Ask Questions - general section
Jul 31, 2021 in FAQs, Tips (Archive) by

1 Answer

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Before asking questions:
- Carefully read related pages on the website.
- Check all connections, wiring, power lines, separate power supplies.
- Try to find similar answered question on these Q/A pages.

! Always use only the latest version of SimVimX plugin with relevant SimVimX.dat database file and the latest RSC_Planes.dat file (if you have one of the listed models that require it).

No need to keep older version for a long time, and of course, try not to skip too many versions, there is no reason to be concerned about using the latest version.

Many changes (and fixes) that are made in the database and the plugin are related, and the configurator and converter always (automatically) use the latest version of the database and plugin functionality, so using an older plugin version is useless in terms of compatibility or reliability, the latest version always has all the latest functions and fixes all known bugs.

--

Jul 31, 2021 by
Hello! After a year of building, have finally got my overhead working!  (mostly because waiting on parts, not anything to do with the plugin, as it has worked famously).

I just to ask and ensure that a 1x16 LCD would work with the plug in?  

Asking because I am attempting to use an LCD screen of this size, it is of the correct type (4 line bus) and the pin out on the LCD board is identical to the instructions on this site.  For some reason, I am unable to get text to display on the screen, and have verified time and again the connections I have made between the LCD and slave board and connection between slave board and main board.  Once I know the above LCD is ok, then will proceed further with troubleshooting.

Thank you!

Matt
Hi.

i am new in this software, i have started building a tbm cockpit for the tbm hotstart. I have made already 80% of the project. I would like to create the fuel selector with a servo control for changing automatically with the auto fuel selector of the sim. It is possible. if i can get a led output with any change on the fuel selector y could program an arduino for controling the servo and the phisical fuel selector in respond.

Please help with any idea

Cristian
Hi Vlad !, Been away from the project for about a year or so, and saw a lot of changes !! Cool, congratulations !! Anyways, to the point, I'm working again on a 172 G1000 and was wondering if a Mixture Trim can be added to it. It's not a big deal to implement and only a few lines of extra code.  It can be done with an encoder and if it's not implemented won't affect any other component. Let me know if you're somehow interested, I've it done, but still working on how to add it to the setup. Thanks !
Hi all, I thought I was a flight lover from China. I have a problem now, the MAX7219 for LED matrix is not working properly, I made it use the max7219 7-segment display wire, and he will light up part of the LED. So I think the hardware There is no problem. But if I put it stand alone or with max7219 7-segment display, it will not dot the dot matrix. The wiring used for dot matrix should be the same as that of the max7219 7-segment display. I did the same. So I Not sure where this is the problem.

thank you all. thanks google translate

"... the MAX7219 for LED matrix"

Hi liang,
Please check the personal messages.

This type of output LEDs is fixed in the plugin v.2.09 but we can't upload it right now, it has many changes and additional features and the parameter database need to be reworked for it. I'm working on this now.
Vlad

 

".. I would like to create the fuel selector with a servo.."

Hi Cristian,
I have a little time now for adding new features, but I will think about this (for TBM). (remind me later)
Vlad

"...a 1x16 LCD would work with the plug in?"

Hi Matt,
Yes, the 1x16 should work as 2x16 first line.
Vlad

Hi Vlad, I just updated to the SimVimX Plugin v2.11, and it's giving me a warning that the Eng1_Elec_Heat isn't recognized anymore. I see on the configurator that the anti-ice parameters may be under some changes? Just wanted to make sure that this is something on your list to address. Thanks.
Dan,
Yes, I have updated the engine options, dividing the engine control section by number of engines, and all related to engine de-ice systems are there now, take a look.

For your case, now it's only the "Engine_Heat" (or Engine_Heat_L / R or Engine_Heat_1/2/3/4) - the system (hot air, electric, etc, will be selected by type or automatically by plane type).  System selection will be added>

Vlad
Excellent - thanks Vlad!

Hi Dan, No, nothing has been changed at all in the electric part of the RSC database, Stby OK lamp should be ON when it's voltage between 20-28 V and Bat2 switch in the test position. So, if it is foo, the battery voltage is less that 20 V, I will check this anyway.

Also, take a look, I have added a new parameters and the config option for the "Fine mixture control"
Vlad
--------------------
Upd:  Thanks Dan for pointing this out, it was a small bug in the plugin, related to some indexed system conditions reading,  that came up after the latest updates to parsing complex conditions on aircraft configuration/conversion loading.
Roman has already  fixed it and will upload the update in an hour (v 2.11a)
V.

Hi Vlad hope you are well sir just building the wet compass for the 737 which hangs just below the overhead do you have a setting I can use to make the compass work ?

