Desktop sim

[deskjockey]

which desktop sim (PC) is the best for instrument flying. Realism, scan etc.

 

[midlifeflyer]

They all do a good job. Unless you have a CFII who is using a PCATD for training purposes (in which case it =might= make sense to get the same one for home use), I haven't seen any real good reason to spend more money than MSFS costs.

 

[milehigh6080]

I agree, MS Flight Simulator has become so good that it's really not necessary to spend any more money on a more expensive program. The biggest benefit to those sims in my opinion is in procedures training. If you set up and fly approaches and maneuvers using the exact procedures that you would use in your real life flying, you'll get a lot of good practice from the program. By the same token, I haven't really even seen any benefit to getting one of those yokes or throttle quadrants- they just aren't realistic enough to have much positive transfer of knowledge. A simple joystick which will allow you to control the airplane through the procedure is all you really need. Practice the procedures and take them to the airplane to really cement that knowledge into practical skill. Good luck!

-Milehigh

 

[de727ups]

There is one called "Instrument Pilot" by ASA. It's made to teach you basic instrumet skills and let you practice them. My only complaint was that it demands way to high of a skill level before you can move to the next lesson....they need to loosen the tolerences a bit. Anyhow...I have an Elite PCATD, an ATC610, MS2004, and the ASA IP trainer. I'd recommend the IP trainer if you are serious about becoming an IFR pilot. If you're just messing around...MS2004 is fine.

 

[Snakum]

Fly!2K ... much better panels than MSFS, full aircraft systems and avionics, can be used to fly VOR,ADF, ILS/Loc, and GPS approaches, holds, etc. in Skyhawk, Malibu, Navaho, King Air, and Hawker. Fly! has usable HSI and RMI also in some aircraft. I gave away my MSFS 2000 when I got Fly! in late 2000. It's no contest for real IFR training, and it's closer to On Top/IP Trainer for a fraction of the cost ... you can find it for about $20.



Minh

 

[Flyin Tony]

I use X-plane, but you have to have a good computer to run it! And I have a POS and the CD-rom thing won't open. So I cant play it right now.
But on my list X-Plane is #1
www.x-plane.org
www.x-plane.com