1. Getting Started: Part I¶
This guide walks you through your initial setup of SeligSIM 2024.5. You will need a computer that meets the system requirements, plus a compatible USB joystick game controller. The simulator will work with a wide range of controllers, and the setup can be quick or more involved depending on what controller you want to use (e.g., real RC transmitter, InterLink® simulator controller, TacCon™ simulator controller, etc). Using an RC transmitter or RC simulator controller is recommended.
Reading these instructions is required to be successful running the sim. These instructions describe how to setup your controller so that it can be read properly by SeligSIM. That one setup will make your controller work with all airplanes in the sim.
A downloadable PDF version of the User Manual is here:
SeligSIM-UserManual-2024.5a-2026-02-11.pdf
Setting up a controller for the first time with any new flight simulator can be challenging and take 30 mins or so. To help make it go smoothly, the instructions below go step-by-step and depend on what controller you use. This process is called: remapping.
Once you have your remapping done (e.g., ailerons controlled by your aileron stick, etc), you can fly every airplane in SeligSIM without changing your remapping setup.
Remapping can be done inside some transmitters or else with PC software (vJoy with JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin). However, if you are using any of the native FS One interfaces, they are still supported and you will not have to remap your axes.
If you use a programmable RC transmitter with channel/Rx reassignment ability (remapping) and direct USB joystick support (having 8 axes), you will not need to install vJoy and a remapping program. See the Approach 3 below, while still reviewing this full page of instructions. Transmitters with channel reassignment ability include the Spektrum® NX series, OpenTX/EdgeTX radios (e.g., RadioMaster, Flysky, FrSky, Jumper), and many others.
Recommended: JoystickTools: JoystickTools is a drag-and-drop remapping tool designed specifically for SeligSIM. It remaps your controller axes to the proper order used by the sim. You will start up and run JoystickTools when you run the sim. See the Approach 2 section below for download and setup.
Alternative: Joystick Gremlin: Joystick Gremlin (“JG”) is a general-purpose remapping tool that offers more flexibility but is more complex to set up. Instructions for Joystick Gremlin are provided in the various how-to pages for USB controllers.
If you have a version of the RealFlight® InterLink® simulator controller, see the Approach 2 section below. You can use JoystickTools (recommended) or download a pre-configured Joystick Gremlin profile and follow the instructions in the links provided.
As examples, detailed setup instructions for the InterLink® DX simulator controller and older versions of the InterLink controllers are here.
Finally, all of the above applies to letting the simulator manage the programming for flight modes, expos, rates, mixes, etc. The approach is the easiest method for getting the simulator running. However, if you want to use the programming on your own transmitter (i.e., setup your own flight modes, mixing, etc), you can do that. It is described in a separate chapter: Use Your Own Programming.
Tip: How to Navigate this User Manual
This first Part I chapter covers the installation of SeligSIM and your selection and setup of a controller.
The Getting Started: Part II chapter covers how you calibrate your controller and run the simulator. Some setup tips are included.
The Power Tools chapter describes using the additional SeligSIM Power Tools program that unlocks additional useful features.
The Main Menu chapter covers the layout of the top-level menus in SeligSIM.
Apart from the two Getting Started pages (Parts I and II), you can use the rest of this manual as a reference guide. Most of it you can ‘learn-by-doing’, but do not skip the chapter on Key Commands. That includes the key bindings that are essential when in a Flight Session. Nearly every keyboard key controls something when you’re flying. Also, the Camera Views chapter will help you get the most out of flying in the sim.
1.1. PC System Requirements¶
Windows 7 or Higher
Most PC’s that can run games should be able to run SeligSIM. The best option is to use a PC that has a dedicated graphics card from NVIDIA® or Radeon®, but the simulator will also run on some HD Graphics (Intel 620 or better). Before you begin, update your graphics card drivers. SeligSIM requires around 4.6 GB of free disk space. With DLC added, it requires around 6.7 GB. While the simulator is designed for Windows®, it will also run on Macs in Windows virtual machine environments or Wine-based tools (e.g., CrossOver), and on Linux using Wine or Wine-based tools (see Mac and Linux below). SeligSIM 2024.5 does not use Steam and does not require registration. It connects to the online User Manual when you click help links from inside the simulator, e.g., if you have the Extra 260 airplane selected in the sim, clicking on the “Flight Manual” button will take you directly to the flight manual information on the Extra 260.
