Panel and Gauge Discussions

[Milton Shupe]

Use this thread as noted in the subject matter please.

[falcon409]

In whatever capacity I can be used for bitmap art, I'm available. If it's over my head or something I feel is out of my realm I'll say so, otherwise I would be happy to work for no pay, lol.

[Milton Shupe]

In whatever capacity I can be used for bitmap art, I'm available. If it's over my head or something I feel is out of my realm I'll say so, otherwise I would be happy to work for no pay, lol.

Thank you falcon409 :) I appreciate that. Please communicate with Real Old Salt as to how you both can best work together to bring value to the project. Set the goals high, let's give it our best shot while being practical about it. Our "Best" panel and gauges recognize quality as well as efficiency. Let's shoot for realism as the goal, less graphics look. Wear and tear, proper shadowing, screws and rivets, No Op tape, whatever. :)

[ddawson]

In whatever capacity I can be used for bitmap art, I'm available. If it's over my head or something I feel is out of my realm I'll say so, otherwise I would be happy to work for no pay, lol.

Falcon,
I program gauges, but I'll never pretend to be an artist. I you want to do some bitmaps, I'll be happy to turn them into gauges.

Doug

[Milton Shupe]

Doug,

I just added you to the Project Team Org Chart.

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/showthread.php?t=30893

We appreciate your contributions and talent. You are there with falcon409 and Real Old Salt. Please coordinate among your team.

Thank you

[Helldiver]

Before you get too hung up on gauges, I've stated this before, there is NO uniform set of gauges to fit any plane except when it's new. The gauges were in a steady state of flux. When you called for a replacement gauge from the instrument shop, it could have come out of any plane that came by. You don't check the pedigree. So the net result there were a mixed combination of gauges that could have come from various aircraft. So don't get too fixed on particular gauges.

[pilottj]

I agree with Helldiver,
Gauges are fairly interchangable and overtime as the plane was developed in real life, I would assume so would the insturmentation technology, most notably the navigation instruments. However I would bet it would look pretty good starting out with your standard 'out of the factory' WW2 era panel. Perhaps having a couple of different panel configs would work, ala somthing along the lines of Gnoopey's Classic and Modern P-47M panel.

Cheers
TJ

[Milton Shupe]

Some links posted in the original thread led to these pics. I also see skyhawk just posted them in another thread here.

[Milton Shupe]

and another B model photo ...

[Real Old Salt]

I went on line this AM to discover this new forum. I'm glad to see it and I'm happy to be here!
Gauges as you'll have pointed out were only 'standardized' when the plane first came out of the factory. But, you might be surprised to find out, how many during WWII/Korea, were universal in that they were factory standard on many differant aircraft. Be that as it may, if the look we're after is one of a well used veteran then some of the gauges would show different fading,wear and use patterns. I think we should keep them in the same service branch though.:icon_lol:

On an other note. I've searched the web for cockpit photos and have found several. They're all remarkable in their lack of suitability as referance material. So,yesterday I ordered a book from Amazon that hopefully will be a good source for us. The photos did show a marked differance between the B and C models.

Are we going to zero in on one model or do several? What are the projects goals and standards? What is the target completion date?

[Milton Shupe]

I went on line this AM to discover this new forum. I'm glad to see it and I'm happy to be here!
Gauges as you'll have pointed out were only 'standardized' when the plane first came out of the factory. But, you might be surprised to find out, how many during WWII/Korea, were universal in that they were factory standard on many differant aircraft. Be that as it may, if the look we're after is one of a well used veteran then some of the gauges would show different fading,wear and use patterns. I think we should keep them in the same service branch though.:icon_lol:



On an other note. I've searched the web for cockpit photos and have found several. They're all remarkable in their lack of suitability as referance material. So,yesterday I ordered a book from Amazon that hopefully will be a good source for us. The photos did show a marked differance between the B and C models.

Are we going to zero in on one model or do several? What are the projects goals and standards? What is the target completion date?

Good questions. The initial model and focus will be the B model as posted in the other thread as follows:

Generally, we should start with what is common for the A-26B. I would like the theme to be organized, maybe not totally original design, but era-correct and "theme-following" as in panel/gauges. Being representative of one or two pattern aircraft. I want clean, cared for appearance, although some use wear is acceptable, even desired in all areas for realism.