Hi David,
On this configurator page you can assign the wet compass .
No special setting, no calibration needed - just select the full-circle stepper (if you are using a stepper.
(I recommend the X27.)
Vlad

Many thanks Vlad here is a wee you tube of the sim on autopilot test https://youtu.be/6nwUvmkWlfc hope you like it

Dave
Hi Vlad,

Amazing work.

I'm trying to create the switches for the baron58.

I'm on holidays so I don't have the computer with the sim, but I started building and soldering two muxes and test them coding a simple code on Arduino.

Unfortunately I have some question about the n-position switches. Are compatible with the mux setup? Because I bought two S2110A (https://www.ebay.es/itm/275105235502) and I found they only return 000,001,... If the pins are connected to ground and the common is connected to 5v.

Could it be a problem? How do you set the function for each position in the switch when they are rotatory?

Sorry I'm a bit newbie :)

Thank you!
Hi Unai,

You gave purchased the coding binary switcher for 16 positions.
RSC/SimVimX currently supports a binary coded rotary switch with 3 inputs (up to 8 positions).

If you do not need more than 8 positions, you can use the switches you've  purchased switches,  just use 3 contacts, leave the 4th free.

Don't connect any pins to 5V! Just follow instruction on this page - https://realsimcontrol.com/io_msw.html  - connect one common pin to the GND and 3 others - to the multiplexer inputs.

Vlad
Thank you for your response.

Yes I was thinking in only use 3 bits because with less than 8 position it's enough.

I will solder to the mux inputs as you said and may be the last pin to ground in order to not having floating pins.

Is it possible to test all this connections without a sim? Any kind of firmware I can set on the Arduino just to check everything is fine. I was using Ubuntu so this is why I ended developing my own code to check if the two multiplexer were right.

Thank you!
Hi Vlad,

First thanks for your brilliant work. I made a tbm 900 home cockpit and also the custom throttle. But I have a lot of trouble to configure it. I would like to use directly the hotstart dataref (tbm900/…/engine/range) but I’m unable. So I use some customs conversion with various xplane mixture commands (mixture_max, mini, up, down) but it don’t work very well.

Can you please add this things on the configurator ?

In my build I use 4 momentary push buttons. For following positions : Cut off, low idle, high idle and flight idle.

All the best ;)
Hi
Is the Starter Return mechanism through Servo working normally?
I can calibrate it, but it doesn't work.
I'm using X-Plane 11 with latest SimVimX Plugin update - v2.12, SimVimX.dat 9 Sep. 2022 and Zibo updated.
I'm using Arduino UNO as a slave.

Hello, Is anyone else having problems with D&L Lines not working? Specifically LED Drivers, 7Segments

Thanks. John

Hi there,

After several years of happily using various iterations of ArdSim plugin I am now setting up for RealSimControl.   So far all is going very well!  

The Config Tool > Engine Control page says, "The Carburetor Heat can be controlled by a handle controlling the hot air flow, or with a switch."   I am seeing only a switch;  I am wanting an analog handle for this function.  

In my existing set-up I am using momentary switches for sim/map/show_current  and sim/operation/quit commands.  Would it be possible to add these functions?  Is there a mechanism for adding other X-Plane or Custom Commands? 

Thanks so much. 

Blue side up,

Bob

Hello Vlad and everyone,

I hope you re doing good,

Vlad since I started to build my 737 home cockpit with simvimx I have had a lot of advices from you really helpful. Now I finished it everything was perfect untill I downloaded a video on internet Wich brought a virus in my computer which affected all the system. So I decided to build another computer more powerful.  I downloaded the latest version of simvimx it onloaded very well I even test it with the pin #5 and all good, but when I connect the multiplexers it doesn't work I tried with a sigle pin with a switch it doesn't work so I m Colling for help if anyone can help that will be great .

Thank you in advance.

Best regards
Hi Vlad,

Some time ago I was a user of Ardsim, and have recently just got back into simming and I'm trying to switch things over to SimVimX.  I'm impressed how far this has come and how well it works!

I have started building a test bench with a display and an encoder.  I have the display showing radio frequencies and the encoder set up to control Mhz and Khz and switching with a button press.  I'm having a slight problem in that every time the sim starts the encoder is backward in that a right turn decreases value and a left turn increases value.  I go into the input options and invert it and it is correct for that session but next time I start it's backward again and again I have to invert for it to work.  

Any idea why this would be?

Rich
Hi there Rich,

In the last few days I have set up for exactly this.  I am not seeing the inversion you are reporting. I am using the default Cessna Skyhawk in X-Plane 11.  My encoder is type 1 with 20 detents on the Input > Encoder Tab page.  Looking from the front I have pin A (see Vlad's breakout board encoder picture) connected to the Mega's digital pin 30,  pin B to Mega's pin 31, and the encoder button connected to the Mega's pin 34.  A short click of the button moves the Com 1 radio to KHz until 2nd short click moves switches back to MHz.  In both cases the frequency changes upwards when turned clockwise.  