Mac
SeligSIM will run on Macs using a Windows virtual machine environment (e.g., Parallels, VMware Fusion, or Boot Camp) or Wine-based tools (e.g., CrossOver).
Linux
While SeligSIM is designed for Windows, it has been reported to run successfully on Linux using Wine or Wine-based tools (e.g., CrossOver). Users running Linux will need Wine or a Wine-based tool installed and should follow the standard Windows installation steps described below. Controller setup (vJoy, JoystickTools, Joystick Gremlin) may require additional configuration under Wine.
Compatible Controller
You will need a compatible controller setup to use SeligSIM. Generally speaking, a compatible controller is one that the PC “sees” as a joystick device. Examples include:
Original FS One TacCon controller and interface
RC transmitters with built-in PC joystick support, e.g., Spektrum NX series, Radiomaster
RC simulator controllers
3rd party USB interfaces for RC transmitters
Tip: Connect your controller first
Plug in your controller before starting the sim. Otherwise your controller will not appear in the list of USB interfaces in the sim.
1.2. Graphics Card Drivers¶
The simulator uses OpenGL for its graphics. Ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date. So before you begin, visit the website of your graphics card maker and install the latest updates.
1.3. Download SeligSIM and DLC¶
Obtain the installer from only trusted sources. The Dropbox link below is the only trusted source.
Downloads via Dropbox
You do not need a Dropbox account to download the files.
When you click to download the simulator from Dropbox, at the bottom of the popup window, click “Or continue with download only” to download.
Download the main installer file (.iso file). This file will install SeligSIM 2024.5a.
The installation does not require administrator privileges. It is a standard user installation.
Sign up for the newsletter to get notifications of updates and new downloadable content (DLC).
Verify Your Download (Optional)
If you’d like to verify the integrity of your download, you can use the file information below to check the SHA-256 hash:
Filename: SeligSIM_2024-5a_Full_Installer.iso
Size: 2051555328 bytes (1956 MiB)
SHA256:
AC4436F5AEF054014A0B3DEDA5DE03E3E618D1F1C1D2F6CAC4CB916B8962CEF4
1.4. Installation¶
As an overview, the recommended install sequence is to first install the main program (2024.5a), and then run the simulator one time. You can test the install by clicking on the Flight Training button and playing a lesson. Exit the simulator and then install the latest update (nothing yet). Run the simulator again. Exit and install the update and any DLC. After each of these steps, running the simulator one time is only “confirmatory”, i.e., you can see it works.
To install, your downloaded SeligSIM 2024.5a .iso file can be mounted as a virtual drive on your PC as follows.
Close all applications before installing SeligSIM. (This is not really required, but it is good practice.)
Mount the .iso file. Use mouse right click to select “Mount.” Better: You can also double click the .iso file directly and it will “Mount.”
Click on the mounted folder (“DVD Drive … SeligSIM …”).
Find the installer file (exe) and double-click on the install file:
“SeligSIM_2024-5a-18-3_Full_Installer.exe”The program will install to C:\SeligSIM 2024.5.
Installation does not require administrator privileges. It is a standard user installation.
As with previous versions, Windows might ask for your permission during installation and when you run the program.
After installation, right click on the mounted drive and select “Eject.”
Before using SeligSIM for the first time:
Connect your controller and test it in the Windows Game Controller gadget as described in the section: Selecting Your Compatible Controller.
Review the notes below about Windows 11 and the Display Scaling/DPI for high resolution monitors, e.g., “4K” displays.
Read the remaining instructions before running SeligSIM. The software does not provide guidance on how to setup your controller. That information is provided only in these written instructions and in videos on YouTube.
If your computer is unable to mount the .iso installer file, then use a DVD writer to write the .iso file to a DVD and install directly from the DVD that you create. If your computer does not have a DVD drive, use an external DVD drive that connects to your PC. (External DVD drives are cheap and readily available. They connect via USB to your computer.)
Mac and Linux Users
SeligSIM is designed for Windows but will also run on Macs using a Windows virtual machine environment (e.g., Parallels, VMware Fusion, or Boot Camp) or Wine-based tools (e.g., CrossOver), and on Linux using Wine or Wine-based tools (e.g., CrossOver). In all cases, follow the same installation steps described above.
