SDK FS2004

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight Software Development Kit Aircraft Container System February 2004 Aircraft Container SDK Overview ............................................................................................................. 1 File hierarchy................................................................................................................................................ 2 The aircraft.cfg file....................................................................................................................................... 3 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 3 Testing Changes to aircraft.cfg .................................................................................................................. 3 Configuration sets and their [fltsim. ] sections ......................................................................................... 4 [General] section ....................................................................................................................................... 7 [forcefeedback] section .............................................................................................................................. 8 Stick shaker parameters .......................................................................................................................... 8 Gear bump parameters............................................................................................................................ 9 Ground bumps parameters...................................................................................................................... 9 Crash parameters .................................................................................................................................. 10 [Reference_Speeds] section...................................................................................................................... 10 [flight_tuning] section .............................................................................................................................. 11 Flight control effectiveness parameters ................................................................................................ 11 Stability parameters .............................................................................................................................. 11 Lift parameter ....................................................................................................................................... 12 High Angle of Attack parameters ......................................................................................................... 12 Propeller-induced turning effect parameters......................................................................................... 12 Drag parameters.................................................................................................................................... 13 [weight_and_balance] section ................................................................................................................. 13 Moments of Inertia ............................................................................................................................... 16 [fuel] section............................................................................................................................................. 17 [GeneralEngineData] section .................................................................................................................. 17 [piston_engine] section ............................................................................................................................ 18 [propeller] section.................................................................................................................................... 20 [TurbineEngineData] section................................................................................................................... 22 [jet_engine] section .................................................................................................................................. 23 [turboprop_engine] section...................................................................................................................... 23 [contact_points] section ........................................................................................................................... 23 [gear_warning_system] section ............................................................................................................... 26 [brakes] section ........................................................................................................................................ 27 [airplane_geometry] section .................................................................................................................... 27 [flaps.n] section........................................................................................................................................ 30 [electrical] section.................................................................................................................................... 31 [pitot_static] section................................................................................................................................. 34 [exits] section ........................................................................................................................................... 35 [views] section.......................................................................................................................................... 35 i [lights] section.......................................................................................................................................... 35 [keyboard] section.................................................................................................................................... 36 [radios] section ........................................................................................................................................ 37 [smokesystem] section .............................................................................................................................. 37 [effects] section ........................................................................................................................................ 37 [hydraulic_system] section....................................................................................................................... 38 [stall_warning] section ............................................................................................................................ 39 [direction_indicators] section .................................................................................................................. 39 [attitude_indicators] section .................................................................................................................... 39 [turn_indicators] section.......................................................................................................................... 39 [airspeed_indicators] section................................................................................................................... 40 [autopilot] section .................................................................................................................................... 40 Helicopter specific sections ........................................................................................................................ 45 [helicopter] section .................................................................................................................................. 45 [fuselage_aerodynamics] section ............................................................................................................. 48 [MainRotor] section ................................................................................................................................. 48 [SecondaryRotor] section......................................................................................................................... 49 The kneeboard content files....................................................................................................................... 50 Creating or modifying the Checklist and Reference pages....................................................................... 51 The panel.cfg file......................................................................................................................................... 51 The model.cfg file ....................................................................................................................................... 51 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 51 [models] section ....................................................................................................................................... 51 The sound.cfg file........................................................................................................................................ 52 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 52 [fltsim] section.......................................................................................................................................... 52 [sound_engine] section ............................................................................................................................ 53 [sound_engine] parameters for jet aircraft............................................................................................ 53 [sound_engine] parameters for turboprop aircraft ................................................................................ 54 [sound_engine] parameters for piston aircraft ...................................................................................... 55 Specific engine sound sections (sound lists) ............................................................................................. 56 [wind_sound] section ............................................................................................................................... 57 Ground sound sections ............................................................................................................................. 59 Other sound sections ................................................................................................................................ 61 ii ..... 63 Using aliasing .................................................................................................................................................................................. 64 An example ..............................................................................................................................................................................The Texture folder.................................................... 64 iii ........... To become more familiar with the structure and syntax used in .cfg files. as changes could render aircraft inoperable.cfg file Provides a brief description of an aircraft’s panel. • The panel.cfg file • The Texture folder Describes the contents of an aircraft’s Texture folder.cfg files referenced in this document are simple text files (“configuration” files with a . These files should be modified only – and with caution--by experienced developers.cfg file • The sound.cfg extension) and can be viewed and edited using any text editor. such as Microsoft Notepad.cfg file Explains the structure of and parameters in an aircraft’s aircraft.cfg file Explains the structure of and parameters in an aircraft’s model. • Using Aliasing Explains how to use aliasing to avoid file duplication by sharing components among several aircraft. • This document contains information on how to modify and share components among existing aircraft. • The . They can be found in the appropriate aircraft subfolders of the FS9\Aircraft folder.cfg file Explains the structure of and parameters in an aircraft’s sound. This logical and consistent organization makes the files easy to customize. • The model. 1 . This document includes the following sections: • File hierarchy Provides an overview of the aircraft container system’s organizational structure. • The kneeboard content files Explains the structure of the files that populate the tabs of the kneeboard. and how to customize them. Important Notes: • This SDK documents the aircraft container system and related files as implemented in Flight Simulator 2004.cfg file. you should view actual files as you read this document. It does not explain how to create new aircraft. • The aircraft. Not all of the features and functionality described here are backward-compatible with aircraft from earlier versions of Flight Simulator and Combat Flight Simulator. including the use of configuration sets that enable components to be shared among several aircraft.cfg file.Aircraft Container SDK Overview The Aircraft Container system organizes Flight Simulator aircraft files and attributes so that most aircraft-related files are located close together. (For detailed information about panels. An aircraft “container” is simply an aircraft folder within the FS9\Aircraft folder. • aircraftname. and kneeboard components to use. • Panel folder Contains the panel. Each aircraft folder (e.. sound. texture.cfg file that specifies the visual models to render during normal flight and during a crash.mdl visual model files. see Using Aliasing later in this document. as well as the visual model color scheme. Also contains the . • Texture folder Contains textures (. and sound .cfg Specifies which model. and maximum volume associated with each sound. panel. Note that through aliasing. Also contains associated .htm Provides aircraft-specific text for the Reference tab of the kneeboard.bmp files) used in the presentation of the aircraft’s visual model. model.cfg file that describes the aircraft’s sounds and the initial. For more information. Lear45. • Model folder Contains the model.cfg files (and hence the same panel. 2 .htm Provides aircraft-specific text for the Checklists tab of the kneeboard. • aircraftname_ref. as well as certain aircraft-specific parameters. and sound component files) without copying the files to all the aircraft containers.cfg file that defines the layout of an aircraft’s instrument panels and view parameters. Also contains associated . B737_400. minimum.g.wav files. model.bmp files. File hierarchy The aircraft container system organizes aircraft-related files and folders in a hierarchical and consistent way and mirrors the way the files interact with one another. C182) contains: • aircraft. • aircraftname_check. see the Panels SDK.• The information included in this SDK is not supported by Microsoft Product Support. more than one aircraft can access and use the same panel.air Contains the aircraft’s flight model.) • Sound folder Contains the sound. it’s unassigned. By default. Aircraft are loaded into the memory cache from disk. choose Traffic. you can use this key command to reload the aircraft within the simulation. so you have to flush the cache to enable your changes to be reflected in-game. Turn off AI Traffic in the game. Set up a key command to reload your aircraft from within the simulation. the aircraft must be reloaded. color. the Cessna 182S aircraft. For example. and set the Air Traffic Density slider all the way to the left to 0%.cfg within the game by using the Reload User Aircraft key command. This involves a couple steps: 1.cfg To see the effects of a change.\FS9\Aircraft\C182\aircraft. Configure a key command to Reload User Aircraft. 2. Testing Changes to aircraft. and scroll down to the “Reload User Aircraft” event. as well as the attributes (name. it is important that the variable be located in the correct section. Now you can test changes made to aircraft. panels.cfg file there are a number of sections.cfg file specifies the versions of the aircraft included in the aircraft container. 