I hope this is helpful.

Blue side up,

Bob

"...  In both cases the frequency changes upwards when turned clockwise. .. "

There is no difference between A and B pins (it just letters) these signal inputs for any encoder are logically symmetrical.

Thus, you can connect them to the controller pins in either  A-B or B-A order.

But, there can be difference in the internal mechanical design between different encoders. And if two such different encoders are connected to the pins in the same way, they can act opposite to each other.
Before soldering your encoder it's good to test it before to define its connection order accordingly with its rotation direction.

Vlad

It was the encoder type setting.  Switched to type 2 and it works.  I missed that setting originally.  

One other question - How do you do the labeling on your panels, buttons, knobs etc?  I didn't see a write-up on that but they all look so realistic!  

Rich

".. One other question - How do you do the labeling on your panels, buttons, knobs etc?  I didn't see a write-up on that but they all look so realistic! .. "

Rich, I suppose you are asking about labels on my Baron 58 panel?
For marking, I used white letters printed on the plain self-adhesive paper.

I'm preparing the text labels in the graphic editor (Gimp),  carefully selecting  the background color for white letters  to exactly match the color of the panel (painted before that).
I then cut out the markings, leaving a small background border around the letters.

That's all - simple (for home cockpit) and easy reparable when damaged.
Vlad

Hello Vlad,

I finalized the build of my 737 MCP for XPlane 11 and everything works fine so far. But unfortunately, I think that there is an error in the logic of the SimVim Plugin concerning VNAV and SPD INTV.

At the moment, when I am flying in VNAV (and LNAV) and I try to use the SPD INTV, the IAS/MACH Indicator only lights up for a short time and additionally, I cannot control the speed.

But in the real plane, when using SPD INTV in VNAV mode, the speed window opens up and you can manually adjust the speed even if VNAV is enaged. By pressing SPD INTV again, the speed window turns off and the the FMC reverts to its original speed value.

Furthermore I provide a link where the logic is illustarted: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkR1fTow3Qg&t=33s

It would be awesome if you can fix this. Best regards, Jan
Hello Vlad.

Im trying to set up a push to talk (transmit button) but i cant find the right configuration.

Regards.

Kornelius
What is the best way to wire a 5-pole rotary switch? I have one as the mode selector for my Bendix King XPDR and it works, but whenever I switch the mode it also scrambles the xpdr digits, which is annoying. I am aware you can solder resistors in between the poles but I don't know what resistance to use. I tried using 1k resistors and it just made the switch stop working completely. A piece of relevant info is that the momentary buttons and the switch are connected to a multiplexer, which is then connected to the arduino.

Hi Tim,
The only way you can connect the rotary switch to the multiplexer is described here (see the picture).
No any resistors should be used, just simple direct connections to the MIX inputs.

What is the ".. it also scrambles the xpdr digits..."?

If you mean the digits on the 7-segment display are disappeared or blink,
make sure you have:
1) the pul-down resistor on the 7-segment display CLK input, as described.
2) The Input multiplexer has a pull-up resistor on its SIG (or Z) output, as described.

Select correct XPDR type in the configurator. What is your type?
Vlad

What I mean by the digits being scrambled is this: say I have 1200 set as the code, and once the switch is turned, the digits change to a seemingly random number such as 3407. The xpdr type I am using is the KT76-C.
-Tim

1) the pul-down resistor on the 7-segment display CLK input, as described.
2) The Input multiplexer has a pull-up resistor on its SIG (or Z) output, as described.

Thank you! Turns out it was a software problem. I didn't update the plugin for a while, so I decided to try that and voila, it works. Thank you for the answers, I'm sure they will come in handy later for other switch problems.
Hi Vlad,

i have a sim pit full of kit powered by your software and it is pretty bloody good, however just recently i tried to do a night flight in the zibo xplane 12 and all of my led outputs switched off, i put the flight back into a daytime hour and they come back on. i cannot find anything on simvim that indicates a setting of some sort for night flyting that might do this, any ideas please ?

thanks
Hi,
Please download the latest updated SimVimX.dat file
Vlad
Thanks Vlad, will try this in the morning

Hello to all. Installed the last SimVimX.dat file (30.12.2022).

Zibo 738X.

APU_Oil_Press always illuminate (led).

Can anybody confirm problem with overhead led dataref APU_Oil_Press ?

Old version wokrs fine.

hi where can i find the assignment for the bellcutout on the fire panel for the 737
It's the same action as the FIRE WARN button on the glareshield.
Vlad

APU_Oil_Press always illuminate (led). ---FIXED

Downloaded SimVimX.dat file (02.01.2023).

Thank you for fix.

Hi !