FS One V1/V2/2022 and SeligSIM 2024.5 on the Same Computer
You can install all versions of FS One and SeligSIM on the same computer without any compatibility issues. Each version is installed in a separate folder and operates independently, ensuring that no files are shared between versions.
1.4.1. Windows 11 Users¶
If you are running Windows 11 (Win11), SeligSIM needs to run in “Compatibility” mode as described here.
1.4.2. Display Scale / DPI Settings¶
If you are running on a high-resolution monitor, such as a 4K display, you may notice that the game’s interface elements - like text, icons, or menus - appear too large and the mouse movements are offset. Two solutions are described here. The second solution is recommended.
1.5. Software Updates and DLC¶
SeligSIM 2024.5 does not check for updates and DLC. It does not use Steam. The best ways to hear about new and upcoming releases are through the Selig’s Newsletter and the @MichaelSelig YouTube channel.
Current releases are SeligSIM 2024.5a (full sim), DLC #1 and DLC #2.
To install any update and DLC, follow these steps:
Download the .iso file and mount (double click on the .iso file). It will then appear as a DVD drive.
Click to install.
Start SeligSIM and confirm that the version number is the current one. When SeligSIM starts up, click to confirm the installation of the update if prompted.
If you have installed a new DLC flying site, complete the installation using the Power Tools program, following the instructions provided during installation.
1.6. Release Notes¶
Full release notes (2024.5a) are here.
1.7. Selecting Your Compatible Controller¶
A controller for SeligSIM is generally speaking a USB joystick input device or USB simulator controller. It is also generically called a “USB Interface”. When connected and powered, the controller will appear as a joystick in the Windows Game Controller gadget (found in the Windows Control Panel), i.e., the Windows Game Controller gadget shown in the figure.
Windows Game Controller (joy.cpl) started from the Windows Control Panel.¶
For any given controller selected from the list, if you then click on “Properties,” you will see the axes (and buttons and hat controls if available) for that controller, e.g., as shown for the “FS One v2 2048” USB interface. The sliders will move with your control inputs. If your controller has buttons and other functions, the properties display (“Test” tab) can be more elaborate than this example below.
Windows Game Controller Properties (joy.cpl).¶
If you have a controller that has this behavior (i.e., works as a named USB joystick, appearing in the list), you should be able to use it with SeligSIM.
Tip
You can launch the Windows Game Controller gadget from your Control Panel. Find your “Devices and Printers,” and then right click on your controller to select “Game controller settings.” Alternatively, you can type joy.cpl in your taskbar search box.
Joystick Setup (Your Equipment)
Here is a sample list of some joystick setups (equipment) that can be configured to work with SeligSIM:
FS One V1 USB Interfaces: FS One V1 TacCon controller connected to the original FS One V1 USB interface named “Hangar9 FS One v1” or its companion second player (pilot) interface named “Hangar9 2Player v1.” Included in this group is the FS One Solo USB interface named “FS One Solo v1.” All of these are out of production, but they can still be found used.
FS One V2 USB Interfaces: Various transmitters (including the V1 TacCon controller) connected to the FS One V2 USB interface named “FS One v2 2048” (as above), including the V2 variants with names “FS One v2” and “FS One v2 2048-2nd.” The connection between the transmitter and the USB interface requires a compatible FS One V2 cable. A limited quantity of FS One V2 USB interface/cable pairs are still available upon request.
RealFlight® InterLink® Controllers: InterLink DX, InterLink Elite, InterLink Plus, and InterLink.
RC Transmitters with PPM Output to a USB Interface: Any transmitter that outputs a PPM signal that connects to your computer through a compatible USB interface and reports as a named joystick device on your computer, i.e., an interface that can be seen in the Windows Game Controller gadget like shown above.
RC Transmitters with a Built-In Direct USB Joystick: These transmitters connect directly to your PC as a USB game controller. For example, Spektrum® NX series, OpenTX/EdgeTX radios (e.g., Radiomaster, Flysky, FrSky, Jumper), and many others offer a Game Controller mode in their USB Settings menu. This direct connection method is covered in Approach 3 of this setup guide.
PC Game Controllers: While some game controllers work with SeligSIM, they are not recommended. For the best experience, use controllers specifically designed for RC simulators.
No matter your situation, reading the controller setup instructions in this User Manual is key to successfully running the simulator with your controller. The setup can be simple or involved depending on your controller. The controller setup in SeligSIM is not like other RC simulators. No two RC simulators are setup alike.