I hope to have the exterior model done by mid-January. Then it will be available for mapping and VC work. That will take at least another 2-3 months. During that time the flight model and sounds will be worked on along with the flight model. So, I'm guessing that April is realistic although I'm flexible. :mixedsmi:

[Real Old Salt]

Milton thanks for the quick response!
The "B" version works well for me. Quite a few of the gauges are already in my "inventory".

In another thread you questioned which gauge format we should use. For me it's XML. Two reasons for that, it's the future and though I have done .gau's I made them with the "EasyGauge program. That program is no longer on my computer due to a lack of support.
If the team wants to use gau, I would have no problem with doing the .bmps for the project. There aren't any "involved" instruments in a WWII aircraft requiring C++ programing and XML's are quick and easy to modify for future versions.

[LOBO]

Trying to give you guys some help I have attached an A-26C cockpit drawing. Inside the zip file you will find a much larger version of this pic and also the panel key. :wavey:

LOBO

[Real Old Salt]

Thanks Lobo!

[EMatheson]

Could XML gauges be programmed for FS2002 compatibility? Some gauges obvoulsy can't be programmed in XML for FS2002, like radios and GPS, but one of my larger peeves in a lack of functionality in the 6 major gauges - altimeter, attiude, turn, rate-of-climb, etc.

[JakemasterD77]

I can't make bitmaps or gauges, but I can help with laying out the panels/gauge positions, popup windows, etc

[Col_GCO]

I think that XML compatibility was only added to fs9. You'd have to use C++ and .gau for all gauges in fs8 and before.

GCO

[Milton Shupe]

Milton thanks for the quick response!
The "B" version works well for me. Quite a few of the gauges are already in my "inventory".

In another thread you questioned which gauge format we should use. For me it's XML. Two reasons for that, it's the future and though I have done .gau's I made them with the "EasyGauge program. That program is no longer on my computer due to a lack of support.
If the team wants to use gau, I would have no problem with doing the .bmps for the project. There aren't any "involved" instruments in a WWII aircraft requiring C++ programing and XML's are quick and easy to modify for future versions.

There should be no confusion about what we are doing and where we are heading. All gauges that can be done should be done in XML for compatibility with FS9 and FSX. There may be some special function gauges that must be done in C++.

We will build for FS9 and FSX compatibility throughout this project. For those users who would like an FS8 version, gauge substitution can be done by FS8 interested parties, or a later update. We cannot do one project with three flight sims, 3 models, 3 panels in mind.

We must focus on one A-26B version and its panel for FS9 using techniques that will allow compatibility with FSX. That's the plan.

Once done, we or others can look at changes to produce a C and K version (the gmax source will be available for other freeware projects). And, someone will step up to produce an FS8 compatible panel/gauge set. Other mods can be done after this project. Right now we need to stay focused on an A-26B, FS9 aircraft.

[EMatheson]

I think that XML compatibility was only added to fs9. You'd have to use C++ and .gau for all gauges in fs8 and before.

GCO

Just posted an annoyed thread about this in the FS2004 forum...
XML GAUGES ARE COMPATIBLE WITH FS2002!!!

As for model compatibility, I can convert for myself. The CFS2 guys will convert for themselves.
The same is true of FD, but those will likely be FS2002 compatible Anyway, as most FS9 FDs nativly are.

The only special consideration is that the XML gauges be forwarded for testing to one of the many FS8 users that still kick areound these forums. I KNOW I am NOT the only FS8 hand left here.

[Milton Shupe]

LOL Thanks for sharing that Guppanui. :jump: :jump:

You are invited to assist with beta testing for FS8 ;)

[EMatheson]

I figger I'd better come back and tell ROS and Milton that they aren't the ones I'm screaming at...
The world is.
I've seen that statement related SO MANY TIMES on SO MANY FORUMS thatI just snapped. Apologies to all surprised or offended.

Oh, and thanks for the offer to assist on beta-testing... I don't really need it, but I'll take it if I still can! I didn't post what I did for that reason, I posted out of anger.

[Col_GCO]

Sorry about that Guppanui. don't think I'll be forgetting any more.

GCO

[Henry]

Sorry about that Guppanui. don't think I'll be forgetting any more.

