Russ, I'm an experienced pilot and experienced programmer, generally familiar with Arduino. I'd like to buy a dedicated computer system now that will ultimately be the heart of the simulator I build, but that I'll be able to use in the interim as a simple flight simulator. You've got me thinking I can do this - build a simulator that will model my Twin Comanche.
Good stuff Russ. I too have always looked at home cockpit builds in amazement, thinking, "I went to engineering school/ left to focus on flight training, and there's NO WAY I can do all that!" Well- now maybe it is within reach! First things first is to get money for a house so I have the space to build up a dedicated sim pit- and as a current medevac pilot in this economy, that's hard to come by! Someday, someday!
Great video, I have flirted with Sims, and watch in awe all these "Look at my cockpit" videos. The Warthog Project being just one. Looks like AirManager is built for building your own cockpits. You have the opportunity to build a series of great how to videos. For info the Genuine Arduino boards cost more because the price funds the design and support for the boards. The clones only funds the pocket of the cloner. So if you can afford it by genuine. Happy building everyone, looking forward to see the amazing things you create.
I was always surprised that they made the whole project open source. But maybe they are smart because by making them available cheaply they are expanding the user base and creating a standard this pretty widely accepted.
This is a very good explanation of how to get 2 way communication between your panel and sim. If you can get by with one way communication from the panel to the sim only, you can get Arduino library's to have it seen as a game controller. This lets the buttons and encoders be seen as button presses in your sim software while potentiometers are seen as an analog axis and the setup is the same as linking a button or axis on your joystick to a function. The advantage of this is that you don't have to use the Air Manager software as a go-between so they'll work with ANY game that allows editing of controls. For people that find building your own hardware intimidating, you can also use button boxes like the Streamdeck or Loupedeck to provide keyboard inputs that can be linked to sim functions. You can assign icons to the buttons and some like the Loupedeck and Streamdeck Plus have rotary encoders that can be used in the sim. Some devices even have custom plugins that allow 2 way communication between the sim and the device.
If I watch these long enough...over and over... I think I’ll get it. Electronics...will it help a DIY scratch builder on an aircraft? So much to process. Woof!
Thank you Russ. This video solves a BIG problem for me. I bought a SIMIONIC starter key which is essentially a multi-position switch. I didn't know that to get the thing to function as a starter key for the C172, I would need to connect it via an Arduino board. Anyway, this video took the mystery out of the project. At first I didn't want to do it but after watching your video, I think I can give it a try. Thank you!
I want to offer you a free license for air manager if you wanted to use it with your project. Let me know if that’s the case and I can set you up. Just ask that you give it some positive feedback if you use it and think it is worthwhile. Let me know.
@@rbarlow I think that would be wonderful Russ! I can see great potential in this especially to learn some of the cool things Air Manager does with Arduino :) You can contact me at CaptainBobSim@gmail.com if you need any further details. Thank you so much!
Hi Russ, I'd like to thank you for the video. I was stuck on how to configure the Arduino pins in Air Manager. Your instructions were clear and easy. I got my primer and Avionics Master Switch 2 working for both X-Plane 12 and MSFS 2020. Thanks again, Rich
Fantastic video! I'm very new to home cockpit building and have a very basic understanding (if that) of the technology involved. Your videos on Arduino and Air Manager are very informative and have given me the knowledge confidence to pursue a better simulation experience. You clearly know what you're doing, yet have a knack for explaining things to the "every man/woman" with less experience. Well done! Sub'd.
Thank you for making such a clear introduction to how to use Arduino, and how to make a start with cockpit building. I had no idea how the things worked before and you are so encouraging that I am now looking forward to my first Arduino purchase and giving things a try!
Awesome video! I am a new flight simmer and was thinking doing something like what you showed would be very difficult. Thank you for making it so easy to understand. I am a school teacher and I have to tell you, your teaching skills are outstanding! Thanks again!
Just depends how permanent you want things to be. Knobster gives a lot of flexibility but it’s still not quite as realistic as dedicated knobs and switches
Wicked Video, I am already building a widget for the cockpit using MobiFlight. But this has explained a lot of the basics that I was missing. I am certainly going to explore Air Manager now also Thanks Russ
Russ, this is by far one of the best intro videos for getting started with A4 and Arduino. Incredibly helpful. I'm building a full 1:1 Baron G58 and plan to use a mega. Screw terminal board rather than solder just in case the board fails its an easy swap. Next, how can we achieve backlight dimming? I plan to use led strips and I can potentially place a pot to control it without an arduino but how can I use an Arduino to to control it ?