Thanks for this awsome work ! I'm building a Cessna 172 simulator for students, based on Xplane 11, and everything works fine except for two things :

- I use a rotary encoder for the trim wheel and it is well recognized by the board ("elevator trim" appears in the input config in xplane when I move it) but the trim stays still on the plane cockpit)

- I use a max7219 7 segments to display the xpdr_mode but only "sby" is displayed, even if I active "On" or "Alt" mode.

Did I miss something ?

thanks
Hi Vlad & Roman,

I'm on the wiring and final assembly phase of my Baron 58 sim now. I can't seem to find the Configurator setting for 'fuel pump low'. The 'fuel pump L' and 'fuel pump R' settings only offer 2 pos switch settings ie on or off.

Also is there any way to change the logic of an ON-OFF-ON switch for the above (and other 3 way switch options) to act as an OFF-ON-ON switches?

Many thanks!

Hi Shane.
See the [FUEL System] section.
It's the second 3-position switch in the first (upper) image map.
Vlad

Thank you!

Any chance of being able to use a rotary encoder as a selector?  Either cycle back around when reaching the end of the selection sets chosen, or stop advancing and require turn back to return to zero?

like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6nqLLJLYVg&list=PLPyBGDxgnX6C4H70xrXuqnobLzjXqbQF1&index=7

"Flight Sim with Rotary Encoders" by Discman777

Thanks for the awesome program.

I am trying to use the C172 fuel selector it shows a 3 postion switch with only 2 wire + ground. I am using micro switches for each postion, Left, right and both. That would be 3 wires + a ground. Am I  missing something or is this a config tool error?

Robert,

"...I am trying to use the C172 fuel selector it shows a 3 postion switch..."

As you can read on this page, a 3-position switch is always using only 2 inputs in SimVimX, not 3.

So, you can remove one switch (in middle position), it's not needed.
Vlad

Mike,
"...use a rotary encoder as a selector.."
Please clarify what are you trying to do, maybe you don't need a "selector"?
Vlad

Would like to use single encoder for changing multiple different objects, by using one encoder to select which object the other encoder changes.  And output the selected device info by text and its value to LCD.

so, 1 selector encoder.  allows the value (2nd) encoder to either control: com1standby, nav1standby, Transponder digits, Directional gyro adjustment, CDI(VOR) OBS, etc.  This way not restricted to pre-defined count of options, could add and remove as needed.

I do plan on expanding into a more full cockpit setup, but to start with a single LCD and a couple encoders would take care of many functions.  I have a bunch of encoders, not rotary switches.

I hope that clarifies things more.
Thank you
Mike
Mike,
Please take a look to the "Combo Radio" tab in the configurator. You can use a single encoder for all..  as described).

If you need you can assign additional parameters to the same encoder, then assign the selector as rotary switch for them.
Vlad.
That is what I'm looking for, plus additional options beyond radio, such as the CDI/VOR instrument.  and using a Rotary Encoder for the selector, since I have those, and not rotary switches.

if too complicated to add that, ok.  I'll work around it another way.

Mike
A coworker is into the fancy Christmas light displays, which everyone there is now using arduinos and WS2812 based addressable light strings.

Have you thought about or looked at WS2812B (or now WS2813) LED string controlling?

I know there is the LED Matrix option for limited outputs to control many LED indicators.  the WS2812 is just a single data line (or two with WS2813?) for a string.  As I saw in a previous posting, there can be some differences in the Matrix array orientation, but the LED string is always the same sequential order. Might be a bit harder to add an LED in the middle of an existing panel, due to having the shift all the others in the definition.

Maybe there is a reason it wouldn't work so well, but it was an idea to share / ask about.

Thank you for all the great work you have done.

Mike

Mike,
I have been working with the "WS" strings, and tried to create test functions to the RSC firmware code. Tested and decided that it doesn't worth it.
Why?:

Each WS chip in the line resends data to the next chip and the data protocol  has strict timing requirements, so the data line must stay in a high/low states for a fixed time, and  the more LEDs the slower it is.

This method could be implemented if only a few LEDs are used in the simple RSC system, so it's useless in the multi-functional real-time firmware when multiple inputs/outputs should be processed and synchronized with the simulator frame rate.

Use the serial drivers  that also can be connected to the output multiplexer (using just one output line)

Vlad.

Thanks for the explanation.

You have done a great job with it already.
I'm working on the LED output system that will use an additional slave board (Nano) with multiple TLC5947 PWM LED driver breakout boards.

Installed SimVimX Plugin - v2.16a . Almost all good.

XP12 and Zibo738, when all standby two overhead leds illiminate without power.

Hyd_Sys2_Fault and Hyd_Sys1_Fault

Hi Vlad,

Since the update to v2.16a I have a lot of trouble my sim.

After starting up the sim I immediatly became the warning message you implemented today it did not show up. After takeoff the landing gear would not pull-up and both the red and green anunciators lit. I was using Zibo v 3.52.3.

