Futaba FS006H User Manual

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Remember that Channel Mapping is used to set the input channels for your transmitter. This means that you are setting the channels used to monitor physical movements or positions of your transmitter’s sticks, switches, and knobs. Unless you change transmitters, you should only need to set this once. Only use the Channel Mapping… menu
item to tell RealFlight which channel your controller is using for each stick/knob/switch input, not what control function you want that stick/knob/switch to perform.
The Software Radio controls mixing, exponential, and other channel processing that a computer radio would normally perform. The Software Radio determines the control function you want each stick/knob/switch setting to perform. You will most likely want to adjust this differently for various aircraft. For example, the mixing utilized for your glider will probably not be very useful on a jet.
The Electronics options modify the servo properties (e.g., servo speed) as well as adjusting the input channels in the same way as the Channel Mapping… wizard. However, changes made using the Electronics options only apply to the particular aircraft that you are editing. Use the Electronics options only when you want to edit a specific servo
property (like servo speed) or if for some reason you need to reassign an input channel for one aircraft only. In most cases, you should not need to do the latter. Instead, you should normally
use the software radio to configure control outputs.
A good rule of thumb: if a setting will not be the same for every aircraft, you should not try to implement the setting by using the Channel Mapping… menu item. Instead, adjust the Software Radio.
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r
Chapte
8
Events Menu
Challenge your flying skills by competing in events, by yourself, or join others online.
n event is an organized flying contest with a set of rules. RealFlight G4 supports five types of events: Autorotation/Deadstick, Free Style, Limbo,
A
To participate in an event alone, all you have to do is start the event. RealFlight G4 does the rest.
Pylon Racing and Spot Landing. You can participate in these events by yourself or compete with other RealFlight G4 users over the internet.
If you want to compete with other RealFlight G4 users, you must first start a multiplayer session (or join an existing one). See the Multiplayer chapter for additional information on how to do so.
When all of the participants have joined the session, the session host will start the event. This enrolls every member of the multiplayer session in the Event. If any multiplayer session members want to leave the event, they can do so while remaining a part of the multiplayer session.
RealFlight G4 limits you to running only one event at a time. This rule also applies to multiplayer sessions.
The Events menu accesses all events, and event-related options. When you open the menu, the items are:
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Autorotation/Deadstick
Freestyle
Limbo
Pylon Racing
Spot Landing
Options…
End Current Event
Forfeit Turn
Some of these items may be grayed out if they do not apply to the current situation. For example, you cannot end the current event unless an event is already running. Consequently, the End Current Event menu item will be grayed out.
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Autorotation/Deadstick
The Autorotation/Deadstick event is similar to the Spot Landing event mentioned below. This event requires that you make a landing with all power off.
The goal of this event is to land the airplane, or autorotate the helicopter, into the marked zones. The various landing zones have different point values assigned to them. Generally, the zones that are more difficult to target are awarded higher point values. If participating in a multiplayer event, the player with the highest points total at the end wins.
It is possible to enable the software to “kill” the player’s engine when their aircraft passes a particular altitude.
Selecting Your Name for the Event-
If you have already entered a name in the Settings… menu item, this name will be utilized for single player and multiplayer events. If you have not entered a name, please do so in the space provided when you select an event. Click OK when completed.
To select a different name for this event, click on the Simulation menu, followed by the Settings… menu item. Next, click the Multiplayer name. This brings up the
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multiplayer options. Click the value found next to the Pilot Name item. Use the keyboard to input the name you wish to utilize for the events.
Options-
The Options… menu item adjusts the parameters and rules for each event. To access the Options… menu item, click the Events menu followed by the Options… menu item. Next, from the column on the left side, select the event that you wish to adjust. The selections that appear will depend upon the event selected. This section examines the selections available for the Autorotation/Deadstick Landing Options.
Zone Point Values- Zones A through E-
The landing zones are divided into five segments. In the default settings, each segment has a different point value assigned to it based upon degree of difficulty. Zone A is the smallest, most difficult target. Therefore, it offers the highest point value. Zone B, which surrounds the center, offers the second highest points, followed by Zone C, D and E.
To adjust the values of these points, click on the values in the column to the right of the respective Zone Points. For example, to adjust the points for Zone A, click on the corresponding Value in the column next to Zone A. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Turns Per Event-
This option determines the number of turns that each player is allotted per event. When each player has taken the designated number of turns, the event
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is over. The only exception is if the host activates the Crash Eliminates Player setting. In this case, the event will end if all of the players crash before they reach the turn limit.
To adjust the number of turns, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Throttle cut altitude-
As mentioned previously, in an Autorotation/Deadstick event, the host can set the rules so that the throttle is cut manually or automatically. This section refers to the settings for a manual throttle cut. For information on automatic throttle cuts, please see the Player Kills Engine section below.
To adjust the altitude at which the throttle is cut, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired altitude value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Time to Complete Turn (sec)-
This is the amount of time allotted for each player to complete his or her turn.
Note: the countdown or timer is initiated at takeoff.
To adjust the amount of time to complete the Event, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Target Scale-
This option determines the size of the landing targets.
To modify the size of the landing area, enter a number in the corresponding value column. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel. The size of the targets will scale proportionally.
Crash Eliminates Player-
This option determines whether a crash eliminates a player from the competition. If No, the player will be able to continue his/her turn regardless of whether or not they have crashed. If Yes, the event is over for them as soon as a crash occurs.
To set Crash Eliminates Player option, click the value in the corresponding column. From the pull-down list, select either Yes or No.
Player Kills Engine-
This option determines whether you want to cut off the engine manually or allow RealFlight G4 to do so for you. If enabled, the player must manually kill the engine above the Throttle Cut Altitude. RealFlight will display the engine
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cut notification for you on-screen. With automatic throttle cutting, RealFlight G4 will automatically cut the throttle as soon as the aircraft crosses the minimum altitude threshold. Again, RealFlight will display the engine cut notification for you on-screen.
To set Player Kills Engine option, click the value in the corresponding column. From the drop-down list, select either Yes (manual cut required) or No (automatic cut at altitude).
Autorotation/Deadstick Instructions
You can run an autorotation competition in either a single player or multiplayer environment.
The person who starts the event decides upon the applicable rules and parameters. For example, you can set:
The time allotment for each player’s turn.
How many turns each player receives.
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Whether a player’s engine is automatically or manually killed during a turn.
The altitude at which an engine must be killed.
The physical dimensions of the landing target.
Whether or not a crash automatically disqualifies a player.
Point values of the different zones within the landing target.
RealFlight G4 automatically applies the rules you choose, and keeps track of scores. During the event, the announcer’s voice will guide you through each phase of the competition.
Rules
The Autorotation/Deadstick course consists of a target:
The object of the Autorotation/Deadstick event is to fly your model over the target, kill the engine, then touch down as close as possible to the center of the target. Players take turns making landing attempts. When your turn comes, you will normally takeoff, gain altitude until you are above the minimum Throttle Cut Altitude, fly towards the target, and then kill your engine and autorotate or glide to the ground.
If the host so decides, you must kill your engine before dropping below the minimum altitude to kill engine. Alternatively, the host can decide that your engine will automatically shut off when you pass below this altitude. The host must also decide on the minimum Throttle Cut Altitude.
A “touch down” occurs when any part of your airplane or helicopter touches ground. Each touch down is marked with an ‘X’ on the spot at which the aircraft landed.
Please note: this is not necessarily the point at which the aircraft stopped moving.
An “attempt” means you have passed below the minimum altitude to kill your engine. Once your engine is disabled, you cannot reactivate it until your turn expires. Additionally, you must land successfully (without crashing) to receive any points for your attempt.
Furthermore, you must complete your landing before your turn time expires. If you do not touch down in time, you will lose your turn.
The points you receive during a turn are dependent upon where you touch down. Within the target, each colored zone has a different point value. Normally, the closer to the center you land, the more points you will receive. Your touch down point is the point on the ground directly below the center of your aircraft, no matter what part of your aircraft touches first.
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The event continues until the players complete all of their turns, all of the players are disqualified (usually by crashing), or everyone has left the event. The player with the highest point total at the end of the event is the winner.
Events Viewport Display Box-
During the event, a situational screen will appear on your display. This screen serves several purposes: it indicates the player’s name, tracks the amount of time remaining to complete the event, and indicates the remaining altitude before the engine is cut.
If you do not wish to view this information, double-click on the title bar of the display box. This will hide the information. To view it once again, simply double-click the title bar again.