Thanks for this tutorial, great job, I'm a new subscriber,, I've been watching some old videos to tour the channel, you've been doing a great work and i'm enjoying being in the channel, all the best
Thanks Russ. I am fairly new to simming and currently going through flight training. In some of my reading people mentioned Arduino but I had no idea what it was. You gave me a great introduction to it. I don't think I need it in my current setup however down the road I now understand how I can tweak my simulator in almost any way I can think of. Thanks again.
This video hit the nail on the head for me. I am proficient with the Arduino and electronics is one of my hobbies, so knowing about this is a great way to make my own quality custom panel(s) and maybe even save a few bucks in the process. My only concern is the negative reviews of Air Manager and how it is unstable with iPads, especially M1 silicon based devices. That’s a shame.
Thank You for this. I have a distantly similar build in mind and would be starting with ZERO $. This simply shows me i may not choose to go this route. Best to You.
Excellent Video, Russ! Very informative. Really enjoy your calm and professional presentation technique on all your content. Thanks so much for your efforts in putting this together!
Hi Russ hope you are doing well. This video is still the best re connecting air manager to Arduino to hardware. Any idea if the latest version has the same capability? The air manager website isn’t much help
Brand new Air Manager user and everything you showed makes sense and I was able to reproduce. What I want to do is have either an Arduino or Raspberry Pi Pico drive an LCD display where I could display gauges like an altimeter or air speed indicator, etc.. Does the Air Manager flashed program have the ability to output graphics from the Arduino or Pico like that? Or do I need to write my own custom program using graphics for those devices and then use a communication library to talk to Air Manager? Basically, is there a shortcut way to leverage an Arduino -> LCD display using built-in functionality, or do I have to build from the ground up? I can't find anybody else doing that.
Thanks for the explanation; it is extremely helpful. I would appreciate it if we could know the voltage of these switches and the current type of AC/DC. I saw some 12V/24V switches in the video, and I couldn't read some of them. I'm asking because 240V switches are easier to find than 12V ones.
@@MrPersonatus max output pin voltage is nominally 5 VDC and very low current ( 40 mA on a single pin/ 200mA max combined on all pins) so most any switch will do
19:00 Great video. There is just point, I disagree. For rotary switches, I'd connect all position pins, and NOT positions minus one. Reason is, when you switch between positions, there is always a short moment, between the positions, when non of the pins is connected. If you assume no connection is a certain position, that is wrong. The virtual rotary knob in your simulator will wildly jump back and forth into that 'unconnected' position, while you slowly turn the physical knob. Just connect this one addition position and the problem wouldn't occur. I hope it's clear, what I mean.
Russ... I'm a complete newph to Air Manager. Been trying to find an answer to the following... I'd like to use Air Manager to model a panel for the XP11 F33 Bonanza. However I only see the B58 that is somewhat similar. Can I assemble a panel for F33 in AirManager? And what happens to the instruments that are already there? I know, very basic, but I've spent a week trying to post on the Sim Innovations forum. Registered, but not allowed. I really appreciate your help with some fundemental concepts
Hi Russ, would you be able to point me in the right direction to purchase the device needed to control the glareshield and cockpit dimmers? I see they take an ADC input on the Arduino. Is it a potentiometer, and if so, is there a resistance specification for it? Thanks, Rich
Hey I'm making my own flight sim setup and I've run into an issue that I have more arduino boards than USB ports in my computer, is there some way to connect arduino boards to the pc using less cables?
I just purchased Air manager, but I don't have nearly as many hardware function presets as you refer to at 8:53. Did you create those yourself or did you download them from somewhere?
great video! one thing I recommend is to socket the arduino to the perma-board rather than solder it directly. if you fry the arduino for some reason or it dies it can be a huge pain to desolder all those pins.
Russ, GREAT tutorial. . I have been looking over UA-cam for instructions to connect arduino leonardo and your video has helped me out no end.... May I ask , in regards to the switch instalation. can you advise how I would include a LED to that switch.....to come on when actuated. thanks in advance Kevin
Hi Russ, Thank you for a great video, you have inspired me to give arduino and air manager a go. I've ordered the hardware and software and I'm looking forward to getting started.
Russ, recently my honeycomb throttle quadrant is no longer recognized. i think it is the usb-c female connector pins on the back of the device. i think Honeycomb is out of business or having major issue. No communication from them. i watched your video on the Arduino board. is there a arduino board that i can use to repair the throttle quadrant.
RUSS, IN THE "HOW IT WORKS" SKETCH, IS THE AIR MANAGER SOFTWARE IN ANOTHER COMPUTER THAN THE SIMULATOR SOFTWARE AND THE TWO COMPUTERS CONNETED VIA A LAN? NEW TO THIS AND THIS VIDEO COVERED WHAT I HAVE BEEN LOOING FOR. ALSO, DID I HEAR YOU SAY YOU CAN HAVE MULTIPLE ARDUINO BOARDS CONNECTED TO AIR MANAGER IN ORDER TO COVER LOTS MORE COCK PIT CONTROLS? THANKS FOR THE VIDEO.