So I upgraded my Zibo to 3.54. My Xplane version is XP11.55.

My MCP works fine but I had to callibrate my hardware again. Everything went fine until I had to callibrate my servo's for the auto throttle. This is no longer possible. The levers swipe to full or zero throttle and stay stuck with full power on the motors. Trying to calibrate doesn't work because at one point the levers swipe to the other side and stay there.

I don't understand whats happening here. Do jou have any suggestions?

Regards,

Jack
Jack,
What is the warning message (and where?)

Regarding the gear issue:
In the last conversion the cover for emergency gear down handles is opened on start, as all other switch cover guards.
Download the updated SimVimX.dat file - I have removed the emergency gear cover opening on start.
V

I just tested SimVimX Plugin - v2.16a with both X-Plane version (11 and 12) and Zibo Xp12 and XP11.

Same problem. (output leds illiminate without power. Hyd_Sys2_Fault and Hyd_Sys1_Fault )

With old version of Simvim , all worked without issue on XP12 and XP11.

It's not the plugin issue.
Try to download the updated database file (SimVim.dat)
Updated last SimVim.dat --->> All works fine. Thank you.

Thanks for your reply!

The warning message only apears when I fly my Zibo version 3.52.3.

The warning message is in the lower part of the Status window. It says 'Config warning - check 'warnings.log' file. In the log file is following text:

The following parameters have datarefs or commands assigned in the conversion file that are not found. This is either a mistake in conversion, or the conversion is made for a different aircraft model.

BRT_CB_Panel
BRT_Pan_Flood
BRT_AFDS_Flood
BRT_Ped_Flood
BRT_Spot_L
BRT_Spot_R

I did not make any conversions though!

The problem with callibrating servo's is solved. It turned out to be 2 bad pots at the same time. I have never seen this before!

I wil try the updated SimVimX.dat file and get back to you.

Jack,
Download the latest Zibo v 3.54.17
Hi Vlad,

I updated the SimVimX.dat file and installed the Zibo v3.54.17. Things look much better now. However my MCP has a new problem now. While making my first flight with the new setup I found that the LVLCHG only works properly for decending. When used for climb it looks like it wants to do somthing but can't. The N1 and LVLCHG button lits up wich is normal. But the throttle levers just move a little (about 1 to 2 cm) back and forward independently all the time but there is no climb. It also seems that it's harder to switch between the various functions. Sometimes it works immediatly and sometimes it needs several attempts with unpredictabel results. I can't say it doesn't work but it is not as good as before.

But in general I must say your doing a fine job. I highly appreciate it!

Regards,

Jack

Just my situation (opinion):

Simvim MPC . I often had problem with  mcp's encoders. In Simvim input options, there is settings for type, acceleration and inversion. I setup all my mcp encoders (some need to be set as inversion enabled).

What is the problem? When I loaded X-Plane 12 and loaded Zibo738, sometimes all encoders not worked as expect (wrong inversion). I just reload config in simvim plugin and the problem gone. Sometimes I need to reload config a few times to get all encoders work as I expect..

I  can live with that.Any suggestion? Ivo

 

Hello,

I am experiencing switch flutter where the switch either doesn't do anything at all, or it just flutters from on to off very fast. For example, the ignition switch in the sim for some reason jumps to the off position after around 5 seconds of the hardware switch being in any other position. I have checked all my wiring and assignments, but I cannot find anything amiss. Any ideas as to what could be happening?
Hi Vlad,

I am trying to configure my IAS display to show the blinking "A" and "B".when needed. I looked in the description of how to do it and there you speak of 'select second function' and 'append'. Where can I find them in the configurator or are they lost since renewing the configurator?

If this is no longer possible I can live with it but it would be nice if it worked.

I use TM1637 displays.

Thanks in advance for your answer!

Jack

I am experiencing switch flutter where the switch either doesn't do anything at all, or it just flutters from on to off very fast. For example, the ignition switch in the sim for some reason jumps to the off position after around 5 seconds of the hardware switch being in any other position. I have checked all my wiring and assignments, but I cannot find anything amiss. Any ideas as to what could be happening?

you need to place a pull-UP resistor (1 - 5 KOhm ).  I used 10K.

I am trying to configure my IAS display to show the blinking "A" and "B".when needed. I looked in the description of how to do it and there you speak of 'select second function' and 'append'. Where can I find them in the configurator or are they lost since renewing the configurat

 jack, 
If you need this letters for the B737 Airspeed preset indicator on MCP, to show over-speed or under-speed conditions, you don't need to do anything.

This feature is programmed and you should see the A/B in your indicator  in certain conditions if it's assigned correctly here (AP_SPD_Cmd).

Vlad
 

Hi Vlad,

Thanks for your reply.
Yes that is exactly why I need them.

I just reassigned it to be sure I did it right but nothing changed. It works except the blinking characters.

