Yesterday I bought FSBuild based on some endorsements I've read on this forum. It seems like I would love it based on the PMDG 737 and the ability to export plans to FS9. However, I've read all the tutorials and I can't seem to get plans to FS9 or PMDG737. Is there a little known "trick" in getting the communication process in place between this program and FS9. I've written to the FSBuild forum but that forum does not seem responsive as is this one.If you are an avid user of this nav program, I'd love to communicate with you and get some help. What folder(s) do the flight plans go to in FS9 or PMDG? Stan

Make sure that you "point" FSBuild to your main FS directory in the options tab. Then save your configuration and exit program. When you start FSBuild back up, it should have all the directories for the supported add-ons in the right place. Check your config tab. I use FSBuild ALWAYS with the NG and it works beautifully. Make sure you put the nav databases etc in the program and build the index.

There is also an option for the path to PMDGD737, make sure you set that also.

Since this is the VERY first outside NAV program I've ever used, I am having my share of difficulty. When you say..."check your config tab"....to which tab are you referring? Also, "make sure you put the nav databases, etc. in the program and build the index". Are you talking about downloading additional nav data that I see on the FSBuild site and dragging them into the main BSBuild folder? I thought the latest download of FSBuild was up to date. Again, I'm sure I'll eventually get it, but right now, this program is frustrating because I can't see a "step-by-step setup" anywhere. For the price of the program, it seems a little cumbersome to wade through.I really do appreciate, though, you taking the time to explain some of these details. Thanks again, Stan

Join the crowd Stan. I had problems figuring out FS Build too until I looked at the tutorials and FAQs on the FSBuild website and a lot of trial and error. I think the author thinks everyone has great computer expertise and should know how to operate this program easily (as many other developers). I remember reading the User Guide in the main FSBuild directory over and over. I still have problems working the SID/STARS. If you're having problems figuring out the tabs, nav data, etc., wait until you're set up and start making a flight plan with all the waypoints (that is if you want to change any waypoint) or add/change SID/STARS.Download the latest NAV data on the FSBuild web site (open FSBuild and click on "Web Sites" near the middle of the page). Unzip to your main FSBuild directory overwriting all the old files.The User Guide should be in your main FSBuild directory. It's dated March 2003 and I think in need of an update but it works.Hope this helps some. Good luck. Enjoy the program. I think you'll really like it once you get the right settings and begin making a flight plan (and, of course, flying the plan you created).JimY

Stan,Ernie Alston does NOT think everyone is a computer expert, but he has put a lot of function into the program without all the eye candy in the GUI.Now you may want to go to his site and ask all the question you want and will get great answers: http://www.fsbuild.com/If that does not help you, then there is a spot where you can send a message to Ernie directly. I have spent a lot of time with Ernie and know the power of this program and yes I too fly the PMDG 737NG and have flown all over the world with it. I never do a flihgt that is not planned with FSBuild. They key is go to the source and you can get all the help you want. Bob

I really appreciate your words of encouragement, everyone. I still haven't flown a flight plan based on FSBuild yet...but I expect to soon. I'm reading as much as I find, and I will piece this all together. It IS TRIAL and ERROR. It does require patience. I still do feel, though, that as PAYWARE, it should be much more explanatory, and it should not be so difficult to find its operational idiosyncracies. I look forward to my first flight in the 737 PMDG. I guess I have to learn "a little" about the FMS though. I will do all of that soon.Thanks again for your positive comments. Stan

>I really appreciate your words of encouragement, everyone. I still >haven't flown a flight plan based on FSBuild yet...but I >expect to soon. I'm reading as much as I find, and I will piece >this all together. It IS TRIAL and ERROR. It does require >patience. I still do feel, though, that as PAYWARE, it should be >>much more explanatory, and it should not be so difficult to >find its operational idiosyncracies. Its not trial and error at all. And it is a documented and explained feature.1) Its described on page 3 of the Fsbuild 'Quick Start Guide' in your Fsbuild/User Guides folder.2) Its is described on Page 22 of the main 'User Guide' in your Fsbuild/User Guides folder.3) There is a page contained specific instructions for exporting to the PMDG 737NG via the 'supported apps' section on the right side of the main page at 'fsbuild.com'. http://www.fsbuild.com/pmdg737.html4) The question has been answered on this very forum several times in the past (a forum search would give you much information on this subject).5) Same for the Fsbuild forum, do a forum search and you'll see several posts that have provided the answer to this question.6) I did provide a pretty detailed step by step reply to your Fsbuild forum question (reply dated Jul 11th).http://www.forumboard.net/1767/messages/3544.htmlI'm open to any suggestions you have as to how we can be more explanatory on this.Also feel free to contact me via email '[email protected]' or Aol Instant Messaging 'alstoer1' for more assistance if you still need it.Regards.Ernie.

I'm sorry if I gave you the impression of difficulty in working with the program. At first, I was a little frustrated. I'm sure though, with all the support I'm receiving that I will do just fine. I am most appreciative of FSBuild which will finally allow me to fly the PMDG 737 more efficiently. I work many hours a week as I own my own business. This weekend I will devote the time necessary to use FSBuild and PMDG to their fullest capabilities. I thank you for your help, and I'm sure it will be a great flying experience. Stan