3 ..cfg file represents the highest level of organization within an aircraft container. Brackets enclosing the section name identify the various sections. Once assigned. Use Change Assignment to configure a keystroke combination for this event.cfg can be found at drive:\. Go to Settings.cfg file located in its container (aircraft folder). Within the aircraft.cfg The aircraft. So to ensure your aircraft is reloaded from disk. you must also go to the Settings Screen. Controls Assignments.cfg file Introduction The aircraft. While exact spelling is important. In order for Flight Simulator to make proper use of any variable. Each aircraft has its own aircraft. if the same aircraft is being used by AI traffic. AI traffic aircraft are maintained in the cache and even if you update the aircraft you’re currently piloting. and so on) for each aircraft and where to find the files that define those attributes.The aircraft. gauges. none of the terms is case-sensitive. sound. then your cache won’t get updated automatically by simply reloading the plane. 4 .cfg files to become more familiar with the structure and syntax of them.mdl) file.ifr). you should look at actual aircraft.ifr subfolder. When creating and referencing multiple model.air file was not loaded successfully. it automatically refers to the default (extension-less) folder. along with the following error messages. while an aircraft is being loaded.0]. This is not a Flight Simulator aircraft model.mdl) file for this aircraft is not compatible with Flight Simulator An error occurred while loading the visual model (. and so on). If there is only one section (labeled [fltsim. If the files are missing. They can be found in the individual aircraft containers. The panel lines in the respective [fltsim. . the aircraft wouldn't usually be displayed in the Select Aircraft dialog box. just specify extension (e. as a result. If there is more than one configuration set (labeled [fltsim. and texture directories. and viewed using any text editor. The visual model (.cfg file will show up.1].extension.cfg file represents a different version (configuration) of the aircraft.. Visual model could not be displayed. there are five versions of the Cessna 182. Error Message Aircraft initialization failure.g. To refer to the folder from the relevant parameter in the aircraft.1] section is panel=ifr means that this version of the C182 uses the panel files in the panel.cfg file.0]). they can each use different panels. Description Indicates that some essential files are missing from the aircraft container. Each version has its own [fltsim.2]. and allow those aircraft to share components. ] section of an aircraft. The . or sounds. As you read. the first error message represents an error early in the aircraft-loading process. Configuration sets and their [fltsim. and is known as a configuration set.g. sound. ] sections Each [fltsim. The error messages are listed in order. each one refers to a different version of the aircraft.. panel. While these configuration sets share many components. and may also vary other items such as the panel. If a parameter isn't explicitly set (as in the [fltsim. The various versions must vary by their title.cfg section and its associated parameters.1] section in the example above). ] sections thus refer to the respective panel folder for each aircraft: For example. panel=ifr). that is. it is because there is only one configuration set in that aircraft container. this error is rare. all housed in the same C182 aircraft container (folder). ] section. Failed to start up the flight model. use the naming convention foldername. where the extension is a unique identifier for that configuration set (e. the panel= parameter in the [fltsim.Any errors made in creating or editing the aircraft. Configuration sets allow a single aircraft container to represent several aircraft. For instance. description. The following sections detail each bracketed aircraft. [fltsim. [fltsim. Specifies which model folder to reference. ] section are parameters that define the details of that particular configuration set: Parameter title Example title= Cessna Skylane 182S sim sim= Cessna182S model panel sound texture kb_checklists model= panel= sound= Texture= kb_checklists= Cessna182S_check kb_reference kb_reference= Cessna182S_ref atc_id atc_id= N700MS atc_id_color atc_id_color=0xc6eff7ff 5 Description The title of the aircraft that will appear in the Select Aircraft dialog. Within each [fltsim. or to a mix of files.The parameters in each configuration set can refer to the same files. . all Cessna configurations use the same sounds.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Reference tab of the kneeboard. . Specifies which panel folder to reference. they make much more efficient use of disk space. Each aircraft defined by a configuration set will appear as a separate listing in the Select Aircraft dialog box. This parameter can also be edited from the Select Aircraft dialog (if the atc_id_enable parameter is set to 1). to different files. Specifies which sound folder to reference. and the third set the blue. The final two characters are unused. From a developer’s perspective. Because they share some files. (Note: custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this). Specifies which . Not applicable to imported Flight Simulator 98 or Combat Flight Simulator aircraft. Specifies.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Checklists tab of the kneeboard. The tail number displayed on the exterior of the aircraft. they are distinct aircraft (just as if all the common files were duplicated and included in three distinct aircraft containers). Specifies which texture folder to reference. (Note: custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this). While using different panels. the color of the tail number. The first two characters following the “0x” specify the red value in hex. The fact that multiple “aircraft” share some components is hidden from the user. which is 0 to 255 decimal. Specifies which _ref. Each value can be between 0 – ff hex.air (flight model) file (located in the aircraft folder) to use. and thus the sound parameters in all three [fltsim. From a user’s perspective. Specifies which _check. ] sections point to the single “sound” folder in the C182 folder. the second two characters the green. in RGB hexadecimal. the aircraft are really just different configuration sets of the same aircraft. The second is the relative height of the tail number characters.g. preference will be given in the order in which they are listed. The final field is a flag that specifies the characters to be italicized. indicating to use your system’s default character set. This value identifies the variation subcategory used to group aircraft in the “select aircraft” dialog inside FS. DOCK. Documentation on specifying parking spaces can be found in the Scenery Facilities Database document. Refer to the ATC Voicepack SDK for more information. GATE. used by ATC. Setting this flag to 1 will result in the ATC system appending the phrase “heavy” to the aircraft’s callsign. The ATC system will use the specified airline name with this aircraft. The example shown is the default used in FS. MIL_CARGO. AAL for American Airlines). If this line is omitted. CARGO.atc_id_font atc_id_font = Verdana.RAMP atc_parking_codes atc_parking_codes=AAL atc_heavy atc_heavy=1 atc_airline atc_airline=Global Freightways atc_flight_number atc_flight_number=1123 ui_manufacturer ui_manufacturer = Cessna ui_type ui_type = C182S Skylane ui_variation ui_variation = White with blue and purple 6 Specifies how the tail number is displayed on the aircraft. . Specifies the preferred parking for this aircraft.600. MIL_COMBAT.0 atc_parking_types atc_parking_types=CARGO. Refer to the ATC Voicepack SDK for more information. ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_airline. (Note: custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this). ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_flight_number. The fourth field represents the relative “heaviness” of the characters. Specifies an ICAO airline designation so that ATC can direct the aircraft to a gate that has also been designated specifically for that same airline (e. The ATC system will use this number as part of the aircraft’s callsign. This is dependant on ATC recognizing the name. ATC will determine parking according to the type of aircraft and parking available.1. This value identifies the manufacturer subcategory used to group aircraft in the “select aircraft” dialog inside FS.-11. The third field should be 1. If multiple values are listed. The first field specifies the font. This value identifies the type sub-category used to group aircraft in the “select aircraft” dialog inside FS. The valid values may be one or more of the following: RAMP. The Cessna 182 Skylane feels and acts like a heavier. parts breaking off) to be seen when crashing the aircraft into the scenery. Even with a full tank. and in actuality. all contain the same flight model. the 182 carries a family-size useful load and performs admirably as an aerial sport utility vehicle.description visual_damage description=When Cessna saw how well their Model 180 was selling. more powerful version of its sibling. For example.mdl file. the 172 Skyhawk. Note: visual damage will only work if it is built into the aircraft’s . they looked for a way to make it an even bigger success\s the answer was the Model 182. there are some things that are NOT “variable” across variations: Parameter atc_type Example atc_type = Cessna atc_model atc_model = C182 editable editable = 0 Description This is the specific aircraft type that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. the Cessna 182RG. and 182S IFR are all the same TYPE of aircraft. As such. 7 . This is the specific aircraft model that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. When set to 0. When set to 1. the aircraft will be editable. The airplane is a workhorse and a stable platform for flying on instruments. This information will be displayed in the “description” box inside FS when the aircraft is selected.) Setting this flag to “1” enables visual damage (e. ) punctuation mark within the in-game description.g. 182S. the [General] section contains information related to ALL variations of the aircraft. visual_damage=0 The aircraft description can be modified to say whatever you like about the aircraft. Determines whether the aircraft can be edited using the Flight Simulator Aircraft Editor application. [General] section In addition to the [fltsim. (The \s is used to produce a semicolon ( . the aircraft will be read-only in the editor and a copy will have to be made for editing. ] sections. Parameter stick_shaker_magnitude stick_shaker_direction Example (from Lear45 aircraft. the performance of each variation should also be identical.793 km\n\nService Ceiling\t\n18.910 lb \t 866 kg\n\nMaximum Gross Weight\t\n3.114 sm \t1.517 m\n\nFuel Capacity\t\n92 U. gal 348 L \n\nEmpty Weight\t\n1.200 lb \t 544 kg The performance description for the aircraft can now be edited.cfg file define the forces generated by that aircraft in the user’s Force Feedback Joystick.S. The “\t” is a tab character.100 ft \t 5.84 m\n\nWingspan\t\n36 ft\t 11 m\n\nHeight\t\n9 ft\t 2.77 m\n\nSeating\t\nUp to 4 \n\nUseful Load\t\n1.110 lb \t 1.411 kg\n\nLength\t\n29 ft\t 8. so that different aircraft can have different force effects (a different "feel" in the stick). the parameters in the [forcefeedback] section of an aircraft. As the flight model for all variations is the same.performance performance=Maximum Speed\t\n145 kts 167 mph\t269 km\/h\n\nCruise Speed\t\n140 kts 161 mph \t259 km\/h\n\nEngine\t\nTextron Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 230 hp\n\nPropeller\t\nThreebladed McCauley constant speed\n\nMaximum Range\t\n968 nm 1. Stick shaker parameters These parameters define the simulated stick shaker force felt in the stick or yoke when flying an aircraft equipped with a stick shaker (such as the Learjet 45). and the “\n” is a new-line character. [forcefeedback] section As detailed in the tables below.cfg) stick_shaker_magnitude=5000 stick_shaker_direction=0 Data type Integer Integer stick_shaker_period stick_shaker_period=111111 Integer 8 Range 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–2^32-1 microseconds . The combination of the two forces (1 and 2). The two forces are both sinusoidal periodic forces. with frequencies determined by the following linear equation: frequency = (ground_bumps_slope * aircraft_ground_speed) + ground_bumps_intercept The ground_bumps_magnitude parameters set the magnitude of the force. Parameter Example (from Lear45 aircraft. The timing deltas are brief.cfg) ground_bumps_magnitude1 ground_bumps_angle1 ground_bumps_magnitude1=1300 ground_bumps_angle1=08900 ground_bumps_intercept1 ground_bumps_intercept1=3. typically less than a second between the time that each gear starts and ends its cycle. In fixed-gear aircraft this effect won't be felt because. and define the behavior of two distinct forces. The ground_bumps_angle parameters set the direction from which the force is felt. The parameters are divided into two subgroups (numbered 1 and 2).Gear bump parameters These parameters define the simulated forces transferred from the airframe and gear drag to the stick or yoke when the aircraft’s nose and main landing gear is raised or lowered (cycled). by definition.cfg) gear_bump_nose_magnitude gear_bump_nose_direction gear_bump_nose_magnitude=3000 gear_bump_nose_direction=18000 Data type Integer Integer gear_bump_nose_duration gear_bump_nose_duration=250000 Integer gear_bump_left_magnitude gear_bump_left_direction gear_bump_left_magnitude=2700 gear_bump_left_direction=9000 Integer Integer gear_bump_left_duration gear_bump_left_duration=250000 Integer gear_bump_right_magnitude gear_bump_right_direction gear_bump_right_magnitude=2700 gear_bump_right_direction=27000 Integer Integer gear_bump_right_duration gear_bump_right_duration=250000 Integer Range 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–2^32-1 microseconds 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–2^32-1 microseconds 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–2^32-1 microseconds Ground bumps parameters These parameters collectively define a composite force that simulates the forces felt through an aircraft's ground steering controls as the aircraft travels over an uneven surface. Parameter Example (from Lear45 aircraft.0 9 Data type Integer Integer Floatingpoint Range 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–1000000. Different aircraft have different gear geometries that result in each of the gear mechanisms starting and ending its cycle at a different time. define a composite force that is transferred to the stick or yoke.0 cycles per second . the landing gear doesn't move. Sets the initial magnitude of the second force.5 seconds. Parameter crash_magnitude1 Example (from Lear45 aircraft. The parameters are divided into two subgroups (numbered 1 and 2). The second force is a periodic square wave force. Sets the direction from which the second force is felt. The first force is a constant force that lasts for 0.0 cycles per second 0–1000000. Determines the frequency (frequency = 1/period) of the second crash force.035 Floatingpoint 0–1000000. However.0 cycles per second 0–10000 0–35999 degrees 0–1000000. it stops and the second force starts. Sets the direction from which first force is felt.ground_bumps_slope1 ground_bumps_slope1=0.5 seconds. After 0. you may modify these values by hand.075 Floatingpoint ground_bumps_slope2 ground_bumps_slope2=0. but you are unlikely to see any affects on the aircraft behavior without running FSEDIT. and define the behavior of two distinct crash-induced forces. Sets the amount of time that the second crash force is felt. Data type Integer Range Integer 0–35999 degrees 0–10000 Integer 0–10000 Integer 0–35999 degrees Integer 0–2^32-1 microseconds Integer 0–2^32-1 microseconds [Reference_Speeds] section The values given in this section are also included mainly for use in FSEDIT.20 Floatingpoint ground_bumps_magnitude2 ground_bumps_angle2 ground_bumps_magnitude2=200 ground_bumps_angle2=09100 Integer Integer ground_bumps_intercept2 ground_bumps_intercept2=1.0 cycles per second Crash parameters These parameters define the simulated forces felt in the stick or yoke when the aircraft crashes. its amplitude declines linearly to 0.cfg) crash_magnitude1=10000 crash_direction1 crash_direction1=01000 crash_magnitude2 crash_magnitude2=10000 crash_direction2 crash_direction2=9000 crash_period2 crash_period2=75000 crash_duration2 crash_duration2=2500000 Description Sets the magnitude of the first force. 