Introducing the VPC MongoosT-50

[Gizzy]

VIRPIL T-50 a personal opinion...

 

I’ve used many sticks over the years but mainly the TMWH with a 12cm extension. Both stick and throttle experienced switch failures (probably related to use) but none the less TMWH is a great product with great support. They are excellent items but, as I mostly play helos, I wanted a better gimbal operation. This year Santa was good and I received a T-50 stick, desk mount and a set of extensions. Its been in daily use ever since, these are my opinions so far.

 

Grip

It’s plastic!, light in weight, switches have little movement and light too… it just ‘feels’ totally inferior to the heavy and substantial Thrustmaster with its clunky switch operation and metal grip. Having said that, with me its pure cosmetics and I have no desire to use the TMWH grip on the Mongoose base, which of course you can.

 

The switch positions I found much more natural to use than the TMWH and all buttons and switches operated just fine.

 

The lever axis required Virpil software calibration and then calibration in windows itself for the button assignment and axis to be recognised by DCS.

 

Gimbal

A delight… positive, pressure adjustable, extremely accurate, perfect! Dismantling is a bit fiddly especially removing the PCB but not an issue. Well made in all respects, everything is aligned and engineered great. I did not change the default soft centre cam and suspect this will suit most other than dedicated prop heads who might prefer the hard centre.

 

Adjustable spring tension on both axes is fantastic. I was initially concerned that looking at pics the adjustment hole was small and the bolt head underneath would also be small and susceptible to wear. This was unfounded, the access hole is small but the bolt head is large, solid and substantial – no worries there.

 

Personal adjustment

Initially I swapped the default springs for the light variant but later swapped back the pitch axis to medium. Flying helos I have the springs tensioned so that they are just engaged and no more – for me this is perfect. Pitch spring (medium) exerts just a gentle amount of authority and the roll spring (light) is hardly felt at all until the reaching the extremities of throw but of course release the stick and it will return to centre. The ‘centre’ is very, very smooth not notched with absolutely no change in tension as you cross it. For fixed wing work I prefer the roll spring tightened a little to be firmer. A 2 sec easy job.

 

Extension Set

Perfect, correct choice of sizes, well made and solid. I use the 10cm & 7.5cm combined.

 

Desk mount

Solid, stable easily adjusted and moved. With my desk, chair 10cm & 7.5cm extensions and the desk mount adjusted to its maximum I can still rest my forearm on my thigh when playing but then my desk and chair height are both adjustable.

 

Support

On first calibration the supplied software corrupted the firmware and windows refused to recognise it. Being English speaking, support is routed via Cyph3r and the issue was resolved satisfactory with a software upgrade.

 

Overall summary

Expensive (UK VAT adds 20%), well made, adjustable, for me, just perfect!

[Krondl]

T-50 base with TMWH stick buttons all moved, any way to put them right?

 

Hello all,

 

I've posted this question in BMSForum and VirPil forums also. I'm trying to sort out the problem listed in the title. Apologies up front if this has been covered already, or if this is simple stuff to fix. I didn't find it, and I'm a bit short of simple.

 

I've got a TM Warthog grip on a Virpil MongoosT-50 base and I love the way it feels. However, all the buttons are all moved (changes listed at bottom). I've poked a bit at solutions, but thought it wise to put it to the smart folks first. UJR, UCR, and Joystick Gremlin all seem (to my untrained eye) like they might spoof Win10 into seeing the TM grip with the same button assignments that the TM Warthog base would show. I suppose I could just reassign things in most titles to each button/hat direction, but I'd like to start off with buttons and hats as if I were using a TMWH base.

 

Am I on the right track? Any recommendations for which software to use? I've read that keyjoy assigns keystrokes to button presses and has associated limitations (one button at a time only). Do UJR/UCR or Joystick Gremlin have similar limitations or to they have the effect of simply reassigning DX output for a given button press?

 

Any advice would be most appreciated.

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Mack

 

List of TM stick on TM base DX to TM stick on VPC base DX outputs:

 

1 -> 1

2 -> 3

3 -> 18

4 -> 19

5 -> 8

6 -> 2

7,8,9,10 (TMS) -> P.O.V 1

11 -> 13

12 -> 14

13 -> 15

14 -> 16

15 -> 4

16 -> 6

17 -> 5

18 -> 7

19 -> 17

P.O.V. 1 -> 9(U), 10 ®, 11 (D), 12 (L).

[Mr_sukebe]

Question for Virpil.

