Hello,im new to the forum and this site. I came across you guys searching for info on building home cockpits. I have somewhat of an idea of how I would like to input the controls into my pc but would like some info on what you guys think is the best way .. or if there is a website out there that may let me explore my options. I have a strong electronics background and have an assoc in electronic engineering.Any help would be greatly appreciated. Total newb coreyk67

First of all, welcome to the passion. Try these two sites for a lot of general information. http://www.mikesflightdeck.com/http://www.fscockpit.com/Mike Powell from Mike

thanks alot ... this looks like fun :)

I have another question. I am planning on using a USB keyboard for an input device for some switches. How do I make it where the switch being in the on position doesn

If you are going to connect a toggle switch in place of a momentary key press, which is what I thing you are asking, you will need some sort of pulse circuitry. A simple charged capacitor that is discharged when the switch is flipped will work. You can also use keyboard emulators. Beta Innovations and PI Engineering are only two such companies that make and sell them. Mike

Hi NewB,As John mentioned, welcome to the Avsim HCS forum!Here are a few links to companies I use in my generic twin turboprop flightdeck:http://www.projectmagenta.com/ pmRJ Softwarehttp://www.dakenskys.com/ Custom Panelshttp://www.flightillusion.com/ Engine Instrumentshttp://www.reality-xp.com/ Garmin GNS 530 GPShttp://www.simpilot.com/avsim.htm AFCS III Yokehttp://www.goflightinc.com/ Radios, Nav, MCP, Throttles, Gear/FlapsThe interface (Photon) is/was from a company called Integrated Flight Systems. IFS has turned over sales and support to another individual who is re-working the website, hardware and software.Regards,Richard