You can also use a 555 timer to build a debouncer for your switch.. this could help some people with that problem... I use it a lot when prototyping circuits on bread boards.
Is it possible to use multiple parts like encoder or switches in the single arduino? What is the Maximum amount of switch or encoder that can be connected in one arduino? And is it possible to use multiple arduino for one pc?
Hi Russ, if I build this rotary encoder with arduino, would I need to do any programming to use it like the Knobster with Air Manager? Or does Air Manager now automatically program it for us by selecting the “DIY Knobster” option in Air Manager? I appreciate any help
Can you use the click function on the rotary encoder to toggle another switch? In my example im thinking of the G5 on airmanager.. thank you in advance, great video! Def subscriber now!
Great video Russ. Beta testing the OV, I was thinking it would be useful to use Air Manager to build an instrument panel. No hardware inputs. I’d like to be able to always see the instruments even in outside view. (Sure hope ASOBO gives us multiple camera views in 2024 like FSX and P3D!) I’ve never used it before. Your video is a great resource for seeing what it can do. Thanks!
Thanks for your good youtube videos. I fly the Laminar Research SF50 using Air Manager 4. The panel includes the engine start/stop instrument that you authored. It worked great with XP11 but does not work with XP12. I haven't received m;uch help from Siminnovations. I believe the lua scripts that come with XP12 (for this aircraft at least) are very different from those with XP11. Do you plan to update your Air Manager contributed instruments to work correctly with XP12?
very nice video, a lot of answers solved!!! One more, need to make a joystick, with serial hall sensors for the movement, because i dont have the Air Manager yet, can you tell me if it can worked with these type of sensors?
Does it requires script language knowledge? I don't understand scripting language, and without a proper ICT school education. it's a long and hard way to learn and understand the script language. It's for me the choice to by or not to buy. Thanks in advance.
Hello dear Russ, I found your videos very practical and interesting, I am in a project of a cabin for the C208 in x plane, and I have a question: regarding the switch panel of the C208 it has 13 swwichts, which Arduino recommends me, for this panel: nano, one, ... thank you.
Look here to see which will work. It shows all hardware and which pins are available for what type of hardware siminnovations.com/wiki/index.php?title=Hardware_id_list
Hi Russ, I need a tip on Air Manager and Knobster. Once i have set-up MSFS 2020 with AirManager and the Knobster, Knobster allows me to turn the various knobs on my dashboard but indicator itself does not retate. For instance, If I select my altimeter knob on the touch screen ant I rotate the knobster, I see the knob turning on my screen, but the niddles on the altimeter does not move. Can you help with this ? Hope you can help me here. Regards, Phil
So many possible small things you may have missed. Did you install the Air Manager plugin in the sim? Latest plugin version? Does the bottom right corner of Air Manager say the sim is connected? See if these help. There is also step by step instructions on the Sim Innovations Wiki
@@rbarlow Hi Russ, Sorry for the delay on getting back to you after your advises. Thanks a lot for taking the time to respond to my questions. I will definitly recheck the installation of the plug-in. I had to reinitialise MSFS and it might have brocken the connection with the plug-in. I am on the road but will check it on my return home. Will let you know. In general, thanks for all your quality your channel. Phil
I'm sold. I've spent close to 5k for my current setup, but the thing that bothers me most is that the buttons and switches are not labelled. it makes using across multiple sims frustrating to remember. I've also done some basic Arduino in the past so this is something i can really get behind. thanks for the informative video! subbed
I build my simulator about two years ago (probably used one of your videos as an example). I used an old Precision Flight Controls console in which I cut out the old PCB that was in there and put in an Arduino. I attached the yoke and pedals, which have rotary potentiometers, to the Arduino and that was it. Since then, I have been running X Plane 11. Of course, I am programming it through Air Manager. While doing an instrument approach, I noticed that I have a hard time maintaining a heading. For example, I attempt to roll out of a turn and I way overshoot the intended heading. When I am in an actual C150/152 I don't have the same problem nearly to that degree. I was wondering if there is some sort of "gain control" or some such method to slow down the rate of turn? Thank You Tom
Hi Russ. I have a home built generic cockpit currently, so I can fly a variety of different planes , both on FSX and XP11. I use Air manager, on two separate displays. I only have 172 and C90 panel set up. Arduino mega and Mobiflight for the controls. I just learned that I can use Air Manager in this way. I wonder if I could mix the two on the current Mega board? Thanks
No you have to pick one or the other since the mega can only run one at a time. Air manager can do anything Mobiflight can do and more but if you want both just add another Arduino for Air Manager. They are cheap if you buy clones. An UNO or Nano might be enough pins.
