User manual

Table of content
 
 
1. General p. 3
2. Hardware Installation p. 4
3. Software Installation p. 6
3.1. Driver installation p. 6
3.2. The application program p. 8
3.3 The configuration setting p. 9
4. Testing your configuration p. 14
5. Configuring a gauge p. 15
5.1 Assigning functions to a gauge p. 15
5.2 The plate p. 16
5.3 Needle speed p. 16
5.4 Testing the gauge p. 16
5.5 Altimeter p. 17
6. Configuration and functions p. 19
7. Running the simulation p. 20
8. Troubleshooting p. 21
9. Advanced section p. 22
9.1. The creation and maintenance of functions p. 22
9.2. The top part p. 23
9.3. The lower part p. 23
9.4. Gauge calibration and plates p. 24
10. The Flight Illusion Input/output module p. 26
10.1 Introduction p. 26
10.2 Capacity of the Flight Illusion I/O module p. 26
10.3 Hardware p. 26
10.4 Software p. 28
10.4.1 Testing connected inputs/outputs p. 29
10.4.2 Connecting switches p. 30
10.4.3 Connecting rotary encoders p. 31
10.4.4 Assigning keystrokes to a switch p. 32
10.4.5 Configuring analogue inputs p. 33
10.4.6 Configuring digital outputs (LED’s) p. 34
11. Examples for input/output connections p. 35
11.1. Configuring a Battery On/Off switch p. 35
11.2. Making a simple flap lever p. 36
11.3. Making a simple landing lever p. 37
11.4. Making an autopilot control p. 38
12. The Force feedback yoke p. 39
12.1. Introduction p. 39
12.2. Safety p. 39
12.3. Installation p. 40
12.4. Software p. 41
12.5. Configration screen p. 42
12.5.1 General settings p. 43
12.5.2 Force Feedback Mode p. 45
12.5.3 Autopilot servo Mode p. 46
12.5.4 Force Feedback Calibration and center p. 47
12.5.5 switch assignment p. 48
12.6. Maintenance p. 49
12.7. Technical specs p. 52

 
2
  
1. 6.
General
 

The Flight Illusion gauge/module concept is based on a so called “Bus” system, by which all
gauges and logic components can be daisy chained. Advantage of this concept is a very
serious reduction of wiring and cabling.
 

Basic component of the system is the

Central Interface Module (GSA-55 or GSA-
55PS). One side of this module is
connected to the USB port for
communication between the control
program and a standard Hard Disk style
power connector to power all the
connected gauges.

On the other side are four ten pin

connectors combining both the power to
the gauges and the data
interchange between the PC and the
gauges. Because of power consumption
and signal degradation the number of units
that can be connected per connector on the
CIM is limited to a maximum of 16.

 
Due to the daisy chain concept the gauges are in fact all connected in parallel, so a sort of
protocol is needed to communicate with one single gauge or logic unit. For that reason
each gauge has a unique address –called GaugeID- that enables the control program to
exchange data with one particular unit. The address range is in total 255 different addresses
varying from 1 to 255.

 
By default, new gauges get either an address that is specific for a certain
gauge type or 255 when the gauge is a universal type. Example: the
altitude indicator (a specific fixed function gauge) will at production be set
to address 101, but a small generic single needle gauge (that can be
used as e.g. flap indicator) will be set to 255.

As addresses must be unique on a daisy chain, you can add only one
new generic instrument (with address 255) at a time. The software
enables the user to detect the new gauge and the user can then change the address of the
gauge to an address that isn’t in use yet.
The configuration part of the control program allows the user to change addresses but also
gauge specific things like the needle speed (for smooth movements), the altimeter mode
(Inches HG or mBar), etc. These settings have to be done only once as the address and other
settings are saved in the gauge.

To build- up your configuration it is the best to start with only one gauge
connected. Do a “search” with the software and configure the gauge. Also
give the gauge a unique ID, other than 255. When done click apply and
save your configuration. After this step you can apply your next gauge and
repeat these steps.
 

 
3
2. Hardware installation.
 
 

The CIM and Gauges must be connected as shown in the picture below.

 
For the power you can either use a separate power supply (EP-CPS) or -via an extension cable and
free power connector - the power supply from the PC. The power consumption will vary with the number
of units connected. Roughly each connected G-Step components will draw maximum 50mA from the 5
volts and 20mA from the 12 volts.
 
 
Never connect or disconnect gauges while the power is switched on
(this may damage the processor on the gauge)

On the CIM both voltages are protected via a fuse located closely to the power connector.
 
The CIM has six mounting holes that can be used to mount the CIM.
The mounting holes are connected to ground and can be used to mount the PCB
to metal surfaces providing these are either grounded or “floating”.
 
 
 
To prevent short circuits take care to keep the PCB free from metal
or other conductive surfaces.  
   

4
 
USB is a standard cable from either the PC directly or a USB hub. The little sub-PCB is a
converter that translates the USB interface into serial communication levels as used by the gauges.
 
The four flat cable connectors on the PCB are for connecting the daisy chained gauges. These
connectors are identical and can be used as wanted. You can connect up to 16 gauges on each
connector. Hence, a maximum of 64 gauges/modules can be hooked up to 1 interface.
 
All gauges and G-Step components have two interface connectors (except for the compass, that has
only one connector). Also these are identical and don’t care which one you use. We added two
connectors per gauge to simplify the daisy chain system. One can be used as the input from the CIM
or another gauge and the other one to connect it with a flat cable to the next one. It is also possible to
use cables with more than two connectors, by which one connector on the gauge will remain free.
Using a short cable this connecter can be used to e g a gauge located aside.

 
   

 
5
 3. Software installation.
 
Flight illusion gauges can be used with different simulator software. The gauges are compatible with
Microsoft Flight Simulator (both 2004 and FSX) , Prepare3D, IL2 and X-Plane. in order to make the
gauge work with your specific simulator platform you need to download the following:

1) the USB to COM driver. (ftdichip.com)

2) the Flight Illusion software files

3.1. Driver installation.

 
When the CIM is connected properly to USB and Power, the PC can be switched on. Windows will
now detect new Hardware. The interface of the CIM uses a translator circuit, to map the USB
interface onto a Serial Communication Port. In general PCs have one of these ports so the CIM
will be installed as communication port 2 for example. But, depending on your configuration, a
higher port number is possible. This mapped communication port requires drivers and Windows
installation manager will ask for them. If windows didn’t have a driver for this board you can download it
from the internet page: http://www.ftdichip.com/FTDrivers.htm
Depending of your used windows version you can find the right driver here. Our software is tested on the
following windows versions: Windows XP (Home or professional), Windows – 7 (all versions), Windows 8
and 10. Other systems could be worked also but are not supported yet.

When driver installation is done this can be checked in the Hardware page via “My
computer/System/Hardware”. An additional serial port should appear there.  
 

Clicking the –in this case COM4- port brings up the properties of this port:

If wanted, the port number can be changed via the Advanced Port Settings:

Be sure that you know the right COM port number, because you need
this information to set the correct COM port number in the GSTEP
software.
 
 
 
 
 
 
6
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The selected comport should of course match the com port selection in the G-Step Control program, which you
will install later.

