F-35 Version 2.21 - Feedback

Now that the F-35 version 2.21 is out, here is a post to collect feedback, observations, suggestions, etc. etc. to version 2.21. As you know my projects are being constantly upgraded...and sooner or later there will be an upgrade. So this is basically a memo for me... you are welcome to add your input in the comments. If you have a bug to report - please check if it is limited to a specific model (A/B/C) or it is a common one.

F-35 LIGHTNING II CHANGE REQUEST LIST

F-35B Fuel tanks are misaligned with respect to the pylons.
This is a modeling mistake - a minor one if you ask me...but these is one of those minor things that cannot be "unseen" once noticed...and it is one of those thing which are very annoying, IMHO.
So, in case it is a major problem for you and you cannot live with it, an MDL for the F-35B which fixes the issue can be downloaded by clicking HERE.
STATUS: Fixed in the updated MDL (download above)

All versions - TABS do not work in right half of the MFD when TSD is in full screen mode
Probably a coding issue... I'll check.
STATUS: Fixed in new MFD code (will be released in an update)

All versions - Autopilot GPS steering missing
It was left out by design decision - with many other features - in order to limit the complexity of the MFD code (which is pretty big for an FSX gauge as you can guess!). I'll consider to add it in the next update.
STATUS: Open.

All versions - Weapon loads do not work - only one AIM-9X shows
A very limited number of users is reporting this. This is (almost) definitely not an issue of my package - there is most probably an Add-on module with changes the weight stations. One user has reported that the source of this was the MilViz F-15E Loadout manager (F-15 was disinstalled by the loadout manager was still active and for some reason was setting all load station to zero except the first one). Sorry, this is not my fault and there is nothing I can do about it (also because I do not have the Milviz F-15E...maybe a good reason to buy it, looks good!).
STATUS: Confirmed that it is due to Milviz F-15 loadout manager... not a bug of the package. 

All versions - Add more weapons!
I'll evaluate the addition of other weapons carefully - they are a burden to the model...
STATUS: Under evaluation.
EDIT:Added AIM-120C to internal stations. No time to do more than that.

Tacpack integration?
Integration of the Tacpack functionalities is totally doable but takes time. And I do not have much of it. I am working for a very limited set of functions - guns, AIM-9X and AIM-120 visual launch, JDAM freefall drop. Probably not more than that... which is comparable to the current F-35 capabilities :-)!
STATUS: Under evaluation. Depending on F-14D integration and Tacpack schedule for the build that will support support third party aicraft usage (still unclear).
EDIT: Tested AIM-9X (visual launch only), AIM-120 (visual launch only), JDAMs (freefall drop). Status of weapons as follows.

Gun: firing test OK. TO-DO: need to provide better visual interface and possibly interaction with fire control radar. Also, for F-35A, need to implement switch of guns if gunpod is present.

AIM-9X: visual launch test OK - correct lock-on, uncage and shoot behavior confirmed. Splashes drones correctly. TO-DO: Implement HMDS interface
AIM-120C: visual launch test OK - correct lock-on after launch, uncage and shoot behavior confiremd. Spashes drones correctly. TO-DO: Implement HMDS interface.

JDAMs: free fall drop OK. TO-DO: Implement HMDS interface.

All versions - SMS not showing front view of GBU-32
Coding error found and fixed.
STATUS: Fixed in new MFD code (will be release in an update)

All versions - Enlarged TDS rotation point misaligned.
Fix relevant parameter in XML code.
STATUS: Closed. Fixed in new MFD code.

F-35A - Tail numbers inverted on right tail
STATUS: Fixed in unreleased texture sets.

F-35C - BuNos missing from production F-35Cs (CF-6 and CF-7)
STATUS: Closed. Added BuNos to the textures (in an unreleased texture set)

All versions - Request to change nominal weight of fuel tanks to an "empty" valueAgreeable because they do not contibute with actual fuel - which could then be added to the fuel section in the aircraft.cfg.
STATUS: Closed. Recompiled model with 381 (empty tank, assumed the same as FPU-11) + 350 (estimated pylon weight) = 731lbs as token weight.

