I'm a PPL/IFR pilot who sold his plane to buy a house, and haven't flown for a few years. I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to buy another plane, so I've decided to build myself a nice sim. Your videos are really helping me to learn what I can do, and will probably prevent me from spending money unnecessarily. Thanks!
I'm working on my Instrument rating and in order to learn procedures and gns 430/530, I purchased one of these monitors. Was a pain figuring out the different chord variations but you were right about the picture quality and the sharp display. Thankyou for all your help. Ive searched pinterest, Instagram, TH-cam, xplane forums, reddit, and your content by far has helped my sim out more then anything else I've seen along the way. I'm truly thankful for your help🙏 PLEASE produce more content if able.
Hi Russ, I was so impressed with this setup I ordered 2 x Wimaxit 15.6" touch screens to build a sim similar to this one. Most impressive was the delivery time to Perth, Western Australia, only 8 days! That's unheard of! Like you I also love VR flying but sometimes prefer the hands on approach, particularly when flying online on Vatsim. I too have the Honeycomb yoke and throttle so this should be a perfect match. Along with your knobster and Air Manager it should make for a very versatile sim experience. Thanks once again for such a valuable contribution to the simulator community. Keep up the good work.
I can measure if you like but I think the best way is to select your flying chair, sit down, and measure your personal dimensions. With your arm at your side, bend your forearm parallel with the hound like you are reaching for the yoke and the bottom of your elbow is a good height for the bottom of the yoke. I mounted the throttle quadrant about 5 inches lower. I think the perfect height will be dependent on your chair. If you have an adjustable chair, set it to the middle range so taller/ shorter people can still use your setup by adjusting the chair height.
Hi Russ You ask for comments, I'll give you comments! You are my Sim Saviour, you are my personal Marie Kondo (Google if you don't already know her). I had a Private Pilot's Licence at 17, but higher education, work, marriage, mortgage etc came along and flying stopped. I started flight simming with MS FS4 in the early 1990's as PCs became more common, and have had every version and several add-ons since, but although I did fly them occasionally, they did not see much action. A few years ago I bought a decent speced PC and installed Steam FSX, then X-Plane, and I was at last quite impressed with the realistic physics, smooth high resolution graphics, particularly 3 screen X-Plane, but it was still not "real" enough for me. In 2018/2019, hoping to make it more "real", I gathered a mountain of blue/black Logitech boxes (mostly at good Black Friday etc prices), planning a modest C172 style layout. But the "mountain" just sat in the corner of the room taunting me. I did try the Logitech Yoke but it was pretty uninspiring. I tried a couple of "Instrument Panels" but they lacked any authenticity. I could not imagine how I was practically going to manage this monster "cockpit" on a multipurpose PC. The size, the weight, the nest of USB leads hubs, where I could store it etc. etc., and I never did anything. Then a year ago "Logitech box mountain (unopened)" was moved to the loft when guests came around, and it stayed there ever since. Then a few weeks ago, TH-cam suggested your channel, and I saw the light! I have now bought Alpha Yoke, (Bravo throttle due in a couple of weeks), 2 x 15.6 touch screens, Air Manager, Knobster, a Plugable UD-6950 USB3 docking station, and sold the whole Logitech mountain on ebay for pretty much the same as I paid for it (probably thanks to FS2020!). I can setup the "cockpit" in a few minutes, and put away again as quickly. Finally sim flying makes me "happy". The new, better, setup cost significantly less than the money I made from the Logitech ebay sale. The sim flying is now so much more immersive too. The interactive, aircraft specific, realistic panels are just amazing. I can assure you I am most certainly a subscriber, and "like" every video, because I do. I have not quite finished your complete back catalogue on TH-cam yet, as I am spending so much more time "flying". I do also use VR as well, and I am now working on "fixing" that too..... come on HP, where is the next shipment! You have transformed my simming world, keep up the good work.
I am flattered to be your Marie Kondo of simulation. Sounds like you’re doing pretty well and the main point is to be having fun. Flight simulation requires a mix of the cool Pilot type and the geeky computer guy. Quite a unique personality combination. That’s why I think we tend to want to connect to each other
Hi Russ from Australia. If you have to have ads on your channel, its worth it. Your tips are fantastic! I just discovered your channel and look forward to more content.
I don't think Russ realizes how awesome he is. I say that as a CFI who has worked with at least a dozen simulators and PC configurations over the years.
Hello RUSS . Thank you for this wonderful collection of ideas for all the " PANEL- ADDICTED " simmers.. I think this is the optimal solution for easy access of all the knobs and switches and for a good visibility of the main-instruments. And it is absolutely flexible. I think it is time to buy two 15.6 inch Touchdisplays. Greetings from Ramsen, Germany.
This is OUTSTANDING work. I've been doing low/mid-fidelity desk-based "cockpits" for probably 15 years (previously with GoFlight and PFC hardware, almost all of which I've sold), mostly with FSX. I gave up on X-Plane a long time ago, for reasons that I can't really articulate well, but hopefully FS2020 will eventually allow us to do this sort of thing. Rather than try to use multiple HDMI monitors (my RTX 2060 Super only has one HDMI output), I would probably try to use the Spacedesk iOS app to create auxiliary monitors. Thanks for the ideas! My Bravo throttle is on pre-order.
There are very inexpensive adapters to convert the display port output to HDMI. I think using spacedesk to try to run several monitors may be problematic so you might consider using adapters. Also there is another product that is a laptop docking station but it also looks like it works fine for connecting additional monitors. I should be posting a video on that in the next day or two.
Thank you Russ. I have been following you for a few years. Your latest videos are simply incredible. I love your Knobstaer. I do work with John also at Stay Level and the guys at VF. But your touchscreen cockpits are extremely innovative. I have a custom design SLAVX panel mainly because I wanted the feel/muscle memory etc for my IFR training. But the touchscreen opens up loads of options. Since real estate is an issue, why not use a single large monitor then design any cockpit and place the instruments where you want them? Comments? Thank you!!
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I’m also retired, 15 years now (old 60 rule got me). Flying a RV7 I built before retiring, now thinking of selling plane and moving into flight simming; don’t have any set up yet, but really like what you’ve done! Thanks again for sharing.
Hi Russ. Great videos! Thanks. I decided to go with Honeycomb and dual touchscreens as well before i found your videos. I found them in search of the WIRING of the touchscreens and all the splitters, adapters, and plug types (usb-c, hdmi, usb-a, usb-hubs etc). Can you PLEASE describe how you wired everything. Searching for an example is maddening! Thanks again for the time. Or just take some quick pics.
Russ, which monitor is the bracket made for! I noticed there are several different sizes, etc. would you mind providing the link to it on Amazon? Thanks!
Thanks so much Russ. I'm trying to create my own cockpit for a C172/C182 since it's what I fly most. Having one available during the very cold months like January thru March in the Chicago area is a great way to stay proficient and safe. I really like the 2 monitor setup but alas I already have all the logitech panels. My thought is to create a wooden frame for the logitech stack of panels and leveraging my MS Surface Pro 4 laptop which has a 12" touch screen but doesn't need to be physically connected to the FlightSim computer and see how that works. I think the "sweeter" or perhaps "dream" setup would be if the touch screens didn't have to depend on the FlightSim computer for video ports but rather transmit the data somehow to the touch screens instead using air manager. After all, the touch screens are simply controls which in my humble opinion are using more resources from the main sim computer than it needs to in order to perform the desired action. Perhaps attaching the touch screens to a Raspberry Pi instead would make them act as separate PCs? Thoughts?
Start slow and you will grow in knowledge and complexity as time passes. As long as it’s fun the goal is met. Plenty of forums full of folks that live to share their passion and help others.
Russ, great videos. I'd like to ask you to list the products you mention in your comment area. I was looking all over for Ymaxit monitors before I found out it was spelled Wimaxit. Thanks.
Not the only solution but a good intermediate step that allows you options to expand to an advanced sim pit in the future and continue using the hardware you have already purchased. Stay Level Avionix makes high end panels that can incorporate the Honeycomb stuff and the Monitors.... of course a single Knobster can serve both panels.