To reveal the statistics for the event, click the arrow button in the upper right corner of the box. Click the arrow button one more time to hide this information.
To resize the viewport, position the cursor over the lower right corner of the viewport’s frame. Using the mouse, drag the frame according to your wishes. If you drag it downward, the vertical size of the viewport will increase. Dragging the frame to the right or left will increase/decrease the width of the viewport respectively.
Clicking on the ‘X’ in the title tab of the viewport will close the viewport.
Freestyle
RealFlight G4’s Freestyle event lets you make the rules. When you start a Freestyle event, RealFlight G4 will allot every player a set of turns. Each player’s turn ends when that player’s time expires (or if the player crashes). When this occurs, the next player’s turn begins. What players do during their respective turns is completely up to the participants. We’ve included some possible freestyle examples below.
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Whatever activity you pick, RealFlight will see that each player receives a timed turn. You can use freestyle with any aircraft (airplanes or helis).
Selecting Your Name For the Event
If you have already entered a name in the Settings… menu item, this name will be utilized for single player and multiplayer events. If you have not entered a name, please do so in the space provided when you select an event. Click OK when completed.
To select a different name for this event, click on the Simulation menu, followed by the Settings… menu item. Next, click the Multiplayer name. This will bring up the multiplayer options. Click the value found next to the Pilot Name item. Use the keyboard to input the name you wish to utilize for the events.
Options
As the name suggests, the Options… menu item is used to adjust the parameters and rules for each of the events. The Autorotation/Deadstick Event section discusses general notes for this option. This section examines the selections available for the Freestyle options.
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Time to Complete Turn (sec)-
This is the amount of time allotted for players to complete their turn.
Please note: the time begins at takeoff.
To adjust the amount of time to complete the event, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Turns Per Event-
This option determines the number of turns that will be allotted to a player for the event. The event is over when each player has taken this number of turns, or sooner if the host activates the Crash Eliminates Player option and a crash occurs.
To adjust the number of turns, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Crash Eliminates Player-
This option determines whether a crash eliminates a player from the competition. If No, the player will be able to continue his/her turn regardless of whether or not they’ve crashed. If Yes, the event is over for them as soon as they crash.
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To determine whether a crash eliminates a player, click the value in the corresponding column. From the pull-down list, select either Yes or No.
Freestyle Instructions
You will usually want to use Freestyle in a multiplayer environment, but it works in single player mode as well.
Before you start this event, you will ordinarily decide what the participants must do. You may just want to use the event to give everyone an equal chance to showcase his or her aerobatic skills. This will prevent you from worrying about your scoring. If you want to have a competition, we suggest that before you begin the event:
Everyone should agree on the rules.
The host may need to edit the airport to add any equipment (pylons, runways,
fences, obstacle rings, limbo poles, etc.) that you will need for the event.
Everyone should agree how the event will be judged. You could appoint one player to decide on a score for every other player, or have everyone in your session vote on the best maneuver, etc.
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The person who starts the Event (multiplayer session host) can pick:
How much time each player is allotted per turn
How many turns each player receives, and
Whether a player who crashes is automatically disqualified
We emphasize, the only limit on the freestyle event is your imagination. A few examples of what you might wish to do:
Touch and Go. Appoint one partner to count runway touches, the contestant with the most touches in a turn wins.
Aerobatics. Players use their turns to perform any stunt they want. At the end, everyone votes on the best stunt.
Obstacle course. Set up a long obstacle (table, etc.) close to the ground and take turns flying under it; land or takeoff from ramps, circle around pylons, etc.
It does not have to be a contest. You might all just want to take an equal turn at using the runway (takeoff, land on alternate turns).
Events Viewport Display Box-
During the event, a situational screen will appear on your display. General notes on this display were discussed in the Autorotation/Deadstick event section.
Limbo
A limbo event is a contest of piloting skill and courage. Players attempt to maneuver their aircraft under a horizontal bar suspended across two vertical bars. After each successive pass, the bar is lowered. The event continues until only one pilot remains.
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Selecting Your Name For the Event-
If you have already entered a name in the Settings… menu item, this name will be utilized for single player and multiplayer events. If you have not entered a name, please do so in the space provided when you select an event. Click OK when completed.
To select a different name for this event, click on the Simulation menu, followed by the Settings… menu item. Next, click the Multiplayer name. This will bring up the multiplayer options. Click the value found next to the Pilot Name item. Use the keyboard to input the name you wish to utilize for the events.
Options-
The Options… menu item is used to adjust the parameters and rules for each of the Events. See the Autorotation/Deadstick section for general notes about this screen. This section examines the specific selections available for the Limbo options.
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Minimum Bar Height-
This setting determines the lowest height that the bar will reach during the Event.
To adjust the Minimum Bar Height, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Maximum Bar Height-
This setting determines the highest setting (starting value) that the bar will reach during the event.
To adjust the Maximum Bar Height, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Distance to Drop Bar each Round-
After a participant successfully passes under the limbo bar, on their next attempt the bar will lower by the amount indicated in this setting.
To adjust the distance by which the bar will be lowered each round, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Commit Line Distance-
This indicates the distance between the commitment lines and the limbo bar. There is a commitment line on either side of the limbo bar and participants
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may approach from either side. These lines detect an attempted pass at the limbo bar.
To adjust the distance, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Distance Between Poles-
The value entered here indicates the distance between the two vertical poles that support the limbo bar. The wider the space between the poles, the easier it is to pass through the gate, so to speak.
To adjust the distance, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Time to Complete Turn (sec)-
This is the amount of time allotted for each player to complete his or her turn.
Please note: the countdown or timer is initiated at takeoff.
To adjust the amount of time to complete the Event, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Attempts Per Turn-
This value indicates the number of attempts that each pilot is allotted at any given height of the limbo bar before being eliminated for that turn.
To adjust the number of attempts, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Turns Per Event-
This option determines the number of turns per player for this event. When this number is reached, the event is over. If the host activates the Crash Eliminates Player option, however, the event may end sooner.
To adjust the number of turns, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Crash Eliminates Player-
This option is used to determine whether a crash eliminates the player from the competition. If No, the player will be able to continue his/her turn regardless of whether or not they have crashed. If Yes, the event is over for them as soon as a crash occurs.
To determine whether or not a crash eliminates a player, click the value in the corresponding column. From the drop-down list, select either Yes or No.
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Limbo Instructions
A limbo competition can be run in either a single player or multiplayer environment.
The limbo course consists of a limbo pole, and two attempt lines (also called commitment lines), one on each side of the limbo pole.
The object of limbo is to fly an aircraft past the attempt line, then under the limbo bar, in the time allowed. Players take turns attempting to fly under the bar. When your turn comes, you will normally takeoff, circle back towards the limbo pole, then pass across the attempt line and under the bar, then land. If you successfully fly under the bar, the bar height will be lowered prior to your next turn.
An “attempt” means you have crossed the attempt line, approaching the limbo bar. You can make multiple attempts, if necessary, during a turn.
You have anywhere from 10 seconds to five minutes between the moment you first lift off and the moment you successfully pass under the bar. If you fail to make it under the bar in time, you lose your turn. (Before the event begins, the host decides the exact time limit.)
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You can approach the limbo bar from either direction (i.e., you can cross either attempt line). For an attempt to count, you must be approaching the limbo bar when you cross an attempt line. Your aircraft must be airborne when it crosses the attempt line and when it passes under the bar (i.e., if you taxi, your attempt will not count).
The event continues until each player has made it under the lowest bar height, or has been disqualified (usually by crashing), or has left the event.
The player with the highest score wins. Your score for each successful turn is:
(time between first liftoff and successful pass) X (height cleared) / 100
Notice that you will achieve or earn the highest score by passing under the bar as soon as possible after takeoff.
If you did not make it under the bar, your score for that turn is zero.
Events Viewport Display Box-
During the event, a situational screen will appear on your display. This screen serves several purposes. General notes on the functionality for this window were discussed in the Autorotation/Deadstick event section.
Pylon Racing
In pylon racing, pilots race their planes around a closed course. Pylon Racing challenges the pilots’ nerves and skills as they attempt to round the pylons, avoid mid­air collisions, and finish first, without cutting any pylons.
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Selecting Your Name For the Event-
If you have already entered a name in the Settings… menu item, this name will be utilized for single player and multiplayer events. If you have not entered a name, please do so in the space provided when you select an event. Click OK when completed.
