414; latest version: still many issues with both APs

I left the 414 alone for some weeks, as the AP issues were a bit of a killer.

I just reinstalled the latest version (1.08 I believe) from the store, and tested both AP models.

Unfortunately things are still a bit of a mess with both APs.  Here are the problems:-

Navomatic unit (comes with GNS530)

• Still no binding to default MSFS key commands for AP ENGAGE / DISENGAGE, YAW DAMPER TOGGLE.
• The NAV and HEADING modes are inconsistent regarding binding to MSFS key commands.  eg. Heading will engage with the key command but then changing over to NAV mode from Heading work will not work
• MOST CRITICAL:   There is still no physical way of engaging APPR mode (which this unit does have): the GS "button" on the mode controller is just an annunciator light; there is no button at all to select APPR / GS mode, and no button on the AP head unit below the throttles either.   I tried assigning a keyboard command to MSFS APPR mode, but as with the general issues with lack of keyboard command binding with this product, it did not work.   Therefore, it is impossible to engage APPR mode in this plane, with this AP, even though the real unit has it, and your model has an annunciator for it

GFC600 unit (comes with GTN750 models)

• AP master button still not bound to MSFS keyboard commands
• FD master button still not bound to MSFS keyboard commands
• YD master button still not bound to MSFS keyboard commands
• HDG / NAV / APR / VS / IAS still not bound to MSFS keyboard commands
• The real unit has an altitude selector built in, and would not rely on that old (very fiddly to use) analogue alt selector, that you're using from the Navomatic model.
• Very unpredictable behaviour and mode engagement when AP is engaged (using mouse clicks).

With due respect, this is a large, pressurized IFR twin, not a VFR low and slow sightseer - the AP is essential for operation of this plane and both units are currently a real mess (not meaning to offend; just saying it how it is from a customer perspective).  In the Navomatic unit, changing the view down below the throttles while flying, to engage the AP with the mouse, is not a pleasant experience.   All other aircraft with APs released for MSFS to date, have the AP master and modes, binded to the MSFS keyboard commands for the AP;  this plane deperately needs to provide the same expected feature.

Thanks.

Edited May 7, 20224 yr by JYW