STECS Standard - First Impressions

[virgo47]

6 minutes ago, KoN said:

Question can we use the throttle wheels x 2 on the left throttle as AXIS . They trigger as buttons .

Yes, check this video:

There are other video tutorials on this topic, just search "VKB encoder axis", but I have my reservations to this:

• When switched to axis, there are significant steps (each step of the encoder ~15° of rotation) - if you make these steps smaller then it requires tons of turning. So no fine/precise axis, good only for axes where precision is not important - or speed for that matter.
• You'll lose the button functions unless you duplicate the encoder button first and then create axis from the duplicated buttons - but this is very laggy.

That said, in the end I use it as axes, because I didn't find anything useful for encoders - unlike the encoders on the base/STEM, for which I found good usage (e.g. radio channels, waypoint switching, etc.).

[KoN]

13 hours ago, virgo47 said:

Yes, check this video:

There are other video tutorials on this topic, just search "VKB encoder axis", but I have my reservations to this:

• When switched to axis, there are significant steps (each step of the encoder ~15° of rotation) - if you make these steps smaller then it requires tons of turning. So no fine/precise axis, good only for axes where precision is not important - or speed for that matter.
• You'll lose the button functions unless you duplicate the encoder button first and then create axis from the duplicated buttons - but this is very laggy.

That said, in the end I use it as axes, because I didn't find anything useful for encoders - unlike the encoders on the base/STEM, for which I found good usage (e.g. radio channels, waypoint switching, etc.).

I'm going to have dive deeper into this , i followed this video on the STEM rotation knobs . ill test more . I know we can use the two wheels as radar elevation and range . Which comes in handy . thx more testing

[Raisuli]

On 3/27/2024 at 2:05 AM, KoN said:

Got mine on Monday very quick delivery. Amazing hardware the software is a bit over whelming, but some good videos on YouTube. 

Question can we use the throttle wheels x 2 on the left throttle as AXIS . They trigger as buttons . 

Any ideas.

We can have upto 8 axis  I think in the  software.

Thanks . 

 

You can convert the encoders to axis.  There's a couple tutorials for it, don't use Enigma's 

[Dawgboy]

Greetings.  I went for the STECS Mini Plus with two accessories: 1) detent frames and 2) additional button modules, which I upgraded from the Saitek X-65F throttle, without their Force Sensing stick. My flight stick is the TM Warthog.  

I'm very satisfied with the VKB STECS and find the engineering to be sound...they've thought through the design, production, ergonomics, and overall modular integration.  While the software is a bit overwhelming, the VKB support on their Discord channel is great.  This hardware/software provides excellent value, given the cost.  The flexibility afforded by the programmable modules is outstanding.  I converted the left-hand throttle rotaries (under the left pinky and ring finger) to axes versus DX inputs...better precision.  I also replaced the single PTT comms button under the left thumb to a two-way comms button for UHF/VHF.  

I currently find only the angle/placement of the right throttle thumb rotary to be ergonomically hard to reach...seems I have to go out of my way to find it.

Here is how I'm configured currently.  Black labels are legit callbacks/keybinds, and the red labels are simulation-related inputs.  My button #24 is a simple PTT, and the artwork shows a 4-way/depress.  I also didn't use any of the base's buttons or rotaries since they have meaning to the VKB configuration, depending on the combos selected.  I used the 4-way/depress for button #23.

Hope this helps

Edited July 27, 2024 by Dawgboy
Spell out FS acronym

[AlpineGTA]

1 hour ago, Dawgboy said:

Greetings.  I went for the STECS Mini Plus with two accessories: 1) detent frames and 2) additional button modules, which I upgraded from the Saitek X-65F throttle, without their FS stick. My flight stick is the TM Warthog.  

I'm very satisfied with the VKB STECS and find the engineering to be sound...they've thought through the design, production, ergonomics, and overall modular integration.  While the software is a bit overwhelming, the VKB support on their Discord channel is great.  This hardware/software provides excellent value, given the cost.  The flexibility afforded by the programmable modules is outstanding.  I converted the left-hand throttle rotaries (under the left pinky and ring finger) to axes versus DX inputs...better precision.  I also replaced the single PTT comms button under the left thumb to a two-way comms button for UHF/VHF.  

I currently find only the angle/placement of the right throttle thumb rotary to be ergonomically hard to reach...seems I have to go out of my way to find it.

Here is how I'm configured currently.  Black labels are legit callbacks/keybinds, and the red labels are simulation-related inputs.  My button #24 is a simple PTT, and the artwork shows a 4-way/depress.  I also didn't use any of the base's buttons or rotaries since they have meaning to the VKB configuration, depending on the combos selected.  I used the 4-way/depress for button #23.

Hope this helps

 

Interesting to hear that the rotaries are more precise as axis, I might try it. Btw, I have the two buttons and the mode selector knob on the base bound in DCS, it doesn't cause any problems.

