Options to extend 'fully-loaded' GA setup for commercial jets (737?)

[DinoCarlton 0]

Hi All,

 

I am a longtime forum-lurker, newbie member and first-time poster!

 

I have already built a fully-loaded custom made aluminium Main Instrumet Panel (MIP) targetting GA (single, twin etc.) comprising the following Saitek modules:

 

- Cessna Yoke, Rudder pedals and Trim Wheel

- 2x Radio Panels

- 2x Backlit Information Panels (BIP's)

- 2x Throttle quadrants

- 1x Throttle, Prop, Mixture panel (TPM with switches)

- 11x Flight Intrument Panels (LCD FIP's)

- 1x Switch Panel

- 1x Multi-Panel

- 1x iPad on flexi-mount

 

My plan was always to focus on GA / low and slow (I hope to start on my PPL/CPL soon), hence this 'equipment' - with an occasional 'play' at the heavy jets. Maybe with a side joystick.

 

Having relocated to Australia and spent the last year on a road-trip (immediately following completion of the MIP - which I have never used!), my MIP has been (and remains) in storage for the foreseeable future. So I got to thinking....

 

What if I were to extend what I already have to provide better support for jets? After lot's of research, I am now fired up to do this! My plan was to enclose the MIP in one of Sim Samurai's enclosures (the CS-1 Stallion, for which I already bought the blueprint). I reckon I could squeeze some jet bits in, so am looking for some guidance before committing $$$ to my purchases.

 

On the Boeing vs Airbus debate: I will probably go Boeing primarily (though maybe with room for a PIC joystick for Airbus - just in case!).

 

I like GoFlight stuff but am swinging towards VRInsight for their: CDU III panel (CDU II + LCD), 737 Overhead panel - and, if I need it, MCP Combo II (EFIS/MCP/COM). Oh and their GPS 5 panel, 'cos I can.

 

Which leads to the million $$$ question: if I sacrifice the "realism/immersion", how much of the jet workload can be mapped to the GA-biased MIP? Obviously, early 737's would map better, with more 'steam' guages, though 11x Saitek FIP's should help either way?

 

For me, getting the CDU III is a no brainer, especially with it's LCD. I 'think' the GPS 5 would also be useful - even if only to extend the GA capability. And I guess, the overhead panel could also be a no-brainer (I know it tends to only get used at the beginning/end of a flight, but it is an 'easy' add-on, just stick it above my head!). More matched to iFly than PMDG I understand (in terms of functionality that will work) - shame!

 

Where I 'do not get it' yet, is how much practical overlap I have with existing instruments and the MCP combo? I see some COM and autopilot potential overlap, but lack the experience with both GA and commercial to make a sensible decision on whether I can get away without the MCP Combo - or whether this will prevent a sensible, more realistic workload.

 

Any thoughts from others who fly both types please? Thanks!

[DinoCarlton 0]

So I just confirmed to myself that I WILL be adding a Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog into the above mix just as soon as I can (probably even before getting my MIP out of storage).

 

Do any of you more experienced mixed Jet / GA pilots have a view on my original question(s)?

[DinoCarlton 0]

Bumping the thread - I guess a post written on New Years Eve was not going to get a lot of attention.....!!!!

[Taipan 30]

For the FMS/FMC I suggest you use the Android/iPhone app called Virtual CDU instead of buying a hardware component.

 

Then a 7" tablet can be your FMC for 737,777 or A320 whichever you want to fly on the day.

[DinoCarlton 0]

Then a 7" tablet can be your FMC for 737,777 or A320 whichever you want to fly on the day.

 

Thanks for the heads up, Dan - I had not seen that app yet, it looks very good! The tablet can do double/triple duty for other functions, so looks like that could be the way forward for my FMC!

[Taipan 30]

I was looking into the screenshots, and purchased the A320 one so far (still waiting for PMDG to come to Prepar3d). On my 16:9 phone, it has a little gap at the top.

 

I'm thinking a 16:10 tablet would be best, have ordered the Galaxy Tab S 8.4" with one of those universal tablet stands

[DinoCarlton 0]

I'm thinking a 16:10 tablet would be best, have ordered the Galaxy Tab S 8.4" with one of those universal tablet stands

 

Nice! About $400 AUD or £225. I have the iPad2 on a 24" flexible mount (designed for car/lorry) which I planned for moving charts, weather, engine gauges etc. Could also cover FMC if neccessary, but for the money, I reckon another tablet is the order of the day!

[Taipan 30]

Just got response from the developer about future plans, they are working on iFly 747v2, and then on Majestic Q400.

 

So there will be 5 CDUs available in the long run, although I'm waiting for the PMDG 747v2 and hoping they will do the CDU for that as well.

[DinoCarlton 0]

and then on Majestic Q400.

 

Judging by your signature, you must be looking forward to the Q400!