A-10A Lesson 1 Oh boy, this is gonna take time. And I've got some questions.

[Toasting Aces]

Hello Fly mates: It the new kid on the block here! Gosh, I am so confused, excited, frustrated and generally full of questions.

 

I've been viewing lesson 1 for the A-10A Warthog. Now they're talking about something called the ADI Yellow Localizer and Glideslope Bars. (See, I learning something!) Okay, but the explanation about this instrument is not clear. And, it seems the other stuff talked about earlier is--well--backwards in meaning. That is: if a vertical bar (I think that's what the instructor said.) is to the left then your aircraft is too far right. (Who would ever guess!) Okay, so I understand what the instructor is saying, but I don't see it all yet happening.

 

Okay, so what does this eager student pilot do? I figure since I've listened to this lesson a few times now, let me try a mission. (Hey, you never know!) So, after waiting a bit for my computer to bring me to the mission screen, then another wait for the mission to start, I'm ready to see if I can start the engines. Guys, I can't make this up! There's no sound of the engines starting. And, "Yes," I did press R Alt + Home for the left engine and R Ctrl + Home for the right engine. But do I hear anything? Nope.

 

Oh yeah, and what do I see on my screen. Well, fellas, it wasn't a picture of Marilyn Monroe (Seriously, I have good taste. What can I say?) No, I see a mish mash of a screen. Parts of it were the cockpit of the A-10A Warthog and instrument panel, but around the cockpit were unrecognizable lines, etc.

 

And, and, I even closed the canopy. Yup! I pretty sure I did that, but it's kind of hard to tell cause there's no sound and the visual is not too convincing that that's what I did.

 

I even tried to hold down the W key and press the "+" key just to see if I can move my aircraft.

 

Look, you may be wondering why all I attempted to do was just start my engines and move the plane. Because I wanted to see if I can apply myself even partially in a mission. I would've been happy to see and hear that I started my aircraft engines, closed the canopy, and moved the aircraft a few simple yards forward. Then I would've quit the mission before completing all the tasks. I don't know, but it would've been good for my sense of progress.

 

One more question, on this forum, how can I look up my prior posts if I don't see them listed where I think they should be?

 

Well, my session is over for today. Cya all soon! My goodness this is gonna take time, but I'm gonna fly--you'll see! Good day.

Edited October 9, 2010 by 159th_Viper
Size matters.....

[herig2]

Please tone down the font.

Please tell us what your computer specifications are.

[Toasting Aces]

herig2

 

Well, I don't know if this is what you want, but I gonna give it a try:

I'm using a hp notebook computer with the model number: hp Pavilion dv5237cl.

 

I'm not sure what you want to know exactly. But knowing the model number of my notebook computer should lead you to a specifications site containing all relevant info you may want to know.

 

Hey, by the way, that's a pretty cool jet picture in your response.

[PeterP]

You miss in two categories the minimum hardware requirements (marked red):

 

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=de&lc=de&dlc=de&docname=c00691279

Your System:

Product Namedv5237cl US Product NumberEZ406UA#ABA

Microprocessor1.83 GHz Intel® Centrino® Duo mobile technology featuring Intel® Core™ Duo processor T2400

Microprocessor Cache2MB L2 Cache

Memory2048MB 667MHz DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm)

Memory Max2048MB

Video GraphicsIntel Graphics Media Accelerator 950

Video Memory128MB (shared)

Hard Drive120GB (5400RPM) SATA Hard Drive

Multimedia DriveSuper Multi 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support

Display15.4” WXGA High-Definition BrightView Widescreen (1280 x 800) Display

 

 

This explains why you have graphical anomalies.

 

 

Minimal system requirements: OS: Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7; CPU: Pentium 4 3 GHz; RAM: 2 GB; Graphics: 512 MB ATI or nVidia, DirectX 9 compatible; Sound card; 6 GB of free space on HDD; Copy protected, requires internet activation.

[Toasting Aces]

PeterP

 

Thank you for your evaluation of my situation. You say: "You miss in two categories...", however, I am not sure which two categories you are referring. Your marking "the minimum hardware requirements (marked red)" shows me what the minimums are; however, I don't see where my system is falling short. In addition, most of the specs I have a vague idea about, but some I'm not familiar such as: Graphics: 512 MB ATI or nVidia, DirectX 9 compatible; Sound card; 6 GB of free space on HDD; Copy protected, requires internet activation. Some of this stuff is over my head, but I'm learning.

 

I need to know what to do about my situation. What do I need to check or do?

