1.    Are you compatible with the Macintosh or Linux OS?

SimAVIO is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and 7.  Mac users can use Boot Camp or VM Ware to run SimAVIO, however we have never tried this personally, so it cannot be supported.  Our software consists of two parts: a plug-in with X-Plane that transmits data across the network, and SimAVIO which displays the instruments.   We DO have  a Mac version of our plug-in, so you can use a Macintosh running X-Plane in a two computer configuration.  SimAVIO will still run on a Windows PC.   See the Net Configuration diagram for details.

2.    How do I install SimAVIO?

Double click on the SimAVIO.exe file.  READ EACH STEP CAREFULLY DURING THE INSTALLATION PROCESS.  View the Installation Video.  Read the manual .

3.    How do I activate/register/unlock SimAVIO?

After installation is complete, start SimAVIO.  At the top of the window, copy the product serial number from the top of the window.  Paste this into an email, and send it to support@flythissim.com.  The installation video and manual provide further details.

4.    Are upgrades free?

Yes, upgrades are free for one year after your purchase.

5.    How do I upgrade my software?

Check our home page to check if an upgrade is available, or join our Twitter or email list.   If one is available,  return to the link in the email from Fastspring just after you purchased. 

6.    What are my options if my computer dies, or I want to try SimAVIO on another computer?

The license is tied to your computer's Ethernet adapter and properties of your hard drive.    If you need to move the license, remove the license from the old computer first by following the operations manual instructions.   Install the software on your new computer.  Email support@flythissim.com with your new product serial number and the reason for requesting a new unlock code.

7.    Can I return SimAVIO for a full refund?

Under the circumstances that the software will not work on your computer, we will issue a full refund.

8.    Do you have maps and nav data worldwide?

Our maps and nav data are available for the 50 states of the United States of America.  See our FMS data page for more details. 

9.    What size monitor do you recommend?

We recommend widescreen 23" to 32" high definition monitors for 1:1 scale gauges on our AATD panels.   A widescreen 21" high definition monitor is necessary to view the small details such as text and tick-marks.  It is highly recommended to use at least two monitors for your simulator setup.  FTS has authored a paper showing you how to build your own flight simulator where you can find these details and more.

10.    What are the computer hardware requirements?

The computer hardware requirements are specified here.  The Avidyne or FTS1000 panels require a higher performance standard as shown in the table.  If you are not sure if your hardware is up to the task, send us an email with your hardware specs and desired configuration.

11.    Is your Garmin simulator just like the real Garmin avionics?

Our goal was to produce an IFR trainer for Technically Advanced Aircraft.  Our focus was to include the features that are necessary to practice instrument approaches and procedures.  These features were produced EXACTLY like the real Garmin avionics.  For a detailed list of features, see our features list for the Avidyne Entegra/FTS430W and FTS1000.

12.    Do I need a yoke, pedals and throttle?

No, however a yoke and throttle is highly recommended. Pedals are nice for VFR flying, but are not necessary for IFR training.  Our panels include all controls necessary to fly: including (but not limited to) throttle, mixture, trim, and flaps.  View this page for great stores to buy your hardware.

13.    Does SimAVIO work with the flight hardware that I all ready have?

With the exception of a few aftermarket autopilot control consoles, if your hardware is compatible with X-Plane, then it will be compatible with SimAVIO.  X-Plane is the common language and nerve center for your hardware and our software.

14.    I can't get SimAVIO to connect to X-Plane.

This problem could be caused by incorrect software installation of your plug-in, lack of basic network connectivity, or a computer that does not meet the performance criteria.  Visit the troubleshooting section of the operations manual for more details.

15.    You do not have the aircraft or panel configuration that I want.  What are my options?

SimAVIO allows you to modify any of the existing instruments that are included with your add-on panels.   If the instruments you need are not included with the panel, you can either purchase Instrument Builder to build new instruments, or request a custom quotation for FTS to build the panel for you. 

16.    Is there a limit on how many computers I can network together?

Currently, you can only connect one SimAVIO computer to X-Plane at any time.

17.    Do you communicate with Microsoft Flight simulator, or any others like it?

No we do not communicate with Microsoft Flight Simulator or any other off-the-shelf simulators.  For commercial customers , our interface API allows us to connect with any flight dynamics simulator.  Please contact us for details.

18.    I am totally confused.  What do I need to use this software?

From FTS, you will need to purchase SimAVIO for $39.95.   This initial purchase includes the Cessna 172 and King Air B200 AATD panel. As your experience increases, consider adding the Avidyne, FTS430 or FTS1000.  You only need buy SimAvio once....   If you want our software upgrades after 12 months, you will need to pay full price again.  Visit the New Users page for more details.

19.    Is SimAVIO a separate application, or does it run inside X-Plane like a plug-in?

SimAVIO is a separate application.  It does not run inside X-Plane.  You will not see our instruments inside the cockpit of your X-Plane aircraft.   Our panels are ideal for cockpit builders that require high resolution instruments on a dedicated visual for their external view.  Our FTS interface plug-in is used to transmit and receive data between SimAVIO and X-Plane.

20.    What is your priority for adding new features to the Garmin simulator?

Our goal is to produce an IFR trainer for Technically Advanced Aircraft.   Features that enhance the IFR training experience will be added first.

21.  Why can't I find any ILS or LOC procedures for my home airport?

Purchase our navigation data upgrade to add an additional 2000 radio-based approaches (such as ILS, LOC, VOR, VOR-DME and NDB)  With your purchase is current data and a 12 month subscription to the 28 data cycle updates.