To select a different name for this event, click on the Simulation menu, followed by the Settings… menu item. Next, click the Multiplayer name. This will bring up the multiplayer options. Click the value found next to the Pilot Name item. Use the keyboard to input the name you wish to utilize for the events.
Options
As the name suggests, the Options… menu item is used to adjust the parameters and rules for each of the Events. To access the Options… menu item, click the Events menu followed by the Options… menu item. Next, from the left hand column, click on the event for which you wish to adjust the Options…. The selections that appear will be dependent upon the event selected. This section examines the selections available for the Pylon Racing Options.
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Laps to complete-
This value determines the number of laps that each participant must complete in the event. The person who completes the laps in the shortest amount of time (after penalties) is the winner.
To adjust the number of laps, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Cuts Allowed-
This setting dictates the number of cuts (passes inside a pylon) that a racer is allowed before being eliminated from the event.
To adjust the number of allowable cuts, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Cut Penalty (sec)-
This option determines the time penalty that a player receives for each cut they make during a race. If the player exceeds the number of allowable cuts, they are eliminated from the race.
To adjust the penalty seconds per cut, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
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Three Pylons on Course-
This setting determines whether the course is a three-pylon course or a two­pylon course. If Yes is selected, the course is a three-pylon course. If No, the course is a two-pylon course.
To set this option, click the value in the corresponding column. From the pull-down list, select either Yes (three pylon course) or No (two pylon course).
Threshold Rules-
In threshold racing, the planes do not actually have to go around the pylon. Rather, they only have to break the plane of the pylon. This option is only enabled for two pylon courses. It is grayed out (not applicable) on three pylon courses.
To determine whether the Threshold Rules will be utilized, click the value in the corresponding column. From the pull-down list, select either Yes or No.
Distance between pylons 1 and 2-
If you have selected a two-pylon course, this option indicates the distance between the two pylons. Increasing the value places the pylons farther apart.
To adjust the distance, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Distance to pylon 1-
This is the distance from the starting point to pylon number 1. This option is only applicable to three-pylon courses.
To adjust the distance, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Distance between pylons 2 and 3-
If you have selected a three-pylon course, this option indicates the distance between the pylons two and three. Increasing the value places the pylons farther apart.
To adjust the distance, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Pylon Racing Instructions
You can run a pylon race in either a single player or multiplayer environment.
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The person who starts the event (the host) decides upon the applicable rules and parameters. For example, the host can set:
How many pylons mark the course (two or three).
Regular or threshold-style racing (two-pylon races only).
The number of laps in the race.
The distances between pylons.
RealFlight G4 automatically applies the rules you choose, and keeps track of scores. During the event, an announcer’s voice will guide you through each phase of the competition.
Pylon Racing Rules-
A pylon-racing course consists of two or three pylons. Here is an example of a three­pylon course:
For both two-pylon and three-pylon races, the object is to takeoff and circle the pylons (without “cutting”) in the shortest amount of time. A pylon race usually has two or more laps. All racers start simultaneously. The race continues until each player is either finished or disqualified (usually by cutting or crashing).
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All players start at the same point on the runway. When you hear the horn sound, takeoff and start the race.
In pylon racing, you always circle the pylons counterclockwise viewed from above— that is, when you come to a pylon you always turn left. As you approach each pylon, you will hear a voice telling you when to start your turn. When you have made a successful turn, you will hear a brief tone.
“Cutting” is illegal. The first time you cut during a race, you are penalized one lap. The second time you cut, you are disqualified. To avoid being called for a cut, your entire aircraft must normally go completely around each pylon.
Exception: in a two-pylon style course, you can choose to use threshold-racing rules. In threshold racing, your aircraft only has to “break the plane” of the pylon to get credit for a legal turn. This allows pilots to find independent race lines, which may reduce collisions during a race. Before the race begins, the host chooses whether the race will follow regular or threshold rules.
The pilot who finishes the required number of laps in the shortest amount of time wins the race.
Events Viewport Display Box
During the Event, a situational screen will appear on your display. This screen serves several purposes. General notes on this screen were discussed in the Autorotation/Deadstick event section.
Spot Landing
In a Spot Landing event, pilots take turns trying to touch their aircraft down within marked zones. Generally, the zones that are more difficult to target have higher point values. In a multiplayer event, the player with the highest points total wins.
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Selecting Your Name For the Event-
To select a different name for this event, click on the Simulation menu, followed by the Settings… menu item. Next, click the Multiplayer name. This will bring up the multiplayer options. Click the value found next to the Pilot Name item. Use the keyboard to input the name you wish to utilize for the events.
Options-
As the name suggests, the Options… menu item adjusts the parameters and rules for each of the Events. To access the Options… menu item, click the Events menu followed by the Options… menu item. Click on the event, located in the left column that you wish to adjust. The options that appear are dependent upon the event selected. This section discusses the selections available for the Spot Landing options.
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Zone Point Values- Zones A through E
The landing zones are divided into five segments. In the default settings, each segment has a different point value assigned to it based upon degree of difficulty. Zone A is the most difficult to hit. Therefore, it offers the highest point value. Zone B, which surrounds the center, offers the second highest points, followed by Zone C, D and E.
To adjust the point values of the different zones, click on the values in the column to the right of the respective Zone Points. For example, to adjust the points for Zone A, click on the corresponding value in the column next to Zone A. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Target Scale-
This option determines the size of the landing targets. To increase the size of the landing area, enter a larger number in the corresponding value column. The target size will scale proportionally.
Time to Complete Turn (sec)-
This is the amount of time allotted for players to complete their turn.
Please note: this time begins at takeoff.
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To adjust the amount of time to complete the event, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Turns Per Event-
This option determines the number of turns allotted to the player for the Event. The event is over when each player has completed the number of turns specified. If the Crash Eliminates Players option is enabled, the event can also end when all of the players have been eliminated due to crashing.
To adjust the number of turns, click on the corresponding value. Enter the desired value directly from the keyboard or via the mouse wheel.
Crash Eliminates Players-
This option determines whether a crash eliminates a player from the competition. If No, players will be able to continue their turns regardless of whether or not they crash. If Yes, the event is over for them as soon as they crash.
To determine whether a crash eliminates the player, click the value in the corresponding column. From the pull-down list, select either Yes or No.
Spot Landing Instructions
A spot landing competition can take place in either a single player or multiplayer environment.
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The person who starts the event (the host) is responsible for selecting the rules. For example, you can set:
How much time each player receives per turn.
How many turns allowed per player.
The physical dimensions of the landing target.
Whether a crash automatically disqualifies the player.
Point values of the different zones within the landing target.
RealFlight G4 automatically applies the rules you choose, and keeps track of scores. During the event, the announcer’s voice will guide you through each phase of the competition.
Rules-
The object is to touch down as close as possible to the center of the target. Players take turns making landing attempts. When your turn comes, you will normally takeoff, gain altitude and then fly towards the target on a landing approach.
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A “touch down” occurs when any part of your airplane or helicopter touches the ground. A large, visible ‘X’ marks each touch down on the spot where the aircraft landed.
Please note: this is not necessarily the point at which the aircraft stopped moving.
Furthermore, you must complete your landing before time expires, thus ending your turn. If you do not touch down in time, you lose your turn.
The points you receive during a turn are dependent upon where you touch down. Within the target, each colored zone has a different point value. Normally, the closer to the center you land, the more points you receive. Your touch down point is the point on the ground directly below the center of your aircraft, no matter what part of your aircraft touches first.
The event continues until each player has completed all of his or her turns, or has been disqualified (usually by crashing), or has left the event. The player with the highest point total is the winner.
You also have a limit on how many landing attempts you can make during your turn. The host sets this limit at the start of the event.
You can approach the target from either direction (i.e., you can cross either attempt line). For an attempt to count, you must be approaching the target when you cross an attempt line. The aircraft must be airborne when it crosses the attempt line (i.e., if you taxi, the attempt will not count).
You can only touch down once per turn, so if it looks like you may miss the target, pull up, circle around, and try again.
The event continues until the players have completed all of their turns, all of the players have been disqualified (usually by crashing), or everyone has left the event.
The player with the highest total score wins.
Events Viewport Display Box-
During the event, a situational screen will appear on your display. The Autorotation/Deadstick event section provides general notes on this display box.
Options
The Options menu item allows you to determine the various settings and parameters
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for the respective events. The options available to you are dependent upon the Event selected.
To access the Options… menu item, click on the Events menu followed by the Options… menu item. Next, select the Event for which you would like to view the Options…. For further information as to the Options… available for each event, see the applicable event as discussed previously.