10 . Note: elevator_effectiveness.cfg) elevator_effectiveness=1. Typical cruise speed of the aircraft in a clean (flaps up) configuration at a typical cruise altitude. Likewise. For example.1 increases the damping by 10%.9 Description Stall speed of the aircraft in a clean (flaps up) configuration at standard sea level conditions.0 rudder_trim_effectiveness=1.Parameter flaps_up_stall_speed Example flaps_up_stall_speed = 54.0 elevator_trim_effectiveness=1. KTAS). Omission of a parameter results in Flight Simulator defaulting to a value of 1. This generally only applies to turbine airplanes.9 decreases the effectiveness by 10 percent. KTAS).0 Aerodynamic term Cmde Clda Cndr Cmdetr Cldatr Cndrtr Stability parameters The following parameters are multipliers on the default stability (damping effect) about the corresponding axis of the airplane. A positive damping effect is simply a moment in the 11 . (Knots True Airspeed.2 cruise_speed cruise_speed = 140. a value of 1. (Knots Indicated Airspeed) Maximum design mach of the aircraft. a value of 0.0. Also referred to as Never Exceed Speed or “Red Line” of the aircraft. a value of 1. a value of 0. (Knots True Airspeed. Maximum design indicated airspeed. aileron_effectiveness.0 aileron_trim_effectiveness=1.1 increases the effectiveness by 10 percent. and rudder_effectiveness are adjustable using the Flight Simulator Aircraft Editor. Parameter elevator_effectiveness aileron_effectiveness rudder_effectiveness elevator_trim_effectiveness aileron_trim_effectiveness rudder_trim_effectiveness Example (from C182 aircraft. A negative number results in an unstable characteristic about the axis. Likewise. KTAS). A negative number reverses the normal effect of the control. [flight_tuning] section Flight control effectiveness parameters The following parameters are multipliers on the default "power" of the control surfaces.0 aileron_effectiveness=1.0 full_flaps_stall_speed full_flaps_stall_speed = 43.9 decreases the damping by 10%.0 max_indicated_speed max_indicated_speed=175 max_mach max_mach=0.0 rudder_effectiveness=1. For example. Stall speed of the aircraft in a “dirty” (flaps full down) configuration at standard sea level conditions. (Knots True Airspeed. 0. Note: These three parameters are adjustable using the Flight Simulator Aircraft Editor Application. Parameter Example cruise_lift_scalar cruise_lift_scalar=1. The default values are 1.0 hi_alpha_on_yaw=1.0 Propeller-induced turning effect parameters The following parameters are multipliers on the effects induced by rotating propellers These are often called “left turning tendencies” for clockwise rotating propellers. This scaling is decreased linearly as angle of attack moves toward the critical (stall) angle of attack. Omission of a parameter will result in Flight Simulator defaulting to a value of 1.0.0 Aerodynamic term for parameter CL0 High Angle of Attack parameters The following parameters are multipliers on the effects on roll and yaw at high angles of attack.0 roll_stability=1.0 yaw_stability=1.0. which prevents destabilizing low speed and stall characteristics at high angles of attack. Parameter p_factor_on_yaw torque_on_roll Example p_factor_on_yaw=1. Omission of this parameter will result in Flight Simulator defaulting to a value of 1.0.0 torque_on_roll=1. A negative value is not advised. although MSFS automatically handles counter-clockwise rotating propellers. Parameter pitch_stability roll_stability yaw_stability Example pitch_stability=1.0 12 . which is typical for an airplane in a cruise condition). Modify this value to set the angle of attack (and thus pitch) for a cruise condition. as this will result in extremely unnatural flight characteristics.0 Aerodynamic term Cmq Clp Cnr Lift parameter The following parameter is a multiplier on the coefficient of lift at zero angle of attack ("cruise lift" in this context refers to the lift at relatively small angles of attack. Note: This parameter is adjustable using the Flight Simulator Aircraft Editor Application. The default values are 1.direction opposite of the rotational velocity. Parameter hi_alpha_on_roll hi_alpha_on_yaw Example hi_alpha_on_roll=1. 0. Negative values are not advised.0. the station_load. a value of 1. These are used by internal language translation tools. Parasite drag increases as airspeed increases.0 Drag parameters Drag is the aerodynamic force that determines the aircraft speed and acceleration. and skin friction. Induced drag results from the production of lift.1 increases the respective drag component by 10 percent.9 decreases the drag by 10 Percent. which results from the interference of streamlined airflow.gyro_precession_on_roll gyro_precession_on_yaw gyro_precession_on_roll=1. This parameter is used solely in FSEDIT to help determine the aerodynamic coefficients. parameters are enclosed in quotation marks.0 Aerodynamic term for parameter Cd0 Cdi [weight_and_balance] section The weight and center of gravity of the aircraft can be affected through the following parameters. as extremely unnatural flight characteristics will result. The following parameters are multipliers on the two respective drag coefficients. 1. Induced drag increases as angle of attack increases.cfg) parasite_drag_scalar=1. and vertically upward. Parameter max_gross_weight Example max_gross_weight = 3110 13 Units / format pounds Description Maximum design gross weight of the aircraft. Parasitic drag is composed of two basic elements: form drag. and are not necessary for in-game use. The sign convention for positions is positive equals longitudinally forward. A value of 0. Note: These two parameters are adjustable using the Flight Simulator Aircraft Editor Application. Note: In the stock aircraft. laterally to the right. . Omission of a parameter results in Flight Simulator defaulting to a value of 1. For example. There are two basic types of drag that the user can adjust here. etc.0 induced_drag_scalar=1. Parameter parasite_drag_scalar induced_drag_scalar Example (from C182 aircraft.0 gyro_precession_on_yaw=1. Offset (in feet) of the aircraft's reference datum from the standard Flight Simulator center point. and expendable armament (Combat Flight Simulator aircraft). the default is 0. passengers. which is on the centerline ¼ chord aft of the leading edge. 0 feet. 0.feet. By setting the Reference Datum Position.feet. or baggage) from the Reference Datum Position.air file will be used. Offset (in feet) of the center of gravity of the basic empty aircraft (no fuel. cargo.feet empty_weight_CG_position empty_weight_CG_posi tion= -3. the value previously set in the . . 0. passengers.0.6.empty_weight empty_weight=1810 pounds reference_datum_position reference_datum_posi tion= 3.0. 0 feet.feet 14 Total weight (in pounds) of the aircraft minus usable fuel. actual aircraft loading data can be used directly according to the aircraft's manufacturer.0 (Flight Simulator's default center). If not specified. If not specified. fee t. 0. -3.Rear Passenger max_number_of_statio ns=50 pounds.0 station_load. -1.feet station_load.0.2. -1.0=170.0. feet.0.2=160.0. The final field is the string name that is used in the Payload dialog (15 character limit).2 max_number_of_stations 15 Specifies the weight and position of passengers or payload at a station specified with a unique number.feet. -6. Same as above pounds. followed by the offset (in feet) of the station (longitudinal.N.1 station_load.station_load.1=170. 1. 0.feet. -3.feet station_load.5. 0. Note that an excessively large number here results in a longer load time for the aircraft when selected.fee t. .feet Same as above number Max Number of Stations specifies the maximum number of stations Flight Simulator will calculate when the aircraft is loaded.5. station_load.5.feet.Pilot pounds. The addition of stations results in a corresponding change in aircraft flight dynamics due to the change of the total weight and moments of inertia. lateral. Omission of this will result in a generic “station” name being used. although there is no effect on real-time performance. This allows an unlimited number of stations to be specified. The first parameter number on each line specifies the weight (in pounds). and vertical) from the Reference Datum Position.0. Front Passenger station_load. The moment of inertia (MOI) about the vertical axis. The following weight and balance parameters define the MOIs of the empty aircraft. A moment of inertia for a particular axis is increased as mass is increased and/or as the given mass is distributed farther from the axis. The moment of inertia (MOI) about the roll and yaw axis (usually zero).0 empty_weight_yaw_MOI empty_weight_yaw_MOI=2360. Flight Simulator determines the total MOIs with these influences within the simulation. These values can be estimated with the following formula: MOI = EmptyWeight * (D^2 / K) Where: D= K= Pitch Length (feet) 810 Roll Wingspan (feet) 1870 Yaw 0. Parameter empty_weight_pitch_MOI Example empty_weight_pitch_MOI=1400. Omission of a parameter will result in Flight Simulator defaulting to the value set in the .0 Description The moment of inertia (MOI) about the lateral axis.0 empty_weight_roll_MOI empty_weight_roll_MOI=1137. if one exists.Moments of Inertia A moment of inertia (MOI) defines the mass distribution about an axis of an aircraft. meaning that the value should not reflect fuel. or expendable armament (Combat Flight Simulator aircraft).0 empty_weight_coupled_MOI empty_weight_coupled_MOI = 0. baggage. The units are slug . and number of engines and their positions.air file. passengers. installed equipment. The moment of inertia (MOI) about the longitudinal axis. Actual values vary based on aircraft material.5* (Length+Wingspan) 770 This formula yields only rough estimates.ft^2. 16 . This is largely what determines the inertial characteristics of the aircraft. -2. Gallons The longitudinal. Each engine location specified increases the engine count (maximum of four engines allowed).2 engine. fuel type.0. . 0 = piston.0 engine. lateral and vertical).50. Parameter engine_type Example engine_type = 0 engine. 46. 2. 0 = FALSE. This value is intended to match the number of visual selectors on the instrument panel. 4 = Rocket. lateral. Next are the usable and unusable capacities of the tanks. 0. even a glider.3 engine. The maximum number of selectors supported is 2.0. Boolean that sets whether an electric boost pump is available.85.10.cfg file. 46. 2 – JetA Number of fuel tank selectors (max 4 – should be less than or equal to number of engines). and the number of fuel selectors. 1 = TRUE.85. 0. Offset (in feet) of the engine from the Reference Datum Position (longitudinal. and a fuel flow scalar to modify how much fuel the engine requires to produce the calculated power.4. should have this section in the aircraft. [GeneralEngineData] section Every type of aircraft.1 engine.0.cfg) LeftMain = -3. 1 – Avgas. including the tanks. this section describes the type of engine. Basically.[fuel] section This section defines the characteristics of the fuel system. Parameter Center1 Center2 Center3 LeftMain LeftAux LeftTip RightMain RightAux RightTip External1 External2 Example (from C182 aircraft. 3 = Helo-turbine. 0.50. 0. 2.0 = 2. 2. where the engines are located.. 1 = Jet.10. 2 = None.00 fuel_type fuel_type=1 number_of_tank_selectors number_of_tank_selectors=1 electric_pump electric_pump = 1 Units Description Feet.00 RightMain= -3.0 17 Description Integer that identifies what type of engine is on the aircraft. the number of engines. and vertical position of the tank. A value of less than 1. For piston engines. 1=Available. This section contains all the information Flight Simulator needs to be able to determine how much power your engine is capable of producing. number of cylinders in the engine.0 master_ignition_switch master_ignition_switch=0 Scalar for modifying the fuel flow required by the engine(s). The default value is about -39 degrees Celsius for turbine engines. Maximum rated brake horsepower output of the engine.0 cylinder_displacement cylinder_displacement = 90. Normally 0 for piston aircraft and -0. Ambient temperature. Compression ratio of each cylinder. Only values of 1 and 2 are supported.) Parameter power_scalar Example power_scalar = 1. to be operable. Turning it off will kill all engines.0 causes the aircraft to burn more fuel for a given power setting. multiplied by the number of pistons available. in which engine vapor contrails will turn on. If available. Defines the minimum throttle position (percent of max).25 for turbine airplane engines with reverse thrust. the contrail effect is turned off unless a temperature value is set here.3 compression_ratio compression_ratio = 8. Integer value. [piston_engine] section A piston engine’s power can be determined through a series of equations that represent the “Otto” cycle of a four-stroke piston engine.fuel_flow_scalar fuel_flow_scalar = 1. Number of magnetos on the piston engine. 0=Not Available (default). . in Celsius. this switch must be on for the ignition circuit. (Power can also be scaled from the calculated values generated for piston engines with the “power_scalar” value. and thus the engines.0 min_throttle_limit min_throttle_limit=0 max_contrail_temperature max_contrail_temperature= -39.0 causes a slower fuel consumption for a given power setting. a value greater than 1. Maximum rated revolutions per minute (RPM) of the engine (red line).5 number_of_cylinders number_of_cylinders = 6 number_of_magnetos number_of_magnetos=2 max_rated_rpm max_rated_rpm = 2400 max_rated_hp max_rated_hp = 230 18 Description Changing this value affects the amount of power delivered by th engine to the propellor shaft. Cubic inches per cylinder displacement. Integer value indicating the emergency boost type available. 0 = air cooled. Altitude to which the turbocharger. 1 = TRUE. if present. if available. Increase this value for a greater torque effect. 2 = Aerobatic Carburetor. This value can be modified to increase/decrease the torque supplied by the starter to get the prop turning. Integer value indicating the method of engine cooling. (typically used in WWII combat aircraft). 1 = TRUE. 0 = None. Boolean to indicate if automatic ignition is available. 3 = War Emergency Power.fuel_metering_type fuel_metering_type = 0 cooling_type cooling_type = 0 normalized_starter_torque normalized_starter_torque = 0. 0 = FALSE. 0 = FALSE. Multiplier on manifold pressure due to emergency boost. Boolean to indicate if the engine is turbocharged. will provide the maximum design manifold pressure (feet).3 turbocharged turbocharged = 0 max_design_mp max_design_mp = 0 min_design_mp min_design_mp = 0 critical_altitude critical_altitude = 0 emergency_boost_type emergency_boost_type = 0 emergency_boost_mp_offset emergency_boost_mp_offset = 0 emergency_boost_gain_offset fuel_air_auto_mixture emergency_boost_gain_offset = 0 fuel_air_auto_mixture = 0 auto_ignition auto_ignition = 0 19 Integer value indicating the fuel metering type. 0 = Fuel Injected. 1 = Gravity Carburetor. 1 = TRUE. this value indicates the minimum design manifold pressure of the turbocharger (inHg). 1 = Water Injection. Boolean to indicate if automatic fuel-to-air mixture is available. If a turbocharger is present. this value indicates the maximum design manifold pressure supplied by the turbocharger (inHg). 