A SimStack consisting of a Foundation board, an Output board, and an Input board.
SimStack is a series of modular, stackable circuit boards enabling the integration of real aircraft panels and aftermarket panels with existing simulator software.
SimStack is available for sale in our Online Store.
SimStack Features
- Connects real aircraft panels to your simulator software with no modification to the panel
- Communicates via Ethernet, not USB, simplifying cabling, connectivity and compatibility
- All logic is on each SimStack – no additional computer drivers are required
- Professional circuit design, layout and manufacturing
- Up to 128 digital inputs [1]
- Up to 120 digital outputs [1]
- Up to 16 analogue inputs [2]
- Up to 4096 steps of Pulse Width Modulation on every digital output – for dimming LEDs or normal bulbs
- Native in built H-Bridge for direct motor control
- Supports up to three separate output voltages between 0 and 32V
- Supports high output current – up to 3A per output and up to 30A per board
- Supports any mix of common cathode or common anode (switched earth and switched supply) outputs
- Self-tightening spring connectors for connecting hardware – no soldering or terminations required
- Based on Arduino hardware and software (C++) ensuring broad future compatibility
- Configuration software works across Mac, PC and Linux (Java)
- Existing SimStack libraries cater for almost any type of input or output, from digital switches to dimmable backlighting, rotary encoders, potentiometers, 7 segment displays, etc. [2]
[1] May be lower depending on attached hardware and software interface [2] Additional components required
Components
Supported Hardware
| Item | Example | Supported | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Momentary Switch | Overhead | Yes | Uses one input pin |
| Locking Position Switch | Flight Director | Yes | Uses one input pin |
| Multiple Position Switch | Hydraulic Pumps | Yes | Uses one input for each position |
| Input Arrays | Circuit Breakers | Yes | One input per breaker, max 16 contiguous in array, max 8 arrays per input board. (128 total). |
| Rotary Encoder | Radio tuning | Yes | Connects to 2 consecutive input pins |
| Analog Inputs | Throttles | Yes | Up to 8 analogue inputs per SimStack Foundation Board |
| Analog Inputs | Pots | Yes | CD74HC4067 expansion connects to SimStack Foundation Board for up to 16 analog inputs |
| LEDs - common cathode | Indicators | Yes | Up to 4096 step PWM (Max 3A per channel and 30A per card) |
| LEDs - common anode | Indicators | Yes | Up to 4096 step PWM (Max 3A per channel and 30A per card) |
| Incandescent Lamps - switched earth | Indicators | Yes | Up to 4096 step PWM (Max 3A per channel and 30A per card) |
| Incandescent Lamps - switched supply | Indicators | Yes | Up to 4096 step PWM (Max 3A per channel and 30A per card) |
| 16 Character Display | Comms Panel | Yes | Expansion display connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
| Servo Motor | Outflow Valves | Yes | Connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
| Stepper Motor | Brake Source | Yes | Connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
| DC Motor | Auto Throttle Motor | Yes | Connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
| Relays | Starter solenoids | Yes | Connect relay to any output pin |
| 7 Segment Displays | MCP | Yes | MAX7221 or 7219 8 digit expansion board connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
| Temperature Sensor | Ambient cockpit | Yes | Dallas one wire connects to SimStack Foundation Board |