All versions - No paintkit available!As you may be aware of, I am not used to work with layered PSD files. So a proper paintikit is not available at the moment. However, I will provide "blank" textures (i.e. without markings) which are probably an acceptable starting point.
These were previously part of the package, but were left out from version 2.20 onward to reduce file size.
Please note that, from version 2.20, there are minor changes in several aeras... so older textures should not be used.
STATUS: Open, will provide blank files as separate download.

Flight test nose probes - Request to add the probes installed on flight test aicrafts.
STATUS: Closed - added as weight dependant feature (will appear if pilot weight is above 200lbs)

F-35 Version 2.21 Release

Following the feedback from the limited release of version 2.20 of the F-35 project, the files have been furtherly updated to version 2.21.
The latest version can be dowloaded from Google Drive following the link on the side bar, or by clicking HERE. Also, since version 2.21 appears to work as intended, it will be soon released to Avsim and Flightsim.

Change log as follows:

Version 2.21 (following feedback 2.20 limited introduction)
June 11th 2013

• Fixed typo in the manual: correct AIM-9X total weight is 382lbs (not 392!)
• Fixed bug in F-35C 3D model (duplicated JDAM and slammer models)
• Minor tweaks to roll response and transonic acceleration (note:F-35C dynamics still tuned for carrier operations)
• Fine tuning of top speed
• Added Real world document F-35A Operations Procedures (unclassifed and unrestriced USAF document) for reference.
• Fixed minor mistakes in the new texture sets 

Version 2.20
June 9th 2013

• Completely redone Multi-Function Display code, implemented full portal and subportals mode, and revised top bar. Pilot Interface is now closer to the real one.
• MFD Pages redone/fixed: ENG; FUE; SMS; FCS; ICAWS; TSD-1 
• MFD Pages added and functional or partially functional: MENU; CKLIST; CNI; EFI; HUD; TWD; TSD-2; TSD-3
• MFD Pages added but INOP: ASR; DAS; DTM; FTA; FTI; PHM; SRCH; TFLIR; WPN-A; WPN-S.
• Revised and integrated avionics code to ease future improvements and additional functionalities.
• Implemented weight-dependent visual models for all visual models. Visual model now support AIM-9X, AIM-120, GBU-31, GBU-32, GBU-12, JSOWs, CBUs, Gun Pod and fuel tanks (proper values need to be entered by hand into the Fuel and Payload section, no configuration manager provided)
• Redone texturing of the main landing gear on all versions
• Redone texturing of the nose landing gear on -C version
• Redone texturing of wingfold mechanism on -C version
• Added spoilers to -C version
• Redone refuel probe texturing for -B and -C version
• Redone tailhook geometry and textures on the -C version
• Miscellaneous fixes to all Virtual cockpits and textures
• Miscellaneous fixes to the textures of all models
• Revised flight dynamics due to excessive loss of energy during turns.
• Removed MAP mode
• Added texture set: VFA-101 “Grim Reapers”, USN, Eglin AFB
• Added texture set: 422 Test and Evaluation Squadron, USAF, Nellis AFB

F-35 Version 2.20 limited introduction

NOTE: FOLLOWING THE FEEDBACK FROM THE LIMITED RELEASE, THE F-35 PROJECT HAS BEEN UPDATED TO VERSION 2.21 - SEE THE NEXT POST!
Finally I am uploading the much awaited (and time consuming!) F-35 upgrade to version 2.20. For the moment it will uploaded only to Google Drive - just to check if there are no catastrophic issues before uploading to the usual repositories.

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU UNISTALL AND/OR DELETE FILES FROM PREVIOUS VERSION BEFORE INSTALLING VERSION 2.20.

