitors are vertically flat as opposed to the standard flat screen monitors which have a curve to them both horizontally and vertically when you look at them from the side. A Sony Trinitron is an example of an aperture grill monitor. You may notice a thin black line on the screen when viewing a white background on this type of monitor that runs horizontally across the screen, this line helps creates a sharper image on the screen and is barely noticeable but may annoy some, the larger the screens may have two of these lines.

Other things to look for in a monitor are dot pitch, resolution and refresh rate. Dot pitch is the space between pixels basically a Dot Pitch of .26 mm or less is excellent. Some cheaper monitors may be larger but offer dot pitches of .32 mm or higher the result is a blurry view of small lettering and some graphics, the higher the dot pitch number the fuzzier the picture.

A monitor should also support the higher resolutions possible as these days games or sims are played at higher resolutions of 1280 x 1024, the standard is usually 1024 x 768 up from 800 x 600 a few years ago. Refresh rate is also a consideration, to low a refresh rate and you get that annoying flicker on your screen. a good monitor should support at 75 MHZ refresh rate at up to a 1280 x 1024 resolution.

In summary, for gaming a good 19" monitor that can support resolutions up to 1600 x 1200 MHZ resolution with a good refresh rate of at least 75 MHZ and a dot pitch of .26 mm or less should do the job, go for flat screen technology if you can afford a few extra bucks. Search the internet for bargains but you should always try to personally view a monitor's output before purchasing.. There is always the chance that the monitor may have a defect so be sure and purchase from a vendor with a good exchange or replacement policy.

 

                   TrackIR 4 Pro Head Tracker

The TrackIR 4 Pro is the perfect enhancement for gamers and simmers looking for a competitive edge and an enhanced virtual reality.

The TrackIR™ device is a high-performance head tracking system that enables hands free view control in popular games and simulators. A slight turn of the pilot's head causes their in-game view to pan in any direction, independent of mouse, keyboard, and joystick commands. Look out windows and around the cockpit as if you were in a real plane!

                              The Eze-Pit

The Eze-Pit mach II can be placed on a table or desk top and provides room for placement of a throttle, joystick and keyboard.. "The positioning of the controls is very realistic! and will definitely improve reaction time in your games!" The unit can be  folded for storage or for travel in seconds!  it's Great for LAN meets!  The unit may also be set up permanently on a small desk or table, eliminating the hassle of removing your flight gear after a simming session!     

                                 KwikPit
            The Cockpit You Build From Plans

No matter what your needs may be, the KwikPit is the all in one solution, easy to build from plans, compact and inexpensive . A great project for the first time or veteran cockpit project. "The plans may be easily customized for a one of a kind cockpit "

Order today!

                    Add Realism To Your Games!

             For more information or to purchase got to:
                               http://www.kwikpit.com

                            This newsletter was produced by:

                       The KwikPit Company
                         3700 Quebec Street
                        Suite 100   PMB 243
                         Denver, CO 80207

                              Phone: 303-265-9974
                               Fax: 303-265-9974

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