Getting Started

[John Marks 902071]

Hello Everyone,

 

Yes another Newbie. Sorry. I have a few questions. First off, all the software is installed and working (FSUIPC and SB3). My questions are probably easy to answer. I have read the tutorials but I am still somewhat confused.

 

Should I use fs9 in a window?

 

Is it better to start SB3 first then add in all the flight plan info. or should I use the web based flight plan on the site? I tried to do it as an observer from within sb3 (after starting fs9) but I could see where I would place my call sign (box was blacked out). I then went back to the web based flightplan site and made a simple one with a valid call sign.

 

I see that I should not just pop up on a runway, but I can’t see where to tell the software (sb3, fs9) to start at a gate. Of course I can do this when using fs9 in single player. I am missing this and I don’t want to upset anyone.

 

Do traffic packages, like Ultimate Traffic have cause any problems when joining the network?

 

I would like to get to say Santa Monica Airport CA. and sit and listen. Please tell me the best way for me to achieve this.

Thanks for all you do. Very cool learning tool but it make feel somewhat stupid.

[John Marks 902071]

So I got to the gate Ksmo and listening to So cal. KLAX. Some of the questions still apply. I have another one. If I were to task out of fs9 I would like the program to continue. It pasues each time I go to say serverinfo.

[Matt Young 823267]

In Flight Simulators settings, there is a checkbox called "Pause on task switch." turn it off.

[Craig Moulton]

Let me see if I can help...

 

Should you use FS9 in a window... I hate full screen, it is a distraction every time something else on the computer wants attention, the graphics are not as crisp, the frame rates are slightly slower, and SB3 for me is on a second monitor, which makes it impracticle. You mileage may vary.

 

How you file a flight plan is also a user preference. I do it on the web each time, as it adds just a touch of quasi realism for me. I also do it because I've found that my favorite airplane (the MD80) isn't availble in American Airlines colors with SB3, so I have to choose the DC9, which just doesn't look right in the flight plan.

 

Best bet when starting is to start FS9, change to the outside view, and slew your self to a gate, apron, or what have you. Then, once set, connect to VATSIM through SB3.

 

AI Traffic is disabled when connected to a multiplayer connection. You could use AI traffic, but you'd have to disconnect your multiplayer connection, which means that you won't see other VATSIM'ers. It also means that while YOU may see a 747 AI plane on the runway, ATC won't, and will probably get upset with you if you refuse to comply with a request to take off, land, taxi, etc.

 

You've figured out the last bit. Welcome aboard. I'm afraid there is no cure, but you can cope by logging on at least once a day and flying for an hour or two.

[John Marks 902071]

Thanks for taking the time to answer. I did the check box in fs9 (task) and I don't hear fs running in the back ground when I do task out. Since I was just sitting, there was nothing happening on my end. I guess I could have looked at the clock. I will [Mod - Happy Thoughts]ume its running. Getting back to flight plans. If I use the web to file and then slew to say KLAS. If I then open up SB3, should I just directly to connect? This looks right, but I wanted to be sure.

 

 

On a unrealated note, how many of you use more then one monitor using an extended desktop with fs?

 

TIA

JM

[Craig Moulton]

As long as when you connect, your callsign matches the callsign that you filed under, it should "attach" itself to you, and nothing else will be required on your part.