GCO
:costumes: :costumes: :costumes: :costumes:
aint life a bit** sometimes
LOL
H

[falcon409]

Here is an excerpt from a letter (e-mail) I got back last evening from an inquiriy I made. . . .

"Ed,
Spirit of Waco is hangered at Waco Regional Airport in Waco, Texas at the Blackland Hanger. You are more than welcome to come take photos for your development team to use in Microsoft FS. Our A-26 was built Dec of 1943 in Long Beach, I want you to know that the aircraft went thru a On Mark Conversion and has dual controls and some avionics have been updated (radios, GPS, and intercom systems). but otherwise is original. . . .
As a footnote our A-26 cockpit was used as the cockpit view in the game "Air Warrior" . . . . . . .Please feel free to contact me and we will work out a schedule for you."

[EMatheson]

Apologies to Col. GCO too:jump: I saw so many posts by ROS and Milton on the forum I mistook you for ROS...:redf:

[falcon409]

Sound promising?

[Milton Shupe]

Trying to give you guys some help I have attached an A-26C cockpit drawing. Inside the zip file you will find a much larger version of this pic and also the panel key. :wavey:

LOBO

LOBO, WOW!!! Thank you for that. Will bi a BIG help in VC design. :ernae:

[Milton Shupe]

Here is an excerpt from a letter (e-mail) I got back last evening from an inquiriy I made. . . .

"Ed,
Spirit of Waco is hangered at Waco Regional Airport in Waco, Texas at the Blackland Hanger. You are more than welcome to come take photos for your development team to use in Microsoft FS. Our A-26 was built Dec of 1943 in Long Beach, I want you to know that the aircraft went thru a On Mark Conversion and has dual controls and some avionics have been updated (radios, GPS, and intercom systems). but otherwise is original. . . .
As a footnote our A-26 cockpit was used as the cockpit view in the game "Air Warrior" . . . . . . .Please feel free to contact me and we will work out a schedule for you."




A great opportunity to get reference data and pics. Thank you a bunch for that!!! :applause:

[Col_GCO]

Apologies to Col. GCO too:jump: I saw so many posts by ROS and Milton on the forum I mistook you for ROS...:redf:
That's a compliment in itself. :mixedsmi: . Can't think of many other people I'd rather be mistaken for. :d No problem Guppanui. :ernae:

GCO

[Willy]

You are invited to assist with beta testing for FS8 ;)

I love a volunteer "Crash Test Pilot" :costumes:

[GZR_Sactargets]

Here are some photos from my files. The zip files are too big. If you want them as a zip file drop me a PM. The Panels are scanned from
a-26 B/C Invader, by Francis Gallemi, ARIES Publications, 1994, ISBN 0-9698578-0-2 or A-26 INVADER in Action, Aircraft number 134, by Jim Mesko, Color by Don Greer & Tom Tullis, illustrated by Joe Sewell. 1993 ISBN )-89747-269-9 (Both should still be available at hobbyshops or online).

I Put them up on Webshots so I will post four at a time.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Color4.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Color3.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26color2.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Color1.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

That would be awesome Falcon409! One of the two base paint schemes I'm aiming at doing is "Spirit of Waco," so that would work out great!

[thudpilot]

Here are some color photos from my files. They are too big. If you want them as a zip file drop me a PM.

Put them up on Webshots so I will post four at a time.


That would be awesome Falcon409! One of the two base paint schemes I'm aiming at doing is "Spirit of Waco," so that would work out great!




Those interior photos are really slick and a terrific reference for detailing.
After having seen some of his earlier fine work on a few P-51 cockpits
you can be assured that Bomber_12th will make the best use of them!! :ernae:

[GZR_Sactargets]

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A25color5.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel11.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel10.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel9.jpg

[GZR_Sactargets]

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel12.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel5.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel4.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel3.jpg

[GZR_Sactargets]

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel7.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel6.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel9.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a324/Mustang51_/A26Panel8.jpg

That should be it. I thought I had scanned both books, but I cannot find them. I guess I can scan again if anyone is looking for specific details.

[Milton Shupe]

GZR_Sactargets,Thank you for sharing this reference data. Lots of great detail for evryone to pour over. Almost overwhelming.