 

Another thing, many times when I go to the program and try to either launch a training or do something like try a mission, Microsoft sends me a message saying the program is not being responsive and needs to close. Now, as per my understanding, once the program has been installed on my computer, I do not need to replace the disc back into my drive in order to work the program. Because the program has all ready been completely installed one time onto my computer. So, I'm still somewhat confused here too. I do believe my thinking is correct. But, for some reason, I need to pose this as a question in need of confirmation.

[nomdeplume]

The part he marked in red were your system specs, as taken from the information on HP's website about the system model number you provided. So, your system apparently has an integrated Intel videocard with 128MB memory, which is far below the minimum required for the game. Intel's graphics cards aren't great at 3D, which probably explains what you're describing. Also, your CPU is quite a bit slower than the recommended spec.

 

Unfortunately I don't think you'll be able to do anything to dramatically improve the situation. External video cards will almost certainly be too slow (in terms of communication with the rest of the system) to give you any benefit. At least, that's the impression I get from a quick look around.

 

if a vertical bar (I think that's what the instructor said.) is to the left then your aircraft is too far right. (Who would ever guess!)

Most of these provide steering cues, i.e. if the bar is to the left then you need to turn to the left. Put like that, it's pretty intuitive.

One more question, on this forum, how can I look up my prior posts if I don't see them listed where I think they should be?

If you click the User CP link at the top of the page, you'll be taken to a page where can find all sorts of things. The default page shows new messages in any threads you've subscribed to, which is the easiest way to catch up on threads you've been participating in. For this to work you'll want to make sure the system subscribes you automatically to every thread you post in. I think this is the default, but to check, select the "Edit Options" link under Settings and Options on your User CP page, find the "Default thread subscription mode", and make sure it's set to either "No email notification" or one of the Email options (if you'd like to receive an email).

 

You can also find all posts you've made (or anyone has made) by clicking on a username. You can do this in any thread, or for yourself, by clicking on your username in the top right corner where it says "Welcome". From the user page, click on the Statistics tab, and then there's a link to "Find all posts by ..." which will give you a list of all the posts that user has made.

[Toasting Aces]

nomdeplume:

 

Okay, I think I'm starting to understand what is wrong here.

 

You say: "Unfortunately I don't think you'll be able to do anything to dramatically improve the situation." Well, by the looks of things, I think I'm gonna be on the ground for quite sometime.

 

However, I will be considering my situation. I've got a feeling I may need to upgrade my entire computer system in order to engage this program Darn, I was hoping this would not be the case. But I can see now to some degree why I've been getting certain results.

 

I need to understand, however, what are the actual requirements for the LOFC2 program? In an attempt to answer my own question, I am reading from the back of the program casing cover. It says in very very fine print:

Minimum System Requirements:

Windows XP (which I've got), Vista (I don't got), 7 (I'm thinking of upgrading too);

CPU P4.2 GHz (which I only seem to have: Microprocessor1.83 GHz Intel® Centrino® Duo mobile technology featuring Intel® Core™ Duo processor T2400) which according to PeterP is what I've got. Seems I'm missing 2.37 GHz. I hope that's right. And, if it is then I now understand why you all are saying my system is way too slow for this program. Oh Sasperella! That's not good.

Ram 2 GB (which I do believe I have more than enough Ram) since I think I've got Memory2048MB 667MHz DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm). If I'm correct then I've got 48MB more than I need.

Video 256 MB Ram, compatible with DirectX9 (which I have:

Video GraphicsIntel Graphics Media Accelerator 950

Video Memory128MB (shared)) This seems a bit short too by 128 MB Ram.

And w/n it is compatible with DirectX9, well I don't know. But I do see now how it can be short on Video Memory. And mine is shared, so that might not be too good either.

6 GB HDD space (which I think is related to my computer's Hard Disk.) And I've got: Hard Drive120GB (5400RPM) SATA Hard Drive.

That seems like more than enough HDD space. (Sorry about the bold type. But my computer seems to be stuck in Bold. I can't seem to turn it off.)

Sound card. DVD ROM. Keyboard. Mouse. All of which I've got.

 

Well, this has certainly been a learning experience. I'm disappointed!

But I feel I've met some really great new friends who've tried to be helpful, which I appreciate.

 

I wonder if there's a way to improve my system without having to purchase a new computer. I am not ready at this time to make that kind of a purchase. And, sadly, I may just decide to return this hopefully wonderful program. But, if I do that then I'm still gonna keep my Login Name for this forum. Maybe I'll just keep looking around for now. I'm not sure what I'll be doing. Gee, I sure wish I understood what to look for before I purchased this program in the first place.

