Great Planes RealFlight 6 User Manual
GREAT PLANES
RealFlight 6 and the
InterLink Elite Controller
Great Planes Model Manufacturing Company
P.O. BOX 788, Urbana, IL 61801
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
RealFlight 6 Feature Highlights 2
How to read this manual 6
Before You Begin 7
System Requirements 7
Video and Sound Cards 8
Getting the Most out of RealFlight 9
Getting Started 11
Installing RealFlight 6 11
Using Your Own R/C Radio 17
Exploring RealFlight 6 18
Keyboard Commands 34
Where to Go From Here 36
The InterLink Elite Controller 39
Start Flying! 40
The Simulation Menu 43
Physics… 44
Flight Failures 46
Setup Failures 50
Import 55
Export 58
Manage User Files 60
Mute/Unmute Audio 62
Settings 63
Capture Screenshot 94
Show Title Bar 95
Exit 95
The Aircraft Menu 97
Aircraft Selection… 98
Edit Current Aircraft 100
Quick Edit… 113
Select Color Scheme 114
Save Color Scheme As… 115
Remember Aircraft Position 118
Clear Aircraft Position 119
Reset Position 119
Kill Engine 121
Aircraft MRU 122
The Environment Menu 123
Select Airport… 124
Edit
Current Airport…
Utilizing the Editor 138
126
Create New Airport 145
Sun- 145
Thermals- 147
Wind- 148
Reset to Default 149
Airport MRU 150
Controller Menu 153
Select Controller 154
Controller Calibration 155
Channel Mapping… 157
Joystick Mode vs. Transmitter Mode 160
InterLink Elite Controller (Joystick Mode)
160
InterLink Elite Controller (Transmitter
Mode) 161
Transmitter Mode: Joystick Emulation
Interface 163
Transmitter Mode: Pass Through Interface
164
InterLink Elite Controller Tips 165
Gadgets Menu 167
NavGuides 168
Radio 169
Binocular 170
Viewport 172
Variometer 173
Multiplayer 174
Overhead 174
Timer 175
Quick Load 176
Close All 177
Edit NavGuides… 178
Multiplayer Menu 185
Pilot Profile 187
Join 189
Host 194
Disconnect… 197
Host Options 197
Scoreboard 206
Server Details… 209
Game Help… 211
Game Gadgets 212
Select Target 215
Simulation Sounds 217
Voice Chat 218
Text Chat 222
Enter MultiMode 223
Recordings Menu 227
Start Recording 228
Stop Recording 228
Open Recording… 229
Record Microphone Input 232
Recordings MRU 233
Training Menu 235
Takeoff Trainer 236
Landing Trainer 241
Heli Hover Trainer 247
Heli Autorotation Trainer 253
Heli Orientation Trainer 257
Airplane Hover Trainer 260
Virtual Flight Instruction 267
View Menu 271
Scenery 271
Effects 272
Camera Type 274
Camera Position 277
Look At 278
Zoom Type 278
Zoom In 280
Zoom Out 280
Zoom Reset 281
Head Tracking 282
Help Menu 285
Contents 285
Keyboard Commands 286
About 288
License 289
Websites 290
Basics of Flying 293
Airplane Basics 293
Helicopter Basics 296
Helicopter Flight 301
RealFlight 6 Launcher 303
Run RealFlight 304
Additional Options 304
If You Experience Difficulties313
How to Get Help and Information 313
Before You Do Anything Else 314
If You Need Additional Assistance 316
Examples of Common Problems and
Solutions 317
Glossary 319
Index 341
License 345
Credits 349
Chapter
1
R
Introduction
Welcome to the RealFlight 6 R/C Flight Simulator
ealFlight 6 is without question, the most advanced R/C aircraft simulation
available. RealFlight 6 is so technologically advanced and so realistic, you’ll
find it hard to believe that it’s only a simulation. The culmination of over
fourteen years of development and design, RealFlight 6 offers advancements
that will serve to fine-tune the flying skills of even the most seasoned R/C veteran. If
you’re an entry-level R/C-er, RealFlight 6 is the ideal way to learn to fly, practice
maneuvers, feel the effects of design modifications, or just have an incredible amount
of fun.