@@rbarlow i discovered it was quite expensive software, so went another route in the end, i might still come back to this option at some point. thanks for the video anyway, it inspired me to make some more cool controls :)
Hi Russ, Struggling a little..I have followed your video to the letter...however when I flip the switch nothing happens on the panel?...do I have to be connected to plane for this to work?...I wanted to test before hooking that up....?
Kind of a vague description. Can you describe what you were doing with what hardware and perhaps I can help. You do need to have the sim running and connected to Air Manager. And without a plane loaded there is nothing for the flip of a switch to do. Explain what you have hooked up and the steps you have taken with no effect. You might get faster responses for help on the Air Manager Forum.
@@rbarlow sorry for the vague description....but now running the sim with the plane and it is working thanks....just thought I could set it all up and test without being connected to plane
I am a bit confused. I can program an arduino to press the X key when switch 1 is activated and I can change landing gear to the x key in any game or simulator so why do i need air manager?
No the key shortcuts have nothing to do with it. You are sending commands directly to the sim ( X-commands for XP, simconnect events for MSFS, FSX, or P3D). That is what the key shortcuts do also but they can be changed by a user and no longer work so this cuts out the "middle man" and is more reliable. The big advantage with Air Manager is that it can receive data from the sim too. You can make a switch input react differently based on other monitored states of the sim. For example, you might want to make a switch react differently based on whether the aircraft is on the ground or not. Sometimes the sim doesn't have the correct logic as the real airplane and you can "fix" this in air manager. This is a beginners guide so the examples are fairly trivial but air manager is quite powerful.
Hi Russ, great videos. I can't find a definative anwser anywhere, but does Windows 10/11 support more than one touchscreen monitor for use with Air Manager? Wanted to check before I shell out on more than one! Thanks.
Yes no problem…. I have used three at one time. You just need to calibrate the touch system so that computer knows which USB touch sensor is associated with which monitor. Search “calibrate” in windows settings and you will see it. It will step through all your monitors and have you touch each so it knows how to relate touches to a specific monitor
Great video. Im just trying to setup my first slide potentiometer to control throttle for a try and it max out at 67% on the throttle. I have my positive on 3.3v as its what I saw as recommendation on the Arduino and I noticed you used 5v. I don't know if this is my issue. Any tips?
Russ, I'm an experienced pilot and experienced programmer, generally familiar with Arduino. I'd like to buy a dedicated computer system now that will ultimately be the heart of the simulator I build, but that I'll be able to use in the interim as a simple flight simulator. You've got me thinking I can do this - build a simulator that will model my Twin Comanche.
I used to fly a ”Twinkie“, loved that plane. Does your tail number end with a Y?
@@ghillieconcarne N833DF is my Twin Comanche. . My first airplane was N8260Y, if that counts.
Good stuff Russ. I too have always looked at home cockpit builds in amazement, thinking, "I went to engineering school/ left to focus on flight training, and there's NO WAY I can do all that!" Well- now maybe it is within reach! First things first is to get money for a house so I have the space to build up a dedicated sim pit- and as a current medevac pilot in this economy, that's hard to come by! Someday, someday!
Mr. Barlow, I am so thankful I came across your channel! Thank you for taking the time to create this great video.
Great video, I have flirted with Sims, and watch in awe all these "Look at my cockpit" videos. The Warthog Project being just one. Looks like AirManager is built for building your own cockpits. You have the opportunity to build a series of great how to videos.
For info the Genuine Arduino boards cost more because the price funds the design and support for the boards. The clones only funds the pocket of the cloner. So if you can afford it by genuine. Happy building everyone, looking forward to see the amazing things you create.
I was always surprised that they made the whole project open source. But maybe they are smart because by making them available cheaply they are expanding the user base and creating a standard this pretty widely accepted.
This is a very good explanation of how to get 2 way communication between your panel and sim.
If you can get by with one way communication from the panel to the sim only, you can get Arduino library's to have it seen as a game controller. This lets the buttons and encoders be seen as button presses in your sim software while potentiometers are seen as an analog axis and the setup is the same as linking a button or axis on your joystick to a function. The advantage of this is that you don't have to use the Air Manager software as a go-between so they'll work with ANY game that allows editing of controls.
For people that find building your own hardware intimidating, you can also use button boxes like the Streamdeck or Loupedeck to provide keyboard inputs that can be linked to sim functions. You can assign icons to the buttons and some like the Loupedeck and Streamdeck Plus have rotary encoders that can be used in the sim. Some devices even have custom plugins that allow 2 way communication between the sim and the device.
If I watch these long enough...over and over... I think I’ll get it. Electronics...will it help a DIY scratch builder on an aircraft? So much to process. Woof!
That was really helpful, Russ. I've been a bit confused about how to hook up Air Manager to hardware. Thank you so much.