2 = Methanol/Water Injection. 1 = liquid cooled. 0 = FALSE. Additional manifold pressure supplied by emergency boost. If a turbocharger is present. decrease it for a lower torque setting. . tip to tip. Increase this value to increase the friction. Parameter thrust_scalar Example thrust_scalar = 1.0 idle_rpm_friction_scalar idle_rpm_friction_scalar = 1. Diameter of propeller blades. Increase this value to increase the friction. 1 = Fixed Pitch. Propeller moment of inertia. Scalar value that can be modified to tune the internal friction of the engine at idle rpm.8 20 Description Parameter that scales the calculated thrust provided by the propeller. Increase this value to increase the mechanical efficiency. decrease it to decrease the friction.) . decrease it to decrease the mechanical efficiency. Scalar value that can be modified to tune the internal friction of the engine at maximum rpm. Increase this value to increase the mechanical efficiency. in feet. Note: This parameter is adjustable using the Flight Simulator Flight Dynamics Editor portion of the FSEDIT tool. (slug – ft2). (Not used if fixed pitch.0 max_rpm_friction_scalar max_rpm_friction_scalar = 1. Maximum blade pitch angle for constant speed prop (degrees). Integer that identifies what type of propeller is on the aircraft. 3 or 4). airplane speed. 0 = Constant Speed.max_rpm_mechanical_efficiency_ scalar max_rpm_mechanical_efficiency _scalar = 1. Scalar value that can be modified to tune the mechanical efficiency of the engine at idle rpm. blade angle. Integer value indicating the number of blades on the propeller (2. and ambient density. decrease it to decrease the mechanical efficiency.0 propeller_type propeller_type = 0 propeller_diameter propeller_diameter = 6. RPM.7 beta_max = 31. (can be used to tune the rpm at which the engine idles).8 propeller_blades propeller_blades = 2 propeller_moi beta_max propeller_moi = 5. [propeller] section The thrust generated by a given propeller is a function of the power delivered through the propeller shaft.0 Scalar value that can be modified to tune the mechanical efficiency of the engine at maximum rpm. decrease it to decrease the friction.0 idle_rpm_mechanical_efficiency_ scalar idle_rpm_mechanical_efficiency _scalar = 1. 0 = FALSE. Minimum RPM at which the prop will feather (if feathering is available). (Not used if constant speed. Coefficient of friction power absorbed by propeller. 1 = TRUE. Propeller pitch angle when feathered (degrees). Boolean to indicate if propeller-sync is available (twin engine aircraft).0 min_gov_rpm min_gov_rpm = 1400 prop_tc gear_reduction_ratio prop_tc = 0. Time constant for prop The reduction ratio from the engine output RPM to prop RPM. Feathering switches (as found on the Douglas DC3). 1 = TRUE.beta_min beta_min = 17. . Boolean to indicate if prop autofeathering is available (constant speed prop only). Boolean to indicate if prop feathering is available (constant speed prop only). 0 = FALSE. 1 = TRUE. (feet/second). Specifies the scalar on the calculated propeller reverser effect.0 fixed_pitch_beta fixed_pitch_beta = 20 low_speed_theory_limit low_speed_theory_limit = 80 prop_sync_available prop_sync_available = 0 prop_deice_available prop_deice_available = 0 prop_feathering_available prop_feathering_available = 0 prop_auto_feathering_avail able prop_auto_feathering_availa ble = 0 min_rpm_for_feather min_rpm_for_feather = 0 beta_feather beta_feather = 0 power_absorbed_cf power_absorbed_cf = 0 defeathering_accumulators _available defeathering_accumulators_ available = 0 feathering_switches feathering_switches=0 prop_reverse_available prop_reverse_available = 0 minimum_on_ground_beta minimum_on_ground_beta = 0 minimum_reverse_beta = 0 minimum_reverse_beta 21 Minimum blade pitch angle for constant speed prop (degrees). 0 = FALSE. Minimum blade pitch angle when the aircraft is on the ground (degrees).1 gear_reduction_ratio = 1. A value of 0 will cause no reverse thrust to be available. 0 = FALSE. regardless of the propeller lever position. 1 = TRUE.) The minimum RPM controlled by the governor for a constant speed prop. 1 = TRUE. 0 = FALSE. Boolean to indicate if propeller de-icing is available. 0 = FALSE. (Not used if fixed pitch. Boolean to indicate if de-feathering accumulators are available. Other values will scale the normal calculated value accordingly. A value of 1.0 will cause the theoretical normal thrust to be available. Minimum blade pitch angle when the propeller is in reverse (degrees). Blade pitch angle for fixed pitch prop (degrees). Boolean indicating if feathering switches are available. 1 = TRUE. allow the pilot to automatically feather the propeller via a switch.) The speed at which low-speed propeller theory gets blended into the high speed propeller theory. 0). lateral.3. both propellers are driven by the first engine (engine.-6. which has two propellers offset from the engine. The Wright Flyer is an example of where there are a different number of propellers than engines. The propeller position is where the thrust is applied to the aircraft. . By default. separated by commas.number_of_propellers number_of_propellers=2 engine_map engine_map = 0. The corresponding torque from the props will also affect the driving engines appropriately. vertical) in feet from the engine that is driving it.0 propeller.1. This parameter allows the propellers to be driven by other than the corresponding engine.…n propeller. The series of numbers. [TurbineEngineData] section A turbine engine ignites fuel and compressed air to create thrust. This parameter allows for the propeller to be located at the specified offset (longitudinal. Maximum rated static thrust at sea level (lbs). Boolean value to indicate if an afterburner is available.2. 1 = TRUE. In the example (from the Wright Flyer). Example is from the Wright Flyer. (ft2) Second stage compressor rated RPM. and so on.0 = -6.0.9.cfg) fuel_flow_gain = 0. 0 = FALSE. These parameters define the power (thrust) output of a given jet engine. represent the engine index which drives the propeller. Parameter fuel_flow_gain inlet_area rated_N2_rpm Example (from lear45 aircraft. By default. The number of propellers must not be less than the number of engines.0025 inlet_area = 4. propeller 1 is driven by engine 1. the number of propellers will be set to the number of engines. the propeller thrust is located at the position specified for the corresponding engine in the [GeneralEngineData] section. propeller 2 by engine 2.1 By default.2895 rated_N2_rpm = 29920 static_thrust static_thrust = 3500 afterburner_available afterburner_available = 0 22 Description Fuel flow gain constant. Engine nacelle inlet area. including landing gear contact and articulation.cfg) power_scalar = 1. A value of 1. You can also configure each contact point independently for each aircraft. Parameter power_scalar Example (from beech_king_air_350 aircraft. [contact_points] section You can configure and adjust the way aircraft reacts to different kinds of contact. Parameter thrust_scalar Example (from lear45 aircraft.cfg) thrust_scalar = 1. Other values will scale the normal calculated value accordingly.0 maximum_torque maximum_torque = 3270 Description Changing this value affects the amount of power delivered by the engine to the propeller shaft.air file the first time the aircraft is loaded.reverser_available Specifies the scalar on the calculated reverse thrust effect. 23 .0 will cause the theoretical normal reverse thrust to be available. steering. The values in the [turboprop_engine] section are included to modify values specific to the turboprop. and then write it to the aircraft. The data for configuring the points are placed in the [contact_points] section of the aircraft. and damage accrued through excessive speed. and there is no limit to the number of points you can add.0 [turboprop_engine] section The amount of power generated by an engine and the power required for a propeller to turn through the air determine the increase and decrease of the RPM. braking. reverser_available = 1 [jet_engine] section The thrust_scalar parameter scales the calculated thrust for jet engines (from the [TurbineEngineData] section). the program will generate the data from the . Note: These parameter is adjustable using the Flight Simulator Flight Dynamics Editor. Maximum shaft-torque available from the engine (ft-lbs). Note: his parameter is adjustable using the Flight Simulator Flight Dynamics Editor.cfg.cfg. A value of 0 will cause no reverse thrust to be available. A turboprop engine is really a combination of a turbine engine and a propeller. When importing an aircraft that does not contain this set of data. 200 Below is a description of each element of the example contact point data set: Parameter 1 (1) Element Class 2 (-18.90.n=”. The vertical distance of the point from the defined reference datum (feet). 1 = Left Brake. Each contact point contains a series of values that define the characteristics of the point. 4. Positive is starboard (right. The lateral distance of the point from the defined reference datum (feet).35. 0.25. 4 = Float. separated by commas.5) Ratio of Maximum Compression to Static Compression 24 Description Integer defining the type of contact point: 0 = None.0. The maximum angle (positive and negative) that a wheel can pivot (degrees).25) Static Compression 10 (2. where a smaller number will increase the “stiffness” of the strut. 3200. -18. Can be useful in coordinating the “compression” of the strut when landing. . This term defines the “strength” of the strut. -3.It may be useful to first look at the . 3 = Skid. 0. where “n” is the index to the particular point. This is the distance a landing gear is compressed when the empty aircraft is at rest on the ground (feet). Each point's data set takes the form “point.0= 1. 0. 0.180.1 Radius of the wheel (feet). 5 = Water Rudder The longitudinal distance of the point from the defined reference datum (feet).50. 0. 1 = Wheel.5. Ratio of the max dynamic compression available in the strut to the static value. Positive is forward (out the nose). you can learn a lot from the many developer comments.50) 8 (180) Wheel Radius Steering Angle 9 (0. 1. 0.35) Vertical Position 5 (3200) Impact Damage Threshold 6 (0) Brake Map 7 (0. 0 = None.0. Example: [contact_points] point.0. followed by the data. as viewed from the top with the airplane pointing “up”). which are followed by two slashes (//). Defines which brake input drives the brake (wheels only). 2 = Right Brake.cfg file of an existing aircraft. 2 = Scrape. 0.0) Longitudinal Position 3 (0) Lateral Position 4 (-3. The speed at which an impact with the ground can cause damage (feet/min). 2. Positive is up. 3 = Right Gear. .95. and values greater than 1. 7 = Aux1 Scrape. A damping ratio of 0. 4 = Fuselage Scrape.90) Damping Ratio 12 (1. The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully extend under normal conditions (seconds). 6 = Right Wing Scrape.11 (0. meaning that the oscillations will continue with a constant magnitude. 5 = Left Wing Scrape. The speed above which the landing gear accrues damage (knots). A value of zero indicates a fixed gear. A value of 1. Negative values result in an unstable ground handling situation. 2 = Left Gear. This integer value will map a point to a type of sound: 0 = Center Gear. Typical values range from 0.6 to 0. 1 = Auxiliary Gear. there are “global” [contact_point] parameters that are also used: Parameter max_number_of_points Example max_number_of_points = 21 25 Description Integer value indicating the maximum number of points the program will look for in the [contact_points] section. Not used for scrape points or non-retractable gear. Not used for scrape points or nonretractable gear. This is the speed at which landing gear extension becomes inhibited (knots).0 might also cause instabilities by being “over” damped. The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully retract under normal conditions (seconds). 8 = Aux2 Scrape.0 is considered undamped.0 is considered critically damped.0) Retraction Time 14 (0) Sound Type 15 (0) Airspeed Limit 16 (200) Damage from Airspeed This ratio describes how well the ground reaction oscillations are damped. A value of zero indicates a fixed gear. meaning there will be little or no osciallation.0) Extension Time 13 (4. 9 = Tail Scrape. In addition to the specific data for each contact point. 015 gear_system_type gear_system_type=1 The static pitch of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (degrees). The throttle limit. The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup.0 = Max throttle. This parameter defines the system type which drives the gear extension and retraction.82 static_cg_height static_cg_height = 3. 4 = none. below which the gear warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the flaps are deflected to at least the setting for flap_limit_idle below. Parameter gear_warning_available Example gear_warning_availiable = 1 pct_throttle_limit pct_throttle_limit = 0. and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. 1. 3 = manual. 2 = Amphibian (audible alert for water vs. in slew. 1 = Normal. in slew. 1 = hydraulic. 0 = electrical. This flap limit can be 0 so that the warning effectively is a function of the throttle. 0 = None. . The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup.1 26 Description Sets the type of gear warning system available on the aircraft. This is generally a function of the throttle lever position and the flap deflection.static_pitch static_pitch = 3. 2 = pneumatic. 0 = idle. The static height of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (feet). land setting). and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. [gear_warning_system] section The following parameters define the functionality of the aircraft’s gear warning system. 0 is the default. modification of SOME of these variables will have little to no effect on airplane performance. This is often utilized in jets to decelerate/descend the aircraft. but changing the values in the aircraft. 0 = FALSE.0 scales the brakes to no effectiveness. these values have been exposed for your convenience. 1 = TRUE. 27 .0 is the normal setting if differential braking is desired (particularly on tailwheel airplanes). 1. as the flight model aerodynamic coefficients are all still located in the [aircraft_title].flap_limit_idle flap_limit_idle = 0 flap_limit_power flap_limit_power = 30 In conjunction with the throttle limit specified above. By setting this limit to a value greater than zero. [airplane_geometry] section The airplane [airplane_geometry] section has been added mainly for use with the FSEDIT application and the ability to create a flight model from aircraft geometrical input. The amount of difference between the left and right brake is scaled by this value. above which the warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the throttle is below the limit specified above.cfg file WITHOUT running the FSEDIT application will result in little.air file.air file based on the values in this section (and others). 1. if any. The FSEDIT program will change the aerodynamic coefficients in the . Sets the scaling of the braking effectiveness. The flap limit. noticeable changes in aircraft behavior. 0. Nonetheless. above which the warning will activate (regardless of throttle position). Differential braking is a function of the normal “both” brakes on and the rudder pedal input. Although you can edit these values by hand here in the aircraft. [brakes] section The following parameters define the Parameter parking_brake Example =1 toe_brakes_scale = 1.0 is the setting if no differential braking is desired.0 differential_braking_scale = 0 Description Boolean setting if a parking brake is available on the aircraft.cfg file. 0. the pilot can reduce the throttle to idle without activating the warning. this limit is the flap deflection. Longitudinal distance of the wing apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point (feet).5 wing_twist wing_twist oswald_efficiency_factor oswald_efficiency_factor = 0.0. Note: this parameter is not used in the real-time aerodynamic calculations. Also known as “wash-out. (degrees). This distance is measured POSITIVE in the UP direction. Area of the top surface of the entire horizontal tail (tip-to-tip) (ft2).cfg) wing_area = 176. Horizontal tail span is the horizontal distance from horizontal tail-tip to horizontal tail -tip (feet). 