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I like the look of the Stay Level Avionix stuff but I am in the UK so I think the shipping would be high. I have quite good workshop facilities so I'm going to make my own bracket to mount my touchscreen and Knobster to my Alpha yoke. I haven't got the Bravo throttle, looks like February is the earliest for the UK now and I'm still unsure whether to go for it as I've got a Saitek with the 737 mod from Sergey Feduchorov which is fantastic. The Saitek throttle is a bit wobbly but I like the more realistic scale of Sergey's levers. Keep up the good work on your channel, I find your approach to simming fits really well with my own preferences and I'm always excited when I see you have uploaded a new video.
@@reginaldcrudstump383 the price has held me back on the StayLevel Avionix kit especially since I have made a pretty good DIY panel. I love making things so that is always my preference when possible. Have you seen this authentikit.org/
@@rbarlow Thanks for the authentikit link, I hadn't seen that before. I fly mainly 'stick' controlled full-size aircraft (Chipmunk, Grob 109, DR-400, Super Cub) and the authetikit looks like a project that I will definitely consider making.
Absolutely amazing - I love your work an enthusiasm for all things flight sim. I will definitely look at doing all of this for my sim (X-Plane 11). I must confess that I am a poorly experienced IT & computer user. I feel that I need a " Russ Barlow - Guide for Absolute Dummies" :) :(
This is true. I find many users who lack basic computer skills can often get in over their heads in a project that is a little more complex. That’s why I suggest starting simple and building as you go just as I did. Thanks for your encouragement. For me this is a hobby that I enjoy sharing with others.
Dear Russ, many thanks for sharing all your great stuff and experiences ! It has inspired me to purchase a completely new PC and most of the hardware anticipating all of the requirements of your setup. I am now the proud owner of a PC with RTX3090 GPU (5 DP/HDMI ports), Alpha Yoke, Bravo Throttle, 2 brackets and 2 Wimaxit touch screens. I had one question, though, connecting the touchscreens: They are directly connected to 2 HDMI ports on the graphics card. For the power I use the power USB-C port, USB-C to USB-A cable and a USB-A power adapter (correct?). Then, there is a USB-C port, USB-C to USB-C cable which presumably should connect to the PC. However on the PC I have only one USB-C port which I am going to use for a KVM switch. What is your solution ? Would a USB-C to USB-A cable work ?
Hey Russ, can’t seem to get my computer to recognize the Prechen touch screens. I have the knobster and ready to rock. I’m now on my 4th Prechen monitor across 3 computers. Each computer will recognize the monitor plugged in via usb, but the monitor says no signal. Multiple restarts, starting sequences, etc. Searched to the end of google. This amazing touch screen panel I got from John at stay level is pretty sad without monitor life ha!
First be sure you have HDMI input selected on the monitor settings. Second, you will need power to the monitor AND USB for the touch signals. The computer USB connection is insufficient to power the monitor. Finally, you need to search “calibrate” in windows settings and go “calibrate pen and touch” so you can tell windows which touch sensor is in which monitor.
UPDATE: fixed, it was a source default issue on the monitors. I’m in business, finally all 5 screens fired up with 2 touch screens and knobster. Christmas is early! Thanks Russ, for all your videos. You don’t know it but you’ve inspired me to spend all my extra cash...thousands lol Worth it
This is all very cool, but what a steep learning curve! I bought air manager, two 15" touchscreens, two of the mounts from SLAVX, the knobster, and I'm still struggling to get it all functioning. Honestly wish there were more pay panels that would take the frustration factor out of the equation. When it works it's great, but I don't have an hour or two to set everything up every time before I can actually fly. Really thought it would be more plug n play. I'll probably figure it out at some point, but it makes the Realsimgear stuff much more enticing, despite the huge price difference.
Sounds like you dove right into the deep end. Try dialing back a bit and work into the more advanced stuff. Start for a period with just the sim , controls and the main monitor. Then maybe add a single touchscreen and Knobster. Use boring simple pre-made Air Manager panels. Then try creating a single panel from community instruments. Finally introduce the second touchscreen and eventually try adding popped out windows. Just be patient. It is overwhelming if you try to get too complex at first. I have to tell some guys to learn computer basics before even using the sim since if you can’t run the computer you can’t even get started. Good luck. You will sort it out. Happy to help when I can.
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I'm actually fairly skilled with computer hardware (I built two of my own) I'm really struggling with air manager though. All I really want out of it is to have the G1000 PFD and MFD displayed and controlled via touch and the knobster. The rest can wait. Everything works okay, I just can't seem to get the displays to just start up and work with the air manager G1000 bezels and the popouts in the right place and displayed full screen evrytime I start XP11. I'm pulling my hair out, lol. I'd pay to have someone create something that would function on my setup.
@@rbarlow Oh believe me, I did. It's operator error for sure, but pop weasel altered things I didn't want altered. Maybe this is all above my pay grade.
Russ, This is a great video as usual. Additional monitors can be added using USB to HDMI converters. I am using Plugable: "Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter for USB 3.0 and USB-C, Compatible with Windows"
@@rbarlow My models with amazon links: Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter for USB 3.0 and USB-C, Compatible with Windows www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08F2SZQYX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1&fpw=alm Plugable USB 3.0 to HDMI 4K UHD Video Graphics Adapter for Multiple Monitors up to 3840x2160 Supports Windows 10, 8.1, 7 www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NQCFXGA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1&fpw=alm
@@gregoryanderson6717 I am using two monitors for pop-out and 3 monitors connected to video card.You will not see additional monitors in the Nvidia control panel.
@@ora600600 so I understand your CPU is running 3 monitors off your video card for scenery and your are running 2 monitors off USB to drive AirManager with POPOUTS on each monitor with no problem?
I really want to invest in two of these monitors and the brackets but am torn between 13”or 15.6”. Eventually I’d love to buy a Slavx Touch panel in which case I’m worried the 15” would make the panel too large. Do you think 13” is too small in terms of the size of the instruments in air manager?
I’m not a simmer, yet but I’m interested in getting a set up soon. I’m already sold on the Honeycomb Alpha yoke and Bravo throttle. What do you recommend for rudder pedals?
There are no good choices now in the entry-mid level price range. I have some older Saitek Combat Rudder pedals but they are discontinued now. Look on eBay and Craigslist for a used CH or Saitek Rudder and wait for the Charlie from Honeycomb probably a year away. I also have Virtual Fly RUDDO which are excellent but cost about US$ 1000
To overcome the limitation of the number of displays which can be driven by be main PC, consider: - connecting one of touch displays to the main board video port instead of the GPU (this also limits the GPU load, allowing bit better FPS), - using 13" Windows tablet able to drive the external display, this allowed me to have 2 touch displays driven by the tablet, offloading the main PC to allow it drive 3 FullHD displays for the external view. I was able to buy used tablet for 200 euro, roughly the cost of one touch display)
Yes that is a great alternative. I have posted videos from a while ago using both windows tablets ( th-cam.com/video/4bDd9CvoHZo/w-d-xo.html )and the onboard video ( th-cam.com/video/ZOdI__BMat4/w-d-xo.html )The monitors only need to be connected to the computer running the sim if you are including popped out windows as part of the layout. With XP11 two copies of the sim running networked can allow the pop outs and Air Manager to run on the Master and have the visuals on the second machine. Thanks for your input, good points.
I've been trying my 2 x touchscreens & knobster plugged into a Plugable UD-6950 USB3 docking station and it seems to be working well, and not taking up any primary display sockets.. The docking station USB ports provide enough power for the monitors too, so I am not using the mains adaptors. What I have found though is that the Honeycomb Alpha Yoke only seems to work in the front USB sockets on the Plugable not the rear ones.
@@rbarlow I also had to buy a "Displayport to HDMI Adapter 2 Pack, Benfei Dp(Display Port) Male to Hdmi Female Converter with Audio for Lenovo, Dell, HP, Asus and other brand", but it all seems to work fine.