I can only see the blinking characters in the virtual cockpit but not on my hardware.
Are there any other places where I could have gone wrong?

Jack
What is the plane you fly? 738zibo?
Yes I fly ZIBO v3.54.17.
Hi All!

I am looking at adding a Starter Return Mechanism to my 737 OVH for the engine start switches.  These will be controlled by servos, one per start switch.  

I think where I am confused is: When I look at the configurator, there is only one selection for the Starter Return Mechanism and seems to be tied to both engines.  In that case, how should the two servos be connected to the I/O and how do they know which one should activate for a given engine?

Thanks in Advance!

Matt

Matt,
Here is the description of how it works.

But, if you have separate servos built-in in the switch mechanism, you can assign it for one servo and then connect both servos in parallel (to the same servo output.
Vlad

Thank you Vlad!

I was overcomplicating it in my mind with the two servos thinking they needed to be wired differently than parallel, but thinking about it and looking at the link you shared will allow it to work perfectly!

Thank you sir!
Hello and thank you again for your good work. I installed the latest versions. Here's what's going on

Panel_Flood
Wing_Ice_Lights
Wing_Boots
Bus_Volts
Gen_Load_L
Gen_Load_R
a message says that they are not recognized but built with the updated configurator.
also these last two that I can't find in my file

data.cfg
AP_NAV_Armed
AP_APPR_Armed

I downloaded the updated database file (SimVim.dat) same result, thanks
Hello, I started playing with SimVim 1 week ago and its amazing!! Today however it started to play up. When I play with my throttle all the other components move too. I disconnected everything and restarted my mac and arduino mega and connect 1 thing at a time. As soon as I program the second component bot throttle and that component move at the same time on 1 pin! any idea? cheers Vincent

I have the same problem reported by Tony Savard with these data refs when adding from the Baron 58 Aircraft selection. Says data ref not recognised by the plugin and to install the latest version of configurator / plugin (which I have)

Wing_Boots
Bus_Volts
Gen_Load_L
Gen_Load_R

Tony, Shane,
I tested all in the B58 - no error messages noticed (except wing boots, it should be "Wings_Boots", but I also added the synonym, so it should work in both cases now)

Try to download the SimVimX.dat.

I uploaded it to  the website, but before download try to clear the download cache in your browser, maybe that is the reason you get older version.

Also, now all light switches and brightness knobs are working for B58.
If you are using the SimVImPanel for B58, we will add the lighting effects a bit later (as it's done for C172).
Vlad

Hi Vlad,

Yesterday I updated the simvim plugin and now the encoders for HSI_Sel_CRS and HSI2_Sel_CRS and AP_HDG_Set work but their value is not sent to X-Plane. Also the flaps lever value is not sent.  The displays for HSI_Sel_CRS and HSI2_Sel_CRS and AP_HDG_Set seem to be changing when the encoder is turned but when you stop turning they change back to the value in X-Plane.

For the EFIS nothing works.
At the Input Options section in the SimVim menu however all are detected.

The IAS, Altitude and Vertical speed do work as axpected.

Since I ran out of options that I can check, can you please help me with this!
I use X-Plane 11.I fly zibo738 v3.54.17 and use TM1637 displays
For this moment I went back to version 2.16a and everything works as before!
Hello,

We have an B-206 simulator, but we have problems setting up the HSI; we need to setp up both buttons of this instruments like rotary enconders and the push button function to intercept the navaid, according to the aircraft position, but we've dont' found how to set up this pusshing functionality in this encoders (these have the capability to do it)

Can someone please help us with this?
Hi Vlad, I meet an issue with simvim and TBM 900 when simvim is loaded with the TBM impossible to use toe brakes. It's not the case with others planes. It worked well before. Have you a clue ? So I use an old SimVimX.dat from end of march and it works with it.

Thanks ;)

Hi Vlad,

Today (25th of May) I added the new SimVimX.dat file dated 24th of May and there is no difference! I loaded the file and Reset the plugin while running X-Plane. I noticed that there is a message that says Configured: 63 inputs, 33 outputs. For my configuration this should be : 65 inputs 44 outputs.

This is very inconvenient. Again with the 2.16a version it works better showing the right number of inputs and outputs.I hope you can fix this soon since I have accidently overwritten the .dat file that worked without making a backup copy first! sadcrying

Thanks in advance,
Jack

Hi Jack,
What about "no difference"? Between what and what?
What switches or LEDs (or displays) don't work for you?
Vlad

NOTE:
Sorry if some replies are too delayed, it's very busy time currently for both of us....
But we are working hard on all parts of the project (SimVimX and SimVImPanel) as time allows.


I even still can't start developing the firmware updates that I planned many months ago (it's about adding more convenient hardware options for multiple LEDs with regulated brightness and additional slave Arduino boards for inputs).