Russ, as stated below this is by far the best intro video for the newbie about to launch into the world of Air Manager and Arduino.
1st class mate
Thank you Russ. This video solves a BIG problem for me. I bought a SIMIONIC starter key which is essentially a multi-position switch. I didn't know that to get the thing to function as a starter key for the C172, I would need to connect it via an Arduino board. Anyway, this video took the mystery out of the project. At first I didn't want to do it but after watching your video, I think I can give it a try. Thank you!
I review this video each time my brain overloads. Thanks! Hope you are well
Another great instructional video! Russ, if you weren’t a pilot, you would have been a great teacher!
I have been a CFI since 1971 so that is kind of like a teacher🤔
Thanks again Russ. Your content is alway right down my alley when it comes to Flight simulation.
Thank you for this video Russ. Its by far the easiest video to follow. Ive subbed and will be watching more.
I'd just like to say, thank you for making this video! It is always amazing to see the capabilities software like this has!
I want to offer you a free license for air manager if you wanted to use it with your project. Let me know if that’s the case and I can set you up. Just ask that you give it some positive feedback if you use it and think it is worthwhile. Let me know.
@@rbarlow I think that would be wonderful Russ! I can see great potential in this especially to learn some of the cool things Air Manager does with Arduino :) You can contact me at CaptainBobSim@gmail.com if you need any further details. Thank you so much!
EXCELLENT VID! Super job of explaining Arduino and adding hardware to a sim!!
Really good introduction to arduino in general and air manager. This really opened it up for me. Thank you!
Hi Russ, I'd like to thank you for the video. I was stuck on how to configure the Arduino pins in Air Manager. Your instructions were clear and easy. I got my primer and Avionics Master Switch 2 working for both X-Plane 12 and MSFS 2020. Thanks again, Rich
Thanks for another wonderful video. Your fondness for Grand Cayman shows during your landing at the end of the video.
It’s a great place but I haven’t been able to go there since Covid started. Hopefully this next winter I can return
Fantastic video! I'm very new to home cockpit building and have a very basic understanding (if that) of the technology involved. Your videos on Arduino and Air Manager are very informative and have given me the knowledge confidence to pursue a better simulation experience. You clearly know what you're doing, yet have a knack for explaining things to the "every man/woman" with less experience. Well done! Sub'd.
Thank you for making such a clear introduction to how to use Arduino, and how to make a start with cockpit building. I had no idea how the things worked before and you are so encouraging that I am now looking forward to my first Arduino purchase and giving things a try!
Loved this introduction to arduinos, thank you. I will try today to create something now you've demystified the difficulty.
Thanks so much Russ. Like many pf the others I am just starting on this sim journey. Your a fantastic help. Keep up the great work.
seriously, you made my day! great presentation, you bring the subject with so much precision and make it achievable for newbies! thank you!!
Fantastic video mate, this gave the push to make my own board
Thanks for all the great content Just ordered a yoke and quadrant to get started siming. Mostly want to jumpstart my IFR training.
This is great, THANK YOU for taking the time to make the video and post it!
What a beautiful explanation. Fantastic teacher🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
Awesome video! I am a new flight simmer and was thinking doing something like what you showed would be very difficult. Thank you for making it so easy to understand. I am a school teacher and I have to tell you, your teaching skills are outstanding! Thanks again!
Set up a sim at your school … great STEM project. Happy to advise and help.
Outstanding work Russ! I've been using the knobster due to its flexibility... But this is tempting!
Just depends how permanent you want things to be. Knobster gives a lot of flexibility but it’s still not quite as realistic as dedicated knobs and switches
Wicked Video, I am already building a widget for the cockpit using MobiFlight. But this has explained a lot of the basics that I was missing. I am certainly going to explore Air Manager now also
Thanks Russ
Thank you for this great simple to follow introduction
Russ, this is by far one of the best intro videos for getting started with A4 and Arduino. Incredibly helpful. I'm building a full 1:1 Baron G58 and plan to use a mega. Screw terminal board rather than solder just in case the board fails its an easy swap. Next, how can we achieve backlight dimming? I plan to use led strips and I can potentially place a pot to control it without an arduino but how can I use an Arduino to to control it ?
Thanks for this tutorial, great job, I'm a new subscriber,, I've been watching some old videos to tour the channel, you've been doing a great work and i'm enjoying being in the channel, all the best
Thanks Russ. I am fairly new to simming and currently going through flight training. In some of my reading people mentioned Arduino but I had no idea what it was. You gave me a great introduction to it. I don't think I need it in my current setup however down the road I now understand how I can tweak my simulator in almost any way I can think of. Thanks again.
This video hit the nail on the head for me. I am proficient with the Arduino and electronics is one of my hobbies, so knowing about this is a great way to make my own quality custom panel(s) and maybe even save a few bucks in the process. My only concern is the negative reviews of Air Manager and how it is unstable with iPads, especially M1 silicon based devices. That’s a shame.