RealFlight 6 includes over 100 models that look and fly like the real thing, plus a
multitude of flying sites (each with their own unique “feel” and distinctive
characteristics). In addition, RealFlight 6 offers its users the most powerful, flexible
aircraft and flying site editors ever unveiled to the modeling community; allowing
modelers to experiment with a virtually unlimited number of parameters. RealFlight 6
enables you to change the look and feel of a flying site with nothing more than a few
keystrokes, a click of the mouse and a little imagination. The integrated AccuModel™
aircraft editor makes modifying aircraft just as easy.
RealFlight 6 also offers a wide array of tools to help you understand how to use the
program and how to improve your R/C piloting skills. This extensive manual explains
every feature and option; as well as how to use them. We offer a number of training
aids and assistance including (but not limited to): our Virtual Flight Instruction, Heli
Hover Trainer, Airplane Hover Trainer, Takeoff and Landing Trainer, Heli
Autorotation Trainer and Heli Orientation Trainer. These helpful training aids provide
on-the-fly learning opportunities, and we encourage you to take full advantage of them.
No other R/C simulator goes further to enrich your R/C experience.
The following section briefly outlines some of the exciting features in RealFlight 6.
Subsequent chapters will describe all RealFlight features in complete detail. We strongly
suggest that you peruse this manual in its entirety, as it explains every feature and
option, as well as how to use them.
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Finally, we’d like to express our gratitude to you for purchasing RealFlight. We think
you will be enormously pleased with RealFlight 6. Have fun flying!
RealFlight 6 Feature Highlights
This section briefly outlines some of the features included in RealFlight 6 with the USB
InterLink Elite Controller. RealFlight 6 and the multi-patented InterLink Elite
Controller incorporate a significant number of enhancements and improvements over
previous RealFlight systems.
USB InterLink Elite Controller-
The InterLink Elite Controller by Futaba is a revolutionary device that offers you the
following:
• A high quality USB controller for RealFlight 6.
• A built-in interface for (optionally) using your own R/C transmitter to control
RealFlight 6.
• QuickSelect™ Buttons—take control of RealFlight’s menus and options from
the InterLink Elite without touching the keyboard or mouse.
• The InterLink Elite Controller is fully hot swappable—you can connect and
disconnect the InterLink or your own transmitter without rebooting your
computer (or even shutting down RealFlight).
• High-speed response to control inputs.
• Digitally precise inputs with digital trims for unmatched control precision.
• MultiMode™ split screen capability allows you to use the InterLink Elite as a
controller and an interface simultaneously.
• A keyboard-free push button reset of the simulation.
• Instantly rewind your current flight and start over from any point.
• The ability to hand launch aircraft.
Menu-Driven Interface-
RealFlight 6 utilizes a drop-down menu-driven interface system. Created for ease of
use and maximum flexibility, the menu system provides an interface familiar to even a
casual computer user.
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Additional Features-
• RealPhysics™ 3D- One of the most ambitious models of flight in the world,
RealPhysics 3D is unmatched in its ability to re-create the lifelike characteristics
of model flying. RealFlight 6’s physics engine has been tried and approved by
world-class competition pilots like Frank Noll, Jr., Bobby Watts, and Matt
Botos. Furthermore, aircraft in RealFlight 6 behave with real-world
predictability because they are carefully modeled using advanced methods and
extensive real-world data. If it happens at the field or in the air, it’s re-created
with exacting detail in RealFlight 6!
• Float Fly- RealFlight 6 offers a number of flying sites with water along with a
variety of float fly aircraft. Practice your takeoffs or landings on water and
admire the view at the same time.
• Instant Rewind- Test your pattern flying over and over again with the new
Rewind feature. Hold the Reset button and watch your flight rewind. Let go
of the button at the point you wish to re-start your flight. Use the data lever
on the controller to seek forward or backwards through your flight.
• InterLink Elite QuickSelect™- With RealFlight 6’s InterLink Elite, you’re
able to make quick changes such as, selecting a different aircraft or airport
without touching the keyboard or mouse.
• Quick Load- Know the name of the aircraft or flying site you wish to use?
Open the Quick Load gadget to quickly search and load the aircraft.
• Quick Edit- If you ever wish to make minor refinements to the aircraft, but
don’t wish to dive into the complexity of the full aircraft editor, the Quick Edit
is the solution for you!
• Real Rendering™- Taking advantage of cutting edge 3D graphics
technology, RealFlight not only flies realistically; it also looks true to life.
• Variable Pitch Prop- Take 3D flight to 4D with the variable pitch prop.
Select the popular FlatOuts™ Extra 300S with V-Pitch and try amazing
maneuvers you didn’t think were possible with an airplane—like flying
backwards.
