Gathering information for a 737 cockpit build.

[HAVOC]

I have nothing, no hardware or software for a sim.
I think the best place to start would be to buy a MIP, right?
I'm looking at this:
http://www.flightdecksolutions.com/components/b737ng/b737ng-mipmain/fds-b737ng-mip-main-2.0-bundle/
or this
http://www.flyengravity.com/page/shop/15/85
or
http://www.opencockpits.com/catalog/b737-dual-seat-trainer-p-461.html

My other questions are:
How many computers will be needed to run a 737 cockpit, 1, 2, 3?
I have 4 Dell 22" displays from my previous desk (using 3 27" displays now). Can I use these for the main displays (view outside the windows)?
Is there a "list" of parts needed for a full 737 cockpit, (MIP, overhead, pedestal, computers, displays, wiring, switches, etc.)?

[Geremy Britton]

You can start to build a cockpit from anywhere with any section.
Some start on the pedestal, some the overhead, and some the mip, however it really does not matter.
I would start with the part that you feel most comfortable making/configuring/integrating into your cockpit.
For example I would not recommend starting with the overhead as this requires additional framing to get it into a cockpit environment and the frame may also conflict with your mip design.

I would recommend starting with the pedestal or the MIP.
You need to decide whether to build bit my bit, with panels, and kits or save up to buy modular parts that operate from USB connections.

Regarding the number of computers, this will vary on a number of factors. A full simulator can run with two computers in a network. It would be difficult to operate with one due to conflicts on the same machine. So therefore 2 decent spec PC's or 3 low spec PC's. Generally speaking.

[HAVOC]

Thanks Geremy, that does help. In the case of the PC's, should the "main" computer have Windows 7 Pro to use all the memory that's installed? Would 16GB or 32GB be a better fit? I'm thinking one pc with Pro (32GB) and the other two, Home Premium (16GB).

I'd like to use micro ATX motherboards and have all the cases be the same. I want to build the sim with parts and panels from FDS. I can do the wiring/soldering that's needed.

[Geremy Britton]

Your most able computer should be the one with your main flight program installed on it and which will display the scenery.
Other computers responsible for in cockpit prosim display can be relatively low spec.