[fliger747]

As ROS pointed out, instruments of the era were somewhat interchangable, at least in service. This is still true today, standard size holes in the inst panels (steam gauges) and standard hookups for pressure tubeing or electical Cannon plugs.

An interesting factor here during the war was that the gauges had NO LIMIT MARKINGS. This simplified the supply logistics, but required pilots to know the limits and READ the gauges. A factor discussed during the 1944 Fighter Conf.

[fliger747]

Note that the padded pilot seat was probably a civilian adaptation, as the mil boys sta on their chutes in the bucket.

[EMatheson]

An interesting factor here during the war was that the gauges had NO LIMIT MARKINGS. This simplified the supply logistics, but required pilots to know the limits and READ the gauges. A factor discussed during the 1944 Fighter Conf.
I dunno if I heard the man right, but I beleive that that is still true for some aircraft in use today...
When talking to the crew of a C-5 at last years HAFB airshow, I commented on the paint on the gauge-glass... turns out that many of the C-5s gauges had no limit markings on them and the crew had taken some cheap model paint and painted them on themselves!
.......OI, that was one Smelly airplane!.....PU!......

[fliger747]

I have seen thin red or other colored tape applied to glass faces as well.

[viking3]

It has been my experience in the field to apply the tape(red, amber, green, etc) to gauges. As was pointed out the same gauge could show up in various types/models of aircraft with different limits. Nowadays the nice little EICAS or ECAM unit shows the limits on the display.:cost1:

[fliger747]

Looked back throught the pilots manual, and it describes the 'New Color Coded Instrumentation', repleat with drawings!

[Real Old Salt]

I have a collection of photos of 'era' gauges. Very few of these have any colored range markings at all. One of those that are marked is a P40 tach with green,red hand painted on the glass. I think that although the B26 manual has that section about colored range markings,most instruments were still produced without them. What ever the team decides on this is fine with me, when the book I ordered gets here, I will start doing the face graphics for the instruments. I can add colors later if required.

[Willy]

Just a side note, in Navy engine rooms, we kept installed gauges marked with paint to denote the proper operating range of what the gauge was supposed to monitor.

[fliger747]

Flown a few old timey planes like that. 1944 Fighter conf comments on the issue. It was considered desireable to have limit markings, but most were probably applied in the "Willy" manner if they were present.

[Real Old Salt]

I don't want Milton to feel he's the only one working, so here are a couple of "work in progress" gauge bitmaps.
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/7053/a26gyroshwx5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[/URL]
[URL="http://imageshack.us"]http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/956/compassshnh8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Milton Shupe]

Wow ROS!!! That is beautiful :ernae: I look forward to your gallery of renderings. :applause:

[Real Old Salt]

Thank you Milton.
Some day I hope MS will allow us to use better colors in flight sims.
I develop .bmps in 32 bit, save the final files as 16 bit and, FS displays in 8 bit. Seems such a waste.

[thudpilot]

ROS it looks like you've taken that quantum leap to a higher level most mortals only dream of attaining. Those are award winning gauges being as professional a representation of the real McCoy as anyone could expect! I am in awe of how detailed they look and can only say well done old friend, well done. http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon14.gif http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon14.gif


http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/Oscar_1.jpg

..



.

[Epsillon]

Splendid ROS !
SOH is an artists lair, here is another proof !

Stephan

[fliger747]

Very Professional. IF you haven't, check out his cockpit upgrade for the AH Panther!

Quite first rate!!

[Willy]

Beautiful work! I knew ROS did good work with gauges but that's down right fantastic!!

:ernae: :medals: :ernae:

[Moses03]

ROS! :ernae:


Moses

[Real Old Salt]

The gauges for the main panel are just about finished. I'm never really satisfied, so I'm sure they will be tweaked some more before the A26 is ready for download.
http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/7407/gaugess1230uv9.th.jpg (http://img224.imageshack.us/my.php?image=gaugess1230uv9.jpg)

[thudpilot]

ROS are you kidding us? :costumes:

I guess we'll just have to take your word that those are not r-e-a-l instruments. :isadizzy:

You know, they say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Well old man those really are the most beautiful gauges I've ever seen.

Yep, they are real works of art and you sir are a Master at your craft.