• Hovering Training Aids- Learn to torque roll or hover a heli with
RealFlight’s Heli and Airplane Hover Trainer. For more excitement, try the
Heli Orientation Trainer. Both are great training aids for anyone new to radio
control.
• Takeoff and Landing Training Aids- The RealFlight 6 simulator is a great
way for new pilots to learn the art of R/C flying. The best places to start are
training aids, designed to teach you the basics of takeoffs and landings.
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• Overhead View- This on-screen gadget helps you find and line up to the
runway for easier landings. Or use it to help find your friends during
multiplayer sessions.
• Sky Grid and Trails- Practice your precision maneuvers with these graphical
aids. Sky Grid will display a pattern in the sky for reference. Enable Trails and
you will see where your aircraft has flown; allowing you to perfect your
maneuvers.
• Night Flying- Just because the sun is down, doesn’t mean that you can’t fly.
The same is true with RealFlight night flying. Pick a nighttime airport and
watch as your aircraft lights up the sky.
• PhotoFields™- RealFlight 6 also includes ultra-realistic PhotoField airports.
Using incredible high resolution digital images, RealFlight PhotoField airports
are as real as it gets. The Import feature allows you to use your own panoramic
photos to create new flying sites.
• “Full Coverage” collision detection- Instead of using sensors at only a few
points along the aircraft, “Full Coverage” blankets the entire aircraft with
detection points ensuring that every part of an aircraft will not only register a
strike but, will react authentically. Contact can result in damage ranging from
minor handling problems to spectacular crashes complete with realistic sound
effects.
• TruFlo Wind Dynamics™- RealFlight 6 introduces modelers to R/C’s most
realistic wind model. All the components of TruFlo Wind Dynamics work
together to create the single most accurate wind field in any simulation. Wind
impacts every facet of your flight, just as it would at the local field.
• AccuModel™ Aircraft Editor- RealFlight 6’s aircraft editor is the most
powerful and most flexible editor ever introduced in an R/C simulator.
AccuModel allows you to change virtually every aspect of your model with
ease. It places over 1,500 airfoils at your disposal, a multitude of propellers, and
much, much more! AccuModel brings up a wire-frame model for easy
reference and highlights the editing area. Make a change and it’s immediately
reflected on-screen, ready for review and revision.
• Flying Sites with over 5,000 square miles to explore- RealFlight’s TrueLife
Terrain™ goes beyond the limitations of traditional simulator flight. Created
and mapped from satellite imagery, RealFlight 6’s landscape looks as “right”
and richly varied as the view from your front door. Digital elevation data
brings it all into accurate perspective.
• A living, breathing environment- Everything in RealFlight 6’s 3D world is
as realistic as possible; complete with depth and details that transcend the
traditional “billboard” look of other simulators. You’ll see leaves and branches
that dance in a passing breeze and clouds that roll by with the prevailing winds.
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• FlexiField™ flying site editor- The FlexiField™ editor takes you beyond
2D scenes into a 3D environment rich in new objects and editing options.
Customize an existing field with new foliage, different objects, or both. Create
a new field with nothing more than a mouse, imagination and a few simple
keystrokes.
• InterLink™ Elite Controller- RealFlight 6’s InterLink Elite controller
functions as a controller, an interface, or both. Its push-button is capable of
resetting and rewinding the aircraft, or hand-launching a sailplane.
Additionally, the InterLink Elite is the key to navigating the QuickSelect menus
– select alternative aircraft, flying sites and more, all from the controller.
• Fly Split Screen- RealFlight 6’s MultiMode™ option allows two modelers to
fly simultaneously on one PC. It’s perfect for practicing formation flight, a
game of tag, or personalized flight instruction.
• VirtualRevolution™ sound technology- Doppler-correct stereo sounds
heighten the realistic effect with true sound recordings of 2-stroke, 4-stroke,
turbine, electric, ducted fan and gasoline engines. As the aircraft crosses the
field, the engine sound follows, just like its R/C counterpart.
• RotoSonics™ technology- Recreating distinctive engine/blade sounds with
startling accuracy. The sounds are so lifelike, you’ll swear you are at the field!
• VFI (Virtual Flight Instruction)- VFI gives you personal flight lessons from
R/C’s leading experts. Using VFI, you can select a maneuver (loop, roll, etc.)
from an extensive list of options. VFI then demonstrates the maneuver onscreen, performed by an expert. While you watch, the voice of the
pilot/instructor will explain how to perform the maneuver.
