Flight Simulator Programming

[James_FlightSim]

Hi all!

I'm new to windows forums (and relatively new to programming in general) as such I'm not sure if this is the right forum to post in.... let me know if it isn't.

I'm currently building a full motion flight simulator to aid in aircraft development and training (sorry I can't say what aircraft). I have a few questions regarding the programming side of it's operation.

1) If I were to run the program for the simulator from a windows based computer what delays in input to response should I expect? We were using a real time controller (CompactRIO) to run the simulator and I'm not sure how much the non real time operating system (windows) will affect performance.

2) Does anyone know of a good data acquisition and control program (other than LabView)?

3) If it turns out I need to write the code in a base language of some form what would be best in terms of speed?

4) Will speeds through the USB be an issue?

Some additional information:

Inputs: 24 digital, 8 analogue (2 separate USB modules)

Output: USB to CANbus converter

Drive Inverters: 4 separate MOVIDRIVEs, each running a servomotor.

If anyone has any form of solution it would be great to hear from you. Im also exploring using a PLC or similar but not looking forward to ladder logic. Maybe some other external module with D+A input and CAN output would be suitable.

Thank You for your time and have a great day!

James

[AlanHo]

If you are located in the UK try to obtain last weeks edition of Micro Mart magazine - Issue 1093 11 to 17th February.

It contains a 10 page article on building a comprehensive flight simulator for the Boeing 737 and lists a number of web links for related info.

There is also an advert by RC Simulations which looks useful.