Very nice video, impressive with what you are doing with the instruments. The only nit, it was sometimes difficult to follow some of the instruments as they seem to be blurred when moving the camera... Look forward to more content. Regards.
A handheld iPhone while trying to run the sim....sorry. I agree the camera was moving too fast a lot of the time to see clearly. I sometimes use tripods but they are hard to position. Working on a solution.
Hi again Russ... 1 or both of those monitors (touch-screen) have very shiny LED surfaces that are just awesome (I don't mind the reflection because they look so cool and so like the original screens in the actual jets).. Could you share what type of actual and specific monitors those are? they have to be exact because sometimes manufacturer even change the surface of the monitor for glare prevention, which I don't want. I want the glare type like you have. thanks so much as always!!!
Liked and subbed. Looking for msfs ONLY. Monetizing with ads only works if you are getting very high viewers for relatively long periods of viewing. IOW, 10 minutes or more. Your sims and videos thereof are very well done. I am very intrigued with what you've done, an 'inexpensive' way to have a more-realistic flight deck compared to buying the rw hardware panels.
Huge fan and love your videos! You mentioned posting a .sif file for the instruments. Is that out yet and where could I find that? Would love to try this on my touch screens!
Russ, I bought the Wimaxit monitor, and I'm using a new PC with windows 10 and x-plane. The touch screen looks beautiful, and the knobster works, but I have to use a mouse, the touch screen isn't working HELP Please?! I'd love to use your Garmin 530 radios by touch. Thank you for your great videos.
If the touch monitor isn’t the main monitor in your display settings you will need to run the pen and touch setup to tell the monitors which touch grid is connected to which monitor. Open settings and search “calibrate” . Select the “calibrate pen and touch” choice and click setup. It will instruct you on the screen but each monitor will Tuen all white one at a time and say to either touch the monitor if it is a touchscreen or just hit enter if not. After you finish all monitors the touch should work. Forgot that you need a usb connection from each monitor to the computer and the separate power usb from the power brick to the monitor USB port labeled power.
As I release the B737 NG project I am going to come up with some kind of website where users can share complete panels with one another. Just thinking it through right now but look for something on my channel in the not too far future.
Amazing, Sir! Pretty much exactly what I want. But please make a complete, simple video for us to understand how it’s all supposed to be set up. I have limited computer knowledge & I just can’t quite figure out how I would be supposed to plug it all in. 2 touch-monitors = 2 computers needed? 😳 Please help. Best regards from France. PS : on a side note, I would just love it if all this could run on MacOS. Big gaming PC’s pretty much scare me (not to even mention having to BUILD THEM...). Having all this running on a very compact Silicon Mac Mini powerhouse would be so much more convenient honestly 😅
So, I have purchased the 15.6" Wimaxit, the bracket from Seal level, the Knobster, and a Windows laptop to run Air Manager. I have everything hooked up, probably not correctly, and the monitor is not working correctly. The Knobster can turn dials if they are highlighted from the Windows laptop but I can't activate them directly from the monitor. In addition none of the switches work on the monitor. Can you please tell me how you have connected the Windows computer to the monitor. I am currently connecting them with an HDMI cable - HDMI to HDMI. BTW, I really enjoy your videos and I am learning quite a bit for an old, 81 years, guy.
Stuart it sounds like you may not have calibrated your touchscreen. Windows doesn’t know how to relate the usb touch signal to a specific monitor. You also need to attach both a power supply and the usb to carry the touch information. One usb-c port is marked power so get them correct. The other should be connected to the computer. Try unplugging and replugging the usb cable in and be sure you hear the device detected sound. Then go to windows settings and search for “calibrate” and you will see “calibrate pen and touch” or something similar. Select that and follow the prompts. It will cycle through your monitors and ask you to touch each to confirm it is a touch computer. Just read and follow the onscreen prompts. The touch grid is separate from the monitors so windows has no way to know how to associate the touches and the monitors until it is calibrated. Windows assumes that the touch grid is associated with the main monitor which I assume is your laptop. This should straighten out your problem and if not let me know and I’ll try to help some more.
@@rbarlow Russ, thank you so much! I have it up and running, now I need to do some practicing. Here is another question for you, how did you hook up the second monitor to work with the same knobster?
Hi Russ, I'm on step zero. Just received the Knobster, 2 15" displays on the way. Flying FS2020, but P3Dv5 online, too. Do you know of any Cirrus Perspective pre made panels, PFD/MFD or center stack? Prefer to focus on FS2020 knowing limited functionality, not in a hurry (a good thing w FS2020.) Any thoughts to get me started on the Cirrus? Also, do you think we may see native functionality within a sim, (touch or click to select and then use the knobster.) Thank you and thanks for your time on these videos. Mike
I offered the Knobster first to Laminar for XP but Austin said that instead of adding it as a feature it should be a plugin. That is beyond my ability but if you know someone who would undertake the project let me know. I also offered Knobster to be integrated into MSFS but as you can imagine I never heard back from them....does anyone get support from MS? Check out this video...maybe this could be adapted to a Cirrus on XP or MSFS. th-cam.com/video/Oam7afkxPPM/w-d-xo.html
@@rbarlow Yes! Watching your video, I see exactly what I was referring too. I found your center stack panel in the store, but see it’s only for Xp. That’s what I was looking for for FS2020. I guess I will be patient as gets updated. Thanks again ! Mike
Yes. Video, power, and USB for the touch function. The usb power alone is insufficient alone. Need a usb-c power Adapter or some monitors have a power socket.
G’day Russ, thanks for your videos. I’m still a little confused whether I should make the investment of touch panel + air manager. I’m only on MSFS2020 and from what I can tell there isn’t much support yet. Should I hold out until more support and panels are developed? (Mainly A320 panels)
Possibly. MS has not really been that great at keeping the SDK updated and improved to make all the functions easier to implement. I think overtime more and more MSFS users will find air manager and expand the offerings
I do still use it. Just using this formerly VR sim to test new sims(FS2020) and hardware ( honeycomb, touchscreens ect) without tearing the other sim apart. Also FS2020 is just not ready for a serious flight training sim yet.
@@rbarlow Great video as always! I currently run XP11 on two networked PCs with Air Manager and the Knobster on a touchscreen display. Are you running 2 instances of Air Manager on the remote PC with the same Knobster? I run 2 instances of XP11, one on each PC for external display capabilities. Are you doing the same or just running the Air Manager app(s) on your 2nd PC? Thank you.
Hey Russ, Great video. I'm still using the beta version of the knobster that you built early on and I purchased several more from your original project. Those two monitors seem to be higher resolution than 1080p. Is that correct? I can't wait for retirement (2021) and to have the time for an entire flightsim rebuild. *-)
Hi Lloyd, those monitors are both 1080p but they are quite nice for the price. The touch function seems to work perfectly. Congrats, 2021 is almost here so enjoy your retirement and sim adventures .
Hi Russ, CAN YOU PLUG BOTH TOUCH SCREEN INTO A SINGLE BLUG AND THEN PLUG IT INTO DA DISPLAY PORT OR DO THEY NEED TO BE SEPARATE. ? ON YOUR COMPUTER AND AIR MANAGER.IS IT BEST TO RUN AIR MANAGER ON A SEPARATE COMPUTER THEN ON THE SAME COMPUTER WITH X-PLANE 11. THANK YOU GTEAT VIDEOS LEARD A LOT FROM THEM.
Unfortunately you need a graphics port for each of the touchscreen monitors. There’s no way to daisychain of these monitors. It is easy to run Air Manager panel on a separate computer but If you want to use the pop out windows from X-Plane for MSFSU need to be connected to the same computer as the simulator. Otherwise you can’t drag the windows to the same monitor that is running your Air Manager panel. I did a video not too long ago that might be helpful for you it is called something like “Vulcan stress test”.