End Current Event
This menu item immediately ends the current event. If there are no events in progress, this menu item is grayed out. If you are in a multiplayer session and are not the person hosting this session, the option is also grayed out.
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Forfeit Turn
This item allows you to forfeit one turn. If you are a multiplayer participant, all other pilots will take their turns before you can participate again.
This item is grayed out if you are playing an event where players do not take turns (e.g. Pylon Racing).
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Multiplayer Menu
Fly with friends, at the same computer, or over the internet.
he Multiplayer option allows you to fly with others. In fact, you are able to share the skies with up to seven additional pilots. These other pilots can be
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There are two ways to link up with the additional pilots; via a LAN (Local Area Network), or over the internet. In order to do so, you will need a TCP/IP connection, either through your LAN or an ISP (Internet Service Provider).
across the street, around the block, or around the world!
Every session requires someone to serve as host. The host initiates the multiplayer session. When the Host starts a session, other participants may join in.
The Multiplayer menu allows you to access a variety of multiplayer-related features, functions and options. Clicking the Multiplayer menu brings forth a pull-down menu, which will look similar to the following screen shot:
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Host…
Join…
Disconnect
Boot Player…
Publish Hosting Information
Enter MultiMode
Some of these items will be grayed out if they do not apply to the current situation. For example, you cannot disconnect unless you are currently connected. As such, the Disconnect menu item is grayed out unless you are in a multiplayer session.
When you participate in multiplayer sessions, the menu commands you will access depend on whether you are the host or whether you opt to join someone else’s session. These commands also depend upon whether you already have a specific session you want to join.
Depending on what options the participants utilize, it is possible to have a private session that is only open to players who know the host’s IP address.
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Please note: a computer’s IP address is its internet “postal code”. It tells other computers on the internet how to contact that computer. The following sections will explain more about IP addresses as necessary.
It is also possible to participate in a public session using our list server. The list server is a publicly available list of open RealFlight G4 sessions. Currently we provide the list server to all RealFlight G4 owners, free of charge. The list server allows you to participate in multiplayer sessions with other RealFlight G4 users anywhere in the world.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE LIST SERVER
: At the time of this writing we are providing the list server service on a trial basis. This service may be modified, interrupted or cancelled at any time without notice. In particular, we make no guarantee about the reliability of this service. To use this service you must register your product and may need to obtain product updates. Inclusion of this manual on your RealFlight CD-ROM does not imply that this service will be available at the time you purchase this product. Moreover, we reserve the right to bar any individual user, or all users at individual IP addresses or domains, from using the list server at our discretion. Abusive behavior, for example, will not be tolerated.
Chatting
During Multiplayer sessions, you may want to chat with other participants. Doing so is as simple as typing a message much like popular instant messenger programs.
To send a chat message, press the Enter key to bring up the Chat field at the bottom of the screen. Next, using the keyboard, type the message you wish to send. Press the Enter key again on the keyboard to send the message.
Please note: all messages are viewable by all participants. RealFlight G4 does not offer private chat.
Any messages received from other participants will appear at the bottom of the screen.
Host
Every multiplayer session requires one participant to function as the host. If you are the host, you will be the one who starts the session. When you leave the session one of
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the remaining participants automatically assumes the role of Host. The host is also the one who starts and ends the events (Limbo, Pylon Racing, etc.).
Once you have started the session, other players may join in as they wish.
If you opt to broadcast the session to the list server, the session is known as a public session. The session will be open to all G4 owners searching for multiplayer events.
If you wish to keep the session private, only those participants to whom you have provided your IP address will be able to join.
The procedures for starting public and private sessions are very similar. In order to join your session, the participants will usually need to know the IP (Internet Protocol) address of your computer. The exception is if you are holding the session over a LAN, in which case the other players do not
need to know your IP address. For a public session, your partners can retrieve your IP from the list server. For a private session, you must provide the IP address directly to the desired participants. When the session starts, RealFlight G4 will display your IP in the lower left corner of the main display.
To access the Host… menu item, click on the Multiplayer menu followed by the Host… menu item.
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Host Information-
The Host Information allows you the ability to name your multiplayer session. You can also choose the maximum number of pilots and whether or not you wish to make your multiplayer session public or private.
Session Name-
Using the keyboard, enter the name of the session that you will be hosting.
Please note: this is the name of your session, not necessarily your personal name. In fact, you might find it useful to use a descriptive name such as “3D Fun Fly.” This is particularly useful when other participants are searching for a likely session to join.
Max Players-
To adjust the maximum number of players allowed in your session, click the down arrow. Enter the number directly from your keyboard or use the mouse wheel.
Currently, a multiplayer session may not have more than eight members. If the host computer is somewhat slow or has a poor internet connection, you may want to limit the number of participants.
Optional Port Number-
For users that are behind firewalls, you may want to use a port other than the default port (which is 2302). Most users should leave this field blank.
Broadcast to the List Server-
Clicking this option allows your session to be posted on the list server. This allows other RealFlight G4 users to join your session. This is a good option if you are looking for new (or additional) partners to fly with. If you check this box, you will be prompted for session information (see next section).
If you leave this box unchecked, your session will not be posted on our list server and you will have a private session. You will have to directly provide
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your IP address to your multiplayer partners (through phone, email, chat room, or whatever means you wish). This is a good option if you want to limit your session to a private group of friends.
If you do not want to broadcast your session information now, you can do so after the start of the session (see section pertaining to Publish Hosting Information on page 186).
Finally, please remember that at the time of this writing, we are providing the list server on a trial basis only. This service may be modified, interrupted or discontinued at any time without notice.
Join
This option allows you to participate in a Multiplayer session without being the Host of the session yourself.
To access the Join… menu item, click on the Multiplayer menu followed by the Join… menu item.
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Before you can join a session, you will need two things:
A network connection and
The IP address of the session Host (unless the session is taking place over a LAN [Local Area Network]).
You can get the IP address directly from the Host (in the case of a private session), or from our list server (in the case of a public session).
Join Session-
This dialog allows you to select the multiplayer session that you wish to join. It also provides you with a variety of information pertaining to the various sessions available to you.
Search Function-
The Search function checks two distinct areas for multiplayer sessions. RealFlight G4 (at your discretion) will search the list server and the Local Network for multiplayer sessions.
To determine the Search area, click the down arrow next to the Start button. This activates the pull-down selections. Click on the location that you wish to search.
After making your selection, click the Start button to begin the search. When the search completes, the respective sessions and information appear in the dialog above. To select one of these sessions, click on the respective session
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and then click OK. Alternatively, you may double-click on the Session Name to join.
Note: if you are using an updated version of Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later), you may have Windows Firewall installed and running. If this is the case, Windows Firewall will pop up a warning dialog (similar to that shown below) the first time you use the Search function. You must select the Unblock option in order to allow RealFlight G4 to continue searching.
Session Name-
The Session Name column displays the name of all available sessions. If you have not searched (and found) a session, or entered an IP address, the Session Name will remain blank.
Host-
This column shows the IP address of the host computer. If you have accessed the address via the Search function, this information is automatically filled in for you when you select the session. If you participate in a multiplayer session via a LAN, you do not need to fill in the IP address. If you participate in a private session, fill in the IP address here. When completed, click OK to proceed.
Port-
This information is important if you are attempting to participate in a multiplayer session and the computer is located behind a firewall or NAT. The Port Number will route your computer’s data through the firewall. It is imperative that this port number matches the port number of the host.
Players-
This column shows the users how many players are participating in a given multiplayer session. The host determines the number of allowable participants.
Latency-
Latency is the amount of time it takes a packet of information to travel from its source to the destination. The larger the number, the slower the information travels. High latency can result in sluggishness and “lag” while running the simulation. As such, you will want to avoid sessions where the latency number is high.
Disconnect…
This menu item is used to disconnect from, or exit, the multiplayer session.
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To access the Disconnect… menu item, click on the Multiplayer menu followed by the Disconnect… menu item.
Please note: if you are not currently participating in a multiplayer session, this item will be grayed out and will not be accessible.
Boot Player…
This menu item is used to drop a participant from a multiplayer session. It is only available if you are the Host of the session. Otherwise, this item is grayed out and inaccessible.
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To access the Boot Player… menu item, click on the Multiplayer menu followed by the Boot Player… menu item.
The booted player will receive an on-screen message advising him/her that the host has booted (removed) them from the session.