Vlad

Jack,
What I asking is what parameters are assigned in your data.cfg file but don't work for you, please give a list.
Asking because no something significant was changed in the v.2.17 and in the dat file.
But all Roman has changed is described by him as "- Fixed inverted direction for encoders with assigned custom increment values."
Maybe you have the issues with encoders only?
Vlad

Hi Vlad,

I have just made a flight with plugin v2.16a with the latest SimVimX.dat file. And as far as I have seen it works.

After that I copied the folder '64' from the v2.17 plugin into the v2.16a folder I used to make the flight.

Then it changed in: v2.17 and configured: 65 inputs, 44 outputs.

After that I installed the new plugin according the standard procedure. And then there are 2 inputs and 11 outputs missing.

So it seems there is something going wrong during the transfer or maybe a corrupted file is sent with it?

The displays and encoders all work fine with the version I manualy changed by copying '64' folder into the folder of the older version making it the new version. So now for me the problem practicaly is solved.

If after this you still need a list of the parameters I will make one this weekend or can I send you my DAT.cfg file?

I tried to send some pictures with this comment but that is not possible. Maybe in an other way if needed.

Thanks for your support, I highly appreciate it!

Jack


 

Hi Vlad, I don't really know if I'm doing something wrong or there is something wrong with the last update.  I've been trying to upload the stepper's and servo's firmware into 2 different UNOs (obviously) however I just couldn't. I think I'm doing everything by the book, MEGA is already uploaded, shows connection as the image shows, I thought the stepper firmware was already in the UNO, but as you can see in the image, the software just doesn't see it.  So I try to upload it, I/O Hardware, UNO not connected, CONTINUE, connect UNO, select STEPPER and the 2nd image shows the outcome. I've tried everything, reinstalled Xplane 11, updated simvimx.dat (today's update), different USB cables, different USB ports, even different UNOs and a different MEGA (but couldn't upload the firmware on this one neither) and the outcome is always the same. I've spent almost 8 hours trying to figure this out, but nothing. Btw, I'm just trying the data.cfg file with only 2 outputs for the Attitude Indicator I've been working on, it's based on 1 stepper and 1 servo, that's why I need both.  Please help!

Image 1

Image 2

Hi George,
1) It's nothing to do with updating because the firmware is not updated for about an year.
2) If you have issues, and the plugin connects the master board, no need to change Mega.
3) Of course you never have to "reinstall X-Plane", why?

You just need to do it as described on the page:
1) Before uploading the "slave" firmware make sure the slave board is disconnected from the master board (Rx/Tx wires are disconnected).
2) After the slave firmware upload connect the Rx/Tx correctly - exactly as described. the GND should be connected too. The slave board should be powered with external USB power supply (not from PC).

If you have the slave firmware uploaded, but the status window shows - "The stepped board is not connected" - it means you have connected Rx/Tx incorrectly. It should be - pin18 master - to pin0 slave, pin19 master - to pin1 slave.

That's all, I just uploaded and connected the stepper and LCD slave boards again to be sure - everything works perfectly.

Vlad
 

Thanks for the reply Vlad,

I'll try it again, will be back with results.

Quick Update:  Still the same.

Question: What does the message in this Image mean ?? It could be that the software couldn't find a board connected to a USB port or the software is smart enough to disregard the board cause it already has the firmware uploaded.

New Update:  Don't know how or why, it's now working.  Thanks !

Hi Vlad,

I'm sorry for my confusing question in the messages before. I'll try again I hope in a more clear way. After a lot searching and trying I found that my Zibo B738 v3.54.17 has problems with the  SimVimX.dat file after the 7th of may. Everything works with the .dat file from before the 7th of may. So you might say that the SimVimX.dat file has some errors in it.

What happens when I use the new file:

  • Trying to set the values of HSI_Sel_CRS, HSI2_Sel_CRS, AP_HDG_Set the value on screen changes but the value on my TM1637 does not change. However when I try to set the value on screen with the mouse the value on screen changes end... oh wondersmiley so does the value on my TM1637.
  • The IAS, Altitude and Vertical speed do work as expected.
  • There is allso an issue with my EFIS: all buttons switches and encoders do nothing.
  • The flapslever does not work.
  • ......

So for now I fly with the new v2.17 plugin with an older SimVimX.dat file.
Thanks again for all the effort you put in this project! I highly appreciate it.

Regards,

Jack

Jack,
Again, the database file is not changed drastically in every update, there are only added few new entries, and nothing can be deleted.

Everything you described is working fine, no problems, I tested all inputs and displays with the latest plugin, database  in XP11, latest Zibo and also, in XP12, latest zibo. No other users have issues too.