0 = FALSE. 28 Length of the wing chord (leading edge to trailing edge) at the intersection of the wing and the fuselage (feet). this is the angle the wing leading edge makes with a horizontal line perpendicular to the fuselage. This distance is measured POSITIVE in the forward (out the aircraft nose) direction.9 wing_dihedral wing_dihedral = 1.0 wing_pos_apex_lon wing_pos_apex_lon = 2. When looking down on top of an aircraft. . Wing span is the horizontal distance from wing-tip to wing-tip (feet). (degrees).7 wing_incidence wing_incidence = 1. 1 = TRUE. Boolean to indicate if the aircraft incorporates the use of winglets. A theoretically “perfect” wing will have an OEF of 1.0 Description wing_span wing_span = 36.7 wing_winglets_flag wing_winglets_flag = 0 wing_sweep wing_sweep = 0.” This is a measure of the aerodynamic efficiency of the wing. this is the angle between the wing leading edge and a horizontal line parallel to the ground (degrees). as it is already factored into the lift and drag parameters. It will however influence the calculation of the lift and drag constants and tables generated through Fsedit. When looking at the side of an aircraft from the wing tip.0 wing_root_chord wing_root_chord = 4. this is the angle the mean wing chord makes with a horizontal line parallel to the ground.Parameter wing_area Example (from C182 aircraft. This is the difference in wing incidence from the root chord and the tip chord of the wing.0 htail_span htail_span = 11.7 Area of the top surface of the entire wing tip-to-tip (ft2). When looking at the front of an aircraft.0 htail_area htail_area = 39. Vertical distance of the wing apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point (feet). (degrees).4 wing_pos_apex_vert wing_pos_apex_vert = 0. 0 vtail_span vtail_span = 4. Vertical distance of the horizontal tail apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point.0 elevator_down_limit aileron_up_limit elevator_down_limit = 21.8 vtail_sweep vtail_sweep = 40.3 htail_pos_vert htail_pos_vert = 0. Vertical tail span is the vertical distance from the vertical tail-fuselage intersection to the tip of the vertical tail (feet).0 vtail_area vtail_area = 18. When looking at the side of an aircraft from the horizontal tail tip. this is the angle the vertical tail leading edge makes with a vertical line perpendicular to the fuselage (degrees). this is the angle the horizontal tail leading edge makes with a horizontal line perpendicular to the fuselage (degrees). When looking at the side of the vertical tail. Vertical distance of the vertical tail apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point (feet). This distance is measured POSITIVE in the forward (out the aircraft nose) direction. Area of the surface of one side of the vertical tail (fuselage-to-tip) (ft2).2 vtail_pos_vert vtail_pos_vert = 1.6 aileron_area aileron_area = 18.5 elevator_area elevator_area = 16. When looking down on top of an aircraft. Angular limit of the elevator when deflected “down” (degrees).0 aileron_up_limit = 20. Angular limit of the aileron when deflected “down” (degrees). (feet). Angular limit of the aileron when deflected “up” (degrees). This distance is measured POSITIVE in the UP direction. Angular limit of the elevator when deflected “up” (degrees).0 htail_incidence htail_incidence = 3. Area of the top surface of all the ailerons on the wing (ft2).0 aileron_down_limit aileron_down_limit = 15. Longitudinal distance of the vertical tail apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point. this is the angle the mean horizontal tail chord makes with a horizontal line parallel to the ground (degrees). Area of the top surface of the entire elevator (tip-to-tip) (ft2). .3 rudder_area rudder_area = 6.2 htail_sweep htail_sweep = 10.htail_pos_lon htail_pos_lon = -18. Area of the side surface of the entire rudder (ft2).0 vtail_pos_lon vtail_pos_lon = -16. This distance is measured POSITIVE in the forward (out the aircraft nose) direction.0 29 Longitudinal distance of the horizontal tail apex (measured at centerline of aircraft) from defined reference point (feet). This distance is measured POSITIVE in the UP direction. (feet).7 elevator_up_limit elevator_up_limit = 28. a corresponding [flaps. Angular limit of the elevator trim tab (degrees). 1 = TRUE. If this limit is zero. 0 = FALSE. This value indicates at what minimum flap handle position the spoilerons become active. Boolean that configures the airplane with manual control of the spoiler deflections. no spoilers exist for the aircraft.rudder_limit rudder_limit = 24.0 spoilerons_available spoilerons_available = 0 aileron_to_spoileron_gain aileron_to_spoileron_gain =0 spoiler_handle_available spoiler_handle_available =0 min_ailerons_for_spoilero ns min_ailerons_for_spoilero ns = 0 min_flaps_for_spoilerons min_flaps_for_spoilerons =0 aileron_to_rudder_scale aileron_to_rudder_scale= 0 Angular limit of the rudder deflection (degrees). Angular limit of the wing spoilers on an aircraft.n] sections contained in the aircraft.5 spoiler_limit spoiler_limit = 0. Boolean to indicate if the spoilers also behave as “spoilerons” for roll control (if spoilers are available): 0 = FALSE. [flaps.5 extending-time extending-time = 5 Description Integer value that indicates if this is a leading edge or trailing edge flap set. a value of 0.4 would result in 40% rudder deflection for 100% aileron control input.cfg file. (degrees). 1 = TRUE. but it is typical for the larger commercial aircraft to have a set of leading edge flaps in addition to the trailing edge flaps.set] section should exist. 2 = leading edge. The percentage of half-wing span the flap extends to (from the wingfuselage intersection).0 elevator_trim_limit elevator_trim_limit = 19. 1 = trailing edge. If spoilerons are available. This value indicates at what aileron deflection the spoilers are become active for roll control. this value is the constant used in determining the amount of spoiler deflection per aileron deflection. This value sets the ratio of rudder to aileron input.n] section For each flap set that is on the aircraft. For example. The following table provides a description of each term in the [flaps. Time it takes for the flap set to extend to the fullest deflection angle specified (seconds). The number of flap sets are determined by the number of [flaps.0] section for the Cessna 182S: Parameter type Example type = 1 span-outboard span-outboard = 0. (degrees). Most general aviation aircraft and smaller jets only have one set of flaps (trailing edge). 30 . The default Min Voltage equals 0. Speed at which the flaps begin to accrue damage (Knots Indicated Airspeed. KIAS). [electrical] section These parameters configure the characteristics of the aircraft's electrical system and its components. If a component is included in the list but the aircraft does not actually have that system.0 pitch_scalar pitch_scalar = 1. 4 = None.3 = 30 damaging-speed damaging-speed = 250 blowout-speed blowout-speed = 300 lift_scalar lift_scalar = 1. 2 = Pneumatic. Below is a table of [electrical] section parameters shown with typical default values (the values Flight Simulator uses if the parameters are omitted).0 drag_scalar drag_scalar = 1. Boolean defining if a tailwheel lock is available (applicable only on tailwheel airplanes). The largest deflection angle will be the one used for full flap deflection.flaps-position.0 system_type system_type = 0 tailwheel_lock tailwheel_lock=0 Each element of the flaps-position array indicates the deflection angle to which the flaps will deflect (degrees). the component is simply ignored. 3 = Manual. The percentage of total drag due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. 0 = FALSE. 31 .0 flaps-position. 1 = Hydraulic.7*Max Battery Voltage. Speed at which the flaps depart the aircraft (Knots Indicated Airspeed.3 flaps-position. The list of components also reflects all of the systems currently linked to the electrical system. KIAS).1 = 10 flaps-position.2 = 20 flaps-position.2 flaps-position. Integer value that indicates what type of system drives the flaps to deflect: 0 = Electric. Each aircraft has a battery as well as an alternator or generator for each engine. The percentage of total lift due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection.0 = 0 flaps-position. The percentage of total pitch due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection.1 flaps-position. 1 = TRUE. 0 additional_system = 0. min voltage Bus type. max amp load. 10. 2 . max amp load.0 amps electric_always _available electric_always_avail able = 0 flap_motor flap_motor = 0. 20. 20. max amp load. See notes below. min voltage See notes below. min voltage Bus type. 17. 2 . max amp load. 15 . min voltage Bus type. It is also the voltage available from the battery when the aircraft is initialized. max amp load. min voltage Bus type.0 gear_motor = 0. See notes below. 5 . 5 . 17. See notes below. See notes below. min voltage Bus type.0 volts max_generator _alternator_amps max_generator_alterna tor_amps = 60. The battery voltage will decrease from this if the generators or alternators are not supplying enough current to meet the demand of the active components. See notes below. 5 . See notes below. max amp load. 17. max amp load. max amp load.0 pitot_heat = 0.0 Units/format* (see note below) Description volts generator_alternator _voltage generator_alternator_ voltage = 28.0 avionics_bus = 0. 17. min voltage Bus type. 5 . See notes below. max amp load. 20. See notes below. 17. 17. This flag enables electrical power regardless of the state of the battery or circuit. See notes below. See notes below. 17.0 avionics = 1. 17. min voltage Bus type.0 autopilot = 0. The voltage provided by a fully functioning alternator or generator. max amp load. 17. min voltage Bus type. See notes below. 17.0 starter1 = 0.0 The maximum voltage to which the battery can be charged.0 starter2 = 0. min voltage Bus type. 17. min voltage Bus type. max_battery_voltage gear_motor autopilot avionics_bus avionics pitot_heat additional_system marker_beacon gear_warning fuel_pump starter1 starter2 32 Bus type.0 marker_beacon = 1. .Parameter Example (with default values that the simulation uses if the line is omitted) max_battery_voltage = 24.0 gear_warning = 0. max amp load.0 fuel_pump = 0. 17. 5 . min voltage Bus type. The maximum current (amperage) provided by a fully functioning alternator or generator. max amp load. min voltage Bus type. max amp load.starter3 starter4 light_nav light_beacon light_landing light_taxi light_strobe light_panel light_cabin prop_sync auto_feather auto_brakes standby_vacuum hydraulic_pump fuel_transfer_pump propeller_deice light_recognition light_wing light_logo directional_gyro directional_gyro _slaving starter3 = 0. min voltage Bus type. 15 . max amp load.0 light_cabin = 0.0 33 Bus type. 17. max amp load. max amp load. 17. See notes below. 5 .0 starter4 = 0.0 light_wing = 0. 5 . max amp load.0 standby_vacuum = 0. max amp load. min voltage Bus type.0 light_landing = 0.0 fuel_transfer_pump = 0.0 light_beacon = 0. 2 . min voltage See notes below. See notes below. min voltage Bus type. 17. 5 . 17. 5 . 17. See notes below. 17. See notes below. See notes below. 5 . max amp load. See notes below. 17. min voltage Bus type.0 light_logo = 0. max amp load. 15 . max amp load. max amp load. 5 . max amp load. See notes below. 17. See notes below. min voltage Bus type. min voltage Bus type. 5 .0 hydraulic_pump = 0. min voltage Bus type. . max amp load. min voltage Bus type. 5 . See notes below. max amp load. min voltage Bus type. min voltage Bus type. See notes below. 17. min voltage Bus type. max amp load. 17. See notes below.0 light_strobe = 0. min voltage Bus type. 20.0 light_nav = 0. max amp load. 17. See notes below. max amp load.0 light_taxi = 0.0 directional_gyro = 0. min voltage Bus type. min voltage Bus type. 17. 17.0 auto_feather = 0. 5 . See notes below. max amp load.0 auto_brakes = 0. See notes below. max amp load. max amp load. 17. 17.0 directional_gyro_slav ing = 0. 15 . See notes below. See notes below. 5 . 17.0 light_panel = 0. max amp load. min voltage Bus type. See notes below. 17. 5 . min voltage Bus type.0 prop_sync = 0. 5 .0 propeller_deice = 0. 17. 17. See notes below See notes below. 17. See notes below. 20. 5 . min voltage Bus type. min voltage Bus type. min voltage Bus type.0 light_recognition = 0. 5 . max amp load. 15 . 17. and defines which engines drive individual alternator/generators. In the example. making the gauge react more quickly. only the second engine of a 3 engine aircraft has a generator. [pitot_static] section The vertical_speed_time_constant parameter can be used to tune the lag of the Vertical Speed Indicator for the aircraft: • Increasing the time constant decreases the lag. • Min Voltage is the minimum voltage required from the specified bus for the component to function. By default. according to the following bus type codes: Bus Type 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Bus Main Bus (most components connected here) Avionics Bus Battery Bus Hot Battery Bus (bypasses Master switch) Generator/Alternator Bus 1 (function of engine 1) Generator/Alternator Bus 2 (function of engine 2) Generator/Alternator Bus 3 (function of engine 3) Generator/Alternator Bus 4 (function of engine 4) • Max Amp Load is the current required to power the component. Parameter engine_generator_map Example engine_generator_map = 0. or all. making the gauge react more slowly. all engines have an alternator/generator.Notes: • Bus Type specifies which bus in the electrical system the component is connected to. With the following parameter. 34 . • Decreasing the time constant increases the lag. of the engines.1.0 Description This map of Boolean flags corresponds to the engines of the aircraft. and of course becomes the additional load on the electrical system. an aircraft can be configured to have a generator or alternator on any. 2.… The first entry of the line defines which circuit.n exit_rate. and vertical positions of the light in feet. use an excessively large value. Parameter vertical_speed_time_constant Example (from Bell206b aircraft. lateral. or doors. fx_navred). lateral.85. where n is the index number of the light. in percent per second. See the codes below. This value defines the rate.cfg) eyepoint= -3. These files have .g.cfg) number_of_exits = 1 exit_rate. where time is time in seconds at which the exit moves from fully closed to fully open or vice versa. [exits] section Parameter number_of_exits Example (from C182 aircraft.95. • If the line is omitted. such as 99. 0. If an instantaneous indication is desired.1 Units Description Feet This value specifies.0 Description Increases or decreases the lag of the vertical speed indicator. [lights] section Each “special effect” light has a line like the one above.4 Description This value defines the number of simulated exits. or switch. The final entry is the special effect file name that is triggered (e. It is equal to 1/time.fx extensions and should be placed in the “Effects” folder in Flight Simulator’s root directory. Multiple lights may be connected to a single switch.. 35 . the light is connected to.