Using Real Transmitters - No Programming
If you are using an RC transmitter and want to get the best results (easiest and best way to start), a fundamental concept is to use your transmitter with no programming, no mix, no dual rates, etc. If your transmitter does not have programming capability (e.g., like the classic Hitec Laser 4 transmitter), you can ignore this paragraph. On the other hand, if your real transmitter is programmable with model memory, create a new “model” called, e.g., “SeligSIM”. Then set that model to the original default settings for airplanes/acro (that is, again, on your real transmitter: use no flight modes, no mixing, no expo, etc.).
These simple default airplane settings are needed because the SeligSIM simulator software itself includes the necessary transmitter programming/setup (a.k.a. “computer radio”) that is unique for each airplane in the simulator.
If you have the capability, set your transmitter to have 8 channels.
Using Real Transmitters - Enable All
On some transmitters, it is necessary to “enable” (turn “ON” or “uninhibit”) specific switches or controls on your transmitter. Beyond the always-enabled sticks (gimbals), you should allow all controls to function, i.e., flap knob, two-position switches, three-position switches - whatever capability your transmitter has. The simulator will use up to 8 channels on your transmitter. Ideally, use an 8 channel transmitter that has, in addition to the sticks (4 axes), the following additional 4 controls: one knob, one 2-position switch, and two 3-position switches.
If your transmitter has less than the full 8 channels that the sim can use, those channels not present on your transmitter will automatically be assigned to keyboard keys and used as described in the Flight Manual. Thus, no functionality of the simulator is lost, even if you are using only a basic 4 channel transmitter.
1.8. Setting Up Your Controller¶
1.8.1. Standard Axes Order and Directions¶
The image below shows part of the transmitter screen with the axis assignments on the right. The ordering of the axes in this image is the standard axes order that all airplanes use in SeligSIM.
Standard axes order in SeligSIM. Screenshot from the Transmitter Selection window.¶
If you move your aileron stick on your transmitter and the top slider moves, then you have the proper mapping for that axis. If you move your elevator and the second slider moves, then again you have the proper mapping for that axis, and so on.
In addition to having the proper order (a.k.a. mapping), the direction of each axis needs to match the diagram shown below. The image shows how each control movement on your physical controller should correspond to its slider position. If a slider moves in the opposite direction from what’s shown, you’ll need to reverse the direction either through your controller or via the programming used for the mapping.
Standard axes order with standard directions in SeligSIM. For instance, left aileron input on your physical controller should move the slider to the left.¶
A slight complication, however, is that simply plugging in any USB controller/interface is not likely to result in a mapping as described above. To get the right order for SeligSIM, i.e., to get the standard axes order, the axes must be remapped so that the order of the axes follows the standard order above.
1.8.2. Approaches (1/2/3)¶
Depending on your gear, your remapping method will fall into one of the three approaches:
Approach 1: Use one of the original FS One interfaces (V1 and V2). When calibrating in the sim, the axes are automatically programmed (remapped) to follow the standard axes order.
Approach 2: Use vJoy together with a remapping program (JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin). JoystickTools is recommended for its simpler drag-and-drop interface.
Example 1: Use an InterLink controller. Remapping to the standard axes order is done using an external program (vJoy + JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin) that works alongside SeligSIM, i.e., you start up and run both SeligSIM and the remapping program at the same time.
Example 2: Use a real RC transmitter with PPM output to a USB interface (non FS One brand), or use an RC transmitter that can operate directly as a USB joystick. Remapping to the standard axes order is done using an external program (vJoy + JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin) that works alongside SeligSIM.
Approach 3: If your RC transmitter has channel/Rx port remapping features (programmability) and can operate directly as a USB joystick device with 8 axes shown on the PC, then you can use the transmitter’s features to do the remapping to match the standard axes order as shown in the screenshots. With some Spektrum radios (e.g., DX9, NX6, NX8, NX10, …), this remapping feature is found in the Tx menu under Channel Assign and then Rx Port Assignments. For radios using OpenTX/EdgeTX/etc, this remapping is done via the Tx programmable mixing. (If your transmitter shows a USB joystick with less than 8 axes in the Windows Game Controller gadget, then use Approach 2 because it will yield the required 8 axes.)