May I ask - Do you have only one folder with SimVImX plugin in your XP plugins folder? (it must be one, no other copies, renamed folders).  Seems like the plugin loads different data.cfg files that you may have in different folders.
Vlad

Hi Vlad,I am very glad to say that the problem is solved!smileyI fully deleted my Zibo and reinstalled it and now it works with the new files.My apologies for all the inconvenience caused to you!Thanks for your help I realy appreciate it!

Regards,
Jack

Hi Vlad,

I'm really struggling with prepping multiplexers. Soldering is not one of my strengths in life...chuckle. Are there any "ready built" 16 channel multiplexers? Something with headers on them so I can just insert the wire?

If so.....would you happen to know a part number or where I can buy them?

Thanks

Michael

Michael,
No, I haven't seen a multiplexer board with wire clamps.

I would recommend not to use any "headers" or clamps, to avoid extra contacts. The best way is soldering wires directly to both sides of the board.

Please see this video, it's easy actually, you need to have .
 
It's from this page,
(here I solder wires on one side only because the other side with pins is used for breadboard, not real cockpit, but for cockpit you need to solder wires to both sides)

Vlad

Thanks Vlad
Hi Vlad,

I understand Zibo and xplane are constantly updating but I just want to highlight two things that have recently stopped working for me, first the vert speed display 7 seg display doesn't show anymore, if I map to say altitude it's fine so can't be my hardware, also the trim wheel motors no longer work.

Many thanks for your ongoing commitment
Hi Vlad & Roman,

I've just completed my Baron 58 glareshield warning panel using the LED multiplexer. All seems to work except the pitot heat LED output. I've tested the LED itself by duplicating the parking brake output, and it works. I've tried LED outputs PITOT_HEAT, PITOT_L, and PITOT_R, but none work. Please can you advise on the correct data ref to use.

Secondly I have a 4 position switch for the DME selector (OFF, NAV1, HOLD, NAV2). The switch will select off and nav1, but not nav2 (I'm using the default Laminar Baron 58, which doesn't have hold function so I'm not expecting that to work).

Many thanks, Shane
Shane,

1) Reassign this LED in the configurator (I have corrected it in the B58 map).

2) SimVimX plugin functions for all radios are programmed independently on any aircraft model, and have all needed functionality (including HOLD).

That means, if you make the real DME (Using LCD / 7-segment indicators and switches), you will get the device working exactly as in real-life instrument, you don't need to even have this device in the virtual panel.

All you need is is do not look at on-screen device.

Also, of course this full functionality is implemented in the SimVimPanel program, and if you are using our panel for Baron 58, you will see all functions working.

You can see how it should work (both in SimVimPanel and in the hardware device) on this page:

https://simvim.com/svp_radio.html

To see demo - click the DME on the second picture, then select the KDI 572/573 device, and then "turn it on", click all zones to see how it should work in your hardware device or SimVimPanel.
(Try to click everywhere, including the "No station signal", No accurate calc")

Vlad
Hi Vlad,

I've uploaded the new pitot heat LED output and it works, but in reverse. ie light is on when pitot heat is off and visa versa.

I've looked at the radio page, and it's superb! At present however I'm using Air Manager for some instruments so I'm reliant on the config of xplane datarefs to obtain the output / selections I require.

Thank you,

Shane
Hi Vlad,

I've fixed the DME problem myself by re-writing the LUA script within the air manager DME instrument. Instead of taking switch position values from xplane I now import your simvim datarefs and use if then statements to re-write the corresponding xplane dataref values.

I still have a problem with the pitot heat LED however :/

Regards,

Shane

Shane,

In real plane this is the "warning" light, showing that you didn't activated the pitot heating. So, it should be ON when the heat is off.

I don't know why in the Laminar Baron 58 is led ON when pitot is ON ,

There are some other B58 models where it works as warning light for OFF, in others - as light that indicates the heater is ON (maybe wrongly).

Ask the real b58 pilots.

Don't you want to use our SimVimPanel for Baron 58?
In this case you don't need additional plugins, no scripts, all works with SimVimX.
And you can use Raspberry Pi.

Vlad

Hi Vlad,
Just before you posted I noticed that on other aircraft (Piper Arrow) the warning light was on when Pitot was off, so began to wonder if this was normal behavior.

I got Air Manager a long time ago...before your panels were released to the public, and not tried them yet. I may given them a go in future.

Thank you as always for your support,
Shane
Hi All!

I am wondering if anyone has any experience with the FlitePal 737 Start switches. They are solenoid based and share a common ground with the rotary switch (this is the way the PCB the start switches are on is set up).  It seems that as long as the switch is receiving power, the solenoid is being held into the GND position regardless of aircraft state.  The switch does not release once the aircraft engines are up (in line with the sim).

I have the solenoid wired to the LED driver. as that's how I think it should be.  It should noted that my LEDs all share a common Ground, so I do not know if this is what is causing an issue.  I am sure its either my wiring or the common ground of the PCB on the starter.

Can anyone help?!?

Thanks!

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