VIRTUAL AVIONICS MCP HELP

[Mach7]

Hello All,

Looking to see if anyone has the Virtual Avionics MCP module.

I just received mine this week and downloaded the VA interface software, however I am having trouble getting it to work...more specifically I find it is very very slow once an aircraft is selected in Fs9.

I am finding out too quickly that the user guide information is very light in content.

I have a send an email to tech support, but wondering if I am doing something wrong to make it operate so slowly.

For example...if I move the heading from 340 to 300...it takes about 4 seconds for the digits to change on the hardware and this mimic'd by the heading indicator in fs9. And when they do change they move at a snails pace.

If I press the 'heading' button...it takes about 5 seconds for the green light (on the MCP) to illuminate identifying that it is indeed in heading mode.

I have tried to connect it directly to the computer, and through a powered hub...but no joy

The USB cable is internal white...so I am assuming it is USB 2.0. would this make a difference if I plugged it into a USB 3 port? I have tried both and still no success.

When I open the VA interface control panel, it tells me that FS is not connected but the hardware is 'active'. Not sure what this means as the icon in the task bar tray is green...indicating that fs9 is connected.

Also in this control panel I do not see any selectable aircraft like I would in go flight...ie default etc.

any suggestions?? (Hoping it is an easy fix)

thanks in advance

-Jim

[727737Nut]

Jim,
Sorry I cant help you with the problem you are having but I do have a couple of questions.
How long did it take to get the mcp after you ordered it?

How is the fit, feel, and finish?

Thanks
Rob

[Mach7]

Hello Rob,

Actually I have tech support working on my problem. I sent them the information they needed, (interface logs etc) and they just told me today they were able to duplicate the problem, therefore there should be a solution coming shortly.

I have to admit I give them a 10 out of 10 for customer tech support. So far they have been right on the money.

As far as the product goes, it appears to be high quality, however I don't like the way the fake korry switches "feel" nor do I like the 'soft' rotational value of the pots (knobs) when controlling heading, alt, speed etc.

If you have any experience with the GF MCP pro, the GF knobs feel a lot firmer than the AV product, however the AV product (fake korry) switches are better (albeit they use the same push switch technology as does the GF module). These switches also do not take a lot of effort to engage. nor do you hear that loud 'click' sound as you do with the GF unit.

The knobs on the AV are much bigger, but seem a bit 'wobbly'.

The back lighting is nice...however it can only be activated if you are night mode with your simulator, therefore in my application, (using FSPanel Studio to position large gauges behind instrument cutouts), it doesn't work for me as night mode on my server computer gives my instruments that Fs9 night faint reddish instrument coloration, therefore I always use the server in day mode with the clients in whatever time mode I desire in order to maintain my flight instruments bright and detailed.

The unit is larger than the GF, however considerably lighter as they seem to steer away from the metal casing.

Overall I am happy with the products 'look' so far. Once I get it up and running I will see how it performs.

-jim

[Mach7]

Sorry Rob....

Took about a week to get it...used Fedex...i think it cost about 77 for shipping and 120 bucks for duty and taxes. (Canada eh).

[Caflyt]

Jim,
I also have the MCP and 2 EFIS from VA. I have been very pleased with the level of support from both Helton and Ricardo at VA. I am using mine (flawlessly)with P3d so not sure about FS9 but one thing I am sure of.....the solution WILL BE FOUND if Ricardo Dutra is working on it.
I worked with Helton for a month or so to get a more realistic backlights color before I bought my units. VA's backlighting was a cool white and Helton was able to modify it to match the amber color of my MIP backlighting (actually gave me 2 options on the color to choose from). I don't know how many companies out there would work so hard to accommodate a potential customer. Once I chose the color I wanted they modified the MCP AND BOTH EFIS units before shipping.

I had a couple of issues with the button mapping and Ricardo had me send him my Prosim config file which he modified and sent back to me within 48 hours and got everything working.
The feel of the units is satisfactory for my setup especially when you consider the price point of their products, the hardware is very well made for the $$ (IMO)

Helton is working on radio units as we speak and tells me they should be available within the next 30 days.

If anyone here is looking for a cost friendly alternative you really should contact Helton as he is very helpful and responsive.
In fact...I accidentally damaged one corner of my MCP (my own stupidity) and Helton offered to send me a new piece to fix it even though it was completely my fault.

My opinion,
Craig

[Mach7]

@Caflyt,

Yes, I do agree 100 percent. Helton and Ricardo at VA offer excellent support and had me up and running within an hour.

The unit is starting to grow on me and I do like it more than the GF model for sure. Once you get it into the air and see the smoothness and lack of hesitation in the transfer of data, you see that there firmware is way ahead of the game.

Glad I made the purchase for sure, and for the price point well worth it.

-Jim