The supplier of the USB to Serial port converter updates the drivers regularly. These drivers can – when
needed- be downloaded from http://www.ftdichip.com. Use in that case the virtual com port drivers for the
FT232B and the operating system you are using. Latest drivers are in the installation package.
 
No other drivers need to be installed, as the application program communicates with the instrument cluster
via this communication port solely.
 
To use the instruments, FSUIPC in the Flight Simulator Modules folder should be loaded and running. Testing
and setting the configuration however can be done without running Flight Simulator.
 
 

 
7
3.2. The Application Program
 
The application program can be installed from the install package via the Setup program. This package can
be download from our website. It will install some extra extensions for driving the serial port and will put the
Instrument Control program in your program list. The serial port drivers will remain unchanged and will need
no update.
 
The application program (G-Step Control Program
.exe) is an intermediate between the G-Step
components on one side and Flight Simulator on the
other side. Using FSUIPC it reads gauge values and
other parameters from FS and the software calculates
the values for the gauges.
After the driver installation is completed this
program can be started. If you start the .exe file you
should see this screen:
 
 
“FS Link status” shows whether Flight Simulator is
running with FSUIPC activated in its module folder.
When Flight Simulator loaded and running
(including FSUIPC) this should read “connected”.
 

The other fields give data on version and type of

programs. The two buttons “Continue and
Configure” below the will be enabled as soon as
you have selected a configuration file.
 

  If the Control Program is started before FS, it will

show the message “Waiting for FS startup”. At one second intervals, the program will check whether
FS comes up.
 
 

As soon as the connection with FS is made the Wait

message will be replaced by an autostart message. If
no action is taken, the program will then load the
default configuration and start automatically. The
autostart function is aborted if one of the buttons is
clicked or a configuration file is selected manually.

 
At first run or when you add or remove G-Step
components you should click on the “configure”
button. This will open the configuration window and
gives you the tools to set the gauges and connect them
to the various Flight Simulator functions. The
configuration files delivered with the installation
package are just examples and contain the standard
variables, like available functions, types of devices, etc.
Together with these you need to create your own
configuration file. This is specific for your setup and
can’t be done by default.

   
 

 
8
3.3. The configuration setting

 
The configuration screen consists of 7 zones. Each of them has one or more specific functions.

1 Current configuration: In this zone you will see all the connected gauges after performing
a “search”

2 Communication settings: In this zone you must assign the com ports that are active.
Perform a search devices and assign the ports manually or automatically.

3 Current configuration file: reflects the configuration file that is actually in use

4 Generic settings: You can assign the gauge light switch and the process interval (number
of times /second that the data is refreshed)

5 Actions: The Actions section contains a number of buttons to maintain, create and test
your configuration.

6 Search progress: is a control bar that colors blue as the “search” command moves through
the 255 possible gauge ID’s to see if they are populated.

7 Configure and test stand alone units: is the zone where other modules will appear if they
are connected and properly assigned to a com port.
 

 
9
After clicking “configure” you get the screen that enables you to create a configuration file that matches
your setup. Any of the supplied configuration files can be used as basis.

 
In this example you can see lots of gauges that seem to be connected. We have used the configuration
file MS-FS Example.cfg (as found in the general setting).You will have to clear this configuration to get
started with your own gauge assignment.
 
1 ) Current configuration

you will see all the gauges that are connected to this configuration. It actually shows the contents of the
selected configuration.

 
- ID is the GaugeID of the device
- Device type gives the universal device type, like large, small and number
of needles or type specific gauge.
- Version is the level of hardware and micro program.
- Model is an indication for future G-Step Control programs. It will be used for
e.g. the faceplate as used on that gauge.
- First function the function(s) the first needle is assigned to .
- Second function the function the second needle is assigned to (to be used
when some gauges have a double function (like the dual needle gauge).
- connection status shows “unknown” when no communication was done
yet. After the search/check, it will show either “connected” or “not
connected”.  
 

 
10
2) Communication setting
 
Most important part is setting the virtual Com Port to which
the Central Interface Module is connected. The pull down
list will only list the ports that are available on your
computer. Mostly comport 1 and 2 are standard ports. The
virtual communication port you added for the CIM will in
general be 3 or 4, but any port number can be selected
when you change that via the Windows Configuration
Setup as described in the Hardware configuration.

   

To change the Comport select one from the pull-down list and click the set
“Å” button. The control program will now communicate via this com port.
When you save the configuration also this comport number will be written in
the configuration file and will be selected at next run.
 
3) Current configuration

The box Current configuration file shows the active configuration.

At distribution some example files are inserted, but these are for demo purposes only
and will not automatically contain the configuration you have installed.

4) Generic Setting

You can change the settings for the gauge light switch. This will define what light switch will turn on the
backlight of the gauges. You can also modify the process interval. This is only needed when you are not
happy with the refresh rate. The interval determines how often the data is send to the gauges. E.g. a
process interval of 31 means that the data string is sent 31 times per second. Don’t set this process too
fast. This results in inoperable gauges, because a new string is initialized before the previous one is
ended.

5) Action settings
The Actions section contains a number of buttons to
maintain, create and test your configuration.
Most buttons will be self explaining, but the Create
Functions from Offsets is more difficult and for advanced
users only.
It will open a window enabling users to create or update
functions from the raw FSUIPC offsets. To use this, a
good understanding of the offsets, data types, etc. is
required. In general users will not need this facility, but it
is made for the specialist that want to make special
functions.
For those users this function is explained in section 9
(Advanced section) of this guide.
   
11
6) Search Progress

When you click on “search/check connected units” in the “actions” pane, you will see a progress bar
moving as the software polls each of the 255 ID’s that can be assigned. All those gauges that are
connected and that have a unique ID number will show up in the “current configuration” pane.

7) Configure and test stand alone units

If you have other units connected, like the I/O module, an engine cluster or the Force Feedback yoke,

Note on the Configuration file:

 
The Configuration file contains both settings for the program itself, like the
specification of functions, supported Gauge types, etc. and the user specific
configuration data like gauge IDs, assigned functions, etc. For that reason it is
possible that the settings part of configuration file will change when a new
release of the GSC program is distributed. A new package will always
contain the latest configuration file matching the released version.

Get started

To personalize your configuration file at first start-up you can best click the Clear Configuration and
then search for connected units. By starting that function the program will try all possible addresses
from 1 to 255 and when a unit “answers” it will “tell” which gauge-type it is and which address
(GaugeID) it has.
When the search is ready, you should have a list with the connected units and overview of your
configuration. When an instrument is already assigned to a FS function, this will also be listed.
Otherwise it will show “not assigned”.

 
12
 Most generic gauges are delivered with the standard address 255.
These are gauges that can have more functions, depending on
faceplate, number of needles, display, etc. This means that you can add
only one new gauge at a time. Before connecting a next instrument you
must change the address to a free number.
Dedicated instruments, like e.g. the Altimeter (101) and Attitude
Indicator(103), will have a standard ID at delivery, but you can change
that afterwards if wanted. Should a configuration contain one or more
gauges with the same address (ID) these gauges will probably not be
found at search, simply because two replies at the same time will result
in a garbled and not recognized data package.
 
