Issue 6
www.kwikpit.com
The Pit Newsletter
Welcome to the Bi-monthly newsletter.
In this issue we take a look at a different type flight simulator called FMS. A great free program for simulate R/C flying.
We also look at LCD monitors as an alternative to the CRT unit for gamers. Improvement in LCD performance has made it a standard for many simulation enthusiast and gamers.
The newsletter will give you insight into the different types of flight simulation, technical articles, tips and reviews.
We will also look at the products, accessories, hardware, software and just about anything that makes the world of flight simulation more realistic and enjoyable.
The newsletter will also keep members abreast of what other enthusiast are doing in the community.
Your newsletter .... We invite you to participate and email any stories, interesting tips, events, announcements or any contributions you feel may be of interest to the flight simulation community. Please email any contributions to: newsletter@kwikpit.com
A Plug .........
The KwikPit Company was created and is
ran by a flight simulation enthusiast. Our goal is to introduce
products that add to the enhancement and fun of flight simulation
without the complexity or high costs.
We hope you enjoy our unique line of cockpit products. We have strived to keep prices low as compared to anything else on the market.
Check out our products at www.kwikpit.com thank you for your patronage.
Regards,
The KwikPit Team
|
R/C Simulation There is another type aircraft simulator which simulates simulated aircraft! The simulated aircraft are radio controlled versions of the real thing. These R/C aircraft are small versions of the real aircraft and are able to fly and maneuver just like their real counterparts, all under the control of the pilot who stands on the ground with a radio transmitter. R/C aircraft run the gambit, from small to large scale models of real airplanes and helicopters as well as contest and stunt designs. Engines range from the familiar Cox type engine to scale model 5 cylinder engines as well as fully operating miniature jet engines. The aircraft range from simple to complex, costing anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. Large or small, simple or complex they all have one trait in common. You must learn to fly them and this can turn into a pretty expensive proposition without an instructor or proper training at the flying field. One mistake a your $1000.00 model becomes a pile of rubber littering the flying field, not for the faint hearted. Enter the R/C simulator programs that simulate flying R/C aircraft right on your computer. These simulated aircraft act like their R/C counterparts in every way. These programs cost range from free to several hundred dollars. We are focusing on a freeware program called Flying Model Simulator (FMS). It doesn't have as many features as the commercial programs but for the price this is quite an amazing program. This program will run on most computers that have a 3D graphics card such as an N-Vidia or ATI or any card that supports the Direct-3D platform for graphics. It works with a 4 axis joystick or transmitter interface. Many of the current R/C transmitters can be connected to the computer through parallel, USB, joystick or serial ports. Transmitters and interfaces specifically for this purpose can be found on the internet. Some of he aircraft models included with the program are shown below, many more free add on models are available. The program also includes various flying fields and locations as well.
This simulator is great for those who would like to try their hand at R/C planes and helicopters without the associated expense of the real thing. A download and more information can be found at: http://www.flying-model-simulator.com/ |
|
LCD Monitors Last month we looked at CRT monitors for gaming. This month we’ll look at some LCD monitors. With the advent of TFT (Thin Film Transistors) LCD performance has improved enough to satisfy the technical needs of many gamers. While not being able to refresh the screen as fast as a CRT, many are fast enough to provide smooth motion in most 3D action games; long gone are the days of ghosting and lackadaisical performance. One continuous criticism of CRT monitors was the screen size. Invariably CRT monitors would be sold according to their tube size. So the “19” monitor” refers to the size of the cathode ray tube in the monitor. The viewable area of the screen may be significantly different from 19”. The viewable area may range from 16” to 17” depending on the manufacturer.When referring to LCD’s and TFT, 19” is 19”. More graphics cards are coming equipped with DVI connectors. The advantage of a DVI connection over the analog is that the DVI connection allows for lossless transmission from the computer to the display. Nearby signal noise, for instance, should not be a concern with the DVI connection. LCD monitors made specifically for games and video boast response times ranging from 16ms to 12ms and are most often sold in the 17-inch size, although 19-inch models are becoming more common. LCD monitors that support gaming are also fine for regular office work.
What
To Look For When Buying
Next, be sure to select a screen that has a native resolution that meets your needs. That is to say, if your system can only play games at 800x600 then buying a 2048x1536 monster display won’t give you any advantage and will almost certainly do more to hinder your game playing and your enjoyment of it. Check the dot pitch measurement as with ant CRT monitor the smaller number the better. Comparer like to like specs as different manufacturers may be deceptive. Some examples of good gaming LCD monitors are shown below.    LG Flatron 1730S Envision EN7220 Samsung SyncMaster 172x As always do a hands on in person evaluation if possible. A TFT LCD that satisfies all of these criteria should produce a very enjoyable gaming experience.
|
Gaming Gadget Of The Month
TrackIR 4 Pro Head Tracker with Vector
The new and improved TrackIR 4 Pro now
includes the Vector for full 6 DOF head tracking
capability. With a 30% larger tracking and movement area
and greater response time and resolution, the TrackIR 4 once
again sets the standard for head tracking technology.
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!
Coming in July!
Add Realism To Your Games!
For more information or to purchase got
to:
This newsletter was produced by:
The KwikPit Company
Phone: 303-265-9974
|
|
To be removed from The Kwikpit mailing list send an email
to remove@kwikpit.com
you will be removed within 24 hours.
http://www.kwikpit.com
|