Anyone Tried These Hardware Panels from VRinsight ?

[GabethePilot 1]

Seems like it may be quite useful. Just wondering if it's any good.

The buttons look like they're off a cheap TV remote control, but I guess they're keeping the price down.

[mutley 4,498]

I think Jack would be the only one here with experience but he's for a break in Germany at the moment.

Cheers

[GabethePilot 1]

Well I'm seriously considering one these as I'm fed up with struggling with a mouse on the MCP of my ATR after take off. Total nightmare, especially without TrackIR. And I could operate this panel left handed... which I cannot do with the mouse... :smile:

[SEATAC 400]

Gabe,

I have never used VR Insight, but I do use the Saitek version of which I would recommend them. As you say, it is much easier and a bit more realistic using that using the mouse. Reference this old post of mine for some pics: viewtopic.php?f=4&t=3812

Richard

[GabethePilot 1]

Aha, yes, I've seen this one before.

Couple of questions if you have time:

Is the multi-function panel as "plasticky" as it looks ? You mention the stiff left hand knob feeling like quality, but maybe it's just the pics that do it an injustice.

Also, how does it work with an airliner ?

Are any of the switches or trim wheel customisable, and importantly is there a shift button so they can assigned to alternate functions ? I'm thinking of the trim wheel being useable for rudder/aileron as well as elevator ?

I'd be surprised if not, as my X52 by Saitek had like 3 modes, and each has a pinkie switch option, allowing an effective 6 functions for each dial, switch and button.

Sorry to "grill you", but I really want something like this and can't decide between this and the VRInsight.

Thnx.

[SEATAC 400]

Gabe,

All three panels are constructed of metal and high quality plastic. The left hand knob that switches functions between Alt, IAS, CRS, etc is stiff, as is the function switch on the radio panel but are both solidly constructed and have given me me nearly a year of problem free performance. But the knobs for tuning are very smooth easy to use.

All of the LED displays are large and easy to read. Obviously the Autopilot and radio panels look the best with the LED displays. The switch panel has very solid rocker switches and while they are plastic they not "plasticky" feeling except maybe the gear switch. It works great but I would have liked for it to be metal instead.

To my knowledge you can not custommize any of the buttons or switches but I am not 100% sure as I have not tried doing so. It is a good idea you have about wanting to customize the trim wheel for rudder/aileron. Mutley has these panels, maybe he knows the answer to that one.

You should check out the reviews of 2 of the panels on the reviews section:

http://www.mutleyshangar.com/features/aa/pfs.htm

http://mutleyshangar.com/reviews/jack/srp/srp.htm

Hope that helps.

Richard

[GabethePilot 1]

Thanks for that R.

Useful info.

A mode switch would be a boon with that trim wheel, witohut a doubt.

Have to see if I can find a manual online.

[Aircraft Aviation 2]

Hi Gabe,

Sorry I took so long, I didn't notice this post!

The VRInsight Modules are good for most FS Applications. In fact, with the exceptions of both their CDU Units (which have, quite frankly, been failures), I would trust using nearly all their products no problem.

Only problem is; if that panel doesn't work with a specific aircraft; you're stuffed. If you're looking for an alternative, may I reccommend the Opencockpits GA Panel? http://www.opencockpits.com/catalog/general-simulation-panel-p-137.html?cPath=22_64

It has similar if not all the functionality of the VRI panel, plus full backlighting, a trim wheel digital flag degree display, and, better yet, you can compeltely custom program every switch, button display and knob to your liking.

[David TRIGGS 0]

Bonjour Gabethepilot,

If you are going to fly only props, I would recommend looking at Virtual Reality Insight PROP COCKPIT TRAINER ... if you are going to fly only jets, you could look at their JETPIT panel ... however, if you want to fly both props AND jets I really recommend looking at GoFlights cockpit panels, which can really be configured easily for lots of different types of aircraft!

David

[Aircraft Aviation 2]

Yes. GoFlight sell good quality products and their offerings are more flexible than some produced by Saitek, Logitech, VRInsight, etc. However, they are a bit expensive in my opinion.