Very nice video. I really like that setup. :-D But ummm how did you get your throttle quadrant??? I ordered mine on Sept 1st 2020 and Honeycomb is telling me it might be January-February before I will see my order. :-(
I guess since I had an earlier review of the Alpha yoke that got over 85k views I was offered a pre-release unit to review. I still haven’t received the drivers to allow use of all functions of the autopilot, annunciators, and gear indicators yet. I don’t think they will ship until things are complete but it should be soon for preorders from earlier in 2920. A perfect storm of pandemic stay at home boredom coupled with the release of FS 2020 this led to a shortage of all Sim hardware.
Thanks for considering making those custom ZIBO templates for community for air manager. would that require that rendering utiltiy you use to be purchased in addition to Air Manger? If so , could you link it?
Hello Russ! Thanks for a great channel! It would appear that you’ve been home simming for some time and I also see that you have many hours on the B737!. So with this in mind, what B737NG sim do you use that most accurately represents the entire B737NG cockpit functionality? Thanks for your time!
Although I’m not a FSX user there is no doubt that PMDG has the most accurate simulation of the Boeing 737. Zibo is pretty darn good considering it is a free product. It still has some areas that need improvement. If you’re interested in flying the Boeing 737 classic the IXEG available at X-Aviation is quite well modeled. I think as MSFS continues to gain popularity and ability that PMDG will undoubtedly get something going on that platform. Exciting times in simulation!
Check out this video to see what I used and some testing specs for comparison. I also have a video coming soon with new ideas fir single computer setups th-cam.com/video/ZOdI__BMat4/w-d-xo.html
He's not using Arduino, he uses Air Manager. Very neat piece of software, they also sell the Knobster which does use an Arduino mini but it has their software and controlled by Air Manager.
Is it feasible to use a 15.6” touchscreen laptop with knobster for instruments & for running X-Plane, Air Manager and 2 other 32” monitors plus the Honeycomb controls?
If it is a gaming laptop with a decent cpu and dedicated gpu(not integrated graphics) it could work if you are willing to lower the graphics quality. You could try but shoot for about 30 FPS and if you can’t manage that I‘d get a beefy new computer.
@@rbarlow Wilco. Thank you Russ. I am just starting the information gathering/pre-flight of flight sims. Just have to warm the wifester up to it slowly.
i dud mount a computer like yours on top of the top. and I purchase the knobster, but I am not able to do a touch screen and I am not able to use the knobster. What am I doing wrong?
Did you mean that you mounted a monitor on top and not computer. First, you can use Knobster with a mouse too. Be sure the Knobster shows up in the Air Manager devices tab first. Then you must go to the Air Manager panel settings and scroll down to the pop up menu to enable Knobster. When you mouse click on a knob it should highlight in yellow and respond to Knobster. For touch you need the touchscreen attached to your computer by hdmi and usb. The touch signal is via usb. If it is not your main monitor you must also set up the pen and touch settings in Windows. This way windows knows which touch sensor is attached to which monitor. Finally to use touch in Air Manager you must go to the settings menu and set the input method to touch.
Hello Russ, i'm looking to buy Air Manager; do you think I can use my Hot Start TBM900 with it? I din't find any panels specifially made for it, so I guess I'd have to create them right?
I never felt the need to make one because all the inputs can be made with touch. It would be easy to make one since there’s only a few controls on it. If you wanted to try I’d be happy to help.
Yes but it still needs Microsoft to flesh out the SDK to be fully what it can be. It may be a few months more but Air Manager, and Knobster are compatible.
Hi, Russ. I have the same two monitors as you but on one of them I often find that the touch screen becomes uncalibrated.(usually after using the mouse) Do you have the same issue?
@@rbarlow When I touch the wimaxit monitor its fine for the first minute or two. Then my touch on that same monitor will become uncalibrated. As in, it will start moving the cursor six inches or more away from my finger on that wimaxit monitor. Now, I'm driving two wimaxit touchscreens along with my 34 in monitor on the same p.c. Its been almost impossible to fix. The longest I can get the monitor to stay calibrated is ~10 minutes. If I unplug the monitor and plug it back in then the "touch"(via my finger) is accurate with no problems. Then, as if its getting sent to sleep in the background a moment or two later, I cant touch my dials because the finger input onscreen shifts to either a different screen or different position. Possibly the touched point on screen is remembering the previous cursor position and assuming that is the the new starting point of all further touches. Windows could not help as I cant find any wimaxit drivers to resolve issue with either invidia or windows 10. Using touch screen calibration tools in control panel and recalibration doesn't seem to do the trick for more then a couple minutes. It seems this can be common on windows 10 with multiple touchscreens but I'm curious if or why your setup didn't experience this. Hoping I can resolve this somehow and also help future people who may experience this
I have xplane11 but the reason I don't use is because I can't get my logitech panels to work right for the fsx,pd3 you need simconnect,fsuicp and lvars to configure properly and even then on some 3rd party aircraft can't get everything working and xplane 11 lacks on that I know msfs 2020 has a long ways to go even the planes don't fly right but I have everything working at least and I can always go back to pd3 to fly my 3rd party aircrafts till msfs 2020 has more features.
I'm a PPL/IFR pilot who sold his plane to buy a house, and haven't flown for a few years. I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to buy another plane, so I've decided to build myself a nice sim. Your videos are really helping me to learn what I can do, and will probably prevent me from spending money unnecessarily. Thanks!
I'm working on my Instrument rating and in order to learn procedures and gns 430/530, I purchased one of these monitors. Was a pain figuring out the different chord variations but you were right about the picture quality and the sharp display. Thankyou for all your help. Ive searched pinterest, Instagram, TH-cam, xplane forums, reddit, and your content by far has helped my sim out more then anything else I've seen along the way. I'm truly thankful for your help🙏 PLEASE produce more content if able.
Thanks for the encouragement. It is a hobby but I plan to keep sharing in videos as long as I am still discovering things worth sharing.
Hi Russ, I was so impressed with this setup I ordered 2 x Wimaxit 15.6" touch screens to build a sim similar to this one. Most impressive was the delivery time to Perth, Western Australia, only 8 days! That's unheard of! Like you I also love VR flying but sometimes prefer the hands on approach, particularly when flying online on Vatsim. I too have the Honeycomb yoke and throttle so this should be a perfect match. Along with your knobster and Air Manager it should make for a very versatile sim experience. Thanks once again for such a valuable contribution to the simulator community. Keep up the good work.
I can measure if you like but I think the best way is to select your flying chair, sit down, and measure your personal dimensions. With your arm at your side, bend your forearm parallel with the hound like you are reaching for the yoke and the bottom of your elbow is a good height for the bottom of the yoke. I mounted the throttle quadrant about 5 inches lower. I think the perfect height will be dependent on your chair. If you have an adjustable chair, set it to the middle range so taller/ shorter people can still use your setup by adjusting the chair height.
Is there a Nobel Prize in flight simulation? If not, there should be, and Professor Barlow will be the initial laureate.
Big Grin!
Hi Russ
You ask for comments, I'll give you comments!
You are my Sim Saviour, you are my personal Marie Kondo (Google if you don't already know her).
I had a Private Pilot's Licence at 17, but higher education, work, marriage, mortgage etc came along and flying stopped. I started flight simming with MS FS4 in the early 1990's as PCs became more common, and have had every version and several add-ons since, but although I did fly them occasionally, they did not see much action.
A few years ago I bought a decent speced PC and installed Steam FSX, then X-Plane, and I was at last quite impressed with the realistic physics, smooth high resolution graphics, particularly 3 screen X-Plane, but it was still not "real" enough for me.
In 2018/2019, hoping to make it more "real", I gathered a mountain of blue/black Logitech boxes (mostly at good Black Friday etc prices), planning a modest C172 style layout. But the "mountain" just sat in the corner of the room taunting me. I did try the Logitech Yoke but it was pretty uninspiring. I tried a couple of "Instrument Panels" but they lacked any authenticity. I could not imagine how I was practically going to manage this monster "cockpit" on a multipurpose PC. The size, the weight, the nest of USB leads hubs, where I could store it etc. etc., and I never did anything. Then a year ago "Logitech box mountain (unopened)" was moved to the loft when guests came around, and it stayed there ever since.