 

 
13
4. Testing your configuration.
Gauge configuration can be tested by clicking the Test / Diagnostics button in the Actions section. It will
bring up the form below:

 
For all gauge types a sequence of commands is predefined, which can be executed either manually
step-by-step or automatically. The speed of execution can be adjusted using the command interval
slider. Range of this slider is from 40 milliseconds up to 5000 milliseconds (5 seconds).
 
The lower part (Create and test gauge manually) is for diagnostics only and should be used with care. It
enables user to “force” a gauge into the configuration and to constantly poll a particular gauge. The Poll
Gauge button will generate a command to the GaugeID selected in this section and the reply is written
into the reply box. This is hexadecimal format and interpretation is more difficult. However in general
replies will be 25 characters long and end with “FF”. Receiver progress is monitored by the rotating
“cross” on the right site of the reply.
 
You can add any gauge to the configuration using the Add to Config button, but be careful doing that. As
you can force any gauge and any gauge type into the configuration, there is a risk that the control
program will generate commands that do not match the gauge. So: just use this function for diagnostics
and fault finding only.

 
14
5. Configuring a gauge  
 
 
 
When you are in configuration mode and the search results are showing in the current configuration
window pane, you can click on a gauge line to open a set-up screen for that device. The screen you get
will depend on the gauge type and contains the settings specific for that gauge. Below the screen for
a generic Large Single Needle gauge is given:

 
 
On top of this window the current GaugeID and the Gauge Type is shown. Using the drop down “new
ID:” you can select another ID. The list will only show the free GaugeIDs.
 

5.1 Assigning functions to a gauge

 
Depending on the gauge type a sub-set of assignable functions is given. The functions are grouped into
a number of categories like Engines, Surfaces, etc.
If you select a category, the functions that belong to that category will be given in the function
dropdown list.
 
Next to that a number can be given. Mostly that can be “1”, but in particular motor instruments can have
a number varying from 1-4. So having, for example, two small single needle gauges, you can assign
one gauge to “Oil temperature, left motor (1)” and the other one to “Oil temperature, right motor
(2)”.

 
15
If not appropriate (as the function is single), you can leave it unfilled or zero. In that case the program
will assume number one.

The description box is an extended description or remark of the function. It does not effect the operation
and can be edited by the user via the button “list available functions” on the configuration screen.

5.2 The Plate

Assignment of a function to a gauge is universal. All aircraft types will have parameters like indicated
airspeed, vertical speed, etc. But depending on the aircraft and its construction the gauge indicating that
measurement will differ as to range and plate layout. Most gauge plates (when identical to the real
aircraft) are not linear, which requires calibration of the needle against the measured value.
Using the Plate Type dropdown list, the plate can be selected that matches a particular aircraft. Most
standard plates will be included in the default configuration file and can be assigned to a gauge.
 

For “special” plates however, the user can create its own plate (or modify an
existing one) using the Calibrate button to the right of the Plate Type
dropdown. This button will open a screen to create, update and test the
correctness of a plate. The possibility to create/modify a plate is for
advanced users and will in general not be needed by users using the standard
G-step gauge range. For those who want to create their own specific plate: the
Advanced section describes how to do that.
 

5.3 Needle speed.

 
The needle speed slider sets the needle speed. Some “nervous” flight simulator readings can be
compensated by that function. Most usual setting is around 80% to 90% , but setting will depend on
personal preference and the function assigned.

Oil temperature for instance can be set very low, but vertical speed will require a faster needle. Setting
too fast can result in a hampering stepper motor and wrong needle positions.

 
5.4 Testing the gauge
 
To test your settings you can use the Test Gauge slider. A complete 360 degrees rotation of a needle is
1080 steps, but due to the “stop” we loose 45 degrees thereof, so the needle will have 945 positions (0-
944).
 
Backlight can be tested by clicking the on/off selections. Light will remain on or off when you close this
window, but when you start the actual simulation, the backlight on/off will be synchronized with the
light switches of FS and whether the aircraft has a power source on its main voltage bus. (Battery on or
a generator of a running engine). Note: in more complex configurations it is sometimes difficult to locate
a gauge just by its ID. Lights on/off then helps you to locate that particular gauge.
Some gauges from the latest generation (purchased after January 2015) can even be dimmed.
 

By clicking the “Apply” button the settings are saved in the configuration file. From that moment on the
instrument is assigned to the selected function and will (if changed) get its new GaugeID.
 
Clicking “Uninstall” will remove the instrument from the configuration. However, the instrument will
remain active via the current GaugeID and will -at a next search- show up again but then with the “not
assigned” label.
 
By clicking “cancel” no changes to either the configuration or instrument will be made. However, as the
 
16
 needle speed is saved in the instrument itself, this will keep its last speed setting.
 
The G-step gauge range has some gauges with more functions combined in one gauge. As an
example a dual needle gauge can be configured similar to a single needle, but the assignment is
doubled. One for each needle.
 
5.5 The Altimeter
 
Another instrument type is the Digital Altimeter. Clicking this gauge type will pop up the following window:

As this is a dedicated Gauge it is not possible to assign it to another function. The settings here only
effect the Gauge itself.
 
As mentioned at the previous Single Needle window, the Gauge ID can be changed from its standard
“101” to another ID. Mode of the air pressure can be changed from Inch Hg to Millibar, but should of
course match the text on the faceplate of the Gauge. Needle speed function is identical to the Single
needle gauge.

 
A special word about the checkbox “Air pressure effects Altitude”.

This function is not made for Flight Simulator connection and should in
general be off. What it actually does is making a direct connection between
the air pressure setting and the altitude that belongs to that air pressure.
So, should you activate it, the altitude will increase roughly 10 feet per
1/100 inch HG air pressure decrease.
It is made for applications where the setting of the air pressure cannot be
effected, making the altimeter more or less “self supporting” as to that.
However, for testing the gauge you can temporarily switch it on.
 

 
17
The altimeter has a needle that can make full rotations in both directions. A photo interrupter inside the
instrument is used to calibrate the zero position of the needle. But as needle can (depending on
assembly) have an other position than the sensor, this difference can be adjusted using the needle
calibration box. At Reset, the gauge will search for the photo interrupter and stop there. Using the left and
right arrows, the needle can be moved to its corresponding zero position. Then click Set and the
displacement is saved in the instrument.
At delivery this is already done so normally it should not be necessary to do this, but we left it in for
situations where you disassemble the instrument and would take off the needle.
 
To check whether the air pressure setting can be read from the instrument, you can click the “Read”
button. It should show the same reading as on the display of the gauge. To get the reading you have to
click twice.
 
In the Test Gauge box you can also check the gauge for correct functioning and whether light and
displays can be switched on/off. After closing this window, the settings for Display and Backlight will
remain, but when you start the simulation the displays and backlight will be synchronized with the FS
aircraft. So: there must be a power source for the display (otherwise it will be switched off) and for
backlight both power must be there and light switch must be on.    

Important note

The air pressure setting is read from the instrument about 10 times per second
and send to FS. There it will “rotate” the knob on the altimeter on the screen
and as such synchronize the on screen altimeter with the external gauge.
You can check whether this reading works on the status screen in run mode.
The value there should follow the reading on the instrument display. From
there it is fed into FS.
 
