A short time after installing the latest update to the MD-11 (FS9 on my PC) and FSX on my laptop, I began experiencing a recurring bug. A short time after take off (approximately 1 to 2 mns), the engines lose power and eventually die off completely.I have been a simmer for many years and have a wide range of quality payware aircraft installed on my PC and laptop. I have no "failures" set up before take off. I believe other simmers have experienced a similar problem. Does anyone or PMDG have a cure for this recent problem?Look forward to hearing from you.Seb

My first thought is to focus on your controller. Verify that they are calibrated and the options are set such that the controller never overrides the automation.I assume you are using ATS (autothrottle), the length of time indicates that you would have already reduced power to climb and power loss occurs after that. I can't think of anything that would create this scenario other than the game controller.

My first thought is to focus on your controller. Verify that they are calibrated and the options are set such that the controller never overrides the automation.I assume you are using ATS (autothrottle), the length of time indicates that you would have already reduced power to climb and power loss occurs after that. I can't think of anything that would create this scenario other than the game controller.

Hi Dan,Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions. The systems and cockpit panel layout are different to other aircraft (obviously). Although I have been simming for a few years, I am not advanced enough to use the FMCs on any of the aircraft (I will try and learn how to use it one day). So, I tend to fly the aircraft without any pre-programmed settings and I only engage the autopilot if I am getting tired of flying it manually (or to change the altitude and heading automatically).Anyway, it would seem that the ATS is engaged automatically when I take off, as is the case with Wilco Fleet's Airbus A320 family of aircraft; therefore I need to manually disengage it. That resolves my issue.With the PMDG MD-11, the ATS button is not labelled "ATS". It's a different set up that is linked in to the Autopilot functions. Just a different system design. If I were a real pilot, I would have learned all about it. Also, in 2D view, the autopilot switches are out of view (hence I was not looking for them before). in virtual 3D cockpit view, you can see the full panel but I often like to stick to the 2D.I still love the MD-11 and all PMDG's range.Happy flying.Seb from Scotland

Unfortunately, to anything more than flying round the pattern, it is pretty much a necessity to set a few things in the flight management system and enter a few values into the CDU. Most importantly, your weights (ZFW/TOW) and CG values...If you do not arm the ATS by pressing autoflight once prior to setting take off power, I believe it does not set automatically...If you use ATS for take off, then use the key combination or the ATS disconnect button on the thrust levers (on the sides to the pilot/co-pilot), do not use the buttons on the FCU to disconnect the ATS...The MD-11 is a highly automated aircraft in real life, the PMDG sim is a good model of its bigger sister, in all respects... If you haven't done so, I would strongly recommend completing the tutorial flight, as it introduces all the basic concepts of setting up and flying this aircraft. Without this basic introduction, you are always going to be a step behind the aircraft... at least that is my experience...I have been on FS for a few years too now, and regularly use the FMS/FMGC capable aircraft. It is not as complicated as you think, it just requires a little planning...Andrew

Unfortunately, to anything more than flying round the pattern, it is pretty much a necessity to set a few things in the flight management system and enter a few values into the CDU. Most importantly, your weights (ZFW/TOW) and CG values...If you do not arm the ATS by pressing autoflight once prior to setting take off power, I believe it does not set automatically...If you use ATS for take off, then use the key combination or the ATS disconnect button on the thrust levers (on the sides to the pilot/co-pilot), do not use the buttons on the FCU to disconnect the ATS...The MD-11 is a highly automated aircraft in real life, the PMDG sim is a good model of its bigger sister, in all respects... If you haven't done so, I would strongly recommend completing the tutorial flight, as it introduces all the basic concepts of setting up and flying this aircraft. Without this basic introduction, you are always going to be a step behind the aircraft... at least that is my experience...I have been on FS for a few years too now, and regularly use the FMS/FMGC capable aircraft. It is not as complicated as you think, it just requires a little planning...AndrewThanks Andrew,I note all that you say and agree whole heartedly. I will just have to take the plunge and make time to take the tutorials. Sometimes, us blokes, just want to get on with operating the machine without reading the manual :)We like to think that we will pick it up in no time at all. No need to read instruction manuals.However, as a former Submariner and current Geologist, I should know by now, that sometimes you need to take a bit of time to learn how to use the piece of kit.Asides from that, if I get to grips with the FMCs, I will get a lot more out of some the high end aircraft I have such as LD-767-300, PMDG 747-400, the various Airbus models and of course the MD-11.Thanks for your encouragement.Seb