Approach |
Description |
Requirements |
USB Interface in SeligSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
FS One V1 or V2 interface |
Original FS One hardware |
Select your FS One interface (e.g., “FS One v2 2048”) |
2 |
vJoy + remapping program |
vJoy driver + JoystickTools (recommended) or Joystick Gremlin |
Select “vJoy Device” |
3 |
Programmable transmitter with USB joystick |
Transmitter with channel reassignment and 8-axis USB output (e.g., Spektrum NX, OpenTX/EdgeTX radios) |
Select your transmitter’s USB name |
USB Interface Selection
The USB interface that you select in the simulator depends on what approach you take. Briefly,
Approach 1: If you are using an original FS One interface, select that, e.g., FS One v2 2048.
Approach 2: If you are using vJoy + JoystickTools or vJoy + Joystick Gremlin, select vJoy Device. Be sure to have your remapping program running (JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin with its gamepad icon activated/green).
Approach 3: If you are using the joystick controller in your own transmitter, you will select the USB joystick interface name that is used for your transmitter.
This same list is repeated below.
1.8.3. Approach 1: Setups for FS One V1 & V2 Interfaces¶
As described above, the simulator is more or less Plug-and-Play when using the FS One V1 and V2 USB interfaces for the cases below:
If you are using the TacCon controller with a V1 or V2 USB interface, check that all 8 sliders move in the Windows Game Controller gadget. The TacCon is self-powered through the USB connection and does not use batteries.
If you are using an RC transmitter with the V2 USB interface, then follow these steps:
Enable your transmitter trainer port and set the output to PPM.
Make a model in memory with settings as described above (no mix, no expo, etc.).
Make the connection between your transmitter and your computer using the FS One USB interface and compatible FS One cable.
If you are using a JR/Spektrum® transmitter, leave the transmitter turned OFF. When you connect the FS One USB cable to your transmitter’s trainer port, the transmitter will turn ON. In contrast, for some other brand transmitters, it is necessary to turn the transmitter on manually.
Run the Windows Game Controller gadget (joy.cpl ) to confirm your connections. The sliders should move in response to your inputs. With your RC transmitter in hand, identify which of your transmitter controls correspond to the sliders in the Windows Game Controller gadget. All available sliders in the Windows Game Controller gadget should respond when you move your transmitter sticks, switches, and other controls. If they don’t move, check that you’ve enabled all appropriate control functions on your transmitter as mentioned above. Also ensure that you’ve selected the correct model from your transmitter’s memory.
- In the simulator on any Fly Screen, select your FS One
USB interface by clicking on the USB Interface button and making your selection. Then click on the transmitter. On the Transmitter Selection screen, select the “Universal Tx” on the right, and then calibrate. Return and click the Fly button to launch your Flight Session.
Using an RC transmitter with the V1 USB interface is not supported.
The V2 interface is sold directly by InertiaSoft (developer of SeligSIM). The supply is limited. If you are interested, contact us for details: contact@seligsim.com.
1.8.4. Approach 2: Setups for Transmitters/Controllers with vJoy¶
All of the setup instructions in this current section have one common outcome. It is to take your transmitter/controller sticks (plus a varied collection of switches, knobs, sliders, and buttons) and transform those into a controller with 8 axes in standard axes order.
This transformation to the standard axes order is implemented with two programs. The first program, vJoy, is run once to make a virtual joystick named vJoy Device. Then, any program like SeligSIM “thinks” that this vJoy virtual joystick is an actual real transmitter/controller joystick device with sticks, knobs, etc, even though it’s only a joystick in software. After you create it, it is viewable in the Windows Game Controller gadget as vJoy Device. When vJoy is first installed, it will appear to be doing nothing (i.e., sliders won’t move, etc). The magic happens in the next step.
The second program remaps your actual transmitter/controller to the vJoy Device, thereby turning vJoy into a useful joystick. Two remapping programs are available:
JoystickTools (Recommended) — A drag-and-drop remapping tool designed specifically for SeligSIM. Simpler to set up than Joystick Gremlin.
Joystick Gremlin (Alternative) — A general-purpose remapping tool that is more complex but offers additional flexibility.
Both programs remap your controller’s axes to the standard axes order and output to the vJoy Device. In the simulator, you will select vJoy Device as your USB interface.
The setup instructions below are for Mode 2 transmitters (throttle on left stick). For other transmitter modes, adjust stick mapping accordingly.