Although possible (as it is an electronic display) it does not work the other way
around. So, changing the air pressure by mouse or keyboard will NOT change
the display reading of the Gauge. In other words: the G-Step Altimeter Gauge
is master.
This is compatible with other analogue simulator gauges, as –should this be
realized- a change in air pressure setting by mouse or keyboard would require
an extra motor to make the knob and pressure plate rotate.
 

 
18
6. Configuration and functions
 
 
Back to the main configuration screen.

Another button will show the list of available

functions. It contains a full list of functions that
will be implemented or are already
implemented.
 

Not all functions are fully implemented yet,

but the list will grow with the types of
instruments we supply. At regular times we
will update this list and put it on our web-site
together with a new version of the control
program. As you will see the functions have
fixed names, categories, types, etc. However,
the description can be edited by the user and
also stored in the configuration file. To change
a description click on it and it is copied to the
line below the list. You can now change the
description and by clicking the update button
the changes will by copied to the
configuration. These updates are made in
memory but not saved to the file on disk. If
wanted, you can click on “save as” to do so.

Last button on the main configuration screen

is the Save/Load button.
It will bring up a small window with the
available files and buttons to either save, load
or delete a file.
 
Clicking a filename will copy that file to the
new filename box. But you can also type a
new filename. Please note the file should have
the .cfg extension.

.
   

By clicking delete, save or load, the file corresponding with the

“filename new configuration” will be saved, deleted or loaded the
GSTEP software.
 

 
19
7. Running the simulation
 
 
 
When you click Continue on the main start up window you should see the screen below.
 

On top of the screen the current name of the configuration file is given and the status of the
connection between the Control Program and Flight Simulator and FSUIPC.
The Xfers box shows how may times per second the information for setting the gauges is refreshed.
The value will depend on the speed of the computer and how much process time for the GS Control
program is “allowed” by FS and other active applications. Remember here that “faster is not always
better”. About 30 x per second is normally good enough.
 
Some key values are shown on this screen, but not all. Run and Stop control the simulation mode and
when running the various boxes will show the actual FS readings. They are just there for test/reference
and to see if there is communication between the software and FSUIPC. By clicking “hide” this screen
will be minimized and when in Run mode the program will remain active and update the connected
gauges.
 

   
When al values are still 0, ( as shown in the picture) there is no
communication with FSUIPC. In this case, the gauges can’t be
driven. Refer to FSUIPC to see if the program is installed correctly
 

 
20
8. Trouble shooting
 
 
 
The basics for good troubleshooting is a step-by-step approach and isolating the problem.
 
First step is a check whether power is connected to the Central Interface Module  
and whether fuses are OK. One fuse is for the +12 Volts and the other one for the
+ 5 Volts driving all electronics.
 
When no communication at all check in Windows whether the virtual comport is
available and working correctly. And make sure the Communication port number
matches the settings of the G-Step control program. If the port number does not
exist the GSC program will give a runtime error as soon as you activate a function.
 
Next you can start the control program without starting flight simulator. And go to
the configuration screen. Click clear configuration and search for the connected
instruments. All connected instruments should pop up now. If not or one or more are
missing, check the flat cables or exchange them. doing so better switch off
power from the Central interface Module.
 
As mentioned before, the G-Step concept is a bus system where all “participants”
are connected in parallel and in order to communicate with a single one, it needs to
have a unique address. There are bus protocols to handle that, but in general these
protocols create a serious protocol overhead, which will always be there, also at run
time. So we decided to use a straight forward concept and keep the auto-
addressing out of the run time.
 
But, as all benefits, it has a disadvantage. Addressing must be done by human
intelligence and only one instrument at a time. However, if you administer your
gauge IDs correctly, you can just disconnect all other gauges and connect only the
new one for configuration. This has to be done once. Nevertheless, double
addressing can occur and result in “not found” gauges.  

Individual gauges can be tested by clicking them. Move needle and test whether
you can switch the backlight. In larger configurations it is sometimes difficult to
locate a gauge by its Gauge ID. Simple way of locating an instrument is clicking it
and switch on/off light to identify it via the Gauge window.
 
When all gauges can be reached and react on needle and light commands, you
can be sure the Hardware and interconnection is OK.
 

Next problem could be a configuration file that does not match your current
configuration. To check that print the list (by e.g. copy screen) of the gauges found
during “Search” with a cleared configuration and check if the configuration file you
use matches gauge ID’s and functions.    

If that is all OK, the only problem that can remain is the connection between the
GSC program and flight simulator. In order to To check that load Flight Simulator
and AFTER that load the GSC program with the appropriate configuration file.
Status of the connection between the GSC control program and FSUIPC and FS
displayed on both the main start up screen and the status screen that is shown
when clicking “continue”. It should show “connection OK”.
 
By depressing the “RUN” button the interface between the GSC program and FS
will be activated. Now all boxes should contain the actual FS values, like altitude,
IAS, etc. If not the problem is outside the GSC program and probably something
wrong with either FSUIPC or FS.
 

 
21
9. Advanced section
 
 
9.1 The Creation and Maintenance of Functions
 
Users can create their own functions from the full set of offsets available via FSUIPC. This is for users
having a good knowledge of how the interface with Flight Simulator works and some basic
understanding of the representation of numbers in computers is required.

As said this is for specialists. Wrong definitions and/or functions can “hang-up” the
computer and/or make FS functioning wrongly. Not permanently of course, but a re-boot
would possibly be required in that case.

It is good practice to back-up a working configuration file by saving it

with another name before making changes or additions.

Depressing the Creation and Maintenance button from the configuration screen will open the following
page:  
 

 
It is roughly divided into two parts:
 
• The top part relates to the FSUIPC values that can be imported from a text file (which is
standard supplied with the install package).
• The lower part is used to create or update G-Step functions.

 
22
9.2 The top part
Clicking on the “ Read Raw Offsetfile” button will load the offsets into memory and contains all the
known offsets. An offset (its reference) is a 16 bits number represented in hexadecimal format. Clicking
a line in the raw offset list will pop-up the details in the right part of the screen. It will show the Offset, the
number of bytes used for the value access mode, etc. Depending on the offset one or more bytes are
used The number of bytes will mainly depend on the precision of the value. FSUIPC uses more
representations defined by the number of bytes:
 
- 1, Byte, an 8 bit value ranging from 0 to 255
- 2, Integer, a 16 bit value ranging from – 32767 to + 32767
- 4, Long integer, a 32 bits value ranging from -2147483647 to +2147483647
- 8, Floating point, a 64 bits value, for very large numbers (over 300 digits)
 
The 1,2 and 4 bytes lengths are integers, whilst the 8 byte length can contain fractions as well. Apart
from these FSUIPC uses some other representations (like for radio frequency setting).
 

Important note
Internally Flight Simulator uses a bunch of units like miles, meters, feet, Celsius,
Fahrenheit, Kelvin, Rankine and more. Obviously we need in many cases a formula
to translate the raw value into a value that matches the gauge. The “formula” box
contains the formula to perform that conversion. In some cases this proposed
formula isn’t directly usable by the G-Step control program. Most formulas can be
simplified to a single multiplier and divisor part, and the boxes below the formula will
show that two values. However, some formula’s in the raw file aren’t complete or
correct, so just see it as a proposal

The Copy -> Function button will copy the current raw offset to the lower screen part, but before
saving the function to the configuration file it will need some editing and additions.
 