Then a few weeks ago, TH-cam suggested your channel, and I saw the light!
I have now bought Alpha Yoke, (Bravo throttle due in a couple of weeks), 2 x 15.6 touch screens, Air Manager, Knobster, a Plugable UD-6950 USB3 docking station, and sold the whole Logitech mountain on ebay for pretty much the same as I paid for it (probably thanks to FS2020!). I can setup the "cockpit" in a few minutes, and put away again as quickly. Finally sim flying makes me "happy".
The new, better, setup cost significantly less than the money I made from the Logitech ebay sale.
The sim flying is now so much more immersive too. The interactive, aircraft specific, realistic panels are just amazing.
I can assure you I am most certainly a subscriber, and "like" every video, because I do. I have not quite finished your complete back catalogue on TH-cam yet, as I am spending so much more time "flying".
I do also use VR as well, and I am now working on "fixing" that too..... come on HP, where is the next shipment!
You have transformed my simming world, keep up the good work.
I am flattered to be your Marie Kondo of simulation. Sounds like you’re doing pretty well and the main point is to be having fun. Flight simulation requires a mix of the cool Pilot type and the geeky computer guy. Quite a unique personality combination. That’s why I think we tend to want to connect to each other
As always Russ Great Content!! Appreciate all the tips and tricks for enhancing this hobby!
If I didn’t enjoy it too I wouldn’t do it. Glad it helpful.
Hi Russ from Australia. If you have to have ads on your channel, its worth it. Your tips are fantastic! I just discovered your channel and look forward to more content.
Thanks for the encouragement
I don't think Russ realizes how awesome he is. I say that as a CFI who has worked with at least a dozen simulators and PC configurations over the years.
Hello RUSS . Thank you for this wonderful collection of ideas for all the " PANEL- ADDICTED " simmers.. I think this is the optimal solution for easy access of all the knobs and switches and for a good visibility of the main-instruments. And it is absolutely flexible. I think it is time to buy two 15.6 inch Touchdisplays. Greetings from Ramsen, Germany.
WOW, fantastic simpit, thanks for sharing
This is OUTSTANDING work. I've been doing low/mid-fidelity desk-based "cockpits" for probably 15 years (previously with GoFlight and PFC hardware, almost all of which I've sold), mostly with FSX. I gave up on X-Plane a long time ago, for reasons that I can't really articulate well, but hopefully FS2020 will eventually allow us to do this sort of thing.
Rather than try to use multiple HDMI monitors (my RTX 2060 Super only has one HDMI output), I would probably try to use the Spacedesk iOS app to create auxiliary monitors. Thanks for the ideas! My Bravo throttle is on pre-order.
There are very inexpensive adapters to convert the display port output to HDMI. I think using spacedesk to try to run several monitors may be problematic so you might consider using adapters. Also there is another product that is a laptop docking station but it also looks like it works fine for connecting additional monitors. I should be posting a video on that in the next day or two.
Absolutely outstanding; I wish Air Manager will able to make more panels and instruments for FS2020 B737. I couldn’t sleep after watching this video.
Thank you Russ. I have been following you for a few years. Your latest videos are simply incredible. I love your Knobstaer. I do work with John also at Stay Level and the guys at VF. But your touchscreen cockpits are extremely innovative. I have a custom design SLAVX panel mainly because I wanted the feel/muscle memory etc for my IFR training. But the touchscreen opens up loads of options. Since real estate is an issue, why not use a single large monitor then design any cockpit and place the instruments where you want them? Comments? Thank you!!
Outstanding Russ, really appreciate your effort, technical expertise and dedication to the flight sim community!
As a retiree I wouldn’t be doing it if I didn’t enjoy it but I thank you for your encouragement. I appreciate your comments
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I’m also retired, 15 years now (old 60 rule got me). Flying a RV7 I built before retiring, now thinking of selling plane and moving into flight simming; don’t have any set up yet, but really like what you’ve done! Thanks again for sharing.
Hi Russ. Great videos! Thanks. I decided to go with Honeycomb and dual touchscreens as well before i found your videos. I found them in search of the WIRING of the touchscreens and all the splitters, adapters, and plug types (usb-c, hdmi, usb-a, usb-hubs etc). Can you PLEASE describe how you wired everything. Searching for an example is maddening! Thanks again for the time. Or just take some quick pics.
Russ, which monitor is the bracket made for! I noticed there are several different sizes, etc. would you mind providing the link to it on Amazon? Thanks!
Russ is a great influencer! As always, great content!
Thanks. Where’s Up North?
@@rbarlow Manitoba, Canada 49,-97 :)
Thanks so much Russ. I'm trying to create my own cockpit for a C172/C182 since it's what I fly most. Having one available during the very cold months like January thru March in the Chicago area is a great way to stay proficient and safe. I really like the 2 monitor setup but alas I already have all the logitech panels. My thought is to create a wooden frame for the logitech stack of panels and leveraging my MS Surface Pro 4 laptop which has a 12" touch screen but doesn't need to be physically connected to the FlightSim computer and see how that works. I think the "sweeter" or perhaps "dream" setup would be if the touch screens didn't have to depend on the FlightSim computer for video ports but rather transmit the data somehow to the touch screens instead using air manager. After all, the touch screens are simply controls which in my humble opinion are using more resources from the main sim computer than it needs to in order to perform the desired action. Perhaps attaching the touch screens to a Raspberry Pi instead would make them act as separate PCs? Thoughts?
I was looking at the pluggable.com usb 3.0 hubs that support dual and triple monitors... might be a possibility
very informative, Russ. New to the simming community, looking forward to learn more :)
Start slow and you will grow in knowledge and complexity as time passes. As long as it’s fun the goal is met. Plenty of forums full of folks that live to share their passion and help others.
Russ, great videos. I'd like to ask you to list the products you mention in your comment area. I was looking all over for Ymaxit monitors before I found out it was spelled Wimaxit.
Thanks.
Beautiful work Russ, thanks for all you do!
Thank you for your input I’m glad that it may have some value to you
This looks superb Russ. I currently have one touchscreen and a Knobster but I think I will be getting a second one now after seeing this.
Not the only solution but a good intermediate step that allows you options to expand to an advanced sim pit in the future and continue using the hardware you have already purchased. Stay Level Avionix makes high end panels that can incorporate the Honeycomb stuff and the Monitors.... of course a single Knobster can serve both panels.
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I like the look of the Stay Level Avionix stuff but I am in the UK so I think the shipping would be high. I have quite good workshop facilities so I'm going to make my own bracket to mount my touchscreen and Knobster to my Alpha yoke. I haven't got the Bravo throttle, looks like February is the earliest for the UK now and I'm still unsure whether to go for it as I've got a Saitek with the 737 mod from Sergey Feduchorov which is fantastic. The Saitek throttle is a bit wobbly but I like the more realistic scale of Sergey's levers. Keep up the good work on your channel, I find your approach to simming fits really well with my own preferences and I'm always excited when I see you have uploaded a new video.
@@reginaldcrudstump383 the price has held me back on the StayLevel Avionix kit especially since I have made a pretty good DIY panel. I love making things so that is always my preference when possible. Have you seen this authentikit.org/
@@rbarlow Thanks for the authentikit link, I hadn't seen that before. I fly mainly 'stick' controlled full-size aircraft (Chipmunk, Grob 109, DR-400, Super Cub) and the authetikit looks like a project that I will definitely consider making.
No adds please. Love your content
Do you mean advertisements? No I am not planning to monetize this channel
Absolutely amazing - I love your work an enthusiasm for all things flight sim. I will definitely look at doing all of this for my sim (X-Plane 11). I must confess that I am a poorly experienced IT & computer user. I feel that I need a " Russ Barlow - Guide for Absolute Dummies" :) :(
This is true. I find many users who lack basic computer skills can often get in over their heads in a project that is a little more complex. That’s why I suggest starting simple and building as you go just as I did. Thanks for your encouragement. For me this is a hobby that I enjoy sharing with others.