 

This program seems so exciting and fun to play around with while learning stuff about aviation. Well, I've got some thinking to do right now.

 

Over and out for now!

 

 

[Toasting Aces]

Please confirm my realizations in my last post.

 

To all my flight instructors:

 

There are certain things I said in my last post on this thread which I was looking for confirmation of my current understanding of my situation.

 

Anyway, I am considering plans to put together a new computer rig for myself. Aye, I've got some pilot friends up there in the skys that need me. So they are just gonna have to hold their own for a while. I know they've got what it takes. For some reason, I've been convinced that I can place my confidence in their abilities. But I know they need me too. So, even though this process is gonna take a while for me, I'll be rooting for them in the meantime.

 

Stay tuned. I'll be checking in periodically. And probably asking some pertinent questions when necessary.

 

Until then: Beware of the Red Baron. I hear he's hell bent on destroying the good forces. So heads up gentleman. In case, If there's a few female pilots up there in cyberspace then wonderful. We can dance on the clouds, ride the winds, and get the bad guys out of the skies.

 

Bye for now, but I'll be looking back periodically.

TA

 

 

[nomdeplume]

Hi TA, sorry I missed your reply; the forums have a habit of forgetting new messages in threads. However, your synopsis of the situation is pretty much correct. Unfortunately laptops are very difficult to upgrade, especially in terms of videocards which is your main issue. The game really needs a dedicated 3D graphics accelerator, which the built-in Intel video adapter your notebook uses isn't.

 

Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

[Toasting Aces]

Sunday 6 Feb 11 Superbowl XLV

 

Today is Superbowl XLV Sunday. I just have to say hello to me friends in the cyber blue skies. Now, I'm not 100% sure, but I predict the Green Bay Packers are gonna teach the Pittsburgh Steelers a lesson in football. Now, don't kid yourself, the Steelers are a strong team, but they did luck out in the first quarter against the N.Y. Jets. If they didn't make two downs on errors then the Jets would've won that playoff game. So, just to get even for the Jets, I hope that the Green Bay Packers show them Steelers a thing or two.

 

Wait to you cyber pilots see the advertisements. At 3 million for a 30 second ad spot, these commercials are gonna rock baby! I've seen a sneak peak at a couple and ... well, I ain't gonna spoil your excitement.

 

Since they're playin' at Cowboy's stadium, in Dallas, TX, maybe if we're lucky we'll get to see the Dallas Cowboy's Cheerleaders. Men: I'll do a flyby anytime those cheerleaders ask me to do so!

 

I haven't forgotten you pilots up there in cyberspace. I've been taking care of too many things to get back to this project right now. But I'll be doing something about my situation sometime down the line in the future.

 

Enjoy the game and the ads folks!

 

TA "Over and Out!"

[Toasting Aces]

Yeah Baby! Green Bay Packers Win--Superbowl XLV.

Now the Packers are rightfully World Champions.

My kind of guys. Congratulations!

 

However, the Steelers did play a great game today.

 

Packers 31 v. Steelers 25

Go Packers! Go Packers! Go Packers!

Steelers are now Toast!

 

TA "Over and Out!"

Edited February 7, 2011 by Toasting Aces

[aaron886]

:sleep:

[Toasting Aces]

Hi all: Just wanted to wish everyone a good spring 2011.

[Toasting Aces]

To Nomdeplume:

 

It's been a while since our last communication. You may want to review your last post from: 10-16-10 05:29 PM.

 

I am currently considering (time permitting, whenever I can find the time) building my own computer rig.

 

I am concerned about how I will make my component purchases. Needless to say, without the help of a major computer center's sales people, understanding the numbers and letters used to describe the various computer components would be a real challenge. However, I am getting a little bit of a better understanding on things. I gues this just takes time to acquire a better understanding. I am still in the process of taking some time to learn more about things.

 

My current concern is where I will make the various purchases necessary to put a new computer system together.

 

When all the components of the computer system are purchased from a major computer center, they offer a build your own extended service plan (ESP), even when items are purchased two or more components at a time. Now, the purchase of their ESP adds an additional one or two years to the manufacturers usual one year warranty. This has the advantage of making the coverage of the computer parts last for two or three years from the date of purchase. That can be a good thing. But, I wonder how really valuable it is to spend the extra bucks ($100 - $250) for this coverage. I mean if the part is covered for the usual one year and it works fine then why would it go bad after that first year? Of course, you never can tell, but if it works well for the first year then it should continue to last longer, don't you agree? And when it goes bad, you just replace it, which can cost you the same as the ESP anyway.