9.3 The Lower Part
 
The lower part list box will show the current functions as used by the control program. Currently the
Function list contains 300 slots and by clicking one, the function will be copied to the boxes located
below the list box for detailed editing.
 
The “short name” is the name of the function and this name will show up as assignable function in
gauge configuration screens. Next to that you can choose a category to which the function should
belong.
 
The “signal type” box is an addition used by the control program. It tells the process what to do with the
result when the function is executed. For gauges you can select “Gauge”. Do not select “
dedicated gauge” here. This is for gauges that are not freely assignable as they have a unique function.
 
Data type is already filled in by the “Copy->Function” based on the offset value length. G-step control
uses one extra data type: Unsigned integer. This data type contains only positive values ranging from
0-65535.
Next to the data type dropdown box are four boxes for offsets. In the raw offset file each engine has one
slot, but of course the naming, definition and processing is identical for all the engines or a multi
engine aircraft.

In the control program, these functions are packed together into one slot: Nr 1 for motor one, Nr 2 for
the second motor, etc. The Copy button below each box will copy the offset from the offset in upper part
of the screen. Name, Formula, etc. will be equal for all of them.
 
Finally there are three boxes for the transformation of the value. A pre-add/subtract number, a multiplier
and a divisor. The pre-add is needed mostly for temperature conversions. In the example it converts
Rankine (the Fahrenheit version of Kelvin, so with the absolute zero point temperature) to degrees
Celsius.

In formula: Celsius = (Rankine - 491.67) x 1 / 1.8

 
23
  
To test the function and re-calculation you can use the red
test button. Please note that you have to save the created or
updated function in advance! Of course FS and FSUIC must
be up and running. If so a small window (see below) will
show the value read from FS and the corrected value thereof.

9.4 Gauge Calibration and Plates.

Realistic plates are identical to the ones in the real aircraft. These real instruments are as to
construction completely different and often driven by analogue sensors and actuators like air pressure,
non linear temperature sensors, etc.
 
On the other hand the G-step needles are driven by high resolution stepper motors and due to that
absolutely linear. The “lazy” approach would be to create plates that fit the linear stepper motors, but
that would result in plates that would strongly differ from the original.
 
For that reason the G-Step control program has a built in utility to convert a FS/FSUIPC reading into a
plate that is identical to the original aircraft plate.
 
Clicking the “calibrate” button from a gauge configuration window will popup the screen below. The
principle is that a plate is divided into a number of calibration points that must match a certain needle
position. Between the calibration points the needle position is interpolated linearly.

 
 
24
On the left Gauge Calibration frame, the left Slider represents the value read from FS and the right part
represents the needle position. For the creation of a new plate, you can Clear the row containing the
“value boxes”.
 
On top the Minimum value of the offset should be typed in and one of the 20 boxes below the
calibration points. For your convenience you can just type the maximum value into one of the boxes and
the depress “divide”. The in-between boxes will then linearly be divided. Trick here is to “play” with the
number of calibration point in order to get nice integer values. But you can also fill the calibration points
one by one> To do so use the slider and +/- buttons to set a particular value and then copy this value to
the corresponding Calibration Point box using the corresponding little arrow button.
 
The “Read” button will pop-up the small window as used in during the “Creation and Maintenance of
Functions” and can be used to view real FS values for reference.
 
When left “Value” row is completed, the needle can be can be calibrated.
For a quick check the needle positions can spread over the calibration points, which would give a full
scale linear plate.
 
Calibration of the needle is done using the slider and +/- buttons on the right side. First select the
value to be calibrated on the left side (it will turn red), move the needle to the correct position and click
on the small arrow right of the corresponding box. The Value on the right side is now corresponding
with that particular Needle position.
 
When all done, you can check the calibration using the two Up/Down buttons on the bottom of this
frame.
 
The right part of this screen is for the plate ”administration” . Top part shows the current gauge and its
assignments. Below that is a list of available plates, where the current selected plate is highlighted.
 
Underneath the plate list are buttons to assign the plate to the current active gauge, to save the plate
and to add a new plate. Latter button will save the plate ( e.g. when modified) as a new plate. The
reload button will restore the original values into the calibration points rows.
 
When adding a new plate a new plate name and category must be given. The added plate will get a
number and will be added to the list of available plates. To remain consistent with previously assigned
plates it is not possible to delete a plate.
 
Last frame on this screen gives the possibility to test the gauge and the (new) plate.
When activated both sliders on the left part of the screen will be “connected” to the real value read from
FS. Of course FS and FSUIPC should be Up an Running to do    

Important note

Creation of new functions and/or new plates can be rather complicated.

However, it has to be done only once and increases the functionality seriously.
To get examples you can select the standard available functions and plates.
But–as said before- before updating functions and plates: back-up the working
one before, by saving it with another name.
 

 
25
10. The Input/Output module

10.1 Introduction:
The Flight Illusion I/O module offers the possibility to connect switches, potentiometers and LED’s
together to X-Plane or Microsoft Flight simulator in a relative easy way. The Flight Illusion team tried to
build an interface card that enables users to realise a cockpit project or panel easy and quickly.

Contrary to many other interface solutions, the Flight Illusion I/O module is especially designed for
working with Microsoft Flight simulator or X-Plane. Due to the many possibilities, the software for the I/O
module will be continued in development and functionality will be extended. Most functions however can
be defined “from scratch” by the user itself as all functions are user definable.

The I/O module is part of the Flight Illusion product range. This means the I/O module can be connected
to with a USB to the same architecture as the other gauges or modules. It will have it’s own COM port
and will be visible in the lower pane of the configuration screen.

In the box of Stand Alone units, the button “I/O Module #1” will appear.

The I/O module is a stand alone module, requiring no additional power (unlike the GSA-55 interface)

10.2 Capacity of the Flight Illusion I/O module:

The Input/output module can drive switches, LED’s or POT-meters. The capacity is as follows:

Connect up to 48 digital inputs (switches)

Connect up to 8 analogue inputs (potentiometers)
Connect up to 32 LED outputs (direct without a resistor)
Connect up to 2 Master LEDs (for master annunciator)

10.3 Hardware
The Flight Illusion I/O module has several connectors. Three connectors for digital inputs (switches), a
connector for 8 analogue inputs (potentiometers) and two connectors for using digital outputs (LED) In
figure 3 you can see a schematic representation of the I/O module.

 
26
Fig 3. The Card layout

Understanding connections

As can be seen on figure 4 every connector has a certain sequence of pins. A connection will be
accomplished by connecting a ‘ground’ pin (coloured blue on the schedule) with one of the
‘input’ pins (coloured green on the schedule) The switch number is determined by the input pin it
is connected to (A1 to A8, B1 to B8, C1 to C8, D1 to D8, E1 to E8 or F1 to F8)

Connecting wires to the I/O module can be done by using e.g. standard 20 Pin flatcable
connectors. Flight Illusion also has special ´Extenders boards´ for connecting inputs and outputs
in a easy way (see figure 5). This enables a more simple wiring and no need for soldering.

(fig. 4) (fig. 5)

Figure 4 above shows a schematic representation of switch number A7 connected.