Perfect just what i was after. fantastic informative and really useful. Thank you Russ
Thank You for this. I have a distantly similar build in mind and would be starting with ZERO $. This simply shows me i may not choose to go this route. Best to You.
Great video and very helpful. I hope to see more videos like this in the future. Thanks.
Excellent Video, Russ! Very informative. Really enjoy your calm and professional presentation technique on all your content. Thanks so much for your efforts in putting this together!
WOW thank you so much for this video i have my own flight sim started 3d printing panels this is exactly what i needed to go forth
Glad it helped
Russ, a fantastic video, well paced and really informative. Thanks for taking the time to make it.
Thanks i bought an old 737 home cockpit and have no idea how to set it up
Hi Russ hope you are doing well. This video is still the best re connecting air manager to Arduino to hardware. Any idea if the latest version has the same capability? The air manager website isn’t much help
That's exactly what I am thinking for!!!! Thank you sir!
Brand new Air Manager user and everything you showed makes sense and I was able to reproduce. What I want to do is have either an Arduino or Raspberry Pi Pico drive an LCD display where I could display gauges like an altimeter or air speed indicator, etc.. Does the Air Manager flashed program have the ability to output graphics from the Arduino or Pico like that? Or do I need to write my own custom program using graphics for those devices and then use a communication library to talk to Air Manager? Basically, is there a shortcut way to leverage an Arduino -> LCD display using built-in functionality, or do I have to build from the ground up? I can't find anybody else doing that.
Excellent video, thanks Russ. Just where i am looking for. You make my day
hi, how can you connect multiple encoders for different gauges?
inb4 I come back to this video 200 times during my f18 build :)
Thanks for the explanation; it is extremely helpful. I would appreciate it if we could know the voltage of these switches and the current type of AC/DC. I saw some 12V/24V switches in the video, and I couldn't read some of them. I'm asking because 240V switches are easier to find than 12V ones.
@@MrPersonatus max output pin voltage is nominally 5 VDC and very low current ( 40 mA on a single pin/ 200mA max combined on all pins) so most any switch will do
This is great sir, I love it and I loved the way you made it clear. 👍
19:00 Great video. There is just point, I disagree. For rotary switches, I'd connect all position pins, and NOT positions minus one. Reason is, when you switch between positions, there is always a short moment, between the positions, when non of the pins is connected. If you assume no connection is a certain position, that is wrong. The virtual rotary knob in your simulator will wildly jump back and forth into that 'unconnected' position, while you slowly turn the physical knob. Just connect this one addition position and the problem wouldn't occur. I hope it's clear, what I mean.
I need to upgrade my Air manager. Thanks for this video Russ.
Russ... I'm a complete newph to Air Manager. Been trying to find an answer to the following... I'd like to use Air Manager to model a panel for the XP11 F33 Bonanza. However I only see the B58 that is somewhat similar. Can I assemble a panel for F33 in AirManager? And what happens to the instruments that are already there? I know, very basic, but I've spent a week trying to post on the Sim Innovations forum. Registered, but not allowed. I really appreciate your help with some fundemental concepts
Top quality video from you as usual. Your channel is amazing for xplane enthusiasts.
Your video is gold
Thanks a lot sir.
Need to do more how to videos on hardware as I get lots of comments like yours on that one
What a tutorial Video. Awesome! Thank You!
Outstanding tutorial! Thank you!
Hi Russ, would you be able to point me in the right direction to purchase the device needed to control the glareshield and cockpit dimmers? I see they take an ADC input on the Arduino. Is it a potentiometer, and if so, is there a resistance specification for it?
Thanks,
Rich
Hey I'm making my own flight sim setup and I've run into an issue that I have more arduino boards than USB ports in my computer, is there some way to connect arduino boards to the pc using less cables?
I just purchased Air manager, but I don't have nearly as many hardware function presets as you refer to at 8:53. Did you create those yourself or did you download them from somewhere?
great video! one thing I recommend is to socket the arduino to the perma-board rather than solder it directly. if you fry the arduino for some reason or it dies it can be a huge pain to desolder all those pins.
Russ, GREAT tutorial. . I have been looking over UA-cam for instructions to connect arduino leonardo and your video has helped me out no end.... May I ask , in regards to the switch instalation. can you advise how I would include a LED to that switch.....to come on when actuated.
thanks in advance
Kevin
Hi Russ, Thank you for a great video, you have inspired me to give arduino and air manager a go. I've ordered the hardware and software and I'm looking forward to getting started.
