Saitek outs three pro-level flight sim controls

Gaming peripherals maker Saitek, owned by Mad Catz, has introduced three new add-ons to make PC flight simulator game experiences a lot more realistic. The controllers include the Throttle/Prop/Mixture axis TPM control panel, Backlit Information Panel (BIP, and the Combat Rudder Pedals. The pedals are made of alloy and plastic for durability, and center on a self-centering rudder axis that works with an adjustable dampener. The pedal angle is also adjustable.

The BIP is compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Flight Simulator 2004 and has 24 segments, each of which can be backlit in one of three – red, orange or green -- user-selectable colors. There are more than 70 command tiles on the panel, and text remains invisible when they are not lit.

The TPM can be used with most major flight simulator games, and is a copy of the controls found in Cessna, Piper and Money Bravo aircraft. The unit clamps onto desk edges, and has three durable aluminum rods for adjusting throttle, pitch and fuel mixture levels in the game. There are also nine fully programmable toggle switches for controlling specific functions in virtual flight.

All connect to Windows 7, Vista or XP PCs using USB 2.0 connections. The pedals cost $200, and each of the panels costs $150. When they ship remains unknown, but is likely to be soon.

Combat Rudder Pedals

TPM

BIP

By Electronista Staff