Those panels look very nice Russ. I am looking forward getting the Bravo throttle.
It is a very versatile piece of hardware and fairly priced. Just wish they could make them faster.
Another great video full of good info.
Thanks for the encouraging words.
Dear Russ, many thanks for sharing all your great stuff and experiences ! It has inspired me to purchase a completely new PC and most of the hardware anticipating all of the requirements of your setup. I am now the proud owner of a PC with RTX3090 GPU (5 DP/HDMI ports), Alpha Yoke, Bravo Throttle, 2 brackets and 2 Wimaxit touch screens. I had one question, though, connecting the touchscreens: They are directly connected to 2 HDMI ports on the graphics card. For the power I use the power USB-C port, USB-C to USB-A cable and a USB-A power adapter (correct?). Then, there is a USB-C port, USB-C to USB-C cable which presumably should connect to the PC. However on the PC I have only one USB-C port which I am going to use for a KVM switch. What is your solution ? Would a USB-C to USB-A cable work ?
Thanks for the great videos. Are you going to creat a panel for CJ4 jet Fs2020 Air Manager ? If so, please add a Barometric Pressure knob
Mr Ross you know your a die hard simmer when you also have a test sim very cool,
Shush,... don’t let my wife know I have two 😀
This is incredible! Wow
Thanks for the encouragement!
Excellent work Russ.
Do you know of a way to create the panels and integrating the garmin perspective plus as in the Cirrus SR 2X?
Fantanstic setup. How about some links ... like "knobster"? That might be exactly what I am looking for.
You can find out about Knobster at the website for Sim Innovations. Just Google.
@@rbarlow Hey fantastic. Thanks :)
You can run another monitor off your discreet motherboard output as well.
Yes if you activate in in you bios
Hey Russ, can’t seem to get my computer to recognize the Prechen touch screens. I have the knobster and ready to rock. I’m now on my 4th Prechen monitor across 3 computers. Each computer will recognize the monitor plugged in via usb, but the monitor says no signal. Multiple restarts, starting sequences, etc. Searched to the end of google.
This amazing touch screen panel I got from John at stay level is pretty sad without monitor life ha!
First be sure you have HDMI input selected on the monitor settings. Second, you will need power to the monitor AND USB for the touch signals. The computer USB connection is insufficient to power the monitor. Finally, you need to search “calibrate” in windows settings and go “calibrate pen and touch” so you can tell windows which touch sensor is in which monitor.
@@rbarlow thanks I’ll double ck everything! I think you’re onto something with the input selection...
UPDATE: fixed, it was a source default issue on the monitors. I’m in business, finally all 5 screens fired up with 2 touch screens and knobster. Christmas is early! Thanks Russ, for all your videos. You don’t know it but you’ve inspired me to spend all my extra cash...thousands lol Worth it
This is all very cool, but what a steep learning curve! I bought air manager, two 15" touchscreens, two of the mounts from SLAVX, the knobster, and I'm still struggling to get it all functioning. Honestly wish there were more pay panels that would take the frustration factor out of the equation. When it works it's great, but I don't have an hour or two to set everything up every time before I can actually fly. Really thought it would be more plug n play. I'll probably figure it out at some point, but it makes the Realsimgear stuff much more enticing, despite the huge price difference.
Sounds like you dove right into the deep end. Try dialing back a bit and work into the more advanced stuff. Start for a period with just the sim , controls and the main monitor. Then maybe add a single touchscreen and Knobster. Use boring simple pre-made Air Manager panels. Then try creating a single panel from community instruments. Finally introduce the second touchscreen and eventually try adding popped out windows. Just be patient. It is overwhelming if you try to get too complex at first. I have to tell some guys to learn computer basics before even using the sim since if you can’t run the computer you can’t even get started. Good luck. You will sort it out. Happy to help when I can.
@@rbarlow Thanks Russ. I'm actually fairly skilled with computer hardware (I built two of my own) I'm really struggling with air manager though. All I really want out of it is to have the G1000 PFD and MFD displayed and controlled via touch and the knobster. The rest can wait. Everything works okay, I just can't seem to get the displays to just start up and work with the air manager G1000 bezels and the popouts in the right place and displayed full screen evrytime I start XP11. I'm pulling my hair out, lol. I'd pay to have someone create something that would function on my setup.
@@John-by6jw check out my video on pop weasel th-cam.com/video/x8-1JFIp-mQ/w-d-xo.html
@@rbarlow Oh believe me, I did. It's operator error for sure, but pop weasel altered things I didn't want altered. Maybe this is all above my pay grade.
what's the brand name of the monitor? Do you have a link to it, and do they come with the cables etc?
Russ, This is a great video as usual. Additional monitors can be added using USB to HDMI converters. I am using Plugable: "Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter for USB 3.0 and USB-C, Compatible with Windows"
That is a great solution and I will look into it. What model are you using?
@@rbarlow My models with amazon links:
Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter for USB 3.0 and USB-C, Compatible with Windows
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08F2SZQYX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1&fpw=alm
Plugable USB 3.0 to HDMI 4K UHD Video Graphics Adapter for Multiple Monitors up to 3840x2160 Supports Windows 10, 8.1, 7
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NQCFXGA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1&fpw=alm
@@ora600600 how many monitors are you running off USB and are you using them for POPOUTS?
@@gregoryanderson6717 I am using two monitors for pop-out and 3 monitors connected to video card.You will not see additional monitors in the Nvidia control panel.
@@ora600600 so I understand your CPU is running 3 monitors off your video card for scenery and your are running 2 monitors off USB to drive AirManager with POPOUTS on each monitor with no problem?
Hi Mr. Russ this are wonderful videos but the knobster is very difficult to found or buy. Where is the right site that I can buy the knobster.
Sim Innovations has a large shipment due very soon... watch their website
Let hope they sort the fs2020 SDK. I need this ! Cheers Russ happy Christmas from Bournemouth England
Fingers crossed! Merry Christmas and a Normal New Year.
I really want to invest in two of these monitors and the brackets but am torn between 13”or 15.6”. Eventually I’d love to buy a Slavx Touch panel in which case I’m worried the 15” would make the panel too large. Do you think 13” is too small in terms of the size of the instruments in air manager?
I’m not a simmer, yet but I’m interested in getting a set up soon. I’m already sold on the Honeycomb Alpha yoke and Bravo throttle. What do you recommend for rudder pedals?
Get cheap ones to hold you off until honeycomb releases the Charlie rudder peddles mid 2021
There are no good choices now in the entry-mid level price range. I have some older Saitek Combat Rudder pedals but they are discontinued now. Look on eBay and Craigslist for a used CH or Saitek Rudder and wait for the Charlie from Honeycomb probably a year away. I also have Virtual Fly RUDDO which are excellent but cost about US$ 1000
To overcome the limitation of the number of displays which can be driven by be main PC, consider:
- connecting one of touch displays to the main board video port instead of the GPU (this also limits the GPU load, allowing bit better FPS),
- using 13" Windows tablet able to drive the external display, this allowed me to have 2 touch displays driven by the tablet, offloading the main PC to allow it drive 3 FullHD displays for the external view. I was able to buy used tablet for 200 euro, roughly the cost of one touch display)
Yes that is a great alternative. I have posted videos from a while ago using both windows tablets ( th-cam.com/video/4bDd9CvoHZo/w-d-xo.html )and the onboard video ( th-cam.com/video/ZOdI__BMat4/w-d-xo.html )The monitors only need to be connected to the computer running the sim if you are including popped out windows as part of the layout. With XP11 two copies of the sim running networked can allow the pop outs and Air Manager to run on the Master and have the visuals on the second machine. Thanks for your input, good points.
I've been trying my 2 x touchscreens & knobster plugged into a Plugable UD-6950 USB3 docking station and it seems to be working well, and not taking up any primary display sockets.. The docking station USB ports provide enough power for the monitors too, so I am not using the mains adaptors. What I have found though is that the Honeycomb Alpha Yoke only seems to work in the front USB sockets on the Plugable not the rear ones.