Version 2.20- June 9th 2013

• Completely redone Multi-Function Display code, implemented full portal and subportals mode, and revised top bar. Pilot Interface is now closer to the real one.
• MFD Pages redone/fixed: ENG; FUE; SMS; FCS; ICAWS; TSD-1 
• MFD Pages added and functional or partially functional: MENU; CKLIST; CNI; EFI; HUD; TWD; TSD-2; TSD-3
• MFD Pages added but INOP: ASR; DAS; DTM; FTA; FTI; PHM; SRCH; TFLIR; WPN-A; WPN-S.
• Revised and integrated avionics code to ease future improvements and additional functionalities.
• Implemented weight-dependent visual models for all visual models. Visual model now support AIM-9X, AIM-120, GBU-31, GBU-32, GBU-12, JSOWs, CBUs, Gun Pod and fuel tanks (proper values need to be entered by hand into the Fuel and Payload section, no configuration manager provided)
• Redone texturing of the main landing gear on all versions
• Redone texturing of the nose landing gear on -C version
• Redone texturing of wingfold mechanism on -C version
• Added spoilers to -C version
• Redone refuel probe texturing for -B and -C version
• Redone tailhook geometry and textures on the -C version
• Miscellaneous fixes to all Virtual cockpits and textures
• Miscellaneous fixes to the textures of all models
• Revised flight dynamics due to excessive loss of energy during turns.
• Removed MAP mode
• Added texture set: VFA-101 “Grim Reapers”, USN, Eglin AFB
• Added texture set: 422 Test and Evaluation Squadron, USAF, Nellis AFB

You can download the file from Google Drive by clicking HERE (NOTE: AMENDED TO VESION 2.21)

What do I do with your donations... and bonus screenshot!

(F-35 testing over Edwards... after all these years, sometimes FSX still surprises me)

First, I'd like to thank everybody who kindly donated money for my projects. My apologies for not having replied to each one of you - the fact is that the Paypal account is pointing to an old email account which has been receving tons of spam for years, and it is a web-based service that it has become full of ads and difficult to navigate - so I have almost abandoned it. Again, my apologies - each donation has been greatly appreciated.

It has been really helpful in several instances - and allowed me to do several things which greatly helped my Flight Simulator projects.

However, the fact is that I have a relatively secure job which is also relatively well paid - I don't have a wife and family nor a mortgage, so I can't say that I really do not have the money to support my projects. But they can get expensive, and, although I can't complain about my incomes, I still feel bad (for some reason) to invest hundreds (if not thousands!) of euros in what is basically a videogame. So, being able to spill some money from the Paypal account made some purchase decisions easier. It was thanks to your donations that I have been able to acquire the base mesh for the Tomcat and for the Viking - and it was a great help to achieve the current quality and progress of those projects. So a most sincere THANK YOU.

However, after the S-3 purchase, I do not foresee any imminent usage of the money in the Paypal account...so the money is sitting there basically giving interests to Paypal.
Therefore I have decided to start giving it away, at least partially, to selected charity and no-profit organizations. It is not a huge amount of money, but at least someone is getting a tangible value for the countless hours spent in having fun with my virtual toys.

Donations are still welcome - and I will continue using it also to fund my simulation projects if need be - I just wanted to let you guys know what I did with the money you have donated.

Avsim Reader's Choice Award (and project updates)!

The T-45C won the AVSIM PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD in the Freeware Aicraft category! Thanks to Avsim and thanks to all the people who voted for it, and thanks again to all the contributors, testers and user who helped to bring this project to the current quality level!

Here is a quick update to current projects:

T-45C Goshawk
I am quite happy with the current quality level of the T-45, and there are very few things I'd like to add or change. All changes have a very low priority, compared to my other projects. On my to do list:

• Addition of cockpit sounds
• Weight dependant models (and possibly droppable BDUs)
• New, custom built, MFD code - I've started creating some graphics - straight from the NATOPs..

F-14D Tomcat
There are a number of small changes coming in the F-14 update, most of which have been designed to support the Tacpack. The feature list is not complete yet, and wil partially depend on VRS schedule. Unfortunately full Tacpack integration is beyond my resources, so support will be limited (guns and visual SW for sure... everything else is "optional")... More news as the F-35 update is related.