Publish Hosting Information
You can make your session public (placed on the list server) when you first start the session. Alternatively, you can do this while the session is in progress by selecting this menu item. When you click OK, RealFlight G4 publishes your session information to the list server, where everyone can see it.
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Please note: at the time of this writing, we are providing the list server on a trial basis only. This service may be modified, interrupted or discontinued at any time without notice.
Enter MultiMode
MultiMode allows you to fly with another pilot on the same PC, with each pilot controlling his or her own aircraft. This feature is ideal for offering personal flight instruction, practicing formation flights, or simply for chasing one another across the skies.
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To access the MultiMode menu item, click on the Multiplayer menu followed by the MultiMode menu item.
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MultiMode will split the screen either horizontally (default) or vertically. You can change this options in the Settings window. Simply click the Simulation menu, followed by Settings. On the left side of the Settings screen that appears, choose Multiplayer. On the right, you can adjust the Multimode Screen Layout to Horizontal or Vertical.
All options available in RealFlight are also available in MultiMode. The difference is most will function on the half of the screen that currently is active. To determine which half has the focus or is active, look for the yellow outline. To change focus, click the half that doesn’t have the yellow outline. You’ll notice the focus change when you do so.
For example, if you are flying in MultiMode with a horizontally split screen, you might notice that the yellow outline is around the type half. If you want to change the aircraft for the person flying on the bottom half of the screen, first click that half of the window so it has the focus or is the active screen. Select an aircraft following the normal procedure.
To exit MultiMode, select Exit MultiMode menu item under the Multiplayer main menu.
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Recordings Menu
Save and playback RealFlight memories.
he Recordings menu is used to start and stop recordings to assist you in your R/C ventures. RealFlight G4 also allows you to record your flights for later
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playback -- complete with audio voiceovers. You can even share your flights with friends and fellow pilots.
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Menu options that are available for Recordings are:
Start/Stop Recording
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Open Recording
Record Microphone Input
Recordings MRU
Start Recording
Click on the Recording menu followed by the Start Recording menu item. RealFlight G4 will start recording your flight immediately. An on-screen message will confirm that the recording has started.
Alternatively, you may also press the keyboard’s ‘R’ key to start a recording.
RealFlight will continue recording your flight until you select the Stop Recording menu item or press ‘R’ again to stop recording.
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Stop Recording
The Stop Recording menu item is not visible until the Start Recording menu item activates. To stop the recording of your flight at any time, click the Recording menu title, followed by the Stop Recording option. RealFlight G4 will stop recording at this time. RealFlight G4 automatically saves all recordings for playback later. For information on how to delete a recording, please see the Open Recording… section which follows.
Alternatively, you may also press the keyboard’s ‘R’ key to stop recording.
When RealFlight G4 stops recording, an on-screen message appears which indicates the default name of the recording that has just been completed. For information on how to change the name of a recording, please see the Open Recording… section which follows.
Open Recording…
This menu item allows you to access the recording files. It also allows you to perform a variety of modifications to the files such as renaming them or deleting them. To access the recordings, click the Recording menu title, followed by the Open Recording… menu item.
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To open a recording, click on the file name. Next, click on the Open button. Alternatively, you may double-click on the file. Regardless of which method you utilize, this will start RealFlight’s Playback Gadget. For more information on the Playback Gadget, please refer to the information below.
If you wish to rename the recording, simply right click on the respective Recording, select rename from the drop-down menu and rename the file.
To delete a recording, right click on the Recording file and select Delete from the pull­down list.
Playback Gadget-
When you open a recording, RealFlight G4’s playback gadget appears on the screen. This gadget allows you to control the playback of the recordings using simple mouse commands. It features DVD-like controls that start, stop, or pause the playback. It is also possible to modify the playback gadget.
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If you do not wish to view the playback information, double-click the title bar of the display box. This will hide the information. To view it once again, simply double-click the title bar again.
To resize the playback gadget display, position the cursor over the lower right corner of the frame. Using the mouse drag the frame according to your wishes. Dragging the frame to the right or left increases or decreases the width of the viewport, respectively.
Clicking on the ‘X’ in the viewport’s title tab removes it from the screen and exits the playback.
Loop Play-
The arrows that forms a circle causes the recording to loop (i.e., play continuously). The continuous loop is activated when the arrows are illuminated. To stop the looping, click on the loop button again.
Look at Recording-
Click on the ‘eye’ to look at the respective Recording. This causes the camera to treat the recording as its target object, rather than your aircraft. If you have multiple recordings playing, choose the ‘eye’ of the Recording you wish to view.
Left/Right Arrows-
The left and right arrows rewind (left) or fast forward (right) the recording. Alternatively, you may click on the position indicator, hold the mouse button and drag the indicator to the desired position.
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Playback/Pause-
If the recording is paused, the playback button will be the single arrow pointing to the right. To resume playback of the recording, click this arrow.
If the recording is playing, the playback button will switch to a pause button. To pause playback, press this button. You may continue at any time by pressing the playback button once again.
Position of Recording-
The slider bar and position indicator are used to track the progress of the recording playback.
It is also possible to use the position indicator to select the point at which you wish the recording to begin playing. Using the mouse drag, position the slider bar to the position desired.
Record Microphone Input
RealFlight G4 also allows you to add your voice or other audio to the recordings. If selected, the Record Microphone Input menu item activates and allows you to record audio input to accompany your recording.
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Adding your voiceover to the recordings is a fantastic way to create personalized training lessons. This feature presents you with the ability to create your own Virtual Flight Instructions that you can share with other RealFlight G4 owners around the world!
Recordings MRU
If you have previously selected a recording, you will note that it appears on a list in the Recordings menu title. Lists such as this are commonly referred to as Most Recently Used, or MRU lists. The MRU list is limited to the eight most recently selected recordings. If you wish to view one of these recordings simply click on the name of the recording and it will begin.
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Training Menu
Practice makes perfect. RealFlight’s Training Aids make practicing a little more enjoyable.
ealFlight G4 offers a number of training aids. These training aids are designed for modelers of all skill levels.
Helicopter pilots will benefit from the Heli Hover Trainer, Heli Orientation Trainer and the helicopter Virtual Flight Instructions. The Heli Hover Trainer and Heli Orientation Trainer offer modelers the chance to practice their stick control and helicopter attitude recognition. With Virtual Flight Instructions, R/C professionals offer audio and visual instruction on how to perform basic, intermediate and advanced maneuvers.
Airplane modelers will also benefit from the Takeoff Trainer, Landing Trainer, Airplane Hover Trainer and Virtual Flight Instructions.
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Once you click on the Training menu, the following menu options appear:
Takeoff Trainer…
Landing Trainer…
Heli Hover Trainer…
Airplane Hover Trainer…
Heli Orientation Trainer…
Virtual Flight Instruction…
Takeoff Trainer
The Takeoff Trainer offers a great way for first time pilots to learn the basics of taking off an airplane. With this trainer, you have the ability to adjust wind settings, takeoff direction, and overall difficult to stay on the runway.
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To start the trainer, click Takeoff Trainer… menu item from the Training menu. The trainer will start automatically.
The Takeoff Trainer feature is based on RealFlight’s Flight School flying site. As such, you’ll notice that RealFlight automatically uses the Flight School airport. You’ll see that the NexSTAR trainer sitting at the end of the runway, waiting for your inputs. The goal is to takeoff as straight as possible down the runway, pulling back gently on the elevator. As you takeoff, you’ll notice a number of arrows in the sky. These arrows indicate the path that you should follow. The arrows will appear red in color if you are on the correct path, blue if you are not.
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You’ll also notice the menus have changed, which we’ll discuss here.
Trainer Menu-
The Trainer Menu contains the following menu items:
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Reset Aircraft
Boundary
Wind
Direction
Exit
Reset Aircraft-
If you crash or fly too far out of the boundary area, there are three ways to reset the aircraft:
1. Press the Reset button on the InterLink Elite controller. This is probably the fastest and simplest method.
2. Press the keyboard’s space bar.
3. Click the Reset Aircraft menu item
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Boundary-
The Boundary menu item allows you the change the size of the runway path for which you must stay inside while taking off. To change the size or the boundary, select the Boundary menu item from the Trainer menu. A sub­menu will appear with the following options.
None – Eliminates the boundary all together.
Small – Creates a tighter boundary which is excellent training for practicing
precise takeoffs.
Medium – Creates a medium path boundary.
Large – Creates a large boundary.