 
27
10.4 Software
A USB I/O module will appear after assigning a Communication port to it.. After clicking on the I/O
module with the mouse the main configuration screen of the I/O module will appear. For an overview see
figure 6 below.

 
28
10.4.1 Testing connected Inputs/Outputs

After connecting inputs or outputs in the correct way to the I/O module or Extender board you can click
on the test button (in the right corner below in the controls section, see figure 7 below) . As a connected
input is activated (e.g. pressing or toggling a switch) the corresponding field will light up.

A switch that is connected and configured will light up green, and when pressed the corresponding field
will turn red. Inputs that are connected but not yet configured will light up grey when pressed, for
example switch number E8 in the figure below (fig. 7)

 
29
10.4.2. Connecting switches

After clicking on a connected switch the configuration menu for switches will open and a function can be
assigned to the input (see figure 8 below)

There are two main options for assigning a function to a

digital input. The first option is to assign a FS function
by clicking on the FS Function option and select a
Category and Function using the pull down menus in
that part of the screen. After choosing a category (e.g.
Cockpit) you can select a function - in the second pull
down menu- that in belong to that Category. For
advanced users it is also possible to add functions
theirselfs, but that subject is described in this maual.

In case the main mode is “Assign a FS function to a

switch, you have two possibilities. In the Control Value
section in the middle of the screen you have again two
choises. Either you set the function “Absolute” by
setting it to one or two values depending on the switch
position, or you increment or decrement a function by a
predefined value.
 
Fig. 8 Configuring a switch for Absolute mode

The Absolute option will set the function to two predifined values. Depending on the selected switch type
it will follow the On/Off position of the connected switch. With the check boxes you can select which
switch action must be used.

With the 0 to 100 % slider you can define a certain percentage to be send to Flight Simulator: some
functions like e.g. Flaps use a percentage in Flight Simulator, for instance position 1 equals a Flap
position of 20 %. This can be used with switches that have multiple positions.

However in case the switch type Momentary/ Toggle is selected, it will go On/Off and Off/On alternately
per switch operation. This switch type is mostly used for Pushbuttons, that will switch on/off a function
alternately

In this example switch A3 is used to switch Navigation Lights. (see Fig. 8)

In the middle section the option “Set Abolute” is selected and both actions Off-> On and On-Off are
activated. This means that, if a switch changes form position, the value as set by the sliders will be
written to the selected function.

Only assign a function to an input isn’t enough. Even the action must be assigned before it should do
anything. (control value). So be sure to set the action correctly before you click “apply”.

 
30
10.4.3. Connecting rotary encoders

Second mode of a switch within the FS function mode is the Increment/Decrement mode. This mode is
mainly used to connect rotary encoders. To use/read a rotary encoder, you will need to connect 2
switches, as in this example switch A1 and switch A2.

Figure 9. Configuring a rotary encoder Figure 10. Configuring a rotary encoder

In this example we use a rotary encoder to control the air pressure setting. By defining the switch type
as an encoder contact, you get in fact two switches. One (this one shown in the picture) is the one that
toggles turning clockwise. A second switch with switch type “Encoder B” will have -0,01 to decrease the
air pressure setting when rotating counter clockwise.

 
31
10.4.4. Assigning keystrokes to a switch

The second main possibility is to assign a keyboard stroke . This can be done by clicking on the
Keyboard Key option field in the lower part of the configuration screen.

In figure 11 below an example of the keyboard combination CTRL SHIFT G is configured.Every time the
switch changes from Off-> On, this keyboard stroke will be send to the active Windows window (which
should be the Simulator of course.)

Fig 11. Configuring a keyboard stroke

 
32
10.4.5. Configuring Analogue Inputs (potentiometers)

On the Analogue Input connector on the I/O module you can connect up to eight potentiometers. A
connected potentiometer can have a value between 5 and 20K. Be sure not to connect the slider to
the 5 Volts pin, otherwise the potentiometer may be damaged. Connecting ground to the 5 Volts pin
will only result in the potentiometer working contrary. The slider of the potentiometer should be
connected to one of the Input pins (See figure 3 or the Extender board)

After clicking on a connected potentiometer the configuration screen will open:

Figure 12. Configuring a potentiometer.

Assigning a function works in the same way as a Digital Input with a pull down menu. With the Range
Limits the usable range of a potentiometer can be defined. This can be used for instance with a Throttle
lever, where the first part of a potentiometer can be used to operate a Thrust Reverser.

Negative defines the lower range limit of the potentiometer

Zerocross defines the changeover point (or zero point)

Positive defines the upper range limit of the potentiometer

As Analogue inputs in general have some jitter –caused by interference-, signals can vary around the
setting. This depends on quality of wiring, potentiometer and sources of interference. To block these little
changes you can set a “deadband”. This means that a value to the simulator is only done if the current
read value differs more than “deadband value” from the previous read value.

 
33
10.4.6. Configuring Digital Outputs (LEDs)

Up to 32 LEDs can be connected on the two Digital Output connectors. LEDs (common anode) can be
connected directly without a resistor (resistors are integrated on the I/O module). In addition to the +5
Volt and Input pins there’s an extra pin where a ‘Master’ LED can be connected (see figure 12). The
Master LED will light up whenever any other Digital output is on.
This LED can be used as a ‘Master Warning Light’ as can be found in many airplane systems.
The brightness of the LEDs can be adjusted by the small potentiometer on the I/O module

After clicking on a Digital Output on the main screen the configuration menu will open:
Assigning a function to a LED works the
same way as assigning a function to a
Digital input using the Pull Down menus.
With the slider you can select a
Crossover value. E.g. Functions that
switch beween 0 and 1 mostly set cross
over to 50%.

Fig13. Configuring LEDs

The LED can be controlled via several conditions:

- Switch on at Minimum: In case the function has the minimum value LED is ON
- Switch on at Maximum: In case the function has maximum value LED is ON
- Switch on Crossover: Below this value the Led is OFF, if higher the Led is ON,
- Switch on Free value: In case function has this value LED is ON

With the Output level normal/invert, the On an Off of the LED can be reversed. Off when value is ON
and On when value is OFF.

On the IO module we have 32 free configurable leds. But there are two Master LEDs. These LEDs will
go ON when one of the LEDs where Master On 1 or 2 is selected. The connection of these master
LEDs is shown on the IO module card layout.

 
34
11. Examples for input/output connections
In this chapter some examples are given on how switches, analogue inputs and LEDs are configured.

11.1 Configuring a Battery On/Off switch

This is the most simple switch configuration. The simulator should just follow the switch state. For this
example we use switch A1:

Now click on the A1 switch in the Digital Inputs part and configure this switch:

We configure it as a On/Off switch type, select

it as a FS function and use the Set Absolute
mode of the Control value. We want to use
both the On->Off actions and the Off->On
action, so we set to use them both.

If switch goes from Off to On, it will set the

function to 100% of its maximum, being 1.

If switch goes from On to Off, it will set the

function to 0% of its maximum, being 0.

When done click Apply and switch is

configured.

 
35
11.2 Configuring Landing Gear Leds

Most Landing gears indicators have three sets of leds. One for Nose wheel, One for Left wheel and One
for the right wheel. For each wheel there are two Leds: one green and one red. The Green Lamp only
burns when gear is fully down. The Red lamp only burns when gear is somewhere between Full down
and Full up.