• AFR (Advanced Flight Recorder)- This feature allows the pilot to not only
view prerecorded maneuvers, but also to record maneuvers of his/her own as
well. RealFlight 6 even allows you to record your own audio for personalized
flight instruction. This feature also allows you to pause, speed up, slow down,
and loop the performance. The pilot has the option to activate the digitized
transmitter display, so that he/she can view the radio input while flying.
• NavGuides™- Using the NavGuides, you can display a variety of heads-up
on-screen information. Options range from altitude and airspeed to aircraft
heading and engine RPM. This feature improves your ability to “see” what is
going on in your virtual world.
• Viewport- You can open up a picture-in-picture display and treat it as an
independent “window on the world”. You can individually adjust each of the
viewport’s vantage points, zoom level, and direction of view.
• Multiplayer- You can fly with many other RealFlight 6 owners. Participate in
online competitions, or just enjoy the thrill of flying around with one another.
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This feature can also be used to learn new maneuvers from pilots across the
street or around the world.
• Combat Events- Compete in Streamer Cut, Paintball, Rocket and Machine
Gun combat. Or combine racing and combat in an exciting match of
DeadRinger™. Plug in a headset and microphone to your computer and chat
live during these contests.
• Animated control surfaces and retracts- Control surfaces, retracts,
propellers, and rotor blades move for added realism.
• Aircraft exhaust/smoke- You can control the color, density, “hang time”,
and other parameters related to airplane and helicopter smoke and exhaust.
• Streamers- Add streamers to any aircraft, to any location, in any color. Watch
as they corkscrew behind the airplane during a roll, or react accordingly to the
wind and the propwash.
• Flight Failures- RealFlight can simulate many common flight failures (radio
interference, stuck servos, engine failures, etc.). Use this feature to prepare for
emergencies at the field.
• Fully editable aircraft paint/decal schemes- Create customized trim
schemes for your aircraft. (To design your own paint scheme, you must use a
third-party program that edits TGA files.)
• Launcher- RealFlight 6’s Launcher allows for easy one-click access to
program upgrades, online registration, and technical support.
• Extensive Help materials- RealFlight 6 features extensive online tool tips
and diagrams, a detailed manual, and technical support to enhance your
enjoyment of the program.
How to read this manual
RealFlight 6 is a menu-driven program, which allows you to make quick changes
without having to reload the simulator each time. This manual will break out each
main menu to its own chapter. This allows you to quickly find information on features
and functions by the related menus.
Along with this manual, a large RealFlight community is available online to help and
discuss any topics with each RealFlight fan. This online support, in the form of a
forum, can be found at:
http://www.knifeedge.com/forums/
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Chapter
2
R
Before You Begin
To get the most out of RealFlight 6, it helps to first understand how to get
the most out of your computer.
ealFlight 6 is designed to work on a large variety of computer hardware.
Similar to a car, if you want to go faster, you need a bigger engine. The same
holds true with RealFlight. You’ll be able to enjoy the simulator on most
modern computers, but having the most up to date hardware for your
computer will greatly increase your enjoyment.
System Requirements
You will find the suggested system requirements for the RealFlight 6 R/C Flight
Simulator listed below. The minimum recommended system requirements are the bare
minimum PC configuration for installing RealFlight 6. Meeting the minimum
requirements will allow you to enjoy RealFlight 6. However, in order to take complete
advantage of the many features and functions offered by RealFlight 6, you should have
a computer that meets or exceeds the specifications as specified in the optimum system
requirements.
Minimum Recommended System-
- Some graphical features may be disabled
- Aerodynamic Calculations will still be high-quality
Windows®* XP, Windows* Vista™ or Windows* 7
*Administrator Access Required
Intel Pentium 1.0GHz or equivalent
512 MB RAM
5 GB Hard Drive Space
DVD Drive
3D Accelerated Video with:
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- 32 MB Dedicated Video Memory
- Full DirectX 9 compliant (Shader Model 2.0 or better)
Optimal System-
- For best graphical performance
Dual Core 2.4GHz CPU
2 GB RAM
3D Accelerated Video with:
- 512 MB dedicated video memory
Multiplayer Requirements-
Broadband connection
Computer microphone for voice chat
Video and Sound Cards
In order to achieve optimum performance and the best flying experience in RealFlight,
there are two important components of your computer that deserve special attention:
the video and sound cards.
