FS Add Ons

FS ADD-ONS

Keep it Simple Stupid (KISS)

KISS is military term often used in an attempt to keep things simple. The abbreviation means "Keep It Simple Stupid". When a system becomes multi-faceted with different tiers of software and complexity, it becomes complicated. This can often lead to errors, problems and frustration. It's important to keep your simulator relatively clear from unnecessary complication, unless you enjoy troubleshooting or chasing 'software ghosts'.

Used in conjunction with KISS is SNAFU (Situation Normal - All Fucked Up).

Many enthusiasts go 'overboard' with simulation add-on programs.

There are literally hundreds of programs on the market for Flight Simulator (it's an industry). Some products are very good and can be listed as a must have program, but others barely cut the tape and cause more problems than benefits. Selecting what is required can be a challenge.

I've learned through trial and error, with earlier incarnations of flight simulator that too many add-on programs can only cause software clashes, especially when operating a sophisticated aircraft such as the 737 in conjunction with high-end software such as Sim Avionics or ProSim-TS - not too mention OEM parts and numerous interface cards.

KISS, Tweaking, and the .cfg File

Keeping things simple is 'good advice' with FSX, Prepar3D and now MSFS2020. The potential for problems increases as you add more 'extras'.

Many simmers love to tweak the .cfg file. Whilst some tweaks do work and are required, others just cause problems.

I use a VERY minimally tweaked .cfg file. Furthermore, I try and use as few add-on programs as possible. This reflects my ethos of KISS.

I use P3d V4.5 and msfs-2020.

Software used with Prepar3D (as at June 2020)

Base Programs

Lockheed Martin (P3D) Version 4.5 (previously FSX)
ProSim-TS B738 Version 3.0 Avionics Suite (replaced B737 Version 2.0)
ProSim-TS B738 PBR 2020 flight model (dedicated flight model)
FSUIPC & Wide FS (Peter Dowson)

Scenery, Textures, AI Aircraft & Airports

ORBX FTX (several areas)
ORBX FTX Global
ORBX FTX Vector
ORBX FTX Open Landclass (several areas)
ORBX FTX Airports (several)
ORBX FTX AI Traffic (Australia & New Zealand)
ORBX FTX Global Trees (HD)
Ultimate Traffic Live (AI outside of Australia & New Zealand)
REX Overdrive with Softclouds - Clouds & Textures (not the weather engine)
Several favourite airports (from reliable developers)

Navigation, Flight Planning & Weather

Opus Flight Simulator Interface (FSI) Weather Engine
Navigraph FMC Flight Data & charts - READ REVIEW
Navigraph Desktop & Charts Database - READ REVIEW
TopCat Take Off Performance Landing & Calculation Tool - stand-alone program (under evaluation)
PFPS Flight Planning - stand-alone program (under evaluation)
FS-FlightControl Instructor Operating Station (IOS) - READ REVIEW

Other Programs (operate outside of P3d)