So, To simulate that you’ll need six LEDs. On this example these are C1-C3 for the red lamp and D1-D3
for the green lamp

Now we need to configure the Red LED on

output C1. It should only burn if gear is
NOT fully in and NOT fully out:

So, the LED will switch on at maximum and

minimum, but by inverting the output it will
only burn if not on minimum and not on
maximum.

For the green LED on output C2 it is more

simple. It should only burn when gear is fully
down:

 
36
11.3 Making a simple Flaps Lever.

Many aircrafts have a flap lever with some detents. You can put it in more positions.
The number of detents depend on the aircraft type, and in this example we use a lever that has four
positions: fully In, 30% out, 80% out and fully extended.

Now we take a simple rotary switch with four positions like the one nelow. Mount it transverse, make a
lever to the shaft and the flap handle is almost ready.

The mother contact is connected to the Ground pin

and the contacts corresponding with the switch
position are connected to four switches. In this
case E1-E4:

Now, for each position we need to set the flaps to the

corresponding position As Example the switch E2. This
switch should set the flaps to 30%:

As soon as the switch goes to position 2, the On->Off value

will be written to the simulator. We do not use the On->Off
state in this case.

For Fully extended we of course set the slider for switch E4 to

100%:

 
37
11.4 Making an Autopilot control

In this example we use a rotary encoder to set the Autopilot Altitude. A rotary encoder is in fact a switch
with two contacts that, depending on the rotation direction, are time shifted. It has a centre contact and
the two switch contacts mostly called A and B.

In the control program we can configure both contacts. Logically seen

they will be converted into two “push buttons”. One is pushed on every
click clockwise and the other one on every click counter clockwise.

The contact are configured as follows:

So, on the rotation in one direction, this
switch will toggle and increment the altitude
by one.

The other contact will decrease the Altitude

setting every click in the opposite direction.

As the clicks can be very fast when rotating

the encoder, this can best be used in
combination with the USB version of the IO
module.

 
38
12. The Force Feedback Yoke

12.1. Introduction

The HW- FFB-737/GA Flight yoke has been designed to give the user the sturdy and robust feeling like
flying a real aircraft. The concept was to develop a reliable control loading yoke as can be found in
many professional trainers, but also at a price that keeps it in reach for the dedicated flightsim
enthusiasts and home cockpit builders.

By using standard available but at the same time heavy duty components we think we’ve succeeded in
creating one of the best control yokes available in it’s class. Once you take control of your virtual plane
with this yoke, it will feel as if you actually have a real aircraft in your hands.

The Flight Illusion team

12.2 safety

Please remember that the force feedback yoke is not a toy. Make sure it is firmly
attached to your desk before use. As the forces can be significant in some cases, it’s
not recommended to be used by small children.

Do not open the casing when the yoke is in use and switch the power off when
leaving the yoke unattended.

Although the yoke has a safety feature to prevent it from overheating (it will
automatically switch of after a couple of minutes when not in use) it is recommended to
check it from time to time for overheating.

Never leave the power supply unattended when on, as it can generate heat. Also
make sure the power supply is operated in a ventilated area so it’s able to release its
heat to the surrounding air.

Be careful after switching on the yoke, in some cases it can make an abrupt
movement towards its centre position.

 
39
12.3. Installation

Step 1. Make sure the yoke is firmly attached to your desk. This can be done by using the two
mounting holes on the bottom side of the yoke housing (see illustration below) You can use
the two supplied bolts for it or use your own (metric: M6) You can also use the two square holes
that are on the lower front of the casing by using two small clamps.

Step 2. Connect the yoke to your PC using the USB cable.

Step 3.a. If you have already the software installed on your PC, you don’t need to do anything. The
FFB yoke will be recognized and become visible in the software window.

Step 3.b. If you don’t have already the software installed on your PC you can do it now. Installing the
software gives total acces to Flight Illusion products. It will allow you to configure the yoke, but also to
configure gauges or input output commands if these modules are installed later.
See point 3 in this manual for software installation including the:
- USB Driver
- FFB Yoke Control (you can download the latest version on www.flightillusion.com)

Note: FSUIPC is required to run the yoke with Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Step 4. Connect the power supply

 
40
 12.4 Software

After starting the control program the opening screen appears.

Here you can select a configuration file for a

specific type of airplane or select your own
configuration files. You can also check if the
control software is connected to Flight Simulator
(FS link status)

When using the yoke for the first time, click on

‘Configure’ to adjust the basic settings for the yoke.
This will enter the configuration mode and see the
button which gives access to the FFB yoke for easy
tweaking.

  Click on the FFB Yoke(s) button to access the main

screen

Make sure that your yoke has the correct com port
setting

In the main screen the current configuration file is

showed and the mode the yoke is in. The status of a
second yoke is also shown as it is possible to
connect two yokes. Yoke one is standard set to be
the master yoke and is in force feedback mode. The
yoke can be used in different modes:
1. Force Feedback Mode (FFB Mode): the
yoke follows and reacts to values coming out
of Flight Simulator
2. Centre Mode: the yoke will return to centre
(like a yoke or joystick with springs)
3. Servo Mode: the yoke will follow the
movements of a second yoke as if
mechanically linked (if it is assigned as ‘slave’)
4. Follow AP Mode: the yoke follows inputs as
given by the autopilot in Flight Simulator.

Click on ‘Run’ to activate the yoke, or click on

‘Configuration’ to adjust the basic settings for the
  yoke.

 
41
12.5. The configuration screen:

To define your own settings, click on ‘show yoke #1’ (or yoke #2) in the main screen or click on
‘configure yoke #1’ or 2 in the configuration screen.

After opening the yoke configuration file you should see the following screen:

Here you are able to tweak the forces that effect the yoke and set multiple options like switches,
autopilot settings etc.

This window has 5 tabs, dealing with specific values and tweaking possibilities.

1) General settings and status

2) Force feedback
3) Autopilot / Servo Modus
4) Calibration and Center
5) Switch assignments

Due to the complexity of the advanced settings it is recommended to save

the configuration file under a new name or make a backup of the standard
configuration files.
 

 
42
 12.5.1 General Settings / Status

You can click on ‘Save settings for (particular) mode’ to save your setting temporary for testing.
To save the settings permanent as a configuration file you’ll need to click on ‘File’ and name it.
Overview of the functions in the Yoke Configuration Screen (see illustration above)

1. Control Mode
The Yoke can work in several modes.
- Centre mode: In this mode the Force Control mechanism behaves as two springs.
- FFB Mode: The forces on the Yoke depend on the status of the aircraft. The forces depend
on airflow along the Ailerons and Elevator surfaces. Also Turbulence and wheel shocks -
when rolling- are send to the yoke.
- Follow Autopilot: The Yoke follows the controls as commanded by the Autopilot. Up/Down follows
the vertical trim and Left/right follows the horizontal trim
- Servo mode: In case two yokes are connected, the Yoke will follow the position of the other Yoke.
Or, in case the other control is another device it will follow the values read from the Simulator
- Switch Off Forces: The forces are switched Off.
2. Simulator Interface:
This part shows the status and action read from or written to the simulator. Ailerons and Elevator
position is given in a percentage from -100% to +100%. Centre position is 0. Trim values are the
integer values as read from the simulator. The Read ad Write indicators show the Read/Write
actions on the Simulator interface. Warnings are read from the simulator.