Thanks for that input. I’ll look into that piece of hardware that I am not familiar with. Sounds interesting. Thanks for your comments
@@rbarlow I also had to buy a "Displayport to HDMI Adapter 2 Pack, Benfei Dp(Display Port) Male to Hdmi Female Converter with Audio for Lenovo, Dell, HP, Asus and other brand", but it all seems to work fine.
Very nice video, impressive with what you are doing with the instruments. The only nit, it was sometimes difficult to follow some of the instruments as they seem to be blurred when moving the camera... Look forward to more content. Regards.
A handheld iPhone while trying to run the sim....sorry. I agree the camera was moving too fast a lot of the time to see clearly. I sometimes use tripods but they are hard to position. Working on a solution.
Hi again Russ... 1 or both of those monitors (touch-screen) have very shiny LED surfaces that are just awesome (I don't mind the reflection because they look so cool and so like the original screens in the actual jets).. Could you share what type of actual and specific monitors those are? they have to be exact because sometimes manufacturer even change the surface of the monitor for glare prevention, which I don't want. I want the glare type like you have. thanks so much as always!!!
WIMAXIT USB C Portable Touch... www.amazon.com/dp/B07YXP683D?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
@@rbarlow I so appreciate that !!
Liked and subbed. Looking for msfs ONLY. Monetizing with ads only works if you are getting very high viewers for relatively long periods of viewing. IOW, 10 minutes or more. Your sims and videos thereof are very well done. I am very intrigued with what you've done, an 'inexpensive' way to have a more-realistic flight deck compared to buying the rw hardware panels.
Thanks
Huge fan and love your videos! You mentioned posting a .sif file for the instruments. Is that out yet and where could I find that? Would love to try this on my touch screens!
Russ, I bought the Wimaxit monitor, and I'm using a new PC with windows 10 and x-plane. The touch screen looks beautiful, and the knobster works, but I have to use a mouse, the touch screen isn't working HELP Please?! I'd love to use your Garmin 530 radios by touch. Thank you for your great videos.
If the touch monitor isn’t the main monitor in your display settings you will need to run the pen and touch setup to tell the monitors which touch grid is connected to which monitor. Open settings and search “calibrate” . Select the “calibrate pen and touch” choice and click setup. It will instruct you on the screen but each monitor will Tuen all white one at a time and say to either touch the monitor if it is a touchscreen or just hit enter if not. After you finish all monitors the touch should work. Forgot that you need a usb connection from each monitor to the computer and the separate power usb from the power brick to the monitor USB port labeled power.
Very interesting ,pending budget I would be interested to know more and types and models of airplanes , looking forward to know more
Thank you
As I release the B737 NG project I am going to come up with some kind of website where users can share complete panels with one another. Just thinking it through right now but look for something on my channel in the not too far future.
Amazing, Sir! Pretty much exactly what I want. But please make a complete, simple video for us to understand how it’s all supposed to be set up. I have limited computer knowledge & I just can’t quite figure out how I would be supposed to plug it all in. 2 touch-monitors = 2 computers needed? 😳 Please help. Best regards from France.
PS : on a side note, I would just love it if all this could run on MacOS. Big gaming PC’s pretty much scare me (not to even mention having to BUILD THEM...). Having all this running on a very compact Silicon Mac Mini powerhouse would be so much more convenient honestly 😅
I am in the process of figuring out how to best do that. Thanks and keep watching.
@@rbarlow thanks for your answer. I will definitely be watching 🙏
So, I have purchased the 15.6" Wimaxit, the bracket from Seal level, the Knobster, and a Windows laptop to run Air Manager. I have everything hooked up, probably not correctly, and the monitor is not working correctly. The Knobster can turn dials if they are highlighted from the Windows laptop but I can't activate them directly from the monitor. In addition none of the switches work on the monitor. Can you please tell me how you have connected the Windows computer to the monitor. I am currently connecting them with an HDMI cable - HDMI to HDMI. BTW, I really enjoy your videos and I am learning quite a bit for an old, 81 years, guy.
Stuart it sounds like you may not have calibrated your touchscreen. Windows doesn’t know how to relate the usb touch signal to a specific monitor. You also need to attach both a power supply and the usb to carry the touch information. One usb-c port is marked power so get them correct. The other should be connected to the computer. Try unplugging and replugging the usb cable in and be sure you hear the device detected sound. Then go to windows settings and search for “calibrate” and you will see “calibrate pen and touch” or something similar. Select that and follow the prompts. It will cycle through your monitors and ask you to touch each to confirm it is a touch computer. Just read and follow the onscreen prompts. The touch grid is separate from the monitors so windows has no way to know how to associate the touches and the monitors until it is calibrated. Windows assumes that the touch grid is associated with the main monitor which I assume is your laptop. This should straighten out your problem and if not let me know and I’ll try to help some more.
@@rbarlow Russ, thank you so much! I have it up and running, now I need to do some practicing. Here is another question for you, how did you hook up the second monitor to work with the same knobster?
Hi Russ, I'm on step zero. Just received the Knobster, 2 15" displays on the way. Flying FS2020, but P3Dv5 online, too. Do you know of any Cirrus Perspective pre made panels, PFD/MFD or center stack? Prefer to focus on FS2020 knowing limited functionality, not in a hurry (a good thing w FS2020.) Any thoughts to get me started on the Cirrus? Also, do you think we may see native functionality within a sim, (touch or click to select and then use the knobster.) Thank you and thanks for your time on these videos. Mike
I offered the Knobster first to Laminar for XP but Austin said that instead of adding it as a feature it should be a plugin. That is beyond my ability but if you know someone who would undertake the project let me know. I also offered Knobster to be integrated into MSFS but as you can imagine I never heard back from them....does anyone get support from MS?
Check out this video...maybe this could be adapted to a Cirrus on XP or MSFS. th-cam.com/video/Oam7afkxPPM/w-d-xo.html
@@rbarlow Yes! Watching your video, I see exactly what I was referring too. I found your center stack panel in the store, but see it’s only for Xp. That’s what I was looking for for FS2020. I guess I will be patient as gets updated. Thanks again ! Mike
Thank you Russ for your help.
One quick question do you use all three plugs on the monitor?
Great video’s.!!
Yes. Video, power, and USB for the touch function. The usb power alone is insufficient alone. Need a usb-c power Adapter or some monitors have a power socket.
G’day Russ, thanks for your videos. I’m still a little confused whether I should make the investment of touch panel + air manager. I’m only on MSFS2020 and from what I can tell there isn’t much support yet. Should I hold out until more support and panels are developed? (Mainly A320 panels)
Possibly. MS has not really been that great at keeping the SDK updated and improved to make all the functions easier to implement. I think overtime more and more MSFS users will find air manager and expand the offerings
fly on over to my city hunny
Great setup! Your videos are so informative. Sorry if I missed it, but why do you no longer use your five screen setup?
I do still use it. Just using this formerly VR sim to test new sims(FS2020) and hardware ( honeycomb, touchscreens ect) without tearing the other sim apart. Also FS2020 is just not ready for a serious flight training sim yet.
@@rbarlow Great video as always! I currently run XP11 on two networked PCs with Air Manager and the Knobster on a touchscreen display. Are you running 2 instances of Air Manager on the remote PC with the same Knobster? I run 2 instances of XP11, one on each PC for external display capabilities. Are you doing the same or just running the Air Manager app(s) on your 2nd PC? Thank you.
Very nice!
Hey Russ, Great video. I'm still using the beta version of the knobster that you built early on and I purchased several more from your original project. Those two monitors seem to be higher resolution than 1080p. Is that correct?
I can't wait for retirement (2021) and to have the time for an entire flightsim rebuild. *-)
Hi Lloyd, those monitors are both 1080p but they are quite nice for the price. The touch function seems to work perfectly. Congrats, 2021 is almost here so enjoy your retirement and sim adventures .