I think you’ll find it’s fun and rewarding once you get past any learning curve
Russ, recently my honeycomb throttle quadrant is no longer recognized. i think it is the usb-c female connector pins on the back of the device. i think Honeycomb is out of business or having major issue. No communication from them. i watched your video on the Arduino board. is there a arduino board that i can use to repair the throttle quadrant.
RUSS, IN THE "HOW IT WORKS" SKETCH, IS THE AIR MANAGER SOFTWARE IN ANOTHER COMPUTER THAN THE SIMULATOR SOFTWARE AND THE TWO COMPUTERS CONNETED VIA A LAN? NEW TO THIS AND THIS VIDEO COVERED WHAT I HAVE BEEN LOOING FOR. ALSO, DID I HEAR YOU SAY YOU CAN HAVE MULTIPLE ARDUINO BOARDS CONNECTED TO AIR MANAGER IN ORDER TO COVER LOTS MORE COCK PIT CONTROLS? THANKS FOR THE VIDEO.
Russ do you know if a power supply is required for the uno to use the ky040 encoders? Or if onboard usb has enough power for the 5v?
You can also use a 555 timer to build a debouncer for your switch.. this could help some people with that problem... I use it a lot when prototyping circuits on bread boards.
I may be wrong since I am unfamiliar with a 555 tuner but I think Sim Innovations had denouncing built into Air Manager.
How would this work if we needed to use more than 1 Arduino? How would we program it?
Buen video, pero cuando intento activar pide un correo en vez de usuario, coloco BETA y BETA pero no funciona la activacion. Gracias
Is it possible to use multiple parts like encoder or switches in the single arduino? What is the Maximum amount of switch or encoder that can be connected in one arduino? And is it possible to use multiple arduino for one pc?
Hi Russ, if I build this rotary encoder with arduino, would I need to do any programming to use it like the Knobster with Air Manager? Or does Air Manager now automatically program it for us by selecting the “DIY Knobster” option in Air Manager? I appreciate any help
Can you use the click function on the rotary encoder to toggle another switch? In my example im thinking of the G5 on airmanager.. thank you in advance, great video! Def subscriber now!
9 rotary encoders and arduino mega . how to wire it ?
Great video! It would be fantastic to have a slightly more in depth follow up.
Thank you for posting it👍
Keep watching my channel I’m sure I’ll get around to it. I’m retired but these hobby sometimes or more work then going to work
Excellent ! Thanks Russ! Cheers, 🇨🇦
Great video. Quick question. In your triple screen setup, how have you got rid of the stretching in the 2 side screens?
Hi !
I too want to make my own control for FS2020, but what can Air Manager as FS NOT can do ?
Great video Russ. Beta testing the OV, I was thinking it would be useful to use Air Manager to build an instrument panel. No hardware inputs. I’d like to be able to always see the instruments even in outside view. (Sure hope ASOBO gives us multiple camera views in 2024 like FSX and P3D!) I’ve never used it before. Your video is a great resource for seeing what it can do. Thanks!
Excellent presentation. Thank you!
Such an amazing video!
Really great and useful tutorial. Thanks!!! You have +1 subscriber :)
Nice Job!!!! Good Info..
Can i use the knobster using a macbook pro?
Thanks for your good youtube videos. I fly the Laminar Research SF50 using Air Manager 4. The panel includes the engine start/stop instrument that you authored. It worked great with XP11 but does not work with XP12. I haven't received m;uch help from Siminnovations. I believe the lua scripts that come with XP12 (for this aircraft at least) are very different from those with XP11. Do you plan to update your Air Manager contributed instruments to work correctly with XP12?
very nice video, a lot of answers solved!!! One more, need to make a joystick, with serial hall sensors for the movement, because i dont have the Air Manager yet, can you tell me if it can worked with these type of sensors?
Does it requires script language knowledge? I don't understand scripting language, and without a proper ICT school education. it's a long and hard way to learn and understand the script language. It's for me the choice to by or not to buy. Thanks in advance.
Hi Russ, with Air Manager is it possible to create a motorized TQ with arduino MEGA?
Hello dear Russ, I found your videos very practical and interesting, I am in a project of a cabin for the C208 in x plane, and I have a question: regarding the switch panel of the C208 it has 13 swwichts, which Arduino recommends me, for this panel: nano, one, ...
thank you.
Look here to see which will work. It shows all hardware and which pins are available for what type of hardware
siminnovations.com/wiki/index.php?title=Hardware_id_list
Hi Russ,
I need a tip on Air Manager and Knobster.
Once i have set-up MSFS 2020 with AirManager and the Knobster, Knobster allows me to turn the various knobs on my dashboard but indicator itself does not retate.
For instance, If I select my altimeter knob on the touch screen ant I rotate the knobster, I see the knob turning on my screen, but the niddles on the altimeter does not move.
Can you help with this ?
Hope you can help me here.
