Good Things Come In Small Packages

In recent years there has been quite a dramatic increase in the amount of hardware available that will simulate its real world counterparts. Yokes, Joysticks pedals and Throttles to name but a few of the more common things we are used to. It is not only the flight controllers, but also graphical displays and instrumentation that seems to be carving its way onto the scene. It has been over 4 years now since we saw the first incarnation from GoFlight, and since then they have created a number of hardware modules compatible with flight simulators. In more recent times, these modules have become more compact in size, and functionality of single units has developed to a point where just one single unit can replicate a number of functions. Released earlier this year, the GF-46 is one of these such multi-function modules. So what does this particular GoFlight module do? Well lets find out!

Installation, Software and Documentation.

GoFlight can never be accused of doing things by half. Ever since the very first components, the installation, software and documentation has been top notch. The GF-46 does not lack in this department either. Each unit comes with a complete installation kit which includes the module itself, a software installation cd, usb cable, screws and a guide sheet.

If you are already a GF user, then you might find your existing software is already up to date, and its only a case of plugging the unit in to a free USB port. If you are new to the GF experience, then the normal USB rules apply.. Install the software before plugging in the device. The software that is used to control the units comes on a convenient "mini" cdrom. Once installed, setting up the functions could not be easier. This is done by a graphical interface which is described later on in the review. As with most software these days, it will be improved over time to give better functionality. GoFlight is no exception to the rule. The latest software is v1.50 which is available for download from the GoFlight website.

The GF-46 Unit

On first viewing the unit, it looks quite un-inspiring. But hidden behind the front facia plate is where all the "magic" is created, which in turn is controlled via a twin cylinder rotary control knob, and a push button on the front of the module. The display is a split into two separate windows. The left window which can display 4 digits, and the right window displaying 6 digits. Once the unit is operational, the left pane is for showing you what mode you are currently in, and the right pane for showing the numeric readout which corresponds to the mode.

If you already own any of the GoFlight range of products, you will be familiar with the configuration of modules. The GF-46 slots nicely into the software and is very easy to program with the function you wish to display. The GF-46 can provide info for the following:

• Comm1 and 2

• Nav1 and 2

• ADF

• Transponder

• DME 1 and 2

• Instruments

• Autopilot

One of the real beauties of this module is that where you may decide that the unit will be used for one particular function, you are not restricted to this once the unit is operational. With a click of the function button you can switch between all the functions that are available!  Now for those who don't have the budget to have multiple units, it gives you the ability to enjoy the full experience of manipulating the various functions of your flight simulator in a more realistic manner.

Selecting how you want the unit to function could not be easier!

Test System Computer: P4 2.8Ghz Windows XP Pro 512Mb RDram ATI Radeon 9700 Pro 128 SB Audigy 2 CH 3 Lever Yoke CH FighterStick CH Pro USB Pedals GF Avionics 1x 19" Monitor 2x 17" Monitors   Flying Time: 30+ Hours

Up...Up.... And Away!

So, you have spent your hard earnt cash on purchasing this module, so what is it like to use when you are actually flying? The main type of flying I tend to do is in small GA aircraft. Flying either a pre determined flight plan or wherever takes my fancy at the time. With FSNavigator visible on my second monitor, all it takes is a  quick scan of the frequency I require on the map, and within seconds it is dialled in and active using the GF-46 and your away on your course or changing to the correct comm frequency to speak with ATC.
 

Having flown a number of years using the various GF modules, it has become second nature using the modules to change frequencies etc. To make a comparison, I decided to do a small flight and not use the GF-46 and do all the frequency changes using the mouse in the cockpit. Like anything you have become accustomed to, changing to a different method is just wired! I found that I was opening up popup panels and then having to find the exact area on the dial to increase or decrease the frequencies. Where as manipulating the frequencies in this manner works just fine, it just seemed a very fiddly process compared to using the modules. If you fly on a regular basis then this will truly transform the reality. It does not matter if you predominantly fly in 2D or 3D panels, the GF-46 works flawlessly.

Conclusion

In my opinion, after flight controllers (joystick/yoke/pedals) GoFlight modules are without doubt one of the best hardware add-ons you can add to your flight simming experience. Reality is brought ever closer to those of us who sit in front of their PC's and fly. The ability to manipulate your Comm and Nav frequencies (to name just a couple of the functions available) externally from the simulator really is the icing on the cake. Being in modular format, you are not restricted to where you place them. With many mounting options available from GoFlight or inserting them into your own cockpit environment could not be easier.
I have mentioned in previous reviews, and its an area that can not be ignored, but this is not something that every flightsim fan can afford. Having said that, make a small comparison. If you buy 4 add-on aircraft in a year, in this day and age it is almost the same amount as one of these modules. Where as you may only fly the add-on aircraft a few times, this is something you will use with every aircraft, with every flight. The GF-46 has been awarded an Avsim 4 Star review rating.

Other GoFlight Product  Reviews:

GF-45 Avionics
GF-AC Cockpit Control System
GoFlight GF-LGT Cockpit Control Module
GoFlight GF-166 Comms/Nav Hardware
GF-MCP Autopilot Module & Flight Deck Console
GF-TQ6 & RP48 Modules
 

• Good documentation
• Easy to install
• The added "Reality" factor when flying
• Can be used in a variety of flight simulators

Printing

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GoFlight GF-46

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