Well done! :applause: :applause: :applause:

[Real Old Salt]

Thank you for your kind words sir.

[Henry]

even these old eyes can read them:ernae:
excellent work you are a true craftsman
H

[Marlin]

I like your personal touch there Real Old Salt!! Ha, made me laugh for sure. I like it :applause: I'm pretty sure you know what I'm talking about!!

I'm at a loss for words to express how I feel about this project, so I guess that a THANK YOU to EVERYBODY that is on the team will have to do until I can find the correct words.

[Real Old Salt]

:jump: I wondered how long it would take to get noticed.

[Willy]

Yep, best looking gauges I've seen in quite a while and please leave that "personal touch" in there! :ernae:

[modelr]

Yeh, I didn't see it the first look, but I like it, lol. Leave it there. :costumes:

[MudMarine]

I noticed the ROS in gauge right away. I liked it and thought it looked fine, they are ROS gauges after all! S/F MudMarine

[jetstreamsky]

I posted these cockpit shots in the Photos and Other ref materials thread, but was asked to repost them here, so here they are:

I found these A-26 cockpits at the National Museum of the USAF http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/photos/index.asp?galleryID=2283&page=3


B-26-K (A-26-A)

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/061019-F-1234S-001.jpg


B-26-C (A-26-C)

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/061004-F-1234P-009.jpg

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060922-F-1234S-044.jpg

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060922-F-1234S-043.jpg

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060922-F-1234S-042.jpg

Cheers

Allan

[INVADER67]

Here is what i found :jump:

[Real Old Salt]

Magnificent! The one on the bottom left I'd seen before . Notice the ignition switch. Do you think maybe the "Pilot" was posing?
The one top right is so clear itwill also give other information I need.
Thank you again!

[INVADER67]

more...

[invader26]

Hereby a few shots of the cockpit of N119DR

[Real Old Salt]

More good stuff! I am learning many small details from your pictures. They are really appreciated.

[Milton Shupe]

The last four pics are awesome in that they give me faith and restore the integrity of panel and gauge designers in my mind.

The first pic shows the audio panel just as blurred as it always is in FS while the rest of the gauges in the pic are crystal clear. :costumes:

[invader26]

Here are a few more.

[fliger747]

Note that there is some new stuff in there, such as a CDI (deflection needle for VOR) etc.

[INVADER67]

Hello group,
I found that in the T.O.1B-26(R)C-1.

[INVADER67]

More...

[Real Old Salt]

Denis, Could I get larger copies of those ?

[INVADER67]

Sure m8, tell me what you want.
:wavey:

[Real Old Salt]

Sure m8, tell me what you want.
:wavey:
I appreciate it Denis but Thudpilot sent them to me a little while ago.
Thank you just the same:guinness:

[INVADER67]

np
:wavey:

[thudpilot]

.
Are these instruments not terrific?

Rich Murray (Real Old Salt) has done a masterful job designing the instruments for the 2D panel
of the SOH A-26 Invader. See for yourself...they are going to meet or exceed the quality of any
others currently available in FS9 and FSX.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/realoldsalt6.jpg Real Old Salt

Yep, there's no doubt about it. While the panel and its N-9 gun sight are still a work in progress
with those instruments ROS has clearly raised the bar!

Day
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/1-1.jpg

Night
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/1-2.jpg

[modelr]

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L :applause: :applause: :medals: :medals:

[Marlin]

Ahhhh man, Salts face disapears at night. Bummer

What an outstanding job for sure (continuing to drool all over myself)

[nightshade]

:jawdrop::jawdrop:

[Epsillon]

.
Are these instruments not terrific?

Rich Murray (Real Old Salt) has done a masterful job designing the instruments for the 2D panel
of the SOH A-26 Invader. See for yourself...they are going to meet or exceed the quality of any
others currently available in FS9 and FSX.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/realoldsalt6.jpg Real Old Salt

Yep, there's no doubt about it. While the panel and its N-9 gun sight are still a work in progress
with those instruments ROS has clearly raised the bar!

Day
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/1-1.jpg

Night
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i23/thudpilot/1-2.jpg
:medals: WORK OF ART:medals:

[INVADER67]

:applause: :applause: :applause:
Wonderful work Rich.

