I am in the process of constructing a somewhat generic cockpit based loosely on the DC-9, which I hope to integrate with FS9/windowsXP. I have been tinkering with electronics for years, but am quite inexperienced regarding interfacing with the computer or programming, and as such, would like to find a simple approach to drive all of the inputs and outputs that I will require. I do plan on using Go Flight products for some of the input fuctions, such as for the nav/com radios, but I still need a solution for the outputs, and for the more complicated interfacing. In my research, I have come across two products which may fit the bill: Photon from IFS, and Simkits Multi-controller. Both seem simple yet can do a lot. Photon is what I am considering to go with at this point, as it has additional capabilities over Simkits offering, such as inputs from rotary decoders. I'd like to hear from those of you with experience with these or any other products I haven't considered, and the likes/dislikes or problems you have come across. Thanks in advance for your help!Regards,Chris

I have Photon.It's cool because:1) it works smooth2) it allowed me to write own software using a very good SDK from Scott which opens all gates and all options3) reasonable price and fast shipment4) good supportIt's not cool because:1) it can only do 3 things (so far):- keys/buttons (rotary)- leds- led displaysShould you, would you, .. in the future want to add analogue input, LCD, servo, relais, stepper, ..... it would force you to add in a new interface + new software which you would have to run as well.Try to fore-see if there is chance that you might want to do that one day and adjust your options to that.I for one didn't do that and am now ending up with Photon and PHCC. I will probably switch to PHCC solely if I get experiance with it and find it to be my thing. Then sell the Photon stuff.

Hi,I use Beta Inovations products (www.betainnovations.com) and Goflight ready-made modules. Both work perfectly together and offer excellent value for money. Oh - and no programming required ;-)

Hello,I'm happy to post my first advice here. Or i better say not advice, but my own choice cause i don't have enough experience to be sure of it.Well not to far ago (2 weeks ?) i had the same problem that you, wich interface to choose. And i ended up after some research with IOCards www.opencockpits.com ; i'm definitely very happy of my choice :1/ Price, price, price. And an open non commercial project lead by passioned people. I have the worst electronic knowledge down here so I buy the card ready made and tested but if your familiar with electronic don't hesitate, you can buy the kit ot build them at an unbeatable price. Shipping is fast too.2/ "Expandability", can control everything with the differents cards (master, display, encoders, etc.) - USB driven also3/ Agree or not, i think there is a lot stuff and docs around IOcards on the site and a lot of tutorial wich are great for beginners and skilled people. I really do like also the "non commercial" aspect of the community of Iocard.4/ Very easy to use... and with endless possibilities if you use the new programming SIOCThat's the choice of a really newbie, happy with it, if that can help you.By the way, regarding GoFlight products, i would say if you plan to build complicated stuff non ready made, go for the whole... Making a radio panel with Iocard is far from impossible, and the price won't be Goflight's one. If money does matter of course... And also, building his own stuff is VERY FUN !CommaProgressing from day to day

Hi,I would recommend IOCards from the Opencockpits team.Look at my website for examples.Nicowww.nicokaan.nl