Hi Russ,
CAN YOU PLUG BOTH TOUCH SCREEN INTO A SINGLE BLUG AND THEN PLUG IT INTO DA DISPLAY PORT OR DO THEY NEED TO BE SEPARATE.
? ON YOUR COMPUTER AND AIR MANAGER.IS IT BEST TO RUN AIR MANAGER ON A SEPARATE COMPUTER THEN ON THE SAME COMPUTER WITH X-PLANE 11.
THANK YOU GTEAT VIDEOS LEARD A LOT FROM THEM.
Unfortunately you need a graphics port for each of the touchscreen monitors. There’s no way to daisychain of these monitors. It is easy to run Air Manager panel on a separate computer but If you want to use the pop out windows from X-Plane for MSFSU need to be connected to the same computer as the simulator. Otherwise you can’t drag the windows to the same monitor that is running your Air Manager panel. I did a video not too long ago that might be helpful for you it is called something like “Vulcan stress test”.
Very nice video. I really like that setup. :-D But ummm how did you get your throttle quadrant??? I ordered mine on Sept 1st 2020 and Honeycomb is telling me it might be January-February before I will see my order. :-(
I guess since I had an earlier review of the Alpha yoke that got over 85k views I was offered a pre-release unit to review. I still haven’t received the drivers to allow use of all functions of the autopilot, annunciators, and gear indicators yet. I don’t think they will ship until things are complete but it should be soon for preorders from earlier in 2920. A perfect storm of pandemic stay at home boredom coupled with the release of FS 2020 this led to a shortage of all Sim hardware.
Curious what the height of the yoke and throttle quadrant are from the floor?
Just getting started in sim flight! need all the help i can get! Thanks
Happy to help when you have questions
Thanks for considering making those custom ZIBO templates for community for air manager. would that require that rendering utiltiy you use to be purchased in addition to Air Manger? If so , could you link it?
No it is all freeware. I will be making a website to distribute very soon with full instructions.
@@rbarlow -- ok , wow, great, thanks Russ !
Hello Russ! Thanks for a great channel! It would appear that you’ve been home simming for some time and I also see that you have many hours on the B737!. So with this in mind, what B737NG sim do you use that most accurately represents the entire B737NG cockpit functionality? Thanks for your time!
Although I’m not a FSX user there is no doubt that PMDG has the most accurate simulation of the Boeing 737. Zibo is pretty darn good considering it is a free product. It still has some areas that need improvement. If you’re interested in flying the Boeing 737 classic the IXEG available at X-Aviation is quite well modeled. I think as MSFS continues to gain popularity and ability that PMDG will undoubtedly get something going on that platform. Exciting times in simulation!
@@rbarlow Thank you for your response Russ!! Exciting times for sims indeed!!!!
Are you using same bracket as the one on the yoke and does it attach the same way
Thanks
Gary
Yes identical as the honeycombs (ans Saitek yokes too) have the same mounting bolt pattern on the top service of the units.
Hey Russ!! How I can connect the portable monitor type c to a pc ? So I can get the touchscreen work ? Thanks
Are you wanting to carry the video signal or a touchscreen input only? Would this help th-cam.com/video/vZfz2qisJ40/w-d-xo.html
Russ can you plz recommend the minimum specs for your second computer running Air Manager I don't wanna spend as much as my primary CPU
Even a link on Amazon would be awesome
Check out this video to see what I used and some testing specs for comparison. I also have a video coming soon with new ideas fir single computer setups
th-cam.com/video/ZOdI__BMat4/w-d-xo.html
Russ I just bought a second machine but it would be neat to see your recommendation video include a separate video card AND the USB to HDMI options
Russ, do all Arduino’s need to be programmed to use two monitors, as you have and will they run on a new Mac Mine with the Xplane 11?
He's not using Arduino, he uses Air Manager. Very neat piece of software, they also sell the Knobster which does use an Arduino mini but it has their software and controlled by Air Manager.
@@socratesg4210 thanks Socrates.
Is it feasible to use a 15.6” touchscreen laptop with knobster for instruments & for running X-Plane, Air Manager and 2 other 32” monitors plus the Honeycomb controls?
As a follow-up, primarily for the Cessna 172 steam guages and G530 plus the B58 Baron.
If it is a gaming laptop with a decent cpu and dedicated gpu(not integrated graphics) it could work if you are willing to lower the graphics quality. You could try but shoot for about 30 FPS and if you can’t manage that I‘d get a beefy new computer.
@@rbarlow Wilco. Thank you Russ. I am just starting the information gathering/pre-flight of flight sims. Just have to warm the wifester up to it slowly.
i dud mount a computer like yours on top of the top. and I purchase the knobster, but I am not able to do a touch screen and I am not able to use the knobster. What am I doing wrong?
Did you mean that you mounted a monitor on top and not computer. First, you can use Knobster with a mouse too. Be sure the Knobster shows up in the Air Manager devices tab first. Then you must go to the Air Manager panel settings and scroll down to the pop up menu to enable Knobster. When you mouse click on a knob it should highlight in yellow and respond to Knobster. For touch you need the touchscreen attached to your computer by hdmi and usb. The touch signal is via usb. If it is not your main monitor you must also set up the pen and touch settings in Windows. This way windows knows which touch sensor is attached to which monitor. Finally to use touch in Air Manager you must go to the settings menu and set the input method to touch.
Russ, What touch screens are you using
Hello Russ, i'm looking to buy Air Manager; do you think I can use my Hot Start TBM900 with it?
I din't find any panels specifially made for it, so I guess I'd have to create them right?
Yes I currently know of no panel for the TBM but it is such a good and popular plane that. Might a good project.
@@rbarlow exactly... I will work on it.
Thanks very much for your reply and congratulations for your amazing contents!
Luca.
how did you like the alpha yoke?
Do you have a gtn 650 bezel for a pop out
I never felt the need to make one because all the inputs can be made with touch. It would be easy to make one since there’s only a few controls on it. If you wanted to try I’d be happy to help.
Where can I get the knobs?
The Knobster is available from Sim Innovations who make Air Manager software that works with it
Does it work on Fs2020
Yes but it still needs Microsoft to flesh out the SDK to be fully what it can be. It may be a few months more but Air Manager, and Knobster are compatible.
What about using a USB based GPU? Is that a valid option for an additional display?
Yes I think so, I use a Plugable UD-6950 which seems to be working OK.
Hi, Russ. I have the same two monitors as you but on one of them I often find that the touch screen becomes uncalibrated.(usually after using the mouse) Do you have the same issue?
What do you mean uncalibrated?
@@rbarlow When I touch the wimaxit monitor its fine for the first minute or two. Then my touch on that same monitor will become uncalibrated. As in, it will start moving the cursor six inches or more away from my finger on that wimaxit monitor. Now, I'm driving two wimaxit touchscreens along with my 34 in monitor on the same p.c. Its been almost impossible to fix. The longest I can get the monitor to stay calibrated is ~10 minutes. If I unplug the monitor and plug it back in then the "touch"(via my finger) is accurate with no problems. Then, as if its getting sent to sleep in the background a moment or two later, I cant touch my dials because the finger input onscreen shifts to either a different screen or different position. Possibly the touched point on screen is remembering the previous cursor position and assuming that is the the new starting point of all further touches.
Windows could not help as I cant find any wimaxit drivers to resolve issue with either invidia or windows 10. Using touch screen calibration tools in control panel and recalibration doesn't seem to do the trick for more then a couple minutes.
It seems this can be common on windows 10 with multiple touchscreens but I'm curious if or why your setup didn't experience this. Hoping I can resolve this somehow and also help future people who may experience this
I have xplane11 but the reason I don't use is because I can't get my logitech panels to work right for the fsx,pd3 you need simconnect,fsuicp and lvars to configure properly and even then on some 3rd party aircraft can't get everything working and xplane 11 lacks on that I know msfs 2020 has a long ways to go even the planes don't fly right but I have everything working at least and I can always go back to pd3 to fly my 3rd party aircrafts till msfs 2020 has more features.
Have you heard of this product? Sounds like just what you might need
www.spadnext.com/home.html