Hello all,I am thinking about making a A320 cockpit. Well making in the sence to get it from Flight Deck Solutions and have it assembled.Since this is for a flight training school and that I have no experience on this field can all you experienced builders provide me some good ideas on the following.The main hardware will be purchased from Flight Deck Soluitonsand the software will be provided by AST -(advanced simulation Technology)flight simulators considered are FS9,FSX and X-Planewhich one of these 3 would allow me to easily get a 180 degree view with the front display of center line view. The left and right views and the Foreward left and right views.What are the good companies that provide visual systems and typically how much do they cost.If I am going to add motion. Who are the best for a 6 DOF motion platform and how much will that come to.Also if anyone knows any requriements to get a simulator certified as for the CAA regulations please let me know what they are looking for. Let say for a Level A simulator. oh if anyone have details on the requirements for each levels please let me know.Thanks and RegardsDineth Fernando

You're asking professional-level questions for a commercial application. I think you will get your best answers by speaking with companies that address the commercial side of flight simulation and training. For example: Frasca International. Mikewww.mikesflightdeck.comwww.mikesflightdeckbooks.com

If you're looking for crew training, stay away from Fresnel Lenses as the F/O would not be able to see out the Capt windows...the fresnel lenses are suitable for only one eyepoint. Easiest way for large views would be dual to triple projectors with laterally curved mirrorsthe following diagram would be for a single projector, add more projectors/screens mirrors and you could go all the way around|( -> (#|( = the projection screen-> = the projector itself pointed at the mirror positioned near or above the cockpit windows( = the mirror# = the cockpityou could get a Matrox Triple Head to Go with a severly stretched screen in FS9/FSX, each output would be linked to a system as above giving a continuous 180 degree external view.As far as motion goes, get the visuals nailed down and get the sim working first, then you can use a forlift or other such lift to take the constructed cockpit and place it on a motion platform later. In home, this doesn't work, but for a flight school, you should have ample room for this.I plan on all but the motion part of the sim for my own home pit. Good luck and keep us informed