Once you select a boundary size, you’ll notice one blue line on either side of the runway. During takeoff, you must try to stay inside these lines. If you get too close, they will turn red. Correct the flight path of your airplane so that you are more centered on the runway.
Wind-
Not everyday can be an ideal day to fly. Every pilot must learn how to takeoff with different wind conditions. The Wind menu will allow you to adjust the direction of the wind. When you select the Wind menu item, the following options will appear.
None – Turns the wind off to simulate a calm day.
Crosswind Left – This will set the wind to blow from the left of the aircraft.
Crosswind Right – This will set the wind to blow from the right of the aircraft.
Upwind (Normal) – Upwind will set the wind to blow towards the nose of the aircraft.
Downwind (Dangerous) – This will create a tail wind, making it more difficult to takeoff due to the decrease in airspeed.
Direction-
The Direction menu will allow you to change the direction in which you takeoff. For an R/C pilot, you don’t have the luxury of sitting in the airplane, so you must learn how to control the airplane from any direction. Selecting the Direction menu will show the following options.
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Left to Right – Take off from the left side of the runway, heading to the right.
Right to Left – Take off from the right end of the runway, heading to the left.
Exit-
If you wish to leave the Takeoff Trainer and return to the simulation, select the Exit menu item.
Landing Trainer
The old saying goes, “Take offs are easy, landings are the hard part.” Once you master the Takeoff Trainer, the next step is to learn how to land, which is what the Landing Trainer is designed to do.
To start the Landing Trainer, click the Training menu, followed by the Landing Trainer… menu item.
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You’ll notice that RealFlight switched airports to Flight School, if you were not there already. For this training session, you’ll be piloting Hobbico’s NexSTAR. You’ll also have options, should you wish, to adjust where to start the landing, wind direction, and how difficult it should be to hit the runway.
For landings, it’s important to understand the different legs during the approach to the runway.
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When you start the Landing Trainer, you’ll notice a new menu has appeared.
Trainer Menu-
The Trainer Menu contains the following menu items:
Reset Aircraft
Boundary
Wind
Direction
Leg
Exit
Reset Aircraft-
If you crash or fly outside the boundary, there are three ways to reset the aircraft:
1. Press the Reset button on the InterLink Elite controller. This is
probably the fastest and simplest method.
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2. Press the keyboard’s space bar.
3. Click the Reset Aircraft menu item.
Boundary-
The Boundary menu item allows you the change the size of the runway path in which you must land between. To change the size or the boundary, select the Boundary menu item from the Trainer menu. A sub-menu will appear with the following options.
None – Eliminates the boundary all together.
Small – Creates a tighter boundary which is excellent training for precise landings.
Medium – Creates a medium path boundary.
Large – Creates a large boundary.
Once you select a boundary size, you’ll notice one blue line on either side of the runway. During your landing, you must try to stay between these lines. If you get too close, they will turn red. Correct the flight path of your airplane so that you are more centered on the runway.
Wind-
Every pilot must learn how to land with different wind conditions. In some respects, this can be more difficult than takeoffs, since you must learn how to deal with different wind conditions for each leg of the approach. The Wind menu will allow you to adjust the direction of the wind. When you select the Wind menu item, the following options will appear.
None – Turns the wind off to simulate a calm day.
Crosswind Left – This will set the wind to blow left across the runway.
Crosswind Right – This will set the wind to blow from the right across the
runway.
Upwind (Normal) – Upwind will set the wind to blow towards the nose of the aircraft as you are on your final leg.
Downwind (Dangerous) – This will create a tail wind during the final leg, making it more difficult to land due to the decrease in airspeed.
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Direction-
It’s important to learn how to land from any direction. This menu item will change the approach direction to learn the controls from a different aspect. The choices that appear when you select the Direction menu item are as follows.
Left to Right – This will set you up to land on the runway from the left end flying towards the right.
Right to Left - This will set you up to land on the runway from the right end flying towards the left.
Leg-
The Leg menu item allows you to practice each leg of the approach. The options are as follows.
Downwind – This sets the aircraft up on the downwind side, or parallel to the runway. From here, you must fly the Downwind, turn to Base, and then the Final for the landing.
Base – This sets the aircraft up for the Base leg of the approach. You must complete the Base leg and then turn to the Final leg prior to landing.
Final – The Final leg will set you up for the landing.
When the training lesson begins, the NexSTAR will be placed at the beginning of the Leg you choose. Simply hit the Reset button on the InterLink Elite to begin flying.
Exit-
If you wish to leave the Landing Trainer and return to the simulation, select the Exit menu item.
Heli Hover Trainer
The Heli Hover Trainer offers you a great way to learn how to precisely control a helicopter in a hover. With the Heli Hover Trainer, you pick which channels you wish to control and RealFlight will take care of the rest for you.
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To start the trainer, click Heli Hover Trainer… menu item from the Training menu. The trainer will start automatically.
You’ll notice a circle on the ground. This circle represents the training boundary. If your helicopter ventures beyond this boundary, it will break apart and the session will begin once again. You’ll also note two ‘X’ marks within the boundary. The circle represents the true center of the boundary, the ‘X’ represents the current location of your helicopter. The goal is to control the helicopter in a stable hover, keeping it as close to the center of the circle as possible.
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You’ll also notice that the menu options have changed.
Trainer Menu-
The Trainer Menu contains the following menu items:
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Reset Aircraft
Boundary
Crashes
Exit
Reset Aircraft-
If you crash or fly outside the circle, there are three ways to reset the aircraft:
1. Press the Reset button on the InterLink Elite controller. This is probably the fastest and simplest method.
2. Press the keyboard’s space bar.
3. Click the Reset Aircraft menu item.
Boundary-
The Boundary menu item allows you to change the size of the circle, or eliminate it altogether. To change the size of the boundary, select the Boundary menu item from the Trainer menu. A drop down menu will appear with the following options.
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None – Eliminate the boundary circle.
Small – Creates a small circle.
Medium – Creates a medium sized circle.
Large – Creates a large circle.
Crashes-
After a crash, RealFlight may automatically reset your helicopter for you, if so desired. This option is on by default. If you would prefer to turn this option off, select the Crashes menu item, then select the Automatically Reset Aircraft. If a checkmark appears next to this menu item, then this feature is activated. If the checkmark does not appear, it is not active.
If Automatically Reset Aircraft is enabled, you may adjust how quickly the reset happens. To adjust this delay, select the Crashes menu item followed by the Reset Delay menu item. Four options will be available to you:
None – No delay will be set. The aircraft will reset immediately.
Short – The aircraft will reset approximately one second after it crashes.
Medium – The aircraft will reset approximately three seconds after it
crashes.
Long – The aircraft will reset approximately six seconds after it crashes.
Exit-
If you wish to leave the Heli Hover Trainer and return to the simulator, select the Exit menu item.
Orientation Menu-
The Orientation menu allows you the option to select the position and attitude of the heli when the session begins or the helicopter is reset.
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A checkmark will appear next to the currently selected orientation. The options available are:
Random Upright – The heli will start in the upright position, but it will randomly face either to the right, left, nose out, or nose in.
Random Inverted – The heli will start in the inverted position, but it will randomly face either to the right, left, nose out, or nose in.
Nose Out – The heli will start upright, facing nose out. This option is the best selection for beginning heli pilots.
Nose In – The heli will start upright, facing nose in.
Left – The heli will start upright, facing to the left.
Right – The heli will start upright, facing to the right.
Nose Out Inverted – The heli will start inverted, facing nose out.
Nose In Inverted – The heli will start inverted, facing nose in.
Left Inverted – The heli will start inverted, facing to the left.
Right Inverted – The heli will start inverted, facing to the right.
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Control Menu-
The Control menu allows you to select which channel or channels to control. All other channels are controlled by RealFlight, allowing you to learn just the controls you wish, and adding more as you become more comfortable and confident.
A checkmark will appear in the menu next to the currently selected item. Your options are:
Pitch Only – You control only the pitch of the heli, RealFlight will control the roll, yaw, and throttle.
Roll Only – You control only the roll of the heli, RealFlight will control the pitch, yaw, and throttle.
Yaw Only – You control only the yaw of the heli, RealFlight will control the roll, pitch, and throttle.
Throttle Only – You control only the throttle of the heli, RealFlight will control the roll, yaw, and pitch.
Throttle, Pitch – You control both the throttle and pitch of the heli, RealFlight will control the roll, and yaw.
Throttle, Roll – You control both the throttle and roll of the heli, RealFlight will control the pitch, and yaw.
