AeroGator

By far the most colorful device from VKB is going into production. Not just colorful Vacheron Constantin-style but also so adjustable it may fit almost any hand like a snug glove. Please meet THQ. Throttle Quadrant extension module, a stalwart member of GNX clan. adjustable length/height of all levers. 5 interchangeable lever heads of different colors and shape, for blind/tactile recognition in the dark or VR: for gas, pitch, mixture, plus two heads for radiators. VKB trademark dry clutch on all axes to adjust load from "breathe, and it moves" to "armwrestling". There are also 8 buttons on THQ. Same kind of buttons you can see on SEM. Two of them protected by safety covers. Depressions by every button mean there are stickers coming for easy and convenient mapping. Number of axes: 3. As THQ is a modular device, pilots can build it into any configuration with any number of axes (up to 4 THQs), in case some prefer multi-engine planes. Needless to mention, THQ is fully capable of being a standalone usb device that can be used as an addition to any gaming ecosystem of any brand. And of course, of course, it is made to shine as a part of a GNX setup. Bill Gates once wisely said that 640Kb of RAM will forever be all one could want. Well, he was "alternatively correct". He was once again alternatively correct when he only assigned 8 axes to a Direct-X joystick. A challenge here is that GNX (5 axes) coupled with THQ (3 axes) already sum in 8 axes. But what if you want more THQs? Windows will not recognize the second THQ. VKB offers 2 solutions. Install an additional usb controller in the 2nd THQ. Then Windows will see it as a yet another device. This is a pretty mainstream solution used by many. Get a newly developed Njoy 32NG firmware, a seriously advanced version of famous Njoy 32. We've been working on it for a couple of years This firmware sports virtual controllers, that would allow... you want 20? - OK, 20 axes. A device running new firmware can still be connected to the computer with a single usb cable, but will be seen by Windows as 3 joysticks: 2x8 axes, plus 1x4. Hi Bill Gates, slept well last night? VKB will offer free... (pause here, drums roll) - free upgrades from Njoy 32 to Njoy 32NG. NOTE: New fw is now in beta status, brave souls can download it from our developer's site. (only experienced users are advised to take these risks before official release: there is no step by step guidance nor rescue service; ask me for the download link via PM). Summarizing it all: original and innovative, ergonomically designed, stackable (up to 4), capable of working in a system, or independently (with a detachable rear support), compact and sturdy. RRP around 60-70 bucks before local tax. You're still here, Mr Gates? We can set one aside for you.

A stealthy peek into the kitchen: GNX-SEM is in the oven. Baking takes time but tempting whiff ia all around. Let's see what's cooking. VKB Gladiator NXT Side Extension Module aka GNX SEM can be connected to the main GNX unit on either side (or not connected at all – more below). Getting it to work in a block with the GNX will add 24 buttons to the existing array, or 17 buttons, and 2 axes. There will also be a version with an integrated USB controller: this will allow it to act as an independent standalone "joystick". Needless to say that SEM itself can serve a hub to which other extension modules can be connected the same way it can be connected to the GNX. (when SEM is used as a hub we recommend attaching a rear support for extra stability). OK, now let's actually see the thing in more detail. Immediately catching the eye are two odd shaped K-switches.In fact those are 3-button switches with an articulated central button. VR pilots will appreciate this tactile solution (as well as intelligent design of the whole module with every control easily identifiable by the touch). K-switches can be used as 3 regular buttons but wouldn't it be a bit of a waste. Much better would be a virtual axis setup: depressing the ends would in-/decrease the value, while the central button would return everything back to default/zero. We use extra silent long travel buttons paired with two-color programmable LEDs (open API to control the LEDs will be supplied). By default, the LEDs will just shed enough light to illuminate the buttons during night missions. The second color comes in when/if the button is used as an on/off switch. Our testers reported this was actually better than standard flip switches because rather than zeroing all switches manually now you have an option of zeroing them all in one click of a single button. Of course you may teach the game to do it automatically using API. Next… a 4-position rotary. A real gift for piston aviation fans. Others can use the rotaries as mode selectors. A cover-protected button obviously should be assigned for some emergency action, as you don't want to press it accidentally. The cover is spring loaded: as soon as the finger is off the button, the cover is back in place. Well. Now, the problem. So many buttons… How to remember their mapping? – there are small depressions by every control. In the retail kit you will also find stickers matching those depressions. You now know what to do. One thing is left, and this is a multifunctional axis control. But here comes the chef, and I'm chased out of the kitchen. May there be some intrigue for the time being. OK, it all boils down to: - Multifunctional - Modular - Universal - Ergonomic - Compact Something that might have gone unnoticed although I did hint at it: with its ability to be a standalone device, the SEM can be put to work with any gaming device regardless the brand. Now, the final touch. Or, the final touche? – RRP. We are thinking of 50-60 bucks. I bet we deserve some tips, huhh?