F-35 Lightning II
As you probably know, I am rewriting the MFD code so that its interface and usage is MUCH closer to the real deal. It will be quite close to the Block 1 software - although many functions will be INOP.
The next update will also bring a number of other improvements - like weight dependant loadouts and several fixes to the models and the textures. I am confident this will be a significant improvement.
This update is almost done - most probably it will be out in a couple of weeks.

S-3B Viking
I am continuing to work on this, from time to time. Nose and tails are done... everything in between needs a lot of work. Do not expect anything before autumn. And by the way, should you have detailed, high res picture of the ejection seats would be much welcome.

That's it for the moment - all projects may be significantly slowed down due to the fact that summer is coming and I will spend most of my time at the beach....

Frequently Asked Questions

...Unrelated to the post, but I always add a picture...so here is the S-3 model so far. Hopefully it will be flyable in October/November or so. 

Browsing on the internet, and looking at the emails I get, I believe it is worth to write down an FAQ post which will hopefully cover some of the most recurrent questions. So, here we go:

Your aicrafts don't work and crash my computer! Why?

In 99% of the cases is because you are using an unsupported version of FSX. My projects require either FSX:Acceleration or FSX:Gold Edition (which is basically FSX SP2+Acceleration in the same box).
My projects will not work correctly or at all with out-of-the-box FSX, or with Service Pack 1 or 2.

Wait, but isn't SP2 the same as Acceleration minus the additional planes, sceneries and missions?

No, it is not the same. Acceleration has some additional, hardcoded features which may make Acceleration aicraft incompatible with other versions of FSX. Aside, some of my projects are aliasing assets from the stock F/A-18 Hornet in the Acceleration package.

I can see you planes in the game but the MFDs are not working...why?

Same as above - Acceleration (or Gold) versions of FSX should be correctly installed. Some of my projects are aliasing the MFD code from the stock Hornet in the Acceleration package. So, cases are two:

1) you do not have Acceleration package installed but the aicraft does not crash (I believe this is the case of the current T-45 version)...if it is so, FSX does not find the Hornet code so leaves the MFDs blank.

2) you are sure you have Acceleration installed, but still MFDs are blank. In this case you need to check the default Hornet MFDs. If they work, also the T-45C or F-14D ones should. If stock Hornet's MFDs do not work, you may need to reinstall/repair Accerelation which may be corrupt. I've seen several users with corrupt Acceleration installation (not caused by my planes) which lost MFD functionality.

This problem is anyway limited to the T-45C and F-14D, and should not affect the F-35 (and the S-3) as they do not rely on external code. This may change in future, as I may want to write new code for the T-45 and the F-14. Please note however that all the projects require Acceleration.

Can I use your planes in Lockheed Martin Prepar3d?

Answer is yes *BUT*... In terms of functions and functionalities Prepar3d expands on FSX:Acceleration. So my planes should load and be compatible. But Prepar3d does not include the stock F/A-18 Hornet, so the current F-14D and T-45C will show blank MFDs.
If you have a valid installation of FSX:A, you can fix this as follows:
- Navigate to your main FSX installation folder, and then in the Gauges subfolder.
- Locate the FA-18.dll file (which is the file that contains the Hornet MFD code) and copy it
- Paste a copy of that file in the Prepa3d/Gauges subfolder

Do not ask me to provide that file. This would break the EULA and I will not do that, sorry.
F-35 should work fine in Prepar3d - no action required.

Your F-35 is nice and everything... but it cannot make short takeoffs and landings! Should I buy a separate module or what?

The freeware installation of the F-35 is perfectly capable of making STOVL flights. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BUY ANYTHING. Please read the manual or look for tutorials on youtube! I know nobody does read the manual. I am an engineer, which means I don't. BUT the manual is there for a purpose: you can find it in the /docs folder of the F-35A installation folder. There are some conditions for the STOVL module to work and load, but if you do see the green message when you load the F-35, everything should be OK. If the message does not show, please read the manual.

Now: assuming the STOVL mode is correctly loaded (green message appears) here is some essential information which IS in the manual, but anyway...