Regards,
Phil
So many possible small things you may have missed. Did you install the Air Manager plugin in the sim? Latest plugin version? Does the bottom right corner of Air Manager say the sim is connected? See if these help. There is also step by step instructions on the Sim Innovations Wiki
@@rbarlow Hi Russ, Sorry for the delay on getting back to you after your advises. Thanks a lot for taking the time to respond to my questions. I will definitly recheck the installation of the plug-in. I had to reinitialise MSFS and it might have brocken the connection with the plug-in. I am on the road but will check it on my return home. Will let you know.
In general, thanks for all your quality your channel.
Phil
I'm sold. I've spent close to 5k for my current setup, but the thing that bothers me most is that the buttons and switches are not labelled. it makes using across multiple sims frustrating to remember. I've also done some basic Arduino in the past so this is something i can really get behind. thanks for the informative video! subbed
I build my simulator about two years ago (probably used one of your videos as an example). I used an old Precision Flight Controls console in which I cut out the old PCB that was in there and put in an Arduino. I attached the yoke and pedals, which have rotary potentiometers, to the Arduino and that was it. Since then, I have been running X Plane 11. Of course, I am programming it through Air Manager.
While doing an instrument approach, I noticed that I have a hard time maintaining a heading. For example, I attempt to roll out of a turn and I way overshoot the intended heading. When I am in an actual C150/152 I don't have the same problem nearly to that degree.
I was wondering if there is some sort of "gain control" or some such method to slow down the rate of turn?
Thank You
Tom
Hi Russ. I have a home built generic cockpit currently, so I can fly a variety of different planes , both on FSX and XP11. I use Air manager, on two separate displays. I only have 172 and C90 panel set up. Arduino mega and Mobiflight for the controls. I just learned that I can use Air Manager in this way. I wonder if I could mix the two on the current Mega board? Thanks
No you have to pick one or the other since the mega can only run one at a time. Air manager can do anything Mobiflight can do and more but if you want both just add another Arduino for Air Manager. They are cheap if you buy clones. An UNO or Nano might be enough pins.
very helpful video, thanks, i have piles of arduinos and bits, hopefully i will have a full desk of buttons by the end of the weekend :)
Have fun!
@@rbarlow i discovered it was quite expensive software, so went another route in the end, i might still come back to this option at some point. thanks for the video anyway, it inspired me to make some more cool controls :)
Hi Russ,
Struggling a little..I have followed your video to the letter...however when I flip the switch nothing happens on the panel?...do I have to be connected to plane for this to work?...I wanted to test before hooking that up....?
Kind of a vague description. Can you describe what you were doing with what hardware and perhaps I can help. You do need to have the sim running and connected to Air Manager. And without a plane loaded there is nothing for the flip of a switch to do. Explain what you have hooked up and the steps you have taken with no effect. You might get faster responses for help on the Air Manager Forum.
@@rbarlow sorry for the vague description....but now running the sim with the plane and it is working thanks....just thought I could set it all up and test without being connected to plane
I am a bit confused. I can program an arduino to press the X key when switch 1 is activated and I can change landing gear to the x key in any game or simulator so why do i need air manager?
No the key shortcuts have nothing to do with it. You are sending commands directly to the sim ( X-commands for XP, simconnect events for MSFS, FSX, or P3D). That is what the key shortcuts do also but they can be changed by a user and no longer work so this cuts out the "middle man" and is more reliable. The big advantage with Air Manager is that it can receive data from the sim too. You can make a switch input react differently based on other monitored states of the sim. For example, you might want to make a switch react differently based on whether the aircraft is on the ground or not. Sometimes the sim doesn't have the correct logic as the real airplane and you can "fix" this in air manager. This is a beginners guide so the examples are fairly trivial but air manager is quite powerful.
Is the ground for power and if so can i have multiple connections to it?
Yes all the ground connection can be through a single bus
Hi Russ, great videos. I can't find a definative anwser anywhere, but does Windows 10/11 support more than one touchscreen monitor for use with Air Manager? Wanted to check before I shell out on more than one! Thanks.
Yes no problem…. I have used three at one time. You just need to calibrate the touch system so that computer knows which USB touch sensor is associated with which monitor. Search “calibrate” in windows settings and you will see it. It will step through all your monitors and have you touch each so it knows how to relate touches to a specific monitor
@@rbarlow Thanks for the reply Russ, much appreciated
Awesome ! Thanks Russ.
OMG!!!! This looks insanely difficult for me. I would have to go with something simple, like the Leo Bodner or Derick Spears JoyStick controllers.
Great video. Im just trying to setup my first slide potentiometer to control throttle for a try and it max out at 67% on the throttle. I have my positive on 3.3v as its what I saw as recommendation on the Arduino and I noticed you used 5v. I don't know if this is my issue. Any tips?