:wavey:
Denis.

[Real Old Salt]

Have we decided, or even discussed what panels we want beside the main 2D. And what type of equipment we're going to use? Do we want to go with WWII era electronics or modern? Do we want a GPS?
Nav equipment? CD player or wind up victrola?
HSI's,VOR'sGPS can be mounted on their own panel but which way do we want to go?

[fliger747]

I favor the period bird..

BTW, what is the 'radio' needle at the top gauge pointing at. Flying around Seattle it took me right over the Renton Airport.

[Henry]

I favor the period bird..


me too:applause:
H

[Real Old Salt]

I favor the period bird..

BTW, what is the 'radio' needle at the top gauge pointing at. Flying around Seattle it took me right over the Renton Airport.

It points to pretty girls.

Actually it is simulating the early adf type course direction finder. Tune in a station then fly to the needle. Since we can't tune a local am station I first set it up to work off an NDB signal but for this type of instrument the default MS adf variable can screw up. Particulary if your course is around 20*. After messing around with it I settled on using the HSI varibles. So what ever you were tuned to when you set up the A26 flight that's what it's trying to track. Note; On course or no signal gives a 12:00 reading.

[thudpilot]

.

Rich,

Only time will tell how many different varients of the A-26 will be produced by the members of the SOH A-26 Invader Project crew; however, most FS enthusiasts will probably lean to the purest approach and prefer instruments relative to the era.

World War 2 versions:

A-26B (Definately install period WWII electronics/instrumentation)
A-26C (Definately install period WWII electronics/instrumentation)

Korean War version:

A-26C (No changes to the electronics/instrumentation would really be neccessary; however, count on a few folks to request an interior cockpit model to accommodate both a pilot and copilot)

War in Southeast Asia (Vietnam)

A-26A/B-26K (If we want to be picky a number of changes could be made to the A-26B panel, but not totally neccessary)

GPS

This should be provided as a clickable option via MS incons in a discreet section on every panel to be used by the many members we have who will definately want it.

[Real Old Salt]

I asked for a couple of reasons. One,I need to start thinking about what I'm going to put together. Two, on the left side of the panel is a bank of red safety switches that do nothing and are only there for the "look". They will make good click spots to bring up secondary panels and I won't have to install those ugly MS Icons (which I refuse to use on my personal panels)

[fliger747]

I believe that one of the instruments that looked like that was for the pilot to follow the bombadiers directional commands on the bomb run, of course it would be in a "See" model.

[Henry]

IThey will make good click spots to bring up secondary panels and I won't have to install those ugly MS Icons (which I refuse to use on my personal panels)
ill agree on that one
H

[Real Old Salt]

I believe that one of the instruments that looked like that was for the pilot to follow the bombadiers directional commands on the bomb run, of course it would be in a "See" model.
Exactly. But since we have no way to replicate that in the sim I chose to build the look and sub the hsi needle.

[Moparmike]

Bang up job on the grafix ROS!

[Milton Shupe]

I too favor the period gauges for the B model, WWII era. I also agree with the use of the red switches, tooltips could help identify without writing or as you wish.

[Real Old Salt]

I too favor the period gauges for the B model, WWII era. I also agree with the use of the red switches, tooltips could help identify without writing or as you wish.

Seems to be the consensus of opinion :mixedsmi:
So far 4 of the switches are set up. I'm still debating weather or not to name them, leaning towards. Not.

[GZR_Sactargets]

IIRC in the Gryphon, we did a Glass nose with a bomb site too. But my memory is dim on that. I do think a glass nose would be great as an 'alternate' cockpit with instrumentation. I think the Navigator/bombardier could use a norden bombsight from there. That would also include at least a rudimentary autopilot to handle the bomb-run.

[Moparmike]

ROS, I'd use just tooltips for the switch labeling, especially since you're going for the vintage look and have those gorgeous graphics. I wouldn't clutter it up with more lettering.

[Real Old Salt]

Thanks Mike, that's what I did with the four I've done so far.