RealFlight 6 has undergone countless hours of compatibility testing and evaluation. As
such, this software will adequately function with a variety of video cards—ranging
from yesterday’s favorites to tomorrow’s hits.
While RealFlight works well on a wide variety of hardware configurations, it offers
many features and functions that are designed to take particular advantage of the latest
video technology. If you have an older computer, or a newer computer with a lowerend video card, you may want to consider purchasing a new video card to take
advantage of these features and functions. This moderately priced upgrade can vastly
enhance your enjoyment of RealFlight. Aside from increasing your satisfaction with
RealFlight 6, a new video card will also work with many other games or simulators,
improving their performance as well.
For a list of the video cards that have been tested by our staff, please visit:
www.gpsoftware.com
While not as important as the video card, upgrading your sound card may also improve
your satisfaction with RealFlight. This is especially true if your computer uses an onboard sound card (a sound card affixed to the motherboard).
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Getting the Most out of RealFlight
We think you’ll agree that RealFlight offers the finest set of instructions and practice
tools of any R/C simulator suited for both beginners and experienced pilots. Great
Planes and Knife Edge Software are committed to the continual improvement of our
products. When using the software, you should keep two things in mind:
First, similar to other pursuits, what you get out of RealFlight depends upon what you
put into it. Mastering radio control requires a great deal of patience and practice. If
you crash an aircraft in the simulation, take it very seriously. Crashing an actual R/C
aircraft can cost you a lot of time and money. Try to identify what you did incorrectly,
and use the experience to avoid making the same mistake again.
Secondly, while the simulator is quite realistic and will assist you in learning many of the
skills necessary to become a proficient pilot, there is no substitute for actual flying time
at the field. A simulation can be a wonderful practice tool. However, no simulator, no
matter how realistic, can completely replace a qualified, experienced, human flight
instructor. If you are new to R/C, you should never attempt to fly a real aircraft
without the supervision of a qualified instructor; no matter how accomplished you are
on the simulator.
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Chapter
3
T
Getting Started
A brief overview and assistance to start you on your R/C adventure.
his chapter covers the installation procedure for RealFlight 6, it describes the
basics of running the program, and introduces you to some of RealFlight’s
frequently used features.
The first section, Installing RealFlight 6, offers a step-by-step approach to the installation
procedure for both the program software and the controller.
The second, Using your own R/C Radio, offers the instructions you need if you intend to
use your own R/C transmitter to control RealFlight 6. If you only wish to fly with the
InterLink Elite controller, you may choose to skip this section.
Finally, the third section, Exploring RealFlight 6, offers a brief tour of the RealFlight 6
program. You'll learn how to perform some basic functions, such as selecting the
aircraft you wish to fly, performing simple edits to the flying field, manipulating
viewports, and using RealFlight’s Virtual Flight Instruction feature.
This chapter only touches briefly on some of RealFlight 6’s features. We strongly
suggest that you also read the subsequent chapters, which describe the various features
in comprehensive detail.
Installing RealFlight 6
Regardless of whether you plan to use the InterLink controller by itself, or your own
R/C radio through the built-in transmitter interface, follow the instructions on
Program Installation in this section.
Program Installation-
RealFlight 6 features a simple, one-step installation process. There are, however,
further steps that must be followed prior to running the program for the first time.
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This section will explain how to install the RealFlight 6 software and hardware. Upon
completion of this section, you should be able to fly the aircraft on your PC.
The InterLink controller’s built-in transmitter interface also allows you to use your own
R/C transmitter to control RealFlight 6 should you opt to do so. To activate the
interface adapter, you will first need to follow the instructions in the section below.
This section explains how to use the transmitter interface option in the InterLink
controller.
Update Drivers-
Before you begin installation, we strongly suggest that you update the drivers
for both the sound and video cards on your PC. A driver is a software
program that your computer uses to control hardware devices. Each card has
its own respective driver. Most problems with installing and using RealFlight,
as well as many other programs that use Microsoft DirectX, arise from using
outdated video and/or sound card drivers.
If you are not sure how to update your drivers, you can find instructions in the
article Q01-1038, “Locating and installing drivers”, at the following address:
http://www.gpsoftware.com/kb/q01-1038.htm. This support article will take
you through the process step-by-step, and has links to driver download sites
for most manufacturers.
Installing the Software-
After you have completed installation of the new video and sound card drivers,
you are now ready to install RealFlight 6.