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Throttle, Yaw – You control both the throttle and yaw of the heli, RealFlight will control the roll, and pitch.
Throttle, Pitch, Roll, Yaw – You control all channels for the heli.
Airplane Hover Trainer
The Airplane Hover Trainer offers you a great way to learn how to control an aerobatic airplane in a torque roll. With the Airplane Hover Trainer, you pick which channels you wish to control. RealFlight automatically controls the rest.
To start the trainer, click Airplane Hover Trainer… menu item from the Training menu. The trainer will start automatically.
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You’ll notice a circle on the ground. This circle represents the training boundary. If your airplane ventures beyond this boundary, it will break apart and the session will begin once again. You’ll also not two ‘X’ marks within the boundary. One represents the true center of the boundary; the second is your airplane location. The goal is to control the airplane in a stable hover, keeping it as close to the center of the circle as possible.
You’ll also notice the menus have changed, which we’ll explain here.
Trainer Menu-
The Trainer Menu contains the following menu items:
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Reset Aircraft
Boundary
Crashes
Exit
Reset Aircraft-
If you crash or fly outside the circle, there are three ways to reset the aircraft:
1. Press the Reset button on the InterLink Elite controller. This is probably the fastest and simplest method.
2. Press the keyboard’s space bar.
3. Click the Reset Aircraft menu item.
Boundary-
The Boundary menu item allows you the change the size of the circle, or eliminate altogether. To change the size or the boundary, select the Boundary menu item from the Trainer menu. A drop down menu will appear with the following options.
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None – Eliminates the boundary circle.
Small – Creates a small circle.
Medium – Creates a medium-sized circle.
Large – Creates a large circle.
Crashes-
After a crash, RealFlight may automatically reset your aircraft for you, if so desired. This option is on by default. If you would prefer to turn this option off, select the Crashes menu item, then select the Automatically Reset Aircraft. If a checkmark appears next to this menu item, then this feature is activated. If the checkmark does not appear, it is not active.
If Automatically Reset Aircraft is enabled, you can adjust how quickly the reset happens. To adjust this delay, select the Crashes menu item followed by the Reset Delay menu item. Four options will be available to you:
None – No delay will be set. The aircraft will reset instantaneously.
Short – The aircraft will reset approximately one second after it crashes.
Medium – The aircraft will reset approximately three seconds after it crashes.
Long – The aircraft will reset approximately six seconds after it crashes.
Exit-
If you wish to leave the Airplane Hover Trainer and return to the simulator, select the Exit menu item.
Orientation Menu-
The Orientation menu allows you the option to select the position and attitude of the helicopter when the session begins or the airplane is reset.
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A checkmark will appear next to the currently selected orientation. The options available are:
Random – The airplane will start in a random position, with either the top, bottom, left side or right side facing you.
Top – The airplane will start with the top of the aircraft facing you.
Bottom – The airplane will start with the bottom of the aircraft facing you.
Left – The airplane will start with the left side of the aircraft facing you.
Right – The airplane will start with the right side of the aircraft facing you.
Control Menu-
The Control menu allows you to select which channel or channels to control. The remaining channels are controlled by RealFlight, allowing you to learn just the controls you wish, and adding more as you become more comfortable and confident.
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A checkmark will appear in the menu next to the currently selected item. Your options are:
Elevator Only – Check this to control only the elevator of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the throttle, ailerons, and rudder for you.
Aileron Only – Check this to control only the ailerons of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the throttle, elevator, and rudder for you.
Rudder Only – Check this to control only the rudder of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the throttle, ailerons, and elevator for you.
Throttle Only – Check this to control only the throttle of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the elevator, ailerons, and rudder for you.
Throttle, Elevator – Check this to control the throttle and elevator of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the ailerons and rudder for you.
Throttle, Aileron – Check this to control the throttle and ailerons of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the elevator and rudder for you.
Throttle, Rudder – Check this to control the throttle and rudder of the aircraft. RealFlight will control the elevator and ailerons for you.
Throttle, Aileron, Elevator, Rudder – Check this to control all four channels. You will not receive any assistance from RealFlight.
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Heli Orientation Trainer
As you become more proficient with hovering a helicopter, you can test your skills with the Heli Orientation Trainer. The Heli Orientation Trainer challenges you to keep your helicopter in the same location as the trainer helicopter. As you succeed in doing so, the trainer helicopter will move, and the level of difficulty will increase.
To start the trainer, select Heli Orientation Trainer menu item from the Training menu.
The Heli Orientation Trainer has a number of different levels, each with an increasing level of difficulty than the previous. To pass a level you must hover your helicopter in close proximity to the trainer helicopter. As you do so, the trainer helicopter will turn from blue to red, and the progress bar at the top of the screen will increase, indicating that your task is nearly complete.
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In the upper right corner, a countdown timer is visible. This is the amount of time you have to fill the progress bar and complete the task. If you fail to do so, both the timer, and the progress bar will reset to zero. You must begin once again.
The number displayed in the upper left corner indicates the number of locations the trainer helicopter will stop for the current level. It will also indicate how many of these locations you have completed. For example, if it displays 1/3, you have successfully completed one spot out of three for the current level.
As you advance to the next level, you may be responsible for controlling more channels, the allotted time might also decrease and the trainer heli will stop in more locations. Additionally, you might experience any combination of these circumstances to increase the difficulty.
Heli Orientation Menu-
The Heli Orientation menu is the only menu accessible while the trainer is running. Two options are available in the Heli Orientation menu:
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Select Level-
A drop-down menu will display the levels available to you. For example, if you have only progressed to Level 2, you will not be able to access Level 3 or higher in this menu.
A checkmark will appear next to the level you are currently flying.
Exit-
To return to the simulator, select Exit to leave the Heli Orientation Trainer.
Virtual Flight Instruction
RealFlight Generation 4 includes on-screen flight training from some of R/C’s best pilots. John Glezellis, Frank Noll Jr., Jason Shulman, Pete Niotis, Todd Bennett, Brian Bremer and Jim Bourke are your instructors taking you through a variety of skill levels of R/C. There are basics for beginners as well as more advanced maneuvers for intermediate pilots. G4 also includes instructions on how to perform some of today’s hottest 3D flight maneuvers! G4 includes voice instruction as well as an on-screen
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radio that shows the exact movements that the instructor is using. VFI is the perfect training tool for pilots of all skill levels.
To access the VFI menu item, click the Training menu followed by the Virtual Flight Instruction… menu item. Alternatively, you may also access the VFI by pressing the ‘V’ key on the keyboard. Determine whether you wish to participate in a helicopter or airplane training session. Open the respective genre by clicking the [+] (plus) or double-clicking the listing. Next, select the pilot you wish to view. To select and begin your training, either double-click the respective maneuver or highlight the maneuver and click OK.
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By default, G4’s radio gadget appears on-screen. This digital transmitter is a visual guide to display the stick inputs, in real-time, utilized for the recordings. For additional information, please refer to the Radio- section on page 245.
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View Menu
Adjust your vantage point, change your perspective and more.
his menu allows you to adjust the various view-related features and functions for the simulation. The View menu adjusts what you are looking at as well as
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where you are looking from.
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Show
Camera Type
Camera Position
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Look at
Quick Look
Zoom Type
Zoom In
Zoom Out
Zoom Reset
Head Tracking
Show
The Show menu item is used to determine whether to show or hide scenery objects in the airport.
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Selecting this item brings forth a pull-down menu with a list of items you can show (make visible within the simulation) or hide (remove from visibility). To show items, check them in the drop-down menu. To hide items, click on them to remove their respective checkmark.
If the frame rate slows dramatically, try eliminating some of the items listed in the Show menu title. This will improve the frame rate.
To access this menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Show menu item.
Camera Type
The Camera Type menu item determines the Camera Type for the active viewport. Each viewport is independently adjustable. Select from a Fixed Position, Cockpit or a Chase view.
If more than one viewport is open, click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Camera Type adjustments, click on the View menu followed by the Camera Type menu item. Select your preferred view from the pull-down list.
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Alternatively, you may press the keyboard’s ‘C’ key to toggle through the available Camera Type options.
Please note: some airports do not allow Camera Type adjustments.
Fixed Position-
In this mode, the camera remains in a fixed, stationary position. The position is determined by the Camera Position setting.
Cockpit-
The Cockpit selection places the camera inside the aircraft as if you were a full-scale pilot.
