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<strong>AVSIM</strong> <strong>Online</strong> - Flight Simulation's Number 1 Site!<br />
Germany in the 1980s, and was the first sailplane to feature the distinctive swept-back leading<br />
edge that reduces drag. During the late 80s, the <strong>Discus</strong> was a world beater, winning the World<br />
Championships three times. Although it might have been eclipsed more recently by newer<br />
machines, it remains a competitive aircraft and popular with gliding clubs around the world.<br />
Will this package be the answer that glider pilots have waited for? Could be...<br />
Installation and Documentation<br />
Obtaining the <strong>Discus</strong> X from the Aerosoft website was<br />
very simple. Once ordered, the website provides a link<br />
to download the installer, which weighs in at about 115<br />
Mb. This is then activated using the code emailed after<br />
purchase.<br />
The installer is responsible for setting up not only the<br />
aircraft itself, but also the WinchX! utility that is<br />
packaged with it. It is important during the installation<br />
process that you follow the instructions carefully,<br />
otherwise WinchX will not work properly. Having said<br />
that, the process is straightforward and quick, and within<br />
10 minutes of downloading the product I was ready to<br />
start FSX.<br />
Computer Specs<br />
Test System<br />
AMD Phenom Triple Core 2.10 GHZ<br />
Processor operating Vista Home<br />
Premium 64 Bit<br />
4.0 GB RAM<br />
NVIDIA Geforce 9500 GS Graphics<br />
Card<br />
Saitek X52 Pro Controller with Saitek<br />
Pro Flight Rudder Pedals<br />
FSX with Acceleration expansion<br />
Flying Time:<br />
17 hours<br />
One more word of caution: when starting FSX for the<br />
first time after installing the <strong>Discus</strong>, WinchX! will also try to start. FSX will ask you if you trust<br />
this software, to which you must click "yes" to enjoy the functions of this brilliant little tool.<br />
The documentation that is supplied with the software is plentiful and comprehensive. Firstly,<br />
Aerosoft has provided their own manual that includes a history of the aircraft, the recommended<br />
FSX settings, and the details of the cockpit instrumentation. I liked this manual enormously,<br />
and found it easy to read and very informative.<br />
In addition, Aerosoft have included the following (in both English and German):<br />
● The Pilot's Operating Manual for the real-world <strong>Discus</strong><br />
● The manufacturer's guide for the C4 Competition gauge<br />
● The user guide for the WinchX! utility that is included with the aircraft.<br />
We’ll cover the features of these last two later in the review, but Aerosoft should be applauded<br />
for the quality of the information provided.<br />
External Model<br />
The external model captures the graceful lines of the real aircraft wonderfully. There are<br />
several variations provided, each of which offers a different wing layout - the span varies and<br />
some are fitted with drag-reducing winglets. The model is animated, with the undercarriage,<br />
control surfaces and spoilers recreated faithfully. The wings also flex in response to the<br />
environment - try watching a hard landing from the spot view and see the wingtips bounce<br />
alarmingly! The pilot is modelled well with very nice animation, looking every inch the aviator in<br />
sunglasses and a soft hat.<br />
http://www.avsim.com/pages/0810/Aerosoft/<strong>Discus</strong>X.html (2 of 7) [20/08/2010 3:10:21 PM]
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