1. Before installing the software, make sure to close any applications that
you are running. This includes virus scanning software and other
similar background applications.
2. Insert the RealFlight disc into the appropriate DVD drive.
3. If Auto-Play is active, setup will begin automatically when the DVD
drive is closed. Simply click the Install button when prompted. If
Auto-Play is not active, click Start on the task bar. Next, click Run. In
the dialog box that appears, type ‘d:\setup’ (assuming that ‘d’ is your
DVD drive) and click OK.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup procedure. Upon
completion of the installation, click OK.
Installing or Updating DirectX-
1. RealFlight will ask if you wish to install DirectX 9 on your PC. It is
important that your PC utilizes DirectX 9.0c or later. Click OK to
proceed to the DirectX License Agreement.
2. Click "I accept the license agreement" to install DirectX 9.0c.
Alternatively, if you do not wish to update DirectX at this time, click
Cancel.
3. If you have opted to accept the license agreement, click Next to
proceed with the installation. DirectX will install the necessary files to
update your PC.
4. When prompted, click Finish. Your PC will power down and then
restart once again.
Connect the InterLink Controller-
The InterLink controller uses the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, so there is
little to do in the way of setup.
1. With the software installation procedure complete, firmly plug the
InterLink controller into an available USB port on the PC. Because
the controller is hot swappable, you do not have to shut the PC down
to plug the controller in.
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2. Shortly after plugging in the InterLink controller, a dialog box should
appear on the screen indicating that Windows has located a new device
and will then automatically install the necessary drivers.
Please note: It is possible that Windows will need to install the appropriate files
for the InterLink Elite controller to function properly. Please have your
Windows disc available in case it is required.
Starting RealFlight 6-
1. Double-click the RealFlight 6 Launcher located on your desktop.
2. Type the software serial number and the InterLink controller
serial number in the appropriate location. Please be sure to enter the
numbers exactly as they appear. Also note, you will need to input your
InterLink controller serial number, including the middle digits located
between the hyphens. Failure to enter the serial numbers correctly will
not allow you to proceed to the next step. Once the serial numbers
are entered properly, you will see that the OK button will now become
active and allow you to continue.
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3. Click OK. RealFlight 6 will attempt to activate your software. The
activation process must proceed in order to run RealFlight 6. If the
computer is not currently connected to the internet, this activation
process will fail to connect to the activation server and the following
window will appear.
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If you do not have internet access on the computer which RealFlight 6
is installed, follow the on-screen prompts. Write down the serial
numbers and activation code that appear and log on to
www.realflight.com/G6activation on a different computer to activate
RealFlight 6. Alternatively, you may contact Software Support via
email or phone.
4. Once activated, the RealFlight 6 Launcher will appear. Click Run
RealFlight. RealFlight 6 will start with the default aircraft and default
flying site.
Installing the Mega Pack-
If you purchased the full version of RealFlight 6 new with the InterLink Elite
controller, you also received a bonus Mega Pack. To install the Mega Pack,
follow the same procedure as you did for RealFlight 6. The serial number is
located on the paper sleeve that holds the disc.
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Using Your Own R/C Radio
The RealFlight 6 InterLink Elite controller has several different modes of operation.
By itself, it serves as a realistic ‘stand alone’ controller or joystick. Alternatively, it has a
built-in interface that lets you use your own R/C transmitter to control RealFlight 6.
The final mode of operation combines the InterLink Elite’s ability to serve as a
controller and an interface simultaneously.
Follow these instructions if you intend to use your own R/C transmitter to control
RealFlight 6. If you do not want to use your own transmitter, you may skip this
section.
Connecting Your Transmitter-
You can use your R/C transmitter to control RealFlight 6 by connecting it to the
InterLink Elite controller, ‘buddy box’ style (see diagrams). RealFlight 6 includes
several adapter cables used to make the connection to many popular R/C transmitters.
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Locate the cable input port on the rear of the InterLink Elite Controller. Plug one end
of the included connector cable into this port. Next, plug the other end of the adapter
cable into the buddy box port (a.k.a. trainer jack) of your transmitter. The procedure
for doing so depends on your transmitter:
• If your transmitter’s buddy box port directly accepts the 1/8” stereo plug, insert
this end directly into the radio. This works for most JR® and Spektrum® radios.
• If your transmitter’s buddy box port requires the micro (square) connector, use the
square adapter cord included with the simulator.
