I've discovered this gem over at http://www.hoppie.nl/acars/ from a programmer that specializes in avionic design. It's a relatively simple utility that simulates the world of ACARS and CPDLC. It was adapted initially for PS1 (Aerowinx) but can be used for FSX/MSFS etc. It runs totally independent from the simulator. 

 

Since I use CPDLC in my daily operations at work, I decided to give it a test- the KZSE controller online humored me and was able to logon using his controller utility software (also downloadable via the posted link). 

 

Using the controller utility, he simply logged in as a "KZSE" controller- and on my FMS interface on the logon page, I logged on to that code.

 

 

I was able to send and receive messages, clearances, exactly as done in real oceanic airspace.

 

 

 

 

The great thing is, anyone can use this utility- even a controller that isn't in Oakland's responsibility, can sign on and control Oakland oceanic. 

 

Would be great if we could see more of this on VATSIM, since more and more are doing oceanic flights. 

Compare to the real CPDLC example..

 

 

I've never been able to get the Hoppie ACARS to work....

It's relatively simple to get to work, but the problem is, having "the other half" (e.g. a vatsim controller) to communicate with. 

 

I don't think we've seen this really implemented since it's not necessary- we can achieve the same thing over standard text msg in vatsim.