Recommended: JoystickTools
JoystickTools remaps your USB joystick axes and buttons to vJoy using a drag-and-drop interface. To create a mapping, click on a physical axis slider and drag it to the corresponding virtual axis. Both sliders turn the same color to confirm the connection.
Features include per-axis reversing, button-to-axis mapping (for gear, resets, etc.), calibration storage, and export/import of mapping profiles. The program saves separate profiles for each controller and automatically loads the correct one when you switch devices.
Download and Setup
JoystickTools is available as a free download:
https://www.seligsim.com/manual/downloads
Download the JoystickTools zip file and unzip it. The zip file includes JoystickTools.exe, a README.txt file with setup instructions, and all necessary configuration files. Before running JoystickTools, install the vJoy driver (instructions are in the README.txt file and shown in the video tutorials below).
Run JoystickTools whenever you fly. It needs to be running to remap the controls. In the simulator, select “vJoy Device” as your USB interface.
Video Tutorials
Three tutorial videos show the setup process with different controllers. The first video (Spektrum NX10) is the most in-depth and is recommended viewing before the other two.
Example 1: Spektrum NX10 Transmitter (watch first for detailed walkthrough)
Example 2: Spektrum DX6 (G2) Transmitter
Example 3: InterLink Elite Controller
Alternative: Joystick Gremlin
The remainder of this Approach 2 section uses Joystick Gremlin. Per mention above, JoystickTools is recommended instead.
Joystick Gremlin is a general-purpose remapping tool that offers more flexibility than JoystickTools. It can imitate three-position switches, momentary buttons, self-centering joysticks, non-self-centering knobs, keyboard keystrokes, and more. This flexibility means that using Joystick Gremlin can be more involved to set up, but the step-by-step instructions below are carefully laid out with places along the way where you can check your progress.
With your transmitter/controller in hand, follow the instructions for your transmitter/controller. Upon completion, your transmitter/controller together with Joystick Gremlin (running and activated in the background) will result in a joystick device (named vJoy Device) that has the standard axes order that SeligSIM requires, allowing you to fly every airplane in the sim without any further adjustments or setup – all 140+ airplanes. In the simulator, you will select vJoy Device as your USB interface and not the name of the interface that you feed into Joystick Gremlin.
Setups for InterLink Simulator Controllers with Joystick Gremlin
JoystickTools Recommended
Instead of following the video below, JoystickTools is recommended instead. See video links above, starting with “Example 1” with thumbmail “Part 1”.
Connect an InterLink DX (G9, Evo)
This is the best USB simulator controller available. It is recommended. Made by Spektrum and distributed with the RealFlight ® Simulator. It can be purchased separately.
Connect an InterLink Elite (G4-G7)
These controllers were supplied with earlier versions of RealFlight. The controllers were made by Futaba and hold up well. Used versions are easy to find. InterLink versions (G6/G7) with the flap knob on the front right face are newer than ones (G4/G5) with the flap knob on the top right shoulder.Connect an InterLink Plus (G3)
The quality of this InterLink version is a notch below the Elite version, but it functions equally well with SeligSIM.Connect an InterLink (G2)
These instructions are for the first InterLink controller sold with RealFlight. The instructions are similar to the InterLink Plus above. The difference is that model reset in SeligSIM must be controlled using the keyboard.
More Setups for USB Simulator Controllers with Joystick Gremlin
JoystickTools Recommended
Instead of following the video below, JoystickTools is recommended instead. See video links above, starting with “Example 1” with thumbmail “Part 1”.
Connect any four axis USB Simulator Controller: The video below describes the setup for using only four axes for the primary controls: ailerons, elevator, rudder, and throttle.
Connect a Detrum/Dynam USB Simulator Controller (or similar) (4, 6, and 8 ch examples)
This is a useful guide that can be applied to a great number of USB simulator controllers.
Setups for RC Transmitters with Built-In Game Controllers with Joystick Gremlin
Connect an Spektrum NX10
Using your real transmitter is the best way to use SeligSIM. As with many high-quality modern transmitters, the Spektrum NX series has a built-in native USB game controller mode, which bypasses using a traditional external USB interface. A micro USB cable is required to make the connection to your computer. The principles described in this setup will transfer over to setting up other transmitters that report as having a full 8 axes in the Windows Game Controller gadget. This guide uses vJoy + Joystick Gremlin, but you can also use JoystickTools (see above).For a direct connection (Approach 3), see the NX8 setup below for using the channel reassignment features in the NX series. This Approach 3 setup does not require vJoy or a remapping program.
