I'd really like to get a hardware CDU rather than use the software versions that come with some a/c, but apart from some Googling, I am right at the start of investigating the possibilities. Can anyone please answer some beginner's questions:

 

1. Anyone here actually use a hardware CDU and give some recommendations? There a number out there.

2. Are any 'generic' CDUs available? In other words, a CDU that can be used in all aircraft - b737s/777s/a320s etc... i.e. has programmable buttons? This may not be so realistic, but otherwise it's going to be very expensive buying a separate  CDU for every a/c I want to fly! (Or is that the only way?)

3. How does a hardware CDU take over the functions of, say, a FS9 PMDG 747?

 

Some models here, for instance:

 

http://www.opencockpits.com/catalog/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=fmc&osCsid=34g8a73q588aose4o4vbuetgm2&x=2&y=2

 

Will that take over the exact function of a PMDG 737NG (FS9), for instance?

 

Ok, enough questions for this post! Thanks,

 

Martin

I'd really like to get a hardware CDU rather than use the software versions that come with some a/c, but apart from some Googling, I am right at the start of investigating the possibilities. Can anyone please answer some beginner's questions:

 

1. Anyone here actually use a hardware CDU and give some recommendations? There a number out there.

2. Are any 'generic' CDUs available? In other words, a CDU that can be used in all aircraft - b737s/777s/a320s etc... i.e. has programmable buttons? This may not be so realistic, but otherwise it's going to be very expensive buying a separate  CDU for every a/c I want to fly! (Or is that the only way?)

3. How does a hardware CDU take over the functions of, say, a FS9 PMDG 747?

 

One for 737s here, for instance:

 

http://www.opencockpits.com/catalog/fmc-737-p-97.html

 

Will that take over the exact function of a PMDG 737NG (FS9), for instance?

 

Ok, enough questions for this post! Thanks,

 

Martin

Hi, Martin,

 

Just in case you haven't seen it, Remote CDU is available for the PMDG NGX and 777. It isn't hardware, but it does enable

you to use an external laptop, smartphone, and I believe I-Pad, as a CDU. On my touch-screen Windows 8.1 laptop and my IPhone

the touch screen works for pushing buttons, although not as crisply as would a hardware CDU.

 

http://www.avsim.com/forum/742-official-remote-cdu-for-phone-tablet-official-support-forum/

 

Mike

Hi - thanks. I had heard about that, but it's a hardware CDU I am interested in. I see that the pdf (review) you can download on the webpage I gave contains instructions to get the FMC working - but it looks complicated! It also says you can use FSUIPC (anybody know how?)... It also says that the unit can be used for 737/747 & 777 - which would be great! It only talks about FSX though and I want to use it with FS9. Maybe I should email Opencockpits.

 

I think it's going to be a while before I get enough information, and digest it, before I part with the cash!

Bumping the thread to ask if anyone actually uses the opencockpit hardware and can comment? It looks good, but it's very pricey..