• A value of 0 effectively causes the indication to freeze. on the aircraft. The next three entries are the longitudinal.0 = 0. [views] section Parameter eyepoint Example (from C182 aircraft. the longitudinal.1. at which the exit articulates.0. and vertical position of the pilot’s eyepoint from the aircraft’s datum point. -0.cfg) vertical_speed_time_constant = 2. in feet. the default value is 2. and by 1/8 at the second airspeed.Switches (first element of each line): 1 – Beacon 2 – Strobe 3 – Navigation or Position 4 – Cockpit 5 – Landing 6 – Taxi 7 – Recognition 8 – Wing 9 – Logo 10 – Cabin Parameter light. Here’s an example using the sample lines above: if the elevator increments by one degree when the airspeed is zero.0 = 3. % Effect of keypress | 1|* | * | * | * 1/2| * | * | * 1/8| * * |________________________________ 0 100 180 Parameter elevator aileron rudder Example (from C182 aircraft.58.03. -18. it will increment by ¾ of one degree at 50 knots. Because flight controls naturally become more sensitive as airspeed increases. and 1/8 of one degree at 180 knots and above.cfg) elevator = 100. -3. To solve this problem. fx_navred Units Feet Description The switch (or circuit) code. [keyboard] section The aircraft flight controls can be manipulated by the keyboard.n Examples (from C182 aircraft. 1000 rudder = 200. 36 . 1000 knots Units Description Knots Breakpoint speeds for keypress increments being reduced by 1/2 and 1/8 respectively. 5/16 of one degree at 140 knots. 3. it can become quite difficult to control the aircraft via the keyboard at high speeds. lateral.cfg) light. 180 aileron = 200. The scale is interpolated between. longitudinal. and effect file. and vertical position. the amount a single keypress increments a flight control is decreased by a factor of 1/2 at the first airspeed (in knots) listed on the line for the control.11. ½ of one degree at 100 knots. 1 = 1 Marker.1 = 1.40.1 Nav. Parameter smoke.70. etc.1 Marker.2 Nav. An effect file associated with a keyword in this section will be used when the corresponding action is triggered. [effects] section The effects section of the aircraft. [smokesystem] section The section describes how to configure a smoke system found on aircraft. Is there an ADF receiver? Is there an ADF 2 receiver? Is there a transponder? Is there a marker beacon receiver? Special Note: Incorrectly setting the “standby” parameters may cause inability to tune the radios. and the effect file name.g. define the particular radio element is available in the aircraft.1 = 1 Description Is there an audio panel? Is there a Com 1 radio. Each of the following keywords has a flag or set of flags.1 Adf. does is support a “standby” frequency. 1 Com.2 = 1 Transponder. lateral. a default effect file will be used. each denoted by an integer value followed by the keyword “smoke”. does it support a “standby” frequency? Note: You cannot have COM 2 without COM 1.1 = 1 Com. and vertical position of the smoke emitter.[radios] section There is (or should be) a radio section in each aircraft. [One Shot] where “Effect name” is any effect in the effects folder.). does it support a “standby” frequency? Is there a Com 2 radio.1 = 1. and does it support a glideslope indication? Note: You cannot have NAV 2 without NAV 1. -0.n Example (from Extra 300 aircraft. 1. Is there a Nav 1 receiver. A “1” is used for true (or available). and 0 for false (or not available).. the Extra 300S.cfg file pertains to the visual effects that result from various systems or reactions of the aircraft.g. Each effect line is in the form: effect = Effect name. Parameter Audio. fx_smoke_w Units Description Feet The longitudinal. and does it support a glideslope indication? Is there a Nav 2 receiver. 1. and “One Shot” determines if the effect will end after one iteration or not.0=0.1 Com.2 = 1.2 Com. 1 Nav.cfg) Audio.00. 37 . does is support a “standby” frequency. 1 Nav.1 Adf. smoke.0.cfg. In lieu of an entry here.cfg) smoke.2 Transponder.1. The points should be in sequential order (e. You can set multiple smoke points on an aircraft. 0 Adf. 1.2 = 1. This section configures the radios for each individual aircraft.1 Example (from C182 aircraft.1 = 1 Adf. e. smoke.. The flags correspond in order of the engines. Example: touchdown=fx_tchdwn. The normal operating pressure of the hydraulic system. [hydraulic_system] section Parameter engine_map Example Engine_map = 1. in pounds per square inch.Set this equal to one for a single iteration.0.0. and zero or blank (default) for the effect to continue as long as the respective action is active. all engines are equipped to drive a hydraulic pump. The example shows an aircraft in which engines 1 and 4 have pumps and 2 and 3 do not. The number of electric hydraulic pumps the aircraft is configured with. .1 normal_pressure Normal_pressure = 750 electric_pumps electric_pumps = 1 38 Description This series of flags sets whether the corresponding engines of the aircraft are configured with hydraulic pumps. starting with the left-most engine first and moving right. By default. The table below outlines the aircraft effects currently supported (note: not all effects are supported on all aircraft). Parameter windshield_rain_effect_available Example windshield_rain_effect_available=0 Description Setting this flag to 0 will turn off the effect of rain on the windshield. 1 Effect Wake Water waterspeed Dirt concrete touchdown Contrail landrotorwash waterrotorwash startup Description The wake effect triggered behind float planes Water splashes triggered at low speeds on float plane Water splashes triggered at high speeds on float plane Dirt area touchdown/scrape Concrete area touchdown/scrape Touchdown smoke Contrail effect triggered above 30000 ft for jets Helicopter rotor wash triggered over land Helicopter rotor wash triggered over water Engine startup smoke. The effect is on by default. …n.Electric Gyro 3 .Vacuum Gyro 2 . 1 = Suction.0=1 Description Defines the system which drives the attitude indicator. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0.0 Description Indicator type.2. [turn_indicators] section This section is used to define the characteristics of the turn indicators on the instrument panels. The various types of indicators are defined by the following codes which indicate the system in which it is dependant: 0 – None 1 – Electrically driven gyro 2 – Vacuum driven gyro 39 .…n.2.Slaved to another indicator Parameter Direction_indicator. The various types of indicators are defined by the following codes: 0 . [direction_indicators] section This section is used to define the characteristics of the direction indicators on the instrument panels (note: this does not include the magnetic compass).[stall_warning] section Parameter type Example type=1 Description This flag determines the type of stall warning system utilized on the aircraft. 2 = Electric.1. Note: The second parameter can be left blank if not Type 4.n Example direction_indicator. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0.n Example attitude_indicator.1.1.2.Electro-Mag Slaved Compass 4 . 0 = None. and indicator to which this indicator is slaved (if Type 4). The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0. [attitude_indicators] section This section is used to define the characteristics of the attitude indicators on the instrument panels.None 1 .0=1. The various types of indicators are defined by the following codes which indicate the system in which it is dependant: 0 – None 1 – Vacuum driven gyro 2 – Electrically driven gyro Parameter attitude_indicator.…n. Indicates which direction indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot. The default value for the scalar is 1. and is the default.0=1 Description Defines the system which drives the turn indicator. 0 = the first. Indicates which attitude indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot.2. Parameter airspeed_indicator. [autopilot] section The following parameters determine the functionality of the aircraft’s autopilot system.0 Description Defines the scalar and offset. Setting this flag to a non-zero value makes available a flight director on the aircraft.0. including the flight director: General: Parameter autopilot_available Example autopilot_available= 1 flight_director_available flight_director_available= 0 Attitude_indicator attitude_indicator=0 Direction_indicator direction_indicator=0 40 Description Setting this flag to a non-zero value makes available an autopilot system on the aircraft.n Example airspeed_indicator. and is the default. respectively. [airspeed_indicators] section This section is used to define the characteristics of the airspeed indicators on the instrument panels. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0.Parameter turn_indicator. and the second is an offset in knots. These characteristics define the calibration between calibrated airspeed and indicated airspeed.0 and the default for the offset is 0. The first parameter is a scalar on the calibrated airspeed.n Example turn_indicator.1.0=1. to convert from Calibrated Airspeed to Indicated Airspeed. thus by default indicated airspeed is equal to calibrated airspeed. The offset is applied first. 0 = the first. then the scalar. .…n. If no value is set.0 max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt=2. The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints.0 41 Description This determines the default pitch mode when the autopilot logic is turned on. that the autopilot will command up or down. The maximum angular pitch velocity. The maximum angular pitch velocity. in degrees per second squared.5 max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt _breakpoint max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_brea kpoint=20000.0 max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt=1.0 max_pitch_acceleration max_pitch_acceleration=1. 0 = None. in degrees per second. The maximum pitch angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either up or down. in degrees per second. Pitch Hold will be the default. The maximum angular pitch acceleration.000000 max_pitch max_pitch=10. 2 = Altitude Hold (current altitude). Note: Setting the variable use_no_default_pitch=1 will set default_pitch_mode = 0. The altitude below which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt.Vertical Modes: Parameter default_pitch_mode Example default_bank_mode = 1 pitch_takeoff_ga pitch_takeoff_ga=8. which the autopilot will command when at an altitude below that specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_br eakpoint. The default pitch that the Takeoff/Go-Around mode references. . 1 = Pitch Hold (current pitch angle). which the autopilot will command when at an altitude above the altitude specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_br eakpoint. The proportional gain on the yaw damper’s yaw rate error. Note: Setting the variable use_no_default_bank=1 will set default_bank_mode = 0. in degrees per second. 1 = Wing Level Hold. 2 = Heading Hold (current heading). The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints. Lateral Modes: Parameter default_bank_mode Example default_bank_mode = 1 max_bank max_bank=25. If no value is set.0 yaw_damper_gain yaw_damper_gain = 1. Default_vertical_speed default_vertical_speed=1800 The default vertical speed. The maximum bank angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either left or right. in feet per second.0 max_bank_acceleration max_bank_acceleration=1.0 The altitude above which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt. Speed Modes: Parameter Autothrottle_available Example autothrottle_available= 0 42 Description Setting this flag to a non-zero value makes available an autothrottle system on the aircraft. 0 = None. The maximum angular bank acceleration.max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt _breakpoint max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt _breakpoint=28000. The maximum angular bank velocity. that the autopilot will command when selecting a large altitude change. . which the autopilot will command left or right. in degrees per second squared. Wing Level Hold will be the default.8 max_bank_velocity max_bank_velocity=3.0 Description This determines the default bank mode when the autopilot logic is turned on. that the autopilot will command left or right. that the autothrottle will attempt to maintain.g.. which are the maximum error from the controlled parameter in which these are active.g. Setting to zero allows the autothrottle to be engaged directly (e.Autothrottle_arming_required autothrottle_arming_required =1 Autothrottle_max_rpm autothrottle_max_rpm = 90 Autothrottle_takeoff_ga autothrottle_takeoff_ga=1 max_throttle_rate max_throttle_rate=0. It is not necessary to have all three components active.10 Setting this flag to 1 will require that the autothrottle be “armed” prior to it being engaged (e. 43 . Setting the respective control constant to 0 effectively disables that component. This sets the maximum engine speed. allowing PI or PD controllers to be utilized. the maximum rate is set to 10% of the total throttle range per second. In the example. Lear 45). This value sets the maximum rate at which the autothrottle will move the throttle position. Navigation Modes: The navigation and glideslope controllers utilize standard proportional/integral /derivative feedback controllers (PID).. in percent. Boeing 737). The integrator and derivative controllers have boundaries. Setting this flag to 1 enables takeoff / go-around operations with the autothrottle. 25 nav_derivative_control nav_derivative_control=0. lntegral controller constant in glideslope mode. the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0.50 nav_derivative_boundary nav_derivative_boundary=0. in degrees in which the derivative function is active. Derivative controller constant in lateral navigation modes.53 gs_derivative_control gs_derivative_control=0. lntegral controller constant in lateral navigation modes.0 gs_integrator_control gs_integrator_control=0. The boundary.00 nav_integrator_boundary nav_integrator_boundary=2.5 and +2. or maximum signal error. In the example. The boundary.Parameter nav_proportional_control Example nav_proportional_control=12. the integrator is active when the error is between -0. or maximum signal error. In the example.70 gs_derivative_boundary gs_derivative_boundary=0. the integrator is active when the error is between -2. . Derivative controller constant in glideslope mode. the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0. In the example.00 44 Description Proportional controller constant in lateral navigation modes. in degrees in which the derivative function is active.0 nav_integrator_control nav_integrator_control=0.7 degrees from the centerline of the glideslope signal. The boundary. or maximum signal error.00 gs_proportional_control gs_proportional_control=25. in degrees in which the glideslope integrator function is active.7 and +0. Proportional controller constant in glideslope mode.5 degrees from the centerline of the navigation signal.00 gs_integrator_boundary gs_integrator_boundary=0. in degrees in which the integrator function is active. In the example. or maximum signal error. The boundary. The R22’s aerodynamics is based on the data found in the aircraft.Miscellaneous default AP modes: Note: In FS2002. The stability factor is broken down into three components: pitch.cfg. Helicopter specific sections NOTE: The following sections are specific to helicopters only. Flight Simulator looks for the relevant air file tokens to make this determination. and yaw damping. The first are helicopters that are based on the Bell 206 model. Parameter use_no_default_pitch Example use_no_default_pitch=0 use_no_default_bank use_no_default_bank=0 Description Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default pitch mode to be “None”. The preferred method is to set the default_bank_mode directly. The [helicopter] section is the only helicopter-specific section that is used by the Bell 206 – method. so that there is no default pitch mode when the AP logic is activated. Here’s how the simulation uses this parameter: 45 . so that there is no default bank mode when the AP logic is activated. FS2004 supports two different types of helicopters. the preferred flags are included above in the respective vertical and lateral sections. [helicopter] section Note: The following parameter is only used by models based on the Bell 206 method. The second type is based on the new Robinson R22 model. The R22 utilizes all of the helicopter-specific sections. the following flags were enabled to allow aircraft to be configured with no pitch and/or bank modes. Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default bank mode to be “None”. While these are still supported in FS2004. It will actually set the variable default_pitch_mode = 0. The low_realism_stability_scale parameter scales the stability of the Bell 206B helicopter in low realism settings to make the aircraft easier to fly. roll. The preferred method is to set the default_pitch_mode directly. It will actually set the variable default_bank_mode = 0. in feet squared.0 Format pitch. At the highest realism setting.0 46 Description The length of the helicopter.cfg.0.5 right_trim_scalar right_trim_scalar=1. and yaw values set in the [helicopter] section of the aircraft. . making it hard to control the helicopter. but a negative value will create a left moment. The longitudinal position. roll. in feet. as viewed from directly abeam of the helicopter. it is scaled to 100 percent. 1.0. Note: Increasing these values excessively will result in excessive damping. 2.1. the stability factor is scaled by the General Flight Model Realism slider in the Realism Settings dialog box. Total side area of the fuselage. Note: The following parameters are utilized only by models that are based on the R22 method: Parameter reference_length Example (from Robinson R22 aircraft. increasing the first value (pitch) to 1. The stability factor is scaled according to the pitch. it is scaled to 0% (no additional damping).cfg) reference_length = 21. from the datum of the helicopter that represents the lateral aerodynamic center. Scalar on the effect of the trim that counters dissymmetry of lift. Then. 1.5 side_aero_center side_aero_center=-12. roll. For example. as viewed from head on to the helicopter. in feet. yaw Description Scales helicopter stablility in low realism settings.1 increases the pitch-damping factor by 10 percent. Parameter low_realism_stability_scale Example (from Bell206b aircraft.cfg) low_realism_stability_scale = 1.58 reference_frontal_area reference_frontal_area=17 .7 reference_side_area Reference_side_area=44. The cross section area of the fuselage.cfg have their largest effect when the Realism Setting is set to minimum. Changes to the stability factor in the . at the minimum setting. and have no effect when Realism Setting is set to maximum. in feet squared. The trim normally induces a roll moment to the right. .4.derivative controller constant .0 = 100%) in which the derivative portion is active Scalar on the effect of the rotor brake.0 cyclic_roll_control_scalar cyclic_roll_control_scala r=1.0 47 This flag determines if a collective/throttle correlator is configured on the helicopter.0 torque_scalar torque_scalar=1. 0.proportional controller constant . Scalar on the amount of pitch control authority from fore/aft movement of the cyclic.0.0 = 100%) in which the integrator portion is active .2 rotor_brake_scalar rotor_brake_scalar=1. 1.0 pedal_control_scalar pedal_control_scalar=1.0 = 100% of “rated” rpm. Scalar on the amount of yaw control authority from movement of the antitorque pedals.max rpm error (where 1.1. Scalar on the effect that the rotor has on the yawing moment of the helicopter. The series of numbers are: .integral controller constant . although a few percent above that is normal.max rpm error (where 1. Proportional – Integral – Derivative (PID) feedback controller that works to maintain the reference rpm.0 cyclic_pitch_control_scalar cyclic_pitch_control_scal ar=1.04 governor_pid governor_pid=0. Scalar on the amount of roll control authority from lateral movement of the cyclic. Defines the percent rpm that the governor attempts to maintain.0.0.correlator_available correlator_available=1 governed_pct_rpm_ref governed_pct_rpm_ref=1. cfg) drag_force_cf=0.0 pitch_damp_cf pitch_damp_cf=-2. [MainRotor] section Parameter Position Example (from Robinson R22 aircraft. [fuselage_aerodynamics] section The following parameters are associated with the aerodynamic effects of the fuselage of the helicopter. . and vertical distance vector. from the datum position of the helicopter.0 roll_damp_cf roll_damp_cf=-2. The radius. This position should be the center of the main rotor. lateral. 0.0 Scalar on the amount of torque exerted on the rotor system due to the collective pitch of the rotor blades.1 yaw_stability_cf yaw_stability_cf=0. 4.27 Description Coefficient of longitudinal drag Coefficient of lateral drag Pitch damping coefficient (resistance to pitch velocity) Roll damping coefficient (resistance to roll velocity) Yaw damping coefficient (resistance to yaw velocity) Yaw stability coefficient.cfg) Position = -8. in feet. Parameter drag_force_cf Example (from Robinson R22 aircraft. of the main rotor.91 Radius Radius = 12.55 side_drag_force_cf side_drag_force_cf=10. This is the weathervane effect.583 48 Description The longitudinal. Increasing this constant will result in the rotor rpm tending to decelerate more dramatically as collective is increased.5. in feet.0 yaw_damp_cf yaw_damp_cf=-0.collective_on_rotor_torque_scalar collective_on_rotor_torqu e_scalar=1. in degrees. from the datum position of the helicopter. The constant used in calculating the moment of inertia of the rotor disc.0 The maximum absolute deflection angle up or down.91 Radius Radius = 12.0 Weight_to_moi_factor Weight_to_moi_factor = 0. if set to 1. [SecondaryRotor] section Parameter TailRotor Example (from Robinson R22 aircraft.max_disc_angle max_disc_angle = 5. their weight.5. of each rotor blade. The MOI algorithm is a function of the number of blades. and this constant.0 RatedRpm RatedRpm = 510 Number_of_blades Number_of_blades = 2 Weight_per_blade Weight_per_blade = 26. . The number of blades in the rotor. 4. Approximate weight. in feet. configures the secondary rotor as a “tail rotor”. or anti-torque. in feet.cfg) TailRotor = 1 Position Position = -8. that the rotor disc can move with the cyclic. Increasing this value will result in more thrust being generated. Increasing this constant will increase the inertia of the disc. and vertical distance vector.58 inflow_vel_reference inflow_vel_reference = 34. This position should be the center of the secondary rotor. The longitudinal. of the secondary rotor.583 49 Description This flag. lateral. The reference inflow velocity of the air mass moving through the rotor disc. 0. The rated rpm value for the main rotor. in pounds. The radius. The kneeboard content files In Flight Simulator 2004, all of the kneeboard content is presented via HTML (.htm) files. The kneeboard includes six pages: Briefing Displays the briefing for the flight, if there is one. The text displayed on the Briefing page of the kneeboard is flight-specific, and is located in the corresponding subdirectory of the Flights directory. To learn more about creating briefings for flights you create, see the “All About Flights” article in the Learning Center. Radio Logs the last 10 Air Traffic Control radio transmissions to your aircraft. The text displayed on the Radio page of the kneeboard is automatically generated as you use the Air Traffic Control feature. The text cannot be modified. Navigation Log Provides a list of waypoints, headings, and other information for a flight plan created using the Flight Planner. The text displayed on the Navigation Log page of the kneeboard is automatically generated from an active flight plan. The text cannot be modified. Key Commands Provides a complete list of keyboard commands. The text displayed on the Key Commands tab of the kneeboard is located in the main Aircraft folder, and is named kneeboard_keys.htm. Checklists Lists step-by-step procedures for the aircraft you're flying that (when used in conjunction with the speeds on the Reference page) make for a more realistic Flight Simulator experience. The text displayed on the Checklists page is aircraft-specific, and saved in an .htm file in the aircraft container (aircraft folder) associated with each aircraft. The file for the Checklists page is named aircraftname_check.htm where aircraftname is the name of the aircraft (e.g., extra300s_check.htm). Reference Lists recommended speeds for the aircraft you're flying: how fast to fly during each phase of flight, and what the limits are. The text displayed on the Reference page is aircraft-specific, and saved in an .htm file in the aircraft container (aircraft folder) associated with each aircraft. The file for the Reference page is named aircraftndame_ref.htm where aircraftname is the name of the aircraft (e.g., extra300s_ref.htm). In order for the the Checklist and Reference pages to display, two lines must be present in the aircraft.cfg file, in the [fltsim.0] section at the top: • kb_checklists=aircraftname_check • kb_reference=aircraftname_ref 50 where aircraftname is the name of the aircraft (e.g., extra300s_check and extra_300s_ref). Note that no .htm extension is needed here. Creating or modifying the Checklist and Reference pages You can create or open kneeboard .htm files with NotePad or any other text editing program that can read and save files in ASCII or text format, and edit them using HTML 4.0 conventions. After you've made changes to any kneeboard .htm files, be sure to reload the page on the kneeboard: select a different page on the kneeboard, then return to the page you modified. The panel.cfg file The panel.cfg file is located in an aircraft’s Panel folder, and defines the characteristics of the aircraft’s cockpit, including window settings, view settings, and gauges. For a full explanation of the structure of a panel.cfg file and instructions for editing it, look for the Panels SDK. The model.cfg file Introduction The model.cfg file is located in an aircraft’s Model folder, and specifies which visual models (.mdl files) to render during normal flight and during a crash, as well as the visual model color scheme. A model.cfg file has [models] and [colors] parameters. You should look at actual model.cfg files to become more familiar with the structure and syntax of them. They can be found in the individual aircraft containers, and viewed using any text editor. [models] section These parameters specify which visual model to render during normal flight, and during a crash. Parameter Normal Example (from C182S model.cfg) normal=Cessna182S_n Crash crash=Cessna182S_c 51 Description Determines which visual model (.mdl file) to render during normal flight. Determines which visual model (.mdl file) to render during a crash. The sound.cfg file Introduction The sound.cfg file is located in an aircraft’s Sound folder, and defines the sounds to use for that aircraft (such as the sound of the engine at various RPMs, the sound of the landing gear going down, and so on). This file also specifies attributes for each sound that determine exactly how the sound is played. Many aircraft sounds in Flight Simulator are composed of multiple .wav files (called a “sound list”) that are linked to one another, processed in sequence, and then played as a group. These sounds are updated by the simulator’s sound engine every time the Flight Simulator screen refreshes (once every frame). As you read this section, you should look at actual sound.cfg files to become more familiar with the structure and syntax of them. They can be found in the Sound subfolders of the aircraft containers, and viewed using any text editor. To hear any particular component of a sound in its “pure” form (unaffected by the attributes in the sound.cfg file), just play the .wav file referenced in the sound.cfg (.wav files are located in either the Sound folder in an aircraft’s container, or in the FS9\Sound folder). Notes: • For clarity, the naming convention used for the default Flight Simulator aircraft engine sounds described in the following sections was to put an “x” at the beginning of all external sound (heard in Spot and Tower views) headers, and to number consecutive sound headers (e.g., [SHUTDOWN], [SHUTDOWN.1]). The specific header names used does not matter, as long as they are consistent in the [SOUND_ENGINE] section and across link parameters. Additionally, the order of the sections within the sound.cfg file does not matter, nor does the order of the parameters within a section. • Flight Simulator can load most PCM .wav formats, as well as compressed formats. When a compressed format is used, Flight Simulator uses Audio Compression Manager (ACM), an audio compression module included in Windows to load the file. If you include compressed files, make sure that they are in a format supported (by default) by Windows such as ADPCM. Following is a description of each section of a sound.cfg file. [fltsim] section This parameter distinguishes Flight Simulator 2004 sound.cfg files from previous version files. All sound.cfg files created for Flight Simulator 2004 should have this section, and a parameter that reads: product_code=FSIM 52 and its sound. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion sounds.cfg file: Parameter number_of_engines Example number_of_engines=2 eng1_combustion eng1_combustion=COMBUSTION.00 eng1_starter eng1_starter=starterA eng2_starter eng2_starter=starterB eng1_shutdown eng1_shutdown=shutdownA eng2_shutdown eng2_shutdown=shutdownB 53 Description How many engines the aircraft has. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 starter sounds. Thus.1. Each sound list is referenced by the header of the first sound in the list (additional sounds are linked to in sequence from that first sound).00 eng2_combustion eng2_combustion=COMBUSTION. . Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 jet whine sounds. instead of multiple engine-related sounds. They specify the number of engines the aircraft has.Note: The Bell 206B helicopter included with Flight Simulator 2004 does not have startup or shutdown sounds.00 eng2_jet_whine eng2_jet_whine=JET_WHINE. The individual sounds in a list are defined in their own sections within the sound.2.cfg file (see the Specific engine sound parameters (sound lists) section below). Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 combustion sounds. [sound_engine] section These parameters concern the engine sounds of an aircraft. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 starter sounds. Note too that for this aircraft. there are only [JET_ENGINE] and [ENGINE_EXT] sounds (for the sound of the engine from the cockpit and from outside. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 shutdown sounds. as far as sound is concerned. [sound_engine] parameters for jet aircraft The following table describes the parameters used to define the sounds of a jet engine in the [sound_engine] section of a sound. and the sound lists the simulation should use to create the aircraft’s engine sounds.1.2. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 jet whine sounds. respectively). it is modeled like a Flight Simulator 98 aircraft. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 shutdown sounds.00 eng1_jet_whine eng1_jet_whine=JET_WHINE.cfg file has no [FLTSIM] section. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 prop sounds. .1.00 eng2_jet_whine eng2_jet_whine=JET_WHINE. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 prop sounds.cfg file: Parameter number_of_engines Example number_of_engines=2 eng1_combustion eng1_combustion= COMBUSTION.1.1. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 combustion start sounds. [sound_engine] parameters for turboprop aircraft The following table describes the parameters used to define the sounds of a turboprop engine in the [sound_engine] section of a sound. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 noncombustion sounds (the isolated sounds of the engine’s moving parts). Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 jet whine sounds.00 eng1_jet_whine eng1_jet_whine=JET_WHINE.1. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 starter sounds. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion sounds.00 eng2_prop eng2_prop=PROP. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 combustion sounds.00 eng1_starter eng1_starter=starterA eng2_starter eng2_starter=starterB eng1_shutdown eng1_shutdown=shutdownA 54 Description How many engines the aircraft has.2.00 eng1_prop eng1_prop=PROP.1.00 Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion start sounds.2. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 jet whine sounds.2. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 shutdown sounds. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 starter sounds.00 eng2_combustion eng2_combustion= COMBUSTION. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 noncombustion sounds (the isolated sounds of the engine’s moving parts).00 eng2_non_combustion eng1_non_combustion= NON_COMBUSTION.eng1_combustion_start eng1_combustion_start= combstartA eng2_combustion_start eng2_combustion_start= combstartB eng1_non_combustion eng1_non_combustion= NON_COMBUSTION. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion sounds.00 eng1_starter eng1_starter=starter eng1_combustion_start eng1_combustion_start=combstart eng1_shutdown eng1_shutdown=shutdown eng1_prop eng1_prop=PROP.1. [sound_engine] parameters for piston aircraft The following table describes the parameters used to define the sounds of a piston engine in the [sound_engine] section of a sound. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 non-combustion sounds (the isolated sounds of the engine’s moving parts).00 Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 shutdown sounds.1. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 starter sounds. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 prop sounds.00 eng1_non_combustion eng1_non_combustion=NON_COMBUSTI ON. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 shutdown sounds. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion start sounds. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 non-combustion sounds (the isolated sounds of the engine’s moving parts).eng2_shutdown eng2_shutdown=shutdownB eng1_combustion_start eng1_combustion_start=combstartA eng2_combustion_start eng2_combustion_start=combstartB eng1_non_combustion eng1_non_combustion= NON_COMBUSTION. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 combustion start sounds.00 eng2_non_combustion eng1_non_combustion= NON_COMBUSTION.cfg file: Parameter number_of_engines Example number_of_engines=1 eng1_combustion eng1_combustion=COMBUSTION.00 55 Description How many engines the aircraft has. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 2 combustion start sounds. .1. Points to the first sound in a sound list of engine 1 non-combustion sounds (the isolated sounds of the engine’s moving parts).1.1. Each pair of values specified in vparams represents a single point. 0.0.0.53. etc.530000.) .000000 56 Determines whether the sound is audible in internal cockpit views (specified by the value 1)..000000. or in external spot and tower views (specified by the value 2).Specific engine sound sections (sound lists) The parameters in these sections (e. 0. 0.289000.000000.000000.530000.wav file to play.530000.wav extension should not be specified. For all sounds 0 = no flag 1 = disable sound For [Combustion] sounds: 2 = damaged 4 = boost (Imported Combat Flight Simulator aircraft only) 8 = jet engine rumble sound For [Prop] sounds 2 = max prop pitch 4 = min prop pitch 8 = min reverse prop pitch viewpoint viewpoint=1 vparams vparams=0.cfg file: Parameter filename Example filename=ce1a flags flags=0 Description The name of the .0.530000. Flight Simulator searches the Sound folder in the specific aircraft container first. The first number in the pair is a generic value that can range from 0. [SHUTDOWN.174000. The following table describes parameters used in the engine sound sections of an aircraft’s sound.55. [COMBSTART].0. Flags have different functions when associated with different sounds. Each sound has its own section in the sound. with a value of 50 meaning –3dB of attenuation.0.g. [XSTARTER].) are used to define the specific aircraft engine sounds referenced by the parameters in the [SOUND_ENGINE] section. and then (if the file isn't found) searches the Flight Simulator Sound folder. the second number specifies volume.cfg with a bracketed header. 0.600000. 0. and is linked to the next sound in the sound list with the link= parameter.000000.200000.1]. [STARTER]. and 0 meaning silence. (The units for volume are linear.12. Represents the sound's volume as a function.000000. you can use up to 8 points to describe the amplitude envelope. The . Defines the sound’s amplitude envelope. 0. [SHUTDOWN].0 to 1. The following table describes the parameters used in the wind section of an aircraft’s sound.1. Each pair of values specified in rparams represents a single point.wav file to play.0 specifies that the sound file is played at unity pitch.wav files. invariably.110000 Defines the sound’s pitch envelope.cfg file.000 = full left 10.1. Determines where the sound is placed in the stereo field: panning=0 0 = center -10.000000.000000. The . the playback speed) as a function of a generic value that can range from 0.rparams panning link rparams=0. The order of sounds in a list is not important. The format and behavior of rparams is similar to vparams. 0. A value of 1.wav file has its own section in the . Flight Simulator searches the Sound folder in the specific aircraft container first. except that the second value of each point represents a pitch scaler. and then (if the file isn't found) searches the Flight Simulator Sound folder. link=COMBUSTION.cfg) filename=snwind5 Description The name of the .264000.01 [wind_sound] section Wind sounds are used to add realism to the sounds of aircraft. A value of 2. Each wind sound can be volume.and pitch-modulated with airspeed. and each .0 specifies that the file is played an octave higher and twice as fast.cfg file: Parameter filename Example (from Schweizer sound. Represents the sound's relative pitch (and.000 = full right References the next sound in a sound list (by section heading name). The last sound in a sound list has no link parameter. Most engine sounds are made up of several .0. 57 .wav extension should not be specified.1. you can use up to 2 points to describe the pitch envelope. Wind sound is also the predominant sound used for sailplanes.0 to 1. The minimum speed (in KTAS) used by the _volume and _rate parameters. 58 . the playback rate is interpolated between the minimum_rate and maximum_rate values.flags Flags have different functions when associated with different sounds.25 There are no wind sound-specific flags.1 maximum_speed maximum_speed=160. with a value of 10.) Specifies the minimum rate at which the sound is played. Specified in KTAS units. it will not be heard. If the aircraft's speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed.) Specifies the highest possible volume--the sound never exceeds the volume specified.50 maximum_rate maximum_rate=1. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. with a value of 10.000 being the maximum possible volume. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. If the aircraft's speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed. flags=0 For all sounds 0 = no flag 1 = disable sound minimum_speed minimum_speed=0. Specifies the maximum rate at which the sound is played. The speed (in KTAS) above which the sound has constant volume and pitch.000 being the maximum possible volume. The lowest possible volume--if the sound drops below the minimum volume specified. playback volume is interpolated. If the aircraft’s speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed. the playback rate is interpolated between the minimum_rate and maximum_rate values. If the aircraft’s speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed.0 minimum_volume minimum_volume=7000 maximum_volume maximum_volume=10000 minimum_rate minimum_rate=0. playback volume is interpolated. cfg file: Parameter filename Example (from Extra300 sound. Flight Simulator searches the Sound folder in the specific aircraft container first.and pitchmodulated with airspeed. 59 . The . Each ground sound can be volume. cmtouch2.wav files (sound lists). and then (if the file isn't found) searches the Flight Simulator Sound folder. the simulator code will randomly choose to play one of the listed . filename=cmtouch1.wav file to play. Note: If ground sound filename parameters have comma separated filenames (e.cfg) filename=cnroll2 Description Specifies the name of the .wav files. cmtouch3).g. The following table describes the additional parameters used in the ground sound sections of an aircraft’s sound. and each set corresponds to a unique combination of surface types.Ground sound sections Ground sounds include: [CENTER_TOUCHDOWN] [AUX_TOUCHDOWN] [LEFT_TOUCHDOWN] [RIGHT_TOUCHDOWN] [FUSELAGE_SCRAPE] [LEFT_WING_SCRAPE] [RIGHT_WING_SCRAPE] [AUX1_SCRAPE] [AUX2_SCRAPE] [XTAIL_SCRAPE] [GROUND_ROLL] Some ground sounds consist of multiple sets of .wav extension should not be specified. Specifies the lowest possible volume--if the sound drops below the minimum volume specified. Ground sound flags include: 2 = concrete 4 = soft. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units.) 60 . bumpy ground (landable) 8 = water 16 = very bumpy grass & mud (crashable) 32 = asphalt 64 = short grass 128 = long grass 256 = hard turf 512 = snow 1024 = ice 2048 = urban 4096 = forest 8192 = dirt runway 16384 = coral runway 32768 = gravel runway 65536 = oil treated (tar&chip) runway 131072 = steel mats (steel mesh) temporary runway Note that these values are powers of 2 so that they represent bits. with a value of 10. etc. you tell the simulation to play that sound when the aircraft comes into contact with that surfaces type or types. If the aircraft's speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed. it will not be heard.000 being the maximum possible volume. Specified in KTAS units. Specifies the minimum speed (in KTAS) used by the _volume and _rate parameters.cfg file has the line flags=125218 minimum_speed minimum_speed=3 maximum_speed maximum_speed=55 minimum_volume minimum_volume=6000 This is 11110100100100010 in binary. Specifies the speed (in KTAS) above which the sound has constant volume and pitch. and maps to concrete+asphalt+hard turf. flags=125218 For all sounds 0 = no flag 1 = disable sound For ground sounds By flagging a sound for a particular ground surface type. For instance. the [GROUND_ROLL] section of the 182S sound.flags Flags have different functions when associated with different sounds. playback volume is interpolated. with a value of 10. Specifies the maximum rate at which the sound is played.80 maximum_rate maximum_rate=1. If the aircraft’s speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed.wav files. the playback rate is interpolated between the minimum_rate and maximum_rate values. playback volume is interpolated.) Specifies the minimum rate at which the sound is played. If the aircraft's speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. References the next sound in a sound list (by section heading name). If the aircraft’s speed is between minimum_speed and maximum_speed.60 link link=GROUND_ROLL2 Specifies the highest possible volume--the sound never exceeds the volume specified. Other sound sections Other sounds used by Flight Simulator aircraft include: [GEAR_UP_WARNING_SOUND] [STALL_WARNING] [OVERSPEED_WARNING_SOUND] [GLIDESLOPE_WARNING_SOUND] [AP_DISENGAGE_SOUND] [GEAR_DOWN] [GEAR_UP] [FLAPS] [CRASH_SOUND] [SPLASH_SOUND] 61 . the playback rate is interpolated between the minimum_rate and maximum_rate values. and each . Some ground sounds are made up of several .000 being the maximum possible volume.cfg file.wav file has its own section in the .maximum_volume maximum_volume=10000 minimum_rate minimum_rate=0. 000 being the maximum possible volume. filename=encrash1.) 62 .) Specifies the lowest possible volume--if the sound drops below the minimum volume specified. with a value of 10.wav files.) Specifies the highest possible volume--the sound never exceeds the volume specified. In these instances.000 being the maximum possible volume.wav file to play. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. with a value of 10. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. (Volume is specified in 1/100dB units. flags=0 initial_volume initial_volume=9000 minimum_volume minimum_volume=7800 maximum_volume maximum_volume=9000 Description Specifies the name of the . For all sounds 0 = no flag 1 = disable sound Specifies the volume at which the sound starts.wav extension should not be specified.The following table describes the parameters used in other sound sections of an aircraft’s sound.000 being the maximum possible volume.g. it will not be heard.encrash2).cfg) filename=snwind5 Note: [CRASH_SOUND]and [SPLASH_SOUND]filename parameters have comma separated filenames (e. the simulator code will randomly choose to play one of the listed . and then (if the file isn't found) searches the Flight Simulator Sound folder.cfg file: Parameter filename flags Example (from Extra300 sound. The . Flags have different functions when associated with different sounds. Flight Simulator searches the Sound folder in the specific aircraft container first. with a value of 10. Texture file names must correspond to the texture files that are referenced in the . you’ll need to use Image Tool.mdl) file. in the mipmap is a power of two smaller than the previous level.The Texture folder An aircraft’s textures are defined by the . each of which is a progressively lower resolution. Be sure to save a copy of the original file before attempting to modify it. located in the Model folder. prefiltered representation of the same image.bmp files in the aircraft’s Texture folder. If the file names don't correspond.bmp file instead of a mipmapped . Flight Simulator will automatically generate the mipmaps for the texture.mdl file. an image editing application included with the Flight Simulator Terrain SDK. To edit a mipmapped texture. Flight Simulator texture files are "mipmapped". or level. 63 . Mipmapping is a computationally low-cost way of improving the quality of rendered textures. A mipmapped texture consists of a sequence of images. although these mipmaps will not be of as high a quality as mipmaps created using Image Tool. though it will be saved as a standard .bmp. Lowerresolution levels are used as the object moves farther away. Each prefiltered image. and are “projected” onto the aircraft’s parts as specified in the aircraft’s visual model (. A texture can also be edited using a simple graphics application such as Microsoft Paint. the textures won't be visible. A high-resolution level is used for objects that are close to the viewer. cfg. but want to use the 737-400 panel when flying it. model.cfg and . model.cfg files from any other aircraft’s. This saves disk space and makes file organization more efficient.cfg. Whereas configuration sets allow aircraft within a single aircraft container to share components.bmps). To alias an aircraft’s panel. Relative path from the Flight Simulator folder An example Let’s say you’ve imported a Boeing 757 aircraft from the Web into Flight Simulator.cfg. flight models. Instead of duplicating all the 737-400 panel files (Panel.). You can alias an aircraft’s panel.cfg file.cfg file to read: [fltsim] alias=aircraftname\panel or [fltsim] alias=aircraftname\model or [fltsim] alias=aircraftname\sound Flight Simulator searches for aliased files in the following order: 1. aliasing allows aircraft in different aircraft containers to share components. and sound.cfg and sound. Relative path from the Aircraft folder 2.cfg file (and hence the associated .cfg file from another aircraft’s.bmps) and putting them in the new 757 aircraft container. sounds etc. you can alias to them in their existing location from the 757 panel. or sound.cfg file to read: [fltsim] alias=\B737_400\panel The 757 aircraft would then use the 737-400 panel. The syntax for aliasing model. 64 .Using aliasing Aliasing allows multiple aircraft containers to use the same files (panels. simply change the aliasing .cfg files is identical.cfg. Just change the 757 panel.