I see that the WarBRD base is now listed with a price on your website.

Can you please confirm the cost of a WarBRD with a T50 flightstick as a single unit?

 

Right now, if I buy them individually, that would cost approx 100BYN more than a std T50 with base. The website suggests that the WarBRD is there to reduce costs, so I'm assuming that we're talking in the region of 600-650BYN if we buy them together.

[Krondl]

Re: my above post T-50 base with TMWH buttons...

 

Initial impression is it's fixed via Universal Controller Remapper (which requires vJoy). Game Controllers properties is now showing correct DX button outputs. No time for a while to see if I can create a combined controller profile for BMS (like Mud's for T.A.R.G.E.T., etc.). Couple of observations in case someone else is looking at trying this: If vJoy is hanging on install, uninstall it (since the install didn't finish on the first go, uninstall wasn't straight-forward). Then make sure no other controllers are plugged in, and reinstall. Can't remember who wrote it, or what forum that fix was in. But might be worth recommending unplugging stuff prior to first install attempt. In vJoy, assign 1 continuous POV hat. I thought at first to use a 4-way hat since the POV1 was outputting 4 buttons. You'll only get Up, Down, Left, Right with a 4-way. Choose continuous to get all 8 points. Then in UCR, create a <remap button to button> plugin for Button 9 to hat1 -> up. Make plugins each for 10 ®, 11 (D), and 12 (L). The remainder of buttons are simple button to button plugins. Remember to do button 1 and the X, Y axes even though they are unchanged by using the T-50 base. The vJoy device will have no button 1 or axes if you don't.

Edited February 14, 2018 by Krondl

[dburne]

Cyph3r,

 

Any idea of an ETA for the Virpil Configuration Software to be fully functional, rather than the light (limited) state it is now?

[Mars Exulte]

Is WarBRD the closest to a floor mount being offered without having to manufacture your own? I saw some references to the case on the T50 not being strong enough on its own to support leveraging the stick, especially with extensions. Does this include the top plate, as it looks like this is where you'd run screws/bolts through to attach to something.

 

That desk mount monstrosity is fine as a stand in for somebody that needs it, but honestly I don't understand why you went with something like that as a nearly mandatory aspect of your initial launch o.O

[Gizzy]

The WarBRD is designed primarily for desktop use. I doubt it is engineered for significant extensions.

 

With the T50, the main mounting bolts are located on the front facing side of the enclosure, the side that bolts to he excellent deskmount. These bolts pass through the enclosure and fix directly onto the main gimbal support frame.

 

If you want a floor mount, fabricate a simple 'L' plate. Read this topic, you will see different ways of mounting if interested.

 

Recommendations regarding extensions can be found on their website.

[Cyph3r]

► Su-35 First Flight 10th Anniversary Sale

 

It's no secret that when we created a product named the VPC MongoosT-50®, VIRPIL CONTROLS designers took inspiration from the controls of a real Russian fighter jet. At the first announcement of the project a little over a year ago, many immediately guessed which aircraft was the subject matter.

 

On February 19th 2018, it will be 10 years since the first test flight of Su-35 - a promising multifunctional, generation 4++ fighter jet. The flight duration was 50 minutes and the flight program was successfully completed in full. The Sukhoi Design Bureau test pilot, Sergey Bogdan, who is currently working on the T-50 test program (now designated Su-57), piloted the aircraft.

 

 

Until now, the cockpit and all systems were classified as Top Secret, but despite this, one of the variants of the flightstick and throttle set was shown at MAKS-2015. It was captured in a number of photographs that were made available in forums.

 

Only 2 years later, at MAKS-2017, the VPC MongoosT-50® flightstick and prototype throttle was available for all to test for themselves in an Su-27CM simulator.

 

 

For the 10th anniversary of the first flight of the Su-35, and by popular demand, the VIRPIL CONTROLS team announces fantastic discounts in the official store http://www.virpil.by for all products of the VPC MongoosT-50® family!

 

 

Now is a great time to purchase a professional flight sim setup with a discount of 20%!

 

The sale event will last from 18/02/2018 to 28/02/2018, while stocks last.

 

For those who already have their VPC MongoosT-50®, the VIRPIL CONTROLS team have a lot of exciting news about the project and developments on future projects following just after the Spring - not long to wait now!

 

Thanks,

VIRPIL CONTROLS

Edited February 20, 2018 by Cyph3r

[dburne]

Cyph3r,

 

Question on the Virpil configuration software.