[Henry]

do we have a wonderful forum here or what?
i see people coming together who all have a talent and getting together
no ego's just getting together
brings tears to theese ole eyes
:ernae: :ernae: :ernae:
on my tab anyday or night
H

[thudpilot]

ROS...For your info:

...........CAUTION

MASTER IGNITION SWITCH DOES NOT
DISCONNECT BATTERIES - BATTERY
SWITCHES LOCATED ON OVERHEAD PANEL

-------------------------------------------
Re: Red or Orange color switches...http://www.alphasim3.com/forums/Smileys/default/grumble.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:void(0);) can't really tell for sure.

______ CHEMICAL SWITCHES _______
l................................................. ......l
..l .......l .....l ........l ........l ......l

The four on the left are chemical release switches
The two on the right are wing drop tank release switches

Can't make out the inscription on each switch.
Will try to find out while at the air museum on Thursday.

l______ ............_______l


.

[fliger747]

Chemical release switches, shouldn't they be 'orange'.....

[Real Old Salt]

I wonder what kind of chemicals?

[Moparmike]

ROS, on that Master Ignition disconnect that thud has in his last post...
What it does is force both mags to the off position when it is pressed downward. I can't find my B17 ref pix folder right now, but in the attached picture of an early war PBY mag switch it's a push-pull knob to kill the mags but the up/down lever in the mag switch you've got operates the same way, except with an up/down toggle switch motion.
I have this lever setup in the mag switches for the dware B17. If you want, I can send a copy of the gauge (and C source code if it'll help) if you want to check it out.

Basically, I have it animated so that if any mag lever is not OFF, then it's up. Clicking it animates it down and sets both mags to OFF.

Not sure what those chemical release switches are...

[Moparmike]

Oh...just found this while digging for pix...
An A-26 fuel gauge. Not sure what variant it's from though. I've seen the same basic GE 3/4 needle fuel gauge in an F7 Tigercat pit too...just differnt graduations.

[Real Old Salt]

ROS, on that Master Ignition disconnect that thud has in his last post...
What it does is force both mags to the off position when it is pressed downward. I can't find my B17 ref pix folder right now, but in the attached picture of an early war PBY mag switch it's a push-pull knob to kill the mags but the up/down lever in the mag switch you've got operates the same way, except with an up/down toggle switch motion.
I have this lever setup in the mag switches for the dware B17. If you want, I can send a copy of the gauge (and C source code if it'll help) if you want to check it out.

Basically, I have it animated so that if any mag lever is not OFF, then it's up. Clicking it animates it down and sets both mags to OFF.

Not sure what those chemical release switches are...

Thanks Mike, I didn't know it was mechanically rigged to flip the flippers to off. I'll modify it :)
Right now it does shut down the engines.

The chemical thing does raise some questions doesn't it?

[Real Old Salt]

Oh...just found this while digging for pix...
An A-26 fuel gauge. Not sure what variant it's from though. I've seen the same basic GE 3/4 needle fuel gauge in an F7 Tigercat pit too...just differnt graduations.

:jump: Other than a red zone I have that one!

[Moparmike]

Okay...found the mag switch I was looking for. This is from a B29 but is the same pattern used in the A20, B17, & B24.

The master kill is actually a ratcheting lever. As part of startup, you flip it up first, then flip each lever on...don't know if that can be animated...I kept my mag gauge simple with the SDK variables and animated it as I mentioned above. Pressing the master kill down does flip the levers back to the off position though.


Yup, I noticed that you already had that fuel gauge...couldn't see for sure if you had the blue lettering though.

[Real Old Salt]

Okay...found the mag switch I was looking for. This is from a B29 but is the same pattern used in the A20, B17, & B24.

The master kill is actually a ratcheting lever. As part of startup, you flip it up first, then flip each lever on...don't know if that can be animated...I kept my mag gauge simple with the SDK variables and animated it as I mentioned above. Pressing the master kill down does flip the levers back to the off position though.


Yup, I noticed that you already had that fuel gauge...couldn't see for sure if you had the blue lettering though.

I think getting the lever to switch them to off should be fairly straight forward. Besides I need a break from "drawing pictures". :icon_lol: back to the xml file for a while.

I added the blue to the Aux Fuel Gage after I saw Denis' picture. Working on the old warbird gagues is pretty cool ( and the coding is basic) but most of the pictures you find are 1/2 tone. After a while though I've become familiar with standard practice. The blue was a surprise.
BTW a good info source for me has been surplus web sites and e-bay.

