Honeycomb Alpha: How can I be sure I get V2?

[eslader 1,783]

As we all probably know, the first version of the Alpha used pots, while V2 uses hall effect sensors. Obviously, I want that second version. But how can I be sure that's what I'll get when I order? Is there a model number difference I can look for buried in the specs?

I did notice that the prices for the Alpha on Amazon spiked by $100+, which is often the case when normal sellers run out of stock and stupid sellers that can't price things right end up the only ones offering.  And that sometimes happens when inventory is changing over, so is that indicative that if I wait until they're offered at normal prices from vendors on Amazon again, I'll get the V2?

Thanks all.

 

[MarkDH 234]

2 hours ago, eslader said:

As we all probably know, the first version of the Alpha used pots, while V2 uses hall effect sensors. Obviously, I want that second version. But how can I be sure that's what I'll get when I order? Is there a model number difference I can look for buried in the specs?

It has a different name and looks diferent to the old one. It's called Alpha Flight Controls XPC and has a non-removable rectangular front, unlike the old one. The illuminated honeycomb grille is now rectangular too, not round.

[eslader 1,783]

The note about the rectangular front makes it easier.  I was confused because some sites are advertising the "Alpha Flight Controls XPC" but picturing the old rounded front:

https://www.flightsimwebshop.com/products/honeycomb-alpha-flight-controls-xpc

 

Thanks! I'll wait till the new version is out to buy. 

 

[Damo 0]

I think there is also the X-Box 'X' logo below the magento switches on the new version. Seem to remember seeing that on some publicity shots (although actal production models may omit / relocate this).

[micstatic 4,319]

when does this new one release anyway?

[cshark172 20]

11 hours ago, micstatic said:

when does this new one release anyway?

I saw somewhere that it will be released the end of the year.  Can't remember where I saw that.  Initially, they were shooting for the 1st quarter.

[micstatic 4,319]

I thought I had heard Q1 also.  Hopefully not end of year.  

[Twenty6 693]

On 3/5/2022 at 6:49 AM, micstatic said:

I thought I had heard Q1 also.  Hopefully not end of year.  

https://www.flightsimwebshop.com/products/honeycomb-alpha-flight-controls-xpc

From the above link: "This product will be released on 31-12-2022"

Can't get any ender of the year.

[micstatic 4,319]

thanks jay.  I ended up getting the boeing thrustmaster yoke instead.  oh well

[pao 55]

On 1/25/2022 at 3:33 PM, eslader said:

As we all probably know, the first version of the Alpha used pots, while V2 uses hall effect sensors. Obviously, I want that second version. But how can I be sure that's what I'll get when I order? Is there a model number difference I can look for buried in the specs?

I did notice that the prices for the Alpha on Amazon spiked by $100+, which is often the case when normal sellers run out of stock and stupid sellers that can't price things right end up the only ones offering.  And that sometimes happens when inventory is changing over, so is that indicative that if I wait until they're offered at normal prices from vendors on Amazon again, I'll get the V2?

Thanks all.

 

Was thinking of getting the Alpha... is the fact that it is using pots really a bad thing ? I though everyone praised the Alpha upon release ? And if hall effect sensors so much better, is there a particular reason they did not use them in the first version as this technology has been around for many years ?

Thanks.

[eslader 1,783]

Cost, I'd imagine. There's nothing inherently wrong with pots except that they rely on a direct electrical connection between the moving part and the stationary part. Eventually that will get dirty or worn, and that's when you start to get jitter in the control. Hall effect is a proximity sensor so it's a lot harder to wear them out.

 

Not all pots are created equal. Some will last many years. I've got a pro-grade radio audio board with pots that was made in the 70s and used daily at a radio station until the late 90s and the pots still work perfectly. Others, like the pot on the twist axis of my Thrustmaster, won't even make it 9 months. AFAIK Honeycomb is using quality pots (though probably not the quality you found on old professional broadcast equipment), but as long as a better option is close to market I'll wait.

 

I did grab the Bravo, though, which uses pots. There's no indication of any intent to make a V2 of that, and it's got a 5 year warranty so I figure it's worth the risk. I'd make the same call with the Alpha if I didn't know a Hall effect version was on the way.

[pshkong 0]

The issue is not the pot itself, its their microcontroller.  The current alpha yoke has only 8-bit resolution (256 steps) on both pith and roll axes. That’s way too little for 2020 standard.

Edited July 4, 2022 by pshkong

[Mgard78 141]

On 7/4/2022 at 8:28 AM, pshkong said:

The issue is not the pot itself, its their microcontroller.  The current alpha yoke has only 8-bit resolution (256 steps) on both pith and roll axes. That’s way too little for 2020 standard.

I, on the other hand, watched reviews saying 256 is more than enough, and nobody needs more than that, so "2020 standard" means nothing... (according to them at least)