As promised, we are starting shipping out Gladiators NXT today. Thank you all for incredible support. We are nearly washed away by the number of orders but we DO have enough, and ALL customers will get what they ordered in one take. It is first come, first get breakfast, so it may take us a couple of days to see off all the orders, so worry not: yours is coming. Tracking numbers: will be sent to you as soon as the parcels are registered at the shipping agent's storage. Which is, when the truck comes... when it makes it to his storage... gets unloaded... all labels scanned.... you understand, there is routine. So go to bed in good mood. The engines are already warming up, soon you will hear that wonderful nyeeeerrm above your porch.

Talking distracts. Captions are short and to the point. When talking a normal person - the one who is not specifically trained, or exercises his speech regularly - usually stutters, hmmms, uhhhhs and errrrrs, slips and corrects himself, etc. Nothing too bad, but it's just noise not adding to the story.

* Please do check out these two quick vid-tuts, there will be more coming. Just make sure you revisit VKB channel now and again, so you don't miss something important. and

The dealer went on holiday till 3 Aug. There is a big banner on the front page of his web site announcing this.

We made sure the container got on the boat. Unfortunately, everything from this point on is totally out of our control. I'm not good at guessing, so can only advise to sit back and wait. EU sales is up and running, but the dealer is an independent business so he may have his own plan for holiday. We made sure we produced enough goods for a few months ahead. The only model that will be out of stock is Gladiator K (for a known reason), all the rest should be available globally. Please ask local dealers for details! :thumbup:

We're on vacations till September. Gladiator K production is temporarily halted as we need to work with the first batch buyers' feedback before making next batch.

Fellow Pilots, First and foremost, we are extremely - extremely! - happy with the success of Gladiator K. In this uneasy times such a warm reception you all gave to a new model should be, and needless to say, IS very sincerely appreciated. Thank you for your trust and support. As you know, mid July to end of August is usually our lazy time. A mid-sized company as we are, with core engineers scattered all over the world, needs to have some time when we can all physically meet at least once a year, and see what we got done since our last gathering, and think what we shall do in the coming year. This time there is no chance for a sweet holiday like this. However, I have to admit, we are really worn out after what happened last winter. We need some time off and away from our computers. This was to say our headquarters' team is going on holiday. Sales and Support During Vacation: This will not affect sales, and of course tech support will be working as usually. Stock and Supply: We have enough Gunfighter bases, as well as different grips, Strongholds, and pedals, to last for a good half a year. "Out of stock" situation is pretty unlikely, and will only mean the shop database wasn't updated on time. We don't expect any emergency here. Talking about Gladiator K, or Kladiator, as many called it, we have something to ruminate over. Its sweeping success made us give more attention to this market segment, and it came very handy that we had some interesting ideas up our sleeves literally waiting for such occasion. Now, we are taking a short (couple of months) time out with Kladiators. We need to think how we can perfect this little beast for bigger scale production, and what to improve in the new batches based on your feedback. I hope you will like what we may come up with. Anyway, it's good this time out is falling on our annual leave, so just wait... we will tell you what has brewed up after we're back... Gladiator will be back, too. Please keep enjoying flights with VKB gear, and we will see you again soon! :pilotfly:

A beer mat it's meant to be! :beer:

Thank you! :thumbup:

Hello Pilots, we've been receiving increasingly many questions on the topic. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORT! YES I double confirm we are going to sell the bases separately. NO I double confirm I will not disclose the date we will do it. WHY?? - indeed, a fully legitimate question. BECAUSE there is still a solid chance of force majeure, and although we were lucky and wise making timely provisions at the very first signs of coming trouble in January, let's not forget the virus is still at large, and supply chains can be interrupted any moment. 1 Sept - As for right now, I believe it is safe to say we will roll standalone bases out before the kids go to school. If there is no major disturbance, maybe earlier. In case of trouble, maybe a bit (not a lot) later. There will be no update on this release until the dealers have green light from us, and the standalone bases appear in their shops. Please don't nudge the cook: it won't bring the steak earlier! We want to serve you the bases no less than you want to put your hands on them. To make waiting less boring, let me tell you that there will be TM-optimized bases (adapter+pre-flashed FW) coming at the same time with "normal" ones. Also, there will be no "just base, without a blackbox" option: all bases will have blackboxes as part of the set. Enjoy your time flying, and please stay tuned!

Coming pretty soon.

Gladiator K - Kwik Update All New Gladiators K ordered and paid for by today have been mailed out - no shortages, no waiting lists. While the cargo is still on the way to Europe the Airlift option is active, and working: Friday we are seeing the air cargo off. New orders coming, getting served same day or next, depending on time belt. But hey, why buy if you can win. 11 June at 7pm PDT or, if you are in Europe, 12 June 4am by Amsterdam time we will dig in our hat for the lucky winner. The draw will be streamed at our YT channel. You don't even have to watch, we will name the winner in the comments. Just to remind you, all you need to do is leave a comment under the lucky draw video. :pilotfly:

THANK YOU! It is VERY important to have this sort of feedback. Whatever concerns personal safety, potential for property damage and alike will always be the top priority!

As soon as the boat arrives in Europe bringing a container of Gladiators (already on the way). Before that - from our EU dealer via Express Airlift. :joystick:

It is made with a well established Gladiator base, a pre-installed Lite Upgrade, and 4 different Kosmosima grips to choose from: Standard L, Standard R, Premium L, Premium R. RRP: Gladiator K with Standard L or R Kosmosima grips - 149 US Dollars; Gladiator K with Premium L or R Kosmosima grips - 179 US Dollars. Let's compare these prices to those of all parts purchased separately: Gladiator joystick (84 bucks) + Lite Upgrade (21 buck) + Kosmosima Premium grip (119) = 224 dollars earned in the sweat of thy brow. Buying a Gladiator K you are saving 45 dollars which is quite a chunk. FAQ: Are grips interchangeable? YES they are. You may first buy one joystick with a Kosmosima Right. Then, as you progress, you buy a GunFighter base with a Kosmosima Left, swap the grips, and you now have a pretty solid setup of a Kosmosima Gunfighter on the right, and a Gladiator K on the left. Поди плохо. ?לא טוב 可不好。 Ha, great! Interchangeable grips mean I can mount an MCG on the Gladiator?? YES but NO. You can. But you should not. This joystick is NOT meant to be used with a MCG, period. You can mount it on this base, and it will fit. But in case of any problems we will not offer free repair or replacement, and will not guide you through any setting up or fine tuning procedures. Could we disable using MCG by the means of firmware? - yes. But we respect users' curiosity and creativity. Some may want to experiment, and we don't want to limit you. Just do it at your own risk. Wait wait.... Replaceable grips, all this... are you saying Gunfighter bases will be sold separately? YES you read my lips right. Shut up and take my money! I will, don't worry.... but not all of it! ALL Gladiator K owners will enjoy 10% off on Gunfighter base :) You will need the serial number of your Gladiator K to claim the discount. Don't trade the serials, there is one discount for one serial number. (Shocked): That's it? Roughly. Except, June 4 we will have a free Gladiator K draw at our Youtube channel. Not only the winner will get the device but we will also cover shipment fees. Customs duty, if any, on you. Now, this is it. :) Stay safe, take care, and enjoy flying to its fullest.