[Dawgboy]

11 hours ago, AlpineGTA said:

Interesting to hear that the rotaries are more precise as axis, I might try it. Btw, I have the two buttons and the mode selector knob on the base bound in DCS, it doesn't cause any problems.

If you convert the rotaries, I used the x256 setting, but that, too, is very configurable.  

[virgo47]

I posted the first two parts of my review trilogy previously, and finally, I got to the last one. This one focuses on detents and various configuration customizations, including quite extensive examples in VKB DevCfg. Let's call it "first impressions after 7 months" in the context of this thread.

 

 

[Aviators]

What is it like in terms of ergonomics? I personally haven't had a chance to try it out, but from the videos, it looks more comfortable than the thrustmaster warthog. 

[virgo47]

On 4/27/2024 at 6:47 PM, Aviators said:

What is it like in terms of ergonomics? I personally haven't had a chance to try it out, but from the videos, it looks more comfortable than the thrustmaster warthog. 

Ergonomics is a lot of things. What this throttle does - it does well. I like it under my hand. Everything is easily within reach.

But there are some drawbacks - which I'm sure every throttle has - just different ones:

• Encoders on the left grip are great, but configured as axes they are not adequate substitutes for real axes. Especially the encoder under the ring finger is difficult to operate, some axes (perhaps self-centering?) would work better there.
• The thumbwheel is precise, but the placement and spiky finish is not the best... rubberized wheel (like on the grip encoders) would be much better.
• There is no substitute for any rudder axis if you're upgrading from a throttle where you had one.
• And OTS on the thumb is a thing to consider. I have no problem with the thumb position now, but a better hat/dish would help with the control. Feeling and action (including the press action) could also be better, but I guess these are in the price range (I can't compare).

These are all ergonomics things as well...

That said, it's a solid product. And what it does, it does really comfortably.

[Aviators]

Thanks! 

[Aviators]

Il 28/4/2024 at 19:19, virgo47 ha scritto:

These are all ergonomics things as well...

it looks more comfortable the thrustmaster warthog ?

[virgo47]

1 hour ago, Aviators said:

it looks more comfortable the thrustmaster warthog ?

I can only assume that TM Warthog, being a replica, is also ergonomic - but focused on A-10C. Can you use it for other planes? Sure. Does it have so many buttons as STECS grips? No.

I'd say that the main killer feature of this throttle is configurable detents. Nice things are easily adjustable throttle tension (can be done any time you want quickly) and module customization (although you will only do that once). VKB does not seem to like normal switches (there is just one toggle metal switch) and prefers buttons - this shows on the STEM base module.

STECS is a universal throttle with unique configurable detents, TDC on the thumb (has its pros and cons, for many mostly cons), many, many buttons/hats/actions, less metal than the competition. It performs great. It's not perfect. Probably none throttle suits all the needs of every person and every plane.

Yes, STECS is comfortable. Very comfortable. Even the seemingly overcrowded front of the throttle is easy to use.

[DonRumsey]

I have the STECS standard throttle, and for some reason (recently) when I target designate, the FLIR POD is not slewing on target.  Any ideas on this dilemma?  I've checked the TDC depress button and it activates in the set-up menu.  I'm stumped.

Thanks!

 

-Don

[okopanja]

3 minutes ago, DonRumsey said:

I have the STECS standard throttle, and for some reason (recently) when I target designate, the FLIR POD is not slewing on target.  Any ideas on this dilemma?  I've checked the TDC depress button and it activates in the set-up menu.  I'm stumped.

Thanks!

 

-Don

You need to provide more context.

I personally had issues with involuntary TDC movement until I set axis to be less sensitive near center, thus allowing more precision and less jitter when pressing TDC.

[FupDuck]

On 4/3/2024 at 5:46 PM, Dawgboy said:

Greetings.  I went for the STECS Mini Plus with two accessories: 1) detent frames and 2) additional button modules, which I upgraded from the Saitek X-65F throttle, without their FS stick. My flight stick is the TM Warthog.  

I'm very satisfied with the VKB STECS and find the engineering to be sound...they've thought through the design, production, ergonomics, and overall modular integration.  While the software is a bit overwhelming, the VKB support on their Discord channel is great.  This hardware/software provides excellent value, given the cost.  The flexibility afforded by the programmable modules is outstanding.  I converted the left-hand throttle rotaries (under the left pinky and ring finger) to axes versus DX inputs...better precision.  I also replaced the single PTT comms button under the left thumb to a two-way comms button for UHF/VHF.  

I currently find only the angle/placement of the right throttle thumb rotary to be ergonomically hard to reach...seems I have to go out of my way to find it.

Here is how I'm configured currently.  Black labels are legit callbacks/keybinds, and the red labels are simulation-related inputs.  My button #24 is a simple PTT, and the artwork shows a 4-way/depress.  I also didn't use any of the base's buttons or rotaries since they have meaning to the VKB configuration, depending on the combos selected.  I used the 4-way/depress for button #23.

Hope this helps

 

Hey this config is great! Any chance you would be willing to share it as a DCS config? Thanks for taking the time to make this drawing!