Connect an FrSky Taranis X9D Plus
When powered ON and then connected to a USB mini B cable, the FrSky Taranis can be set to USB Joystick mode, making a direct connection as a game controller. This guide describes the setup for a full 8 axes case. Note that while OpenTX transmitters have channel reassignment features (called “mixing” in OpenTX), this guide does not use that. Instead the guide uses vJoy + Joystick Gremlin, but you can also use JoystickTools (see above).
Setups for Transmitters with a Wireless Connection with Joystick Gremlin
Connect a Wireless Spektrum DX8
This guide describes the setup for a Spektrum DX8 transmitter bound to the Spektrum Wireless USB Dongle (USB interface). The Spektrum wireless part is SPMWS2000 and it supports 8 channels. All 8 channels of the DX8 are used in this guide.
Setups for RC Transmitters with Trainer Port/DCS (PPM) Output to a USB Interface with Joystick Gremlin
Another method is to use one of the all-in-1 (999-in-1, etc.) USB interfaces that are available through many outlets online. Follow one of the sample guides here to learn how to make the connection to SeligSIM using vJoy + Joystick Gremlin.
Connect a Hitec Laser 4 through a USB Interface
The Hitec Laser 4 FM radio can be connected to SeligSIM using a USB interface that hooks up to the trainer port. The early RCJoy USB Interface is used. The radio and interface are from the early 2000’s. This is an example of bringing old equipment back to life, and how to hook up using only 4 channels. Beyond the 4 channels, the remaining SeligSIM control inputs are done using the keyboard.
Setup for a Wireless USB Interface with Joystick Gremlin
See the DX8 setup above. It more or less follows the instructions for setting up a regular RC transmitter, such as the NX10, or Hitec Laser 4 above.
Setup for a PC Game Controller with Joystick Gremlin
Microsoft SideWinder Precision 2 Joystick with Joystick Gremlin
A user (Bill Donaldson) set up the JG file for the classic Microsoft Sidewinder Joystick. Download his pdf Instructions [Connect-a-Sidewinder-2-Joystick-to-SeligSIM.pdf] and JG Profile [Sidewinder2.xml] [Sidewinder2.zip] to set one up. This controls the full 8 axes used by the sim.
1.8.5. Approach 3: Setups for Programmable Transmitters¶
If you are taking Approach 3, use your know-how and the programmability features of your transmitter to remap the joystick axes to match the standard axes order and direction as shown previously. In this case, you will not use vJoy/JG. Some examples are listed here:
OpenTX and EdgeTX
Connecting a Radiomaster TX16S Max using EdgeTX is described here on RCGroups. This setup allows you to control all 8 axes used by the simulator. While this setup is described for the Radiomaster TX16S Max, the programming generally applies to the wide array of radios using OpenTX and EdgeTX software. You can find more details and additional information in the replies to the RCGroups post.
Spektrum NX Series
A user (Bill Donaldson) has created detailed instructions for setting up his Spektrum NX8. It uses “Channel Assign” in the “System Setup” menu of the NX8. Download his pdf Instructions [Connect-a-Spektrum-NX8-to-SeligSIM.pdf]. This controls the full 8 axes used by the sim. For the Spektrum NX10, a slightly different setup is described here on RCGroups. This setup on RCGroups is also known to work for the Spektrum NX9.
1.9. USB Interface Selection in SeligSIM¶
Ultimately, when you run the sim, you will need to make the selection of the USB interface inside SeligSIM.
Approach 1: If you are using an original FS One interface, select that, e.g., FS One v2 2048.
Approach 2: If you are using vJoy + JoystickTools or vJoy + Joystick Gremlin, select vJoy Device. Be sure to have your remapping program running (JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin with its gamepad icon activated/green).
Approach 3: If you are using the joystick controller in your own transmitter, you will select the USB joystick interface name that is used for your transmitter.
You can make this interface-name selection from any Fly Screen in the simulator, e.g., from the Single Pilot | Freestyle screen. To make the selection, click on the text-button below the label “USB Interface”. You can then select the appropriate interface name from the pop-up list.