To magnify the view or zoom in on the selected item, press the [+] (plus) key on the keyboard. Each time you press the [+] (plus) key or select the Zoom In menu item, the zoom level increases incrementally. Alternatively, you may select the Zoom In option from the View menu.
To decrease the magnification, or zoom away from the selected item, press the [-] (minus) key on the keyboard. Each time you press the [-] (minus) key or select the Zoom Out menu item, the zoom level decreases incrementally. Alternatively, you may select the Zoom Out option from the View menu.
Chase-
The Chase mode positions the camera behind the aircraft. The camera will follow the aircraft as it moves.
To magnify the view or zoom in on the selected item, press the [+] (plus) key on the keyboard. Each time you press the [+] (plus) key or select the Zoom In menu item, the zoom level increases incrementally. Alternatively, you may select the Zoom In option from the View menu.
To decrease the magnification, or zoom away from the selected item, press the [-] (minus) key on the keyboard. Each time you press the [-] (minus) key or select the Zoom Out menu item, the zoom level decreases incrementally. Alternatively, you may select the Zoom Out option from the View menu.
Camera Position
This menu item determines where the camera will be situated. Depending upon the airport selected, there may be one or more Pilot Spawn locations to use as camera positions.
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RealFlight G4 automatically picks the Pilot Spawn location that is closest to where the aircraft lands (or crashes, as the case may be).
To change the setting, click on the viewport to you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Camera Position adjustments, click on the View menu followed by the Camera Position menu item. Select your preferred view from the drop-down list.
You may also press the keyboard’s ‘X’ key to toggle through the available Camera Position options. If the airport has two pilot spawn locations, for example, pressing the ‘X’ key will toggle back and forth between these two locations.
Look At
This menu item changes what the camera looks at. Usually you will want the camera to remain focused on your aircraft.
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Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the list of things to look at, click on the View menu followed by the Look At menu item. Then select an item to look at. For example, if you are in a multiplayer or MultiMode session, the other players in the session will be listed in the popup menu. Select a player to look at his/her aircraft.
Quick Look
This feature allows you to quickly glance at an object. When you activate this option, the camera briefly looks at the selected item and then returns to the previous vantage point for the active viewport.
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Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Quick Look menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Quick Look menu item.
Using the InterLink Elite controller, you can also active the Quick Look options with the QuickSelect buttons. By pressing up on the Data Lever, RealFlight will briefly change the camera to look at the Wind Sock. Pressing down will briefly bring the Ground into view.
Alternatively, after you have activated the correct viewport, you can press a key on your keyboard to activate the Quick Look feature. The up arrow will look at the windsock, and the down arrow will look at the ground.
Zoom Type
The Zoom Type menu item allows you to change the type of zoom used in the simulation.
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Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Zoom Type menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Zoom Type menu item. Select the Zoom Type option that accomplishes your goal. You may choose between Manual, Autozoom, and Keep Ground in View.
Alternatively, after you have activated the correct viewport, press the keyboard’s ‘Z’ key. Each time you press the ‘Z’ key you will toggle to the next Zoom Type.
Autozoom-
This zoom type adjusts the zoom range based on the distance of the aircraft from the pilot. The camera automatically zooms in as the aircraft gets further from the pilot and then automatically zooms out as the aircraft gets closer to the pilot.
Keep Ground in View-
This zoom type adjusts the camera so that the aircraft and the ground are always in view. This is the only zoom type that disallows zooming in and out.
Manual-
This enables the standard view with zoom capabilities. See the Zoom In and Zoom Out sections below for more information.
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Zoom In
Once you have selected the type of zoom that you desire, RealFlight allows you to customize it further by zooming in.
Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Zoom In menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Zoom In menu item.
Alternatively, after you have activated the correct viewport, press the [+] (plus) key on your keyboard. Each time you press the [+] (plus) key you will zoom in incrementally.
Zoom Out
Once you have selected the type of zoom that you want you can customize it further by zooming out. Zooming Out decreases the magnification.
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Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Zoom Out menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Zoom Out menu item.
After you have activated the correct viewport, you may also press the [-] (minus) key on your keyboard. Each time you press the [-] (minus) key you will zoom out incrementally.
Zoom Reset
This selection resets the zoom magnification level to its default value. This is useful if you are zoomed way in or way out and want to return quickly to the default level of magnification.
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Click on the viewport that you wish to modify. This becomes the active view in the simulation. To access the Zoom Reset menu item, click on the View menu followed by the Zoom Reset menu item.
Once you have activated the correct viewport, you may also press the Backspace key on your keyboard to reset the zoom level.
Head Tracking
RealFlight G4 is compatible with TrackIR from NaturalPoint. With a TrackIR plugged into your computer, you can control the camera with the movement of your head as if you are at the field looking around.
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For example, if you are flying at a high altitude and wish to line up with the runway, at a flying field you would look down briefly. With the TrackIR, you would do the same at your computer. With a small movement of your head, you can look down at the runway and back up to your aircraft.
For more information about TrackIR, and where to purchase one, visit NaturalPoint’s website at:
http://www.naturalpoint.com/trackir/
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Window Menu
Tools to add more excitement to your RealFlight enjoyment.
he Window menu allows you to manage the existing windows or viewports, to create new ones, and to select from recently used Windows. The Window
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menu also gives you access to a variety of on-screen gadgets that offer real­time information about your current flight.
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The Window menu offers the following options:
Show Title Bar
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Gadgets
Arrange
Close All
Window list
Show Title Bar
This menu item determines whether or not the G4 title bar is displayed on the screen. By default, the title bar is enabled.
To access this menu item, click on the Window menu followed by the Show Title Bar. This will remove the RealFlight Generation 4 title bar from the screen. Please note: removing the title bar also eliminates the ability to minimize or maximize the screen.
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Gadgets
A Gadget is an on-screen display that provides you with information pertaining to a certain item in your simulation. To access the Gadgets menu item, click the Window menu followed by the Gadgets menu item. This will open the list of gadgets for the simulation.
Selecting this menu item will bring up the Gadgets list as follows:
NavGuides
Radio
Binocular
Viewport
Variometer
Console
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Chat
Edit NavGuides
Radio Mode (gadget only)
NavGuides-
A NavGuide is an on-screen display that allows you to view some basic information pertaining to your aircraft. If you wish to alter the contents of the NavGuide, please refer to the Edit NavGuides… section later in this chapter.
To access the NavGuides, click the Window menu title, followed by the Gadgets menu item. Next, click the NavGuides menu item. You may also bring up the NavGuides by pressing the keyboard’s ‘1’ key.
You may also load the NavGuides using the InterLink Elite with the QuickSelect buttons. Press the Menu/Select button. Then press down twice on the Data Lever until the NavGuides tab is highlighted. It looks like an aircraft gauge. Press the Menu/Select button again to activate the NavGuides. Repeat these steps to remove the NavGuides from the screen.
When the NavGuides are active, an overlay screen will appear on your display. This screen displays the NavGuides information to you.
If you do not wish to view this information, double-click on the title bar of the display box. This hides the information. To view it once again, simply double-click the title bar.
To resize the overlay, position the cursor over the arrow indication found in the lower right corner of the frame. Click and hold on the arrow. Using the mouse, drag the frame according to your wishes. If you drag it downward, the vertical size of the viewport will increase. Dragging the frame to the right or left increases or decreases the width of the viewport respectively.
Clicking on the ‘X’ in the title tab of the frame will remove it from the screen, entirely.
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Items included by default in the NavGuides are the following:
Altitude (ASL)-
This option displays the altitude for the respective aircraft above sea level. Even though the aircraft may be taxiing on the runway, the altitude may reflect hundreds or thousands of feet, if applicable.
Heading-
This option displays the heading of the aircraft. The heading is displayed in degrees, as they would appear on a compass. “0” degrees is North, “90” degrees is East, “180” degrees is South and “270” degrees is West.
Airspeed-
This option displays the airspeed for the aircraft.
RPM-
This option indicates the current revolutions per minute, or RPM’s, for the engine.
Graphics Frames/Sec-
This is an abbreviated version of Frames per Second, or FPS. While the data displayed is not relevant to your aircraft, it is used to provide you with feedback on how your computer is performing at any given time. The higher the frames per second, the smoother the simulation will appear.
Wind-
This option displays the current wind speed at the flying site.
Radio-
The on-screen radio display is useful for many facets of flight. For example, when used in conjunction with Virtual Flight Instruction, this allows you to see real-time control input from the professionals. Observing the link between controller movements and aircraft performance will advance your knowledge and understanding of a maneuver.
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