Thanks! I know it is a pain to work through all configuration utilities but I believe it is rewarding. Time spent on it is time well spent, and always pays back!

Guys we're quiet most of the time, but please believe we're reading all you're writing. Thanks for patience, thanks for the ideas, and even thanks for skepticism: it all goes into the pot.

For over a year by now we have dispatched at least one shipment to Europe a month. I believe our European patrons noticed the difference. (Now we increased the frequency, but the pandemic slowed down the speed. Kinda tug of war). However even in "normal" situation it took a shipment at least 40 days to reach Europe. We know what we're going to do about fixing it forever, but it's not going to happen overnight. Then what? To deal with occasionally happening "out of stock" situations, when the goods are on the way, but not yet in the EU, we are now introducing a "fast lane" airlift restock option. For the patrons in Europe who need their devices immediately, we will every Friday dispatch a small lot by air. Weeks in waiting will be reduced to days.Our EU dealer will do bulk customs clearance, and post individual parcels to the buyers. How much? This will cost a little premium which is just to cover the difference between sea freight and airlift. Where? At the VKB EU dealer's shop. Everything will be the same, except "out of stock" devices will have a "fast restock" option. No! I'm not giving my hard earned cash to them express mail sharks! Totally understand you! If there is no hurry, and you would rather wait, then the "GET NOTIFIED" option is still active. As soon as the sea freight arrives at the dealer's storage, you will get an email, and will be able to order your device all the same way. Please stay safe, and have tons of fun in the air and space with our devices!

Dear Patrons, please note: IF you are about to place an order, and it totals in over 800 dollars including shipment, please break it up in smaller orders each under 800 incl shipment. One time orders exceeding 800 bucks incl shipment are subj to 29 per cent tax. If you live with your family, it may be wise to state your partner's name as the recipient of the 2nd parcel. Talking orders that have already been placed, we are splitting them without individual notice, and sending them with 2 day interval. You may have ordered 2 devices but here is only one at your door - relax and wait, the other one is coming soon.

We well might :) However this Config tool is such a huge chunk of knowledge... teaching people how to use it without teaching them the internal logic of it might bring in more problems than solutions. But yes, you're right anyway, something has to be done about the Configurator. Maybe not starting tomorrow, but I'm putting it on the slate.

Please check it out, our experts put together these vids to make it easier for you!

Sorry, nope. Not even because we're reluctant to leak any timing information, but primarily simply because no one knows what happens tomorrow. Let's pull ourselves out of this corona thing first, then we'll see. :alien:

Good day pilots, I received an alarming message today, a buyer was reporting that his FedEx parcel hadn't appeared at his door on scheduled time. Here is what I need to say to y'all guys. Your parcels will come. Unfortunately, it may take longer than we're all used to. Please have patience. We at VKB are very concerned, and will stay in touch with the mail carriers to make sure the parcels are not lost. But honestly, a few days' delay is the least problem. I can only speculate but I guess it is rather the "last mile" problem that is happening due to greatly reduced number of drivers and other sorting/repacking/delivery personnel. So summarizing it, I am sorry for the delay, but this is exactly a situation when the "we're all in the same boat" saying is true. Give it some time please. Guys who work in storehouses are also afraid of getting sick. So are drivers. No need to fear that it is lost, or stolen, or anything. The delivery chain is simply short of hands. Those of them who keep working do it because they can't afford staying at home. Giving them business during this hard time is a decent and right thing to do. May all their people who continue working stay safe and healthy. We depend on them more than we ever thought we may be. Let's not forget it after the virus is gone.