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MFD and PFD Encoder Programming

(Original thread started on 06-03-12 by Calvin hurl2space)

Does anyone know how to setup the MFD Encoder shaft of the JET45AAS with the Goflight RP-48 rotary encoder knobs? I keep trying different offsets but still can't get it. Also the same for the encoder shaft for the PFD.

 

(Posted by Eric Tomlin on 06-12-12)

The good thing is that you did get the map range to adjust, just not the amount required so at least you have it talking to the software. I've made sure that Jason is aware of the situation and hopefully we can get you able to adjust the map range and other items as desired ASAP.

 

(Posted by Jason Hite on 06-14-12)

Calvin, first a little tutorial (pardon me if you already know this):

 

Since each offset is 8 bits, you get 0-255 different values. We need to setup our encoders to add 1 or subtract 1 from the offset value.

 

When you do this you can turn the encoder all day long and the value will increment to 255 then wrap around to 0. And conversely from 0 to 255 when turning the encoder counter clockwise.

 

Jet45 monitors the encoder offsets for an increase or decrease of one. For example, changing the ND display distance:

 

Say you setup an encoder in your hardware that when you turn it one click to the left, it subtracts one from the offset. When Jet45 sees that the value of the offset has decreased, it will increase the display distance on the ND.

 

The key here is that all of your encoders should be setup to increment/decrement an offset (8 bit value) by one.

 

The reason we chose this method is because many I/O cards allow you to do this easily with an encoder. What we don't know is if the GoFlight module has this ability. I would suggest you make an inquiry with GoFlight and ask if their software gives you the ability to setup an encoder this way.

 

That being said, I would imagine that you will not be able to interface an entire cockpit with GoFlight modules, so you will eventually need to move to a more robust I/O system. Just be sure to pick one that supports configuring rotary encoders as detailed above.

 

(Posted by Calvin hurl2space on 06-16-12)

Thank you! I figure it with your comments above. I used setbits increment and decrement with the parameters of 1/255. It is so cool. I can finally use the rotaries. You just have to remember to talk to me like I have no idea what your talking about.

 

Now to figure out the EFIS selectors. I have to get some selectors and try to hook them up to USB. Anyone have some good tips on how to do that?

 

(Posted by Eric Tomlin on 06-16-12)

They're not hard at all. Simply assign each rotary switch position the required Jet45 FSUIPC offset/bit. Follow the Jet45 users manual and directions. These are far easier than an encoder.