Do you have to have a headset to use VATSIM, or can you communicate via key commands?? I've never used VATSIM, but I'd love to learn how, especially in my NGX. Does it affect frame rates? I'm very familiar with actual ATC comms because I have my Private Pilots license.

 

mitch bowman

Ummm yes, you need a headset. The whole point of VATSIM is to simulate real life transactions, BUT, you can type too, or text like VATSIM refers it to.

 

The only way VATSIM can affect your frame rates is the traffic. If you're flying at a local airport with nobody but you then no drops.

 

You have 2 choices, Squawkbox and FSInn. I like SB, but FSInn is more powerful.

I would highly recommend a headset. Although controllers are required to provide text services if a pilot requests it. Most controllers generally prefer using verbal communications.

 

Here is the link to the pilot clients. http://www.vatsim.net/pilots/pilotsclients/

 

If you don't have an account with vatsim already, you will need to become a member before you can connect to the servers..http://www.vatsim.net/about-vatsim/members/joinvatsim/

Do you have to have a headset to use VATSIM, or can you communicate via key commands?? I've never used VATSIM, but I'd love to learn how, especially in my NGX. Does it affect frame rates? I'm very familiar with actual ATC comms because I have my Private Pilots license.

 

mitch bowman

 

 

First of all, yes you can fly using text. BUT in busy situations it can get very annoying to give readbacks and so on, so I'd highly recommend a headset.

Neverless you could simply start going online with text only and then get a headset thereafter.

All in all VATSIM doesn't affect your frames. Even in situations with very much traffic it doesn't hurt as much as the FS AI traffic.

Some of the Fsinn traffic settings can be altered to limit the traffic increasing frames if its a concern. Most of the traffic will be during events.

Yeah as the rest say you need a headset, and I would recommend the Logitech G35 headset, it's really good and comes with 7,1 surround sound. ;-)

If you prefer something cheaper, I recently bought the Plantronics Audio 326 for £12. It works perfectly and is lightweight and comfortable over a long session.

Get a USB headset for sure. That lets you stream JUST the ATC voice to your ears. You do not want all the aircraft sounds in the headset.

 

I have a plantronics USB headset (model no longer made), but there many for not very much. You don't need stereo, just a good noise cancelling mic. The lighter the better. Look for non-occlusive, VOIP/telephone type headsets.

 

* Orest