- Only the F-35B (I believe the community nickname is converging to "Bee" for this version) is STOVL capable. It may sound obvious but it seems it is not, so make sure you have a -B version loaded. On the -B version, the HOOK/STOVL button activates the conversion.

- You must be below 240kts to activate the conversion. If the a/c is not able to convert because of its current attitude/speed or anthing, the conversion is rejected.

- On pressing the button the aicraft converts to "slow flight" mode: that is controls are the same of any other aicrafts. This mode is used for short take-offs, and for approaches prior to HOVER mode conversion. This is NOT the vertical landing / takeoff mode.

- When you are is "slow flight" mode, you can convert to HOVER mode only if your TOTAL weight is below 40600 lbs (like in the real deal). You may want to activate an FCS portal in the MFD - once you are in slow flight mode, you will see an "HOVER" indication. If it is RED you are too heavy, and you may want to DUMP fuel. When it turns CYAN, your weight is OK and you can convert by clicking the HOVER indication itself (NOTE this is not like the real thing - in the real thing you would click a button on the throttle).

- Control scheme in HOVER mode changes and is somewhat like an helicopter. See the manual for details.

Is there a good scenery for Eglin AFB? 

Not that I know of. There is a payware photoreal that covers the area, but it is not that good and not worth the money IMHO. I made my own with FSET, but I have never adjusted the runways nor placed much autogen. I am improving it from time to time, but I am not sure I will ever release it publicly.

Can you PLEASE do (insert name of your favourite aicraft here)?

Unfortunately I do not have much time for FSX and that will not change in future. So my bandwith is roughly 1 new aircraft every 8-10 months (best case) + upgrades to the existing fleet. Sorry...but I have a job and a social life.

Mini-review: Frank's Dolomites

I love my country (Italy, that is)! Surely it has its own share of problems, but it is a wondeful and incredibly diverse and culturally rich country.
Unfortunately for our hobby, the great variety of the landscape means that it is not easy to develop complete scenery for the whole country - let alone the ugly FSX default rendition that looks nothing like the real thing (colors, vegetation, buildings...everything is not only ugly, but completely wrong).
Several people tried to create very large sceneries to cover the whole country - but failed. On the other hand, few dedicated developers created wonderful sceneries for specific parts of Italy - which resulted in true masterpieces, like the freeware rendition of Isola d'Elba and Northern Tuscany, or the amazing rendition of Venice from Aerosoft.

In this scattered coverage, Frank Dainese's wonderful rendition of the Dolomites is an authentic masterpiece. Frank has been developing mountain sceneries for quite a while, and its sceneries are works of pure love for our mountains.
His sceneries are simply breathtaking: detailed, crisp and amazing. With an almost unique feature: 3D modeled mountains. That is, instead of relying on FSX's terrain engine, most of the mountains are sculpted in 3D and then textured with high-resolution pictures straight from Frank's camera. The result is incredibly realistic and the washed-out effect of the default engine at high slope angles (where the engine must stretch the photo-texture) is gone!
Also, its sceneries are completely covered with Autogen buildings and trees (both accurately placed down to the individual building) and there are lots of custom building.
The current scenery covers the airport of Bolzano (which is however on a corner of the scenery), the airstrip of Dobbiaco and the (abandoned) airport of Cortina D'Ampezzo (a much popular winter resot whose airport has been closed and abandoned for several reasons, including the fact that the approach is challenging and dangerous - it is worth googling for its story!).
Frank is also constantly upgrading and expanding his sceneries, which however are only distributed privately by email.

PROs
- 3D sculpted mountains with custom, high resolution textures are incredibly detailed and realistic.
- The whole scenery is covered with accurately placed Autogen (including alternate textures for better color match)
- Custom buildings where needed
- Freeware does not get much better than this

CONs
- As with all photoreal sceneries at a certain point it comes to an end. And this means to see the ugly FSX default.

To get this scenery, you must go and visit Frank's blog, navigate to Frank's profile and send him an email requesting the scenery. Frank's blog address is this:

http://scenarialpinifsx.blogspot.it/

Happy flying!