Setup-
After you have connected your transmitter to the InterLink Elite controller, you will
need to perform a brief setup procedure before utilizing it with the simulation.
1. First, make sure that the transmitter is in FM or PPM mode rather than PCM
mode. Refer to the manual for your transmitter if you are unsure how to do
this.
2. If the transmitter did not power up when the interface cord was plugged into
it, turn the power switch on at this time.
3. Next, click the Controller menu and then highlight the Select Controller…
menu item. After a brief delay an option for the InterLink Elite Transmitter x
channel should appear. Choose the InterLink Elite Transmitter X Channel
option.
Exploring RealFlight 6
Now that you have completed the installation of RealFlight 6, it’s time to begin
exploring the program. The following sections will take you on a quick tour of
RealFlight 6’s most popular features, such as selecting an aircraft, choosing alternate
flying locations, customizing the flying sites, and using the training aids instruction.
Along the way, we will show you where to go for help and how to obtain additional
information.
Even if you are familiar with previous versions of the RealFlight software, you should
read this section thoroughly. Some features described here are either new, or have
been completely revised for RealFlight 6.
Start the Program-
1. Close all open applications. This includes virus scanning software and other
similar programs.
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2. Double-click the RealFlight 6 Launcher located on your desktop.
3. To start the simulation, click the Run RealFlight button.
The program will start using the pre-set defaults—including pilot perspective, flying
location, and aircraft.
The Main RealFlight Display-
RealFlight 6 is a menu-driven program. As seen in the picture below, a menu bar
appears across the top of the RealFlight screen. Those menus contain additional submenu items and pull-down lists for the related options of the respective menu. These
menus allow access to the command and control functions for the RealFlight 6
simulation.
Navigating the Menus-
To access the various menu items, simply highlight and click the mouse on the
menu that you would like to view. For example, clicking on the Aircraft menu
activates the sub-menu items for that menu.
This manual includes a separate chapter for each menu title. Later chapters
describe in detail all of the menu items, sub-menus and options.
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Please note: It is also possible to access many of the features and functions of
RealFlight 6 using hotkeys. Pressing the H key on the keyboard activates the
Keyboard Commands dialog, which summarizes the available hotkeys.
Aircraft Selection-
When you start RealFlight 6 for the first time, you will be piloting a P-51 Mustang.
This is the default aircraft for RealFlight 6.
To select a different aircraft, click the Aircraft menu title in the main menu bar. Next,
click the Select Aircraft… menu item found in the drop-down menu. This activates
the Select Aircraft dialog (as shown below), which displays a list of available aircraft.
Each aircraft available in RealFlight 6 is listed along the left-hand side. The icon next
to each name differs depending on whether the model is an airplane or a helicopter.
To select an aircraft from the list, click on the desired aircraft. The selected model will
now appear in the ReadySelect™ preview box. Additionally, the aircraft’s description
and information data will appear in the aircraft information pane, which appears just
below the ReadySelect preview window.
When you are satisfied with your selection, click OK to return to the simulator using
the newly selected aircraft.
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Complete information pertaining to the Select Aircraft… menu item is available in
Chapter 6 of this manual, The Aircraft Menu.
Alternatively, you may use the InterLink Elite controller to change aircraft selections.
(This feature is not available with the InterLink Plus controller.) Simply press the
Menu/Select button located on the front of the InterLink Elite controller. This will
bring forth the QuickSelect tabs on the left side of the computer screen and the aircraft
selection tab, represented as an airplane icon, should be the highlighted tab. Press the
Menu/Select button once again to bring up the QuickSelect Aircraft Selection dialog
box. Move the Data Lever, found on the lower right side of the InterLink Elite
controller, up or down to view the available aircraft. To select an aircraft, simply
highlight the name and press the Menu/Select button. You will return to the
simulation using the newly selected aircraft. Further instructions can be found on page
98.
If you wish to exit the Aircraft Selection screen without making any changes, simply
press the Reset button on the InterLink Elite.
Aircraft Most Recently Used List (MRU)-
If you have selected any different aircraft previously, you will note that these aircraft
appear on a list in the Aircraft menu; as shown below. This list is at the very bottom of
the menu. This list is commonly referred to as a Most Recently Used, or MRU list. It
is limited to the eight most recently used aircraft. If you wish to fly one of the aircraft
from this list, simply click on the name of the aircraft in the MRU list.