In looking at the throttle listing on the website, I see this mentioned:

With the VPC Configurator software, even further functionality can be acheived, such as idle and afterburner detent button presses, shift-states and button modes.

 

Is the above functionality going to be available soon in the Virpil Config software?

[sobe]

What is the difference between the VPC MongoosT-50 Grip and the T-50CM grip?

[Cyph3r]

Cyph3r,

 

Question on the Virpil configuration software.

In looking at the throttle listing on the website, I see this mentioned:

 

 

Is the above functionality going to be available soon in the Virpil Config software?

 

Yes! I do not have an ETA on this just yet though.

 

 

What is the difference between the VPC MongoosT-50 Grip and the T-50CM grip?

 

Here are the changes on the MT-50CM Grip:

 

• Russian Button Labels
  
• Remodeled Brake Lever
  
• Remodeled Flip Trigger
  
• Remodeled Buttons
  
• Black Hats, Main Trigger and Wrist Rest
  

[Schmidtfire]

Hi. We're currently looking into buying VPC gear and have some questions. All of us will continue to use the TM Warthog grip for now. The plan is to get vpc mounts, vpc extensions and vpc base.

 

1. Comfort. Can the Warthog grip be rotated at an angle when combined with the VPC base?

 

2. Balance. Is the WT grip too "heavy", or does it feel balanced and center fine with VPC extensions and base?

 

3. Use in general. Is the Warthog grip a good fit for use with the VPC base?

We fly mostly fixed wing.

 

 

Thanks!

[dburne]

Hi. We're currently looking into buying VPC gear and have some questions. All of us will continue to use the TM Warthog grip for now. The plan is to get vpc mounts, vpc extensions and vpc base.

 

 

1. Comfort. Can the Warthog grip be rotated at an angle when combined with the VPC base?

Yes.

2. Balance. Is the WT grip too "heavy", or does it feel balanced and center fine with VPC extensions and base?

I have not used my Warthog grip with it, really like the Virpil grip with the brake lever axis. Someone else I am sure will chime in that has used it.

 

I can tell you, I have used this thing very heavily since I got it in like Sept. Usually on a daily basis. It is a rock solid setup and I would highly recommend it. Customer support has been excellent as well.

[Schmidtfire]

How do you know if the WT grip can be mounted at an angle if you don't use the WT grip with the vpc base? It is well known that the T-50 grip rotates. I get that. But the WT grip is different if you compare the bottom part of it with T-50 grip.

[kingpinda]

How do you know if the WT grip can be mounted at an angle if you don't use the WT grip with the vpc base? It is well known that the T-50 grip rotates. I get that. But the WT grip is different if you compare the bottom part of it with T-50 grip.

 

 

The bottom connector on the virpil base isnt fixed like the connector on the warthog base. So yeah you can fasten the warthog stick angled to the left like you would if you use it as a center stick.

 

Also by using a extension this would obviously be the case since the wire that goes through the extension can be rotated as well.

 

I solely bought the virpil base to replace my warthog base because of sticktion. I also use a aluminium extension of 12 cm's made by the creator of the MFG Crosswind pedals.

 

 

so the heavy warthog stick with an extension sits fine on the virpil base. I believe I have the medium springs and soft center cams installed and since I fly alot of helo I have loosenend the springs so much that it just about sits in the middle but its very light to handle.

 

With these loosened settings the stick dips every so slightly to the front and left. not noticeble by eye but you can see that its not centered in dxview. but its like a millimeter or so.

 

So I recalibrated the stick so its centered with the virpil software and it flies like a breeze.

When you fly fixed wing I imagine you want a bit more centering strength so you would have no issues at all.

 

edit: on another note I had written an incredible story on how glad I was with virpil customer support but when I tried posting it I apparently wasnt logged in and I lost the post entirely.

 

In a nutshell I messed up my base kinda as well like dburne did just not as completely :p

I had some issues with faulty cams and some rattling. i guess it was a monday morning model. Last year Virpil offered me a replacement but on my end I had to wait a few months before I was able to.

 

This year I took them up on their offer and they very kindly sent me a replacement base when they received the faulty unit. I must say that it didnt cost me a dime since they just opened a warehouse in Lithuania making them Europe based and sent a courier to pick up the package.

 

All the kinks had been ironed out with the revised model. I havent even opend up the base yet since out of the box It worked precisely as I wanted!