[Moparmike]

Yeah it's pretty simple.

Not sure how to convert this to XML,but here's the C mouse callback that I used for the kill button.


BOOL FSAPI mag12_kill_mouse_cb( PPIXPOINT relative_point, FLAGS32 mouse_flags )
{


trigger_key_event( KEY_MAGNETO1_OFF, 0 );
trigger_key_event( KEY_MAGNETO2_OFF, 0 );

return FALSE;
}

[Real Old Salt]

Yeah it's pretty simple.

Not sure how to convert this to XML,but here's the C mouse callback that I used for the kill button.


BOOL FSAPI mag12_kill_mouse_cb( PPIXPOINT relative_point, FLAGS32 mouse_flags )
{


trigger_key_event( KEY_MAGNETO1_OFF, 0 );
trigger_key_event( KEY_MAGNETO2_OFF, 0 );

return FALSE;
}


Thanks Mike, Got it working according to Hoyle now.:guinness:

[flying legend]

I know I'm a bit late; but better late than never ...

I visited the Brussels Museum today which has an A26. Some pics from the panel an guns taken trough the glass.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y122/stieglitz/Img_7110.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y122/stieglitz/Img_6957.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y122/stieglitz/Img_6953.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y122/stieglitz/Dsc00732.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y122/stieglitz/Img_6962.jpg

I hope they can be of some use.

Best regards,

Flying Legend

[Real Old Salt]

I know I'm a bit late; but better late than never ...

I visited the Brussels Museum today which has an A26. Some pics from the panel an guns taken trough the glass.

I hope they can be of some use.

Best regards,

Flying Legend
They certainly can. Every piece of information adds to the whole. Thank you

[Real Old Salt]

The 2D panel is almost finished

http://img462.imageshack.us/img462/38/spanel118as9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Moses03]

Very nice ROS. :mixedsmi:

[Henry]

:applause: :applause: :ernae: :ernae: :ernae:
H

[Col_GCO]

fantastic ROS. :applause: :ernae:

GCO

[Willy]

Sweet.. very sweet!

And please don't mess with the variometer :d

[MudMarine]

Love the signature ROS gauge!! Looks awesome!! S/F MudMarine

[INVADER67]

:jawdrop:
Amazing!!!!!!
:applause: :applause: :applause:
:wavey:
Denis

[thudpilot]

.
Folks, it ain't all smoke and mirrors.

Just to put it into proper perspective, the latest screenshot Real Old Salt
posted of his SOH A-26B Invader 2D panel is a result of having contributed
approximately 600 man hours toward its development.

It just goes to prove that nothing really good ever comes easy ... especially
for a skilled craftsman like ROS who demands only the very best from himself.

:medals:

[flying legend]

My RESPECT to Old Salt.


Greets,

F.L.

[Milton Shupe]

Agreed, simply stunning smoothness and beauty. :medals:

[Henry]

nah he has a program he just punches in A26 and viola it appears:applause:
LOL
expensive though:costumes:
i am really in awe of the people here
for there time and talent:ernae: :ernae:
on my tab any time
H

[Real Old Salt]

Thank you all for your kind words.
Henry It's not a program, it's a subterfuge. I tell my wife I have a job to do that requires me to be creative and smoking cigars brings out the most creativity. So she has to put up with the blue green haze in the house.:costumes:

[Henry]

Thank you all for your kind words.
Henry It's not a program, it's a subterfuge. I tell my wife I have a job to do that requires me to be creative and smoking cigars brings out the most creativity. So she has to put up with the blue green haze in the house.:costumes:
so how do you explain the scotch:costumes:
LOL
cheers grand job
H

[Real Old Salt]

so how do you explain the scotch:costumes:
LOL
cheers grand job
H
Bourbon sir,bourbon.

[thudpilot]

.


Ancient Age ... 80 Proof?


http://www.alphasim3.com/forums/Smileys/default/drunks.gif (javascript:void(0);)

[Real Old Salt]

.


Ancient Age ... 80 Proof?


http://www.alphasim3.com/forums/Smileys/default/drunks.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:void(0);)
Wild Turkey 101
Or Knob Creek

[Henry]

Bourbon sir,bourbon.
:banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :d
some people:costumes:
H