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Airport Selection-
Changing flying sites uses a process similar to selecting an aircraft. To select a new
flying location, click the Environment menu title. Next, click the Select Airport…
menu item found in the drop-down menu. This opens the Select Airport dialog. All
the airports in RealFlight 6 are initially grouped by their respective location or scene:
Archipelago, Flatlands, PhotoFields, or Sierra Nevada.
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Some scenes are preceded by a [+] (plus) and an icon. The [+] (plus) indicates that
another expansion level (selection) is available to you. To access the complete list of
airports for a particular scene, either click the [+] (plus) or double-click on the name
of the desired scene. For example, clicking the [+] (plus) next to the PhotoFields
folder reveals all of the PhotoFields flying sites available to you.
To select an airport from the list, click on the desired airport. The selected airport will
now appear in the preview box. Additionally, an airport description will appear in the
information pane, which appears just below the preview window. When you are
satisfied with your selection, click OK to return to the simulator using the new airport
selection.
Navigating the Airport Selection menu using the QuickSelect feature is almost identical
to the process mentioned previously for selecting aircraft. Only this time, you will
select the Airport Selection menu, which is represented by a runway icon. With the
QuickSelect tabs visible on the computer screen, move the Data Lever down one
time. This should highlight the runway icon. Press the Menu/Select button to bring
forth the available flying sites. Using the same method, as described previously for
aircraft, select the new airport and press the Menu/Select button to return to the
simulation using this new flying site.
Airport Most Recently Used List (MRU)-
If you have previously selected an alternative flying location, it will appear on a list in
the Environment menu. This list is at the very bottom of the menu and is commonly
referred to as a Most Recently Used, or MRU list. It is limited to the eight most
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recently selected locations. If you wish to fly at one of these locations, simply click on
the respective location in the MRU list to load it into the simulation.
QuickSelect Tabs-
RealFlight 6 offers a revolutionary method for accessing many features and functions
quickly and easily without ever touching the keyboard or mouse. There are seven main
areas of access available through the QuickSelect tabs. They are: Aircraft Selection,
Flying Site Selection, NavGuides, On-Screen Radio, Binocular view, Viewport and
Multiplayer.
To access any of the QuickSelect tabs, press the Menu/Select button on the
InterLink Elite controller. This will bring forth the available options on the left side of
the computer screen. Move the Data Lever up or down to cycle through the
QuickSelect tabs. The highlighted tab is the item that is active. To access the active tab,
press the Menu/Select button.
You can also access the QuickSelect tabs with the mouse by moving the mouse cursor
over to the left side of the screen. The QuickSelect tabs will appear and you may click
on the desired icon.
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For additional information on how to use the QuickSelect tabs, please refer to the
information contained in the section entitled QuickSelect- on page 41.
Some Common Tasks-
• The easiest method of resetting your aircraft to its original takeoff position is to
press the reset button located on the front of the InterLink controller.
Alternatively, you can reset the aircraft by pressing the space bar on the keyboard,
or by selecting the Reset Position menu item, which is located in the Aircraft
menu.
• If your aircraft is equipped with smoke, the two-position switch located on the
right side of your InterLink controller will generally be utilized to activate this
feature.
• To zoom in on an aircraft, press the [+] (plus) key on the number pad of the
keyboard. Alternatively, you may use menu commands to zoom in. To do so,
click on the View menu and then click on the Zoom In menu item. Each time
the [+] (plus) key or the Zoom In menu item are pressed or selected, the view will
increase incrementally.
• To zoom out of the current view, press the [–] (minus) key on the number pad of
the keyboard. Alternatively, you may use menu commands to zoom out. To do
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so, click on the View menu and then click on the Zoom Out menu item. Every
time you press [-] (minus) key or select and press the Zoom Out menu item, the
view will decrease incrementally.
• To reset the view to the default zoom level, press the Backspace on the keyboard.
Please Note: The Zoom keys are not always functional for all camera modes. Press Z
or C on the keyboard to cycle through the different zoom and camera modes,
respectively.
Creating a Viewport-
RealFlight allows you to create an additional picture-in-picture viewport. Once you
create a new viewport, you may resize or reposition it by dragging the mouse. You can
also adjust all of the viewport’s properties independently of the main window. The
viewport may be utilized for a variety of applications, such as changing the viewing
perspective of your simulation.
To create a new viewport, click the Gadgets menu title followed by the Viewport
menu item. Alternatively, you may also press the ‘4’ key on the keyboard to create an
additional viewport.
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