 

Furthermore, with the ESP the purchaser can call in for tech support on various concerns. This also, as you probably all ready know, can prove to be helpful when needed. Without the ESP this can be a loss of good supportive services from the tech people.

 

Without the ESP, I will be purchasing the computer components from either the manufacturers themselves or a known vendor like Amazon or Ebay.

 

The problem is: if I purchase from the independent manufacturer or vendor then I lose out on the ESP benefits offered by the major computer center.

 

So, I am asking what you think of this situation. How will you advise?

 

Thanks for your assistance. Have a nice day.

[galagamo]

Hello

After reading some of your posts, I get the impression that you are bereft of even basic computer hardware knowledge. I would strongly advise before you purchase even one component to read up and understand what you need, if your building your own rig that is. A simple google search will provide a wealth of information general, relative, and opinionated information. you only need to digest it.

[Toasting Aces]

Hello

After reading some of your posts, I get the impression that you are bereft of even basic computer hardware knowledge.

 

No, no, no...I do indeed have a good grasp of what's in a computer. Oh, I may not know about everything, but I do know about the basic components. The point I was trying to make is that when, for example, I am looking at MOBO's there are many to choose from. The manufactures use product codes that include letters and numbers, which can be confusing to determine which one is better. The same is true, continuing my example, with GPU's. So, when you look at various component choices it can be a challenge figuring out which manufactures product is better.

 

I would strongly advise before you purchase even one component to read up and understand what you need, if your building your own rig that is. A simple google search will provide a wealth of information general, relative, and opinionated information. you only need to digest it.

 

Yes, I agree. I am making time periodically to learn about things. The suggestion to use Google is a good one.

 

I also see you've posted the components of a computer rig which you recommend. Those components may prove to be a good guide. But I am still considering things. Thank you.

[Toasting Aces]

galagamo:

 

If you or anyone else can address my questions more directly in post #14 then I'd appreciate it. For your review, I repeat the questions here:

 

My current concern is where I will make the various purchases necessary to put a new computer system together.

 

The problem is: if I purchase from the independent manufacturer or vendor then I lose out on the ESP benefits offered by the major computer center.

 

Please advise, and have a great day.

[galagamo]

No, no, no...I do indeed have a good grasp of what's in a computer. Oh, I may not know about everything, but I do know about the basic components.

 

 

 

My bad

 

 

galagamo:

 

If you or anyone else can address my questions more directly in post #14 then I'd appreciate it. For your review, I repeat the questions here:

 

My current concern is where I will make the various purchases necessary to put a new computer system together.

 

The problem is: if I purchase from the independent manufacturer or vendor then I lose out on the ESP benefits offered by the major computer center.

 

Please advise, and have a great day.

IDK man, I got all my gear from Newegg.

Edited October 22, 2011 by galagamo

[Toasting Aces]

Here's an example of what I'm talking about concerning letters and numbers to id ...

 

Here's an example of what I'm talking about when you look at various computer components. I'm currently reading about adding more ram. The author is referencing LGA1156 and LGA775. I do a search and find out these letters and numbers are referencing mobo's. Okay. So, I continue my search. I find many links to such items. So, I open one just to have a look around. You know to learn something about this item.

Of the many items available, I choose to look at: Intel Desktop Board DH55HC - motherboard - ATX - LGA1156 Socket - H55 - LGA1156 Socket. Now, I coulda looked at any other link, but I chose this one because the $88 dollar choice looked like a middle of the road type of choice. Now, I open the link.

What do I discover? First of all, this LGA1156 is a socket on the MOBO. Then I look at the description and it says: "The Intel Desktop Board DH55HC is an Intel H55 Express Chipset-based desktop product in full ATX form factor." Look, I'm being a bit funny now, but some of this stuff is just way over my head. I get that it is a motherboard for a desktop. That's not where I get lost. However, what does DH55HC mean? And let's just say I accept that Intel H55 Express Chipset sounds like I'm getting some kind of "computer exotic car" in a chipset. (Please have a good laugh!) However, wha the heck does it mean when they say: "...in full ATX form factor"?

This is what I'm talking about in my previous posts. It seems like I've got to do an awful lot of reading and studying to real know what he heck they are talking about.:book:

Have a great day. Believe me I'm trying to learn what I can about things.

[Scarecrow]

A full size ATX board is what you want, there is also micro-ATX but the smaller boards have less slots for pci cards and less features. First thing when building a pc is decide what CPU you are gonna get then you get the motherboard for that type of CPU then the RAM for that CPU. After that you can mix and match video card, sound card to your personal preference.