3. Connection and Activation Yoke Control

This frame shows the actual status of the interface between the Yoke and the Control Program. It
shows the status of the connection, the actual forces and position of the Yoke and the number of
updates per second.

4. Power Mgt.
The Yoke has a protection mechanisms to prevent Overheating and permanent forces to
one of its mechanical limits. If a force is constant within a certain limit (the threshold
percentage) for a certain time (the value in seconds) the force of that direction will be switched
off and go to Stand By mode. As soon as the force changes over the given threshold, the force
will be switched on again.

5. Auto Pilot Status

This frame shows the status of the switches of the Simulator Auto Pilot. In the check box
the automatic switch between Force Feedback Mode and Follow Autopilot mode can be selected.

 
43
6. Configuration File
The Control Program can be set to one or more Aircraft types using a configuration File.
Each mode (see 1) has its own set of parameters and can be saved or loaded. The settings are
saved in memory and can be saved in a particular Configuration File. In case two yokes are
connected, you can (to prevent double work) copy the basic settings from the other yoke. The
Control Program can automatically start when activated. In this case it will select the file named:
Default.cfg. So in case that is wanted, the file –or copy thereof- must be saved under that name.

 
44
12.5.2 Force Feedback mode

1. Setting Configuration Variables Force Feedback Mode.

In this frame the behaviour of the Yoke in Force Feedback Mode can be configured.

• The Wheel Shock Force: When on ground and wheels rolling over the strip, both Wheel Shock
Force and Wheel Shock Frequency are used to simulate the feedback of rolling wheels to the Yoke.
The Force defines the strength of the force, whilst the frequency defines the frequency of the
shocks. The latter one will depend on the speed of the aircraft. As soon as Aircraft will be airborne
the wheel shock simulation will be disabled

• Turbulence Effect: By turbulence the Aircraft can roll or go up/down by changing airflow. The
Up/Down movements will give forces on the Elevator, whilst roll will give forces on the ailerons. The
level of these forces transferred to the Yoke can be set by both sliders.

• Elevator Weight correction: When on ground and no airflow along the elevator will drop down the
elevator by gravity. The effect thereof can be simulated by the Elevator Weight correction slider.

• Maximum Forces: Depending on aircraft type the flow of air along the surfaces will result in a force
needed to move the surfaces from middle position. By using both sliders, the effect thereof can be
adjusted. The force needed will depend on the airspeed. In the box below in this frame the effects
and the results of these calculations is shown. Force increases by the square of the airspeed.

2. Stick Shaker enable/disable.

Yoke has a stick shaker function. In the selection boxes can be selected to activate this at
stall and/or over speed

 
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12.5.3 Autopilot / Servo Mode

1. Configuration Variables Follow Autopilot.

• Autopilot Ailerons and Elevator swing. To enable more aircraft types the values generated
by the auto pilot that control heading and altitude settings, the translation from the auto pilot
outputs and related swings of the Yoke is made configurable by sliders. Depending
on the setting of these sliders the values generated by the autopilot will be translated into a roll- and
pitch-swing of the Yoke. The best setting must be found by getting the

• Maximum Forces ( which is Aileron and Elevator trim). This maximum should correspond with the
limits of the Yoke or somewhat lower.

• Autopilot switch-Off by manual overrule. By forcing the yoke to another position than commanded
by the auto pilot, the auto pilot can be switched off. In that case the check box Enable Overrule
must be set. The auto pilot will be switched of when a certain counter force (slider Overrule force) is
maintained during a certain time (slider Overrule time).

2. Configuration Servo Mode

In this frame can be selected what the yoke should do when in Slave mode. It can either
follow the master yoke or follow the autopilot.

3. Follow AP/Servo Mode Status

This frame shows the actual status of the Yoke when externally controlled. It can follow
the auto pilot, the master yoke in case it is in slave mode or the simulator when controls
are done in another manner. The commanded position (where the yoke should go) is given in the +
and – percentages.

 
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12.5.4. Force Feedback calibration and Center

1. Yoke Calibration
You can calibrate the yoke by performing the 4 movements and set each position. Then save the new
calibration

2. Configuration Variables Centre Mode.

The sliders Ailerons and Elevator Centre are to match the mechanical and electrical
centres of the Yoke. Centre is factory adjusted so in general the sliders can be set to zero. Range of
the sliders is -100% to +100%

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 12.5.5 Switch assignment

1. Switch Assignments
The Yoke has at maximum 6 switches. When a switch is activated in Running mode, the square of the
related switch will change from green to red. Using the Pull Down menu a function can be assigned to that
switch.

To save the switch setting it is needed to push the Set switch in this frame. Then save the
configuration

2. Trim Switch.
In case the trim switch for trim Up/Down trim is selected, the function can de enabled and disabled here.
When the Trim switch is kept in the Up or Down position the Trim will be increased or decreased at a certain
speed. This speed is adjustable by the slider in this part. Trim position is shown as send to the Simulator.
This value can vary from -16383 to +16383.

3. Virtual Joystick via FSUIPC

You can assign a virtual joystick number if configured as such in FSUIPC.

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12.6. Maintenance

The Flight Illusion Force Feedback Yoke is a sturdy construction. Where needed axial and linear ball
bearings are used and the shifting mechanism is constructed from high precision silver steel bars.
Also a metal chain is part of this mechanism.

Although very solid, it needs like other mechanical constructions some maintenance.

Over time the components need some greasing and after some time it will be needed to adjust the
chain tension.

The following regular maintenance is advised:

- Greasing the silver steel bars.

- Greasing the main steering axle.
- Adjusting the chain tension.
- Inspecting the mechanics.

For opening the case to get access to the mechanical parts only a screwdriver is needed. After
removing one of the four metal corner profiles you can shift the top- and side plate out (see illustration
below) Make sure that when you close the casing again, all the parts are lined up correctly. Note:
opening the case will not void warranty.

 
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 The main steering axle that holds the control yoke has to be lubricated most often. There's no
need to open the casing for this as you can apply it from the outside. The silver steel bars that
guide the linear motion only need greasing once in a while or when you notice the motion gets
less smooth. See illustration below for the main axle and the silver steel guiding bars.

 
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 To adjust the chain tension you’ll need to turn the nuts that are on the two long screw rods
(see illustration below) Tension on the chain is right when the yoke moves smooth without
rattling noises. Never tighten the chain tension too much.

 
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12.7. Technical Specs:

Power supply: 36 V
Linear mechanical range: approx. 17 cm / 6.7 Inch
Rotational range: approx. 90 degrees left / 90 degrees right
Interface: USB

Dimensions (excluding control wheel):

For further technical questions or support you can contact Flight Illusion at:

[email protected] or [email protected]

Note: we’re always working to improve our and this is an ongoing process.
you have any suggestions or tips that might improve our we like to hear
you! can send your e-mail to [email protected] or t li till i c m

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 Laan van de Ram 29 b
7324 BW Apeldoorn
The Netherlands
+31 55 20 00 129

[email protected]

www.flightillusion.com