Hello from KSEA

[PittsburghLever]

Hi All,

Let me introduce myself: My name is Boaz, I am the happy and proud dad of a soon-to-be 2 year old son Daniel. Besides the joy of fatherhood, I have also decided to start on what I have wanted to do for many years: A home cockpit.
I have my eyes set on a A320, and I am wondering how to get a best start at this. I have been doing some calculations, and I can see that it indeed will be a long-term project. Now, the question is: What advice can I get in terms of executing this? I am thinking that some parts I will by pre-assembled, some parts I will want to make myself. In order to limit what I have to pay up front, how do I get started?

Thanks, and looking forward to spent way too much time chatting with all of you :p

Boaz
KSEA

[Matt Olieman]

Hi Boaz,

Welcome aboard, you're in the right place for guidance :) :) :) and congratulations of being a father and enjoying it!!!!!

There are some wonderful A320 projects here, with lots of experience for you. Enjoy!!!!

Oh, and we love pics, as you can tell, so we want to see pics of your progress :) :) :)

Matt Olieman

[Trevor Hale]

Hi Boaz,

Great to have you here! Well first thing is first, get yourself familiar with the forums, and the people.

Keep in mind, you can save a lot of money doing things yourself.

Other then that, you need to plan, plan, and plan, to find out exactly where you want to start.

Most people start with the MIP (Main instrument panel)

Best regards,

Trev

[Michael Carter]

While planning is neccesary and a very good thing, don't let it get in the way of you actually starting to build something.

Too many people plan a simulator to death and before you know it planning a simulator has become a full-time hobby instead of building a simulator.

There is no book of instructions to build a simulator and anything done wrong or not to your liking can be done again. Your time costs you nothing and you'll need a lot of it in this hobby. And on that note, don't forget about the Commander in Chief.

Welcome to the forums. I hope your build goes well.

[Rodney]

Welcome to the madness Boaz!

The one thing I would pass to you is the reality of your building & wiring skills. The other is your budget, as you will see what is offered is not cheap if you want quality. The hardest decision for me in the planning stage was did I want exact replica or functionality. I'm going functionality as I don't need to model every switch and knob. While my pit will resemble most of the functions, it will contain things like the GoFlight radios, possibly the CH throttle quad over a real or replica, and a few other things. But for now, just sit back, read, research, and learn.

[PittsburghLever]

Thanks to all for the replies:D

I understand the hints you have all given me. My Commander in Chief is onboard (pun intended) provided that I get her a stewardess outfit!

Regarding starting with the MIP: I assume some software like PM or AST is required then to give the PFD/ND on different computers. What do people use here? Also, is there a good A320 model people can recommend?

Thanks again,
Boaz

[Trevor Hale]

Boaz, Both PM and AST Software have their own issues. If I was you I would research, research, research. But the bottom line is to go with the software company that has the proven track record.

Read reviews, and comments from both companies. I am sure you will make the right decision.

Best regards,

Trev