Selected USB interface name for an FS One V2 interface (Approach 1). For other methods, select ‘vJoy Device’ (Approach 2) or your transmitter’s USB controller name (Approach 3).¶
1.10. Final Axes Order and Directions¶
Check your final axes order and stick/switch directions (see next figure).
All of the above guides (examples of the Approaches 1/2/3) result in the following mapping: see next image showing the standard axes order. The left axis sliders are from your remapping program (from Approach 2 if you are using it). Further, note that this graphic shows the proper axis direction for each function. For instance, full left aileron stick corresponds to the remapping program (left side, axis 8) slider being all the way down. In the simulator, full left aileron stick is all the way left, and so on. You can confirm each axis by applying full stick throws, full knob (flap), and full switch/button positions. If an axis needs to be reversed, it can be done inside your transmitter or inside your remapping program (JoystickTools or Joystick Gremlin).
Side-by-side graphic of the joystick axis mapping. On the left, a screen capture from Joystick Gremlin shows the vJoy axes that feed into the simulator (JoystickTools will show a different display, see videos). On the right, SeligSIM’s standard axes order with the sliders at their maximum positions for the corresponding maximum control inputs indicated.¶
1.11. Axis Priority for New Setups¶
If you are setting up a controller that does not quite follow one of the samples above, it is important to understand axis priority. Clearly, if you have a 4 channel radio, you will map that to ailerons, elevator, rudder, and throttle. But what if you have a 5 channel radio to map? What are the allowable distributions of controls? The table below shows the normal setups for 4 through to 8 axes. If you have a 5 channel radio to setup, the first four channels will map to ailerons, elevator, rudder, and throttle. But what happens to the 5th channel? Out of the remaining gear, flaps, resets, and flight mode functions, does any one of them take priority? Yes. Gear takes priority over the other three. The priority goes: Gear, Flaps, Resets, and Flight Modes. Following this approach, the setups are shown in the table below.
Control Inputs |
SeligSIM Function |
vJoy Axis |
4 Ch |
5 Ch |
6 Ch |
7 Ch |
8 Ch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Right Stick |
Ailerons |
8 |
x |
x |
x |
x |
x |
Elevator |
7 |
x |
x |
x |
x |
x |
|
Left Stick |
Rudder |
6 |
x |
x |
x |
x |
x |
Throttle |
5 |
x |
x |
x |
x |
x |
|
2-Pos Switch |
Gear |
4 |
x |
x |
x |
x |
|
Knob, or 3-Pos Switch |
Flaps |
3 |
x |
x |
x |
||
3-Pos Switch |
Resets (Home and In-Place) |
2 |
x |
x |
|||
3-Pos Switch |
Flight Modes |
1 |
x |
||||
Deviations from the above are allowable. You can violate axis
priority and use setups different from the table above. For instance,
the Resets can be skipped. Then, the working vJoy axes will be:
8 / 7 / 6 / 5 / 4 / 3 / x / 1 (nothing mapped to axis 2). Resets can be triggered using the keys
Spacebar and U for Reset-To-Home and Reset-In-Place, so
there is no loss of function. Suppose you had a 6 channel radio and
wanted to only fly an airplane that did not have flaps and you were
planning on using the keyboard for resets. But, say, you really wanted
to be able to control the Flight Modes with your controller. Then you
could create a mapping in your remapping program (JoystickTools or
Joystick Gremlin) that only remaps to vJoy axes: 8 / 7 / 6 / 5 / 4 / x / x / 1. For flaps in this case, the simulator will
calibrate the flap axis to be neutral (flaps centered). While this will be
perfectly fine for an airplane like the SIG FourStar 60 that does not
have flaps, if you flew an airplane that had flaps, then the flaps will
be fixed in the middle between full and no flaps, i.e., you will see half
flaps. Thus, for vJoy axes not assigned to a control (not mapped) and
not following the axis priority approach, those axes will simply
calibrate to the center position when you calibrate in the sim.
Except the Resets function is a special case that is ignored if not
calibrated, allowing you to use the keyboard instead. Flaps on the
other hand are different. If skipped, they will be fixed at half flaps
and the keyboard controls will not override that in this example.
1.12. Next Step - Calibrating and Running¶
Continue to Part II to calibrate your controller setup and run the sim. If needed, refer back to this Part I to check your axes order.