 

Very very happy with my unit right now and I have alot of faith that this company will set a mighty footprint in the high end simulation peripherals! their aftersales support is simply outstanding and their products no less now they have upped their quality control. They are getting alot of rep for that at the moment and thats a very good thing. Thanks Cyph3r! Virpil is glad to have you I'm sure!

Edited February 22, 2018 by kingpinda

[dburne]

How do you know if the WT grip can be mounted at an angle if you don't use the WT grip with the vpc base? It is well known that the T-50 grip rotates. I get that. But the WT grip is different if you compare the bottom part of it with T-50 grip.

 

The difference is it is not being plugged directly into a Warthog base connector which is fixed, it is being plugged into an extension cable that is running through the stick extension. Your post mentioned using the extensions.

 

Same way a Warthog grip using an extension even on a Warthog base can be twisted at an angle.

Loosen the collar, twist to where you want, tighten the collar.

[Barefoot Bandit]

How do you know if the WT grip can be mounted at an angle if you don't use the WT grip with the vpc base? It is well known that the T-50 grip rotates. I get that. But the WT grip is different if you compare the bottom part of it with T-50 grip.

 

As posted by others, it's a function of the base, though if you really need proof, I have my Warthog grip handy and can take a shot of the grip with the T-50 base :thumbup:

 

Z...

[dburne]

Here are the changes on the MT-50CM Grip:

 

• Russian Button Labels
  
• Remodeled Brake Lever
  
• Remodeled Flip Trigger
  
• Remodeled Buttons
  
• Black Hats, Main Trigger and Wrist Rest
  

 

Cyph3r,

 

Can you elaborate a little on the three changes in bold?

I am just curious what difference there would be between that and my standard grip.

 

Thanks,

[Sokol1_br]

... if you really need proof,

 

:D

 

http://i.imgur.com/vaHWl2Bh.jpg

[Schmidtfire]

Thanks for all the info!

[Sokol1_br]

Remodeled Brake Lever

Remodeled Flip Trigger

Remodeled Buttons

 

See the changes, probable for reflect a more recently prototype of T50/Su-55 grip (the final shape of this grip RL seems not defined).

 

PAK 50 - T50 CM - T50 "vanilla"

 

BTW - The knurled in the HAT bellow trim(POV) HAT is for "gameplay" convenience (4 way HAT), since in original T50 this is a two position button - like the 'pinky' button in VPC T50, not exist in original.

Edited February 23, 2018 by Sokol1_br

[dburne]

See the changes, probable for reflect a more recently prototype of T50/Su-55 grip (the final shape of this grip RL seems not defined).PAK 50 - T50 CM - T50 "vanilla"

 

BTW - The knurled in the HAT bellow trim(POV) hat is for "gameplay" convenience (4 way HAT), since in original T50 this is a two position button - like the 'pinky' button in VPC T50, not exist in original.

 

Thanks for the info!

[Cyph3r]

Designed initially with atmospheric flight sims in mind, the VPC MongoosT-50 cams exhibited an increasing non-linear tension towards the outer edges of the sticks deflection. This behaviour allows for greater control of of the aircraft as you can feel when you are coming up to 100% deflection easily, granting the pilot the ability to fly right on the limits based on muscle memory alone.

 

The VPC MongoosT-50 Flightstick has also become popular with many space-sim pilots as well - pilots that prefer different control nuances for absolute accuracy. As standard atmospheric flight physics do not apply in space, we've been requested to create a new set of cams to account for this.

 

VPC are very pleased to announce, that in our continued efforts to supply the community with what they really want, we have successfully designed a new set of CosmoSim cams for the VPC MongoosT-50 Flightstick!

 

 

These results were created with the VPC MongoosT-50 Flightstick, 125mm (50mm + 75mm) extensions with the medium springs, and pre-tensioners loaded 1/2 of max. Different extensions and springs will change the total force required of each cam, but the response curves should remain relatively consistent.

 

Our new CosmoSim cams exhibit less of a center detent than both the 1-Dot (40% less) and 2-Dot (25% less) cams and the force required at the outer edges of deflection is also significantly less than both the 2-Dot (40% less) and 3-Dot (55% less) cams.

 

The force required at max deflection is slightly increased over the 1-Dot cams (12.5% higher) to aid in the overall centering and performance of the cam due to the lack of a center detent.

 

These cams will be available for purchase from our http://www.virpil.by webstore!

Edited February 23, 2018 by Cyph3r

[Laro]

Are you going to offer the new cams on your amazon shop too?

[Cyph3r]

Are you going to offer the new cams on your amazon shop too?

 

Yes!