[Dawgboy]

On 7/10/2024 at 3:43 PM, FupDuck said:

Hey this config is great! Any chance you would be willing to share it as a DCS config? Thanks for taking the time to make this drawing!

Sure.  I've updated it a bit, both the drawing and the config.  I'll share shortly.  Sorry...just saw your message.

[Dawgboy]

On 7/10/2024 at 3:43 PM, FupDuck said:

Hey this config is great! Any chance you would be willing to share it as a DCS config? Thanks for taking the time to make this drawing!

Here you go.  New pic coming, size permitting.

VKBSTECSthrottle.diff.lua

On 4/3/2024 at 2:46 PM, Dawgboy said:

Greetings.  I went for the STECS Mini Plus with two accessories: 1) detent frames and 2) additional button modules, which I upgraded from the Saitek X-65F throttle, without their FS stick. My flight stick is the TM Warthog.  

I'm very satisfied with the VKB STECS and find the engineering to be sound...they've thought through the design, production, ergonomics, and overall modular integration.  While the software is a bit overwhelming, the VKB support on their Discord channel is great.  This hardware/software provides excellent value, given the cost.  The flexibility afforded by the programmable modules is outstanding.  I converted the left-hand throttle rotaries (under the left pinky and ring finger) to axes versus DX inputs...better precision.  I also replaced the single PTT comms button under the left thumb to a two-way comms button for UHF/VHF.  

I currently find only the angle/placement of the right throttle thumb rotary to be ergonomically hard to reach...seems I have to go out of my way to find it.

Here is how I'm configured currently.  Black labels are legit callbacks/keybinds, and the red labels are simulation-related inputs.  My button #24 is a simple PTT, and the artwork shows a 4-way/depress.  I also didn't use any of the base's buttons or rotaries since they have meaning to the VKB configuration, depending on the combos selected.  I used the 4-way/depress for button #23.

Hope this helps

 

Here's a slightly mod'd version, focuses on BMS, tho.

 

Edited July 13, 2024 by Dawgboy
add context

[Ron]

В 28.04.2024 в 20:19, virgo47 сказал:

• Encoders on the left grip are great, but configured as axes they are not adequate substitutes for real axes. Especially the encoder under the ring finger is difficult to operate, some axes (perhaps self-centering?) would work better there.
• The thumbwheel is precise, but the placement and spiky finish is not the best... rubberized wheel (like on the grip encoders) would be much better.
• There is no substitute for any rudder axis if you're upgrading from a throttle where you had one.

 

With a more in-depth encoder setup, you will get an axis that is no worse than an analog one.
You can build an analog of pedals from the two front buttons. Naturally, they will not replace full-fledged ones, but as they say - when there is no fish, even a crayfish is a fish.
@Dawgboy -try using the built-in settings viewer. There's a little bit about it here.

Edited July 27, 2024 by Ron

[virgo47]

3 hours ago, Ron said:

With a more in-depth encoder setup, you will get an axis that is no worse than an analog one.

I appreciate the positivity, but that is still an overstatement. When you have a crayfish, you still don't have a fish, just a substitute for it. It's a matter of perspective, for me it is a big upgrade from TWCS, but some things are gone. Not details really, quite useful things.

I've been using STECS for over 10 months now and I'm happy overall, kinda like a marrige. In good and bad, we're in this together.

[Jaccuru]

On 9/8/2023 at 8:11 AM, AlpineGTA said:

STECS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are you still using the STECS as your throttle? I'm currently looking at STECS or Orion 2 to replace my TWCS.

[virgo47]

2 hours ago, Jaccuru said:

Are you still using the STECS as your throttle? I'm currently looking at STECS or Orion 2 to replace my TWCS.

In my case, one year later, I'm still using STECS daily. I don't see any quality problems yet. Of course, sometimes I miss something (e.g. the Standard base has way too many buttons and very few actual switches), but whatever this throttle does, it seems to do it well. I enjoy the easily accessible tension screws and swappable detents, both I use quite a lot.

All the reservations still apply, of course - the throttle is top-heavy towards the max position, I'd welcome more axes on the grip, etc. As I don't have any other throttle except for my broken TWCS, I use STECS only and until it breaks, I'll stick to it. What then? I have no idea. Hopefully, they will give us better STECS, better defined 5-way hats, etc. Otherwise, I may try another product, just to see the difference.

[AlpineGTA]

On 9/17/2024 at 2:20 PM, Jaccuru said:

Are you still using the STECS as your throttle? I'm currently looking at STECS or Orion 2 to replace my TWCS.

Yes, I'm still very much enjoying using my STECS and still using the detents for different aircraft.

I replaced a TWCS with an Orion 2, but then I replaced the Orion 2 with the STECS. The Orion 2 is a very good throttle, sometimes it's nice to have the metal toggle switches for things, but on balance I prefer my STECS. I think it's more versatile if you fly lots of different aircraft.

I've actually changed my setup since the earlier posts. I should upload a new picture.

Edited September 30, 2024 by AlpineGTA
Added pic.