Hi expert simmers, I need to know how you guys “navigate” around your virtual cockpits such as the VC found on the PMDG JS41. I purchased one of those. It runs well but I admit I am more familiar with 2D cockpits. I seem to have difficulties with “going around” in my cockpit without losing track of essential views such as taking off, descent preparation and landing. Going from my FMS (I am aware of 2D popups) to the pitch wheel/control, to the flight director and so on makes things difficult in keeping a general view of what’s going on in the performance of the aircraft. So if someone can teach me tips and tricks on “manipulating” this cockpit, I would dearly appreciate. Jean-Guy

There are different methods, the one I like is to use the mouse to pan and zoom by toggling the spacebar. I use the AP and FMS 2d popups often as well.During takeoff, I pan and zoom to set up a view out the windshield and just enough of the engine instruments to see the left guages... but, everyone has their own technique. Takes a little time but the VC is worth the effort.

If you don't mind spending more money, I highly recommend the EZdok Camera. It's very versatile, but plan on devoting some time to get it set up properly at the beginning.

Track IR is the way to go for me. I've been using vcs exclusively for years and would not be able to live without my track IR. My wife thinks I'm crazy....wore my hat and tracking clip to the drive up window at the bank the other day by mistake...strange looks!!

Widescreen monitor for me. Just over a £100 got me a full HD monitor (1920x1080) and I would swear I see exactly what the pilot sees!

I have a widescreen 2048X1152 dell, but cannot see all the instruments at once. this is quite frustrating especially having to use the overhead for lights etc. is there a way to make more of the cockpit visible?thanks

I have a logitech mouse. I use the setpoint software to map the space bar to the back button on the mouse. Push the back button with my thumb and the viewpoint around with one hand. Other hand is on the yoke. Very easy to do. I still use the 2d with the 747 since I find some clickspots too small to find. I don't have this issue with the Jetstream.

If you are not using track IR then try this.Set your default zoom view to 0.40.In controls, assign your arrow keys forUp arrow "eypoint move up"Down arrow "eyepoint move down"Left arrow....forwardRight arrow....backThen assign the hat switch on your joystick to "pan" and a button next to the hat as "look (reset to forward view)"Then instead of shift + 1 for pop up, assign all Functions keys (flaps etc ) to your throttle, then assign each pop up to a F key, F5 =autopilot, F2=GPS etc etc Its easier with 1 finger as 2.Assign a joystick button to "virtual cockpit (shortcut)"When you first enter the VC, press the right arrow to move your head back to see the primary instrument, from there you can read ALL intruments for takeoff, cruise, decent. You can also see enough outside for all stages of flight. The only thing you have to do is pan down to see the lower EHSI sometimes. You can pan up to the overhead or across to the co-pilot side. If you want to look straight forward, hit the joystick button you assigned to "look (reset to forward view)".You can also assign 2 keys for view "next in current category" and "previous in current category". I use Q and A. You can then use them to go to the individual views in the VC if you want, remember when you go to a view, you can zoom in and out or pan it to exactly where you want it and it will stay there (until you reload the aircraft). If you want to jump back to the normal VC view looking stright ahead, then just press the button your assigned for "virtual cockpit (shortcut)" It helps if you have a good Hotas....good luck.