FlyThisSim TouchTrainer SPOH V1.

01

TOUCHTrainer
From FlyThisSim BATD
FlyThisSim, 1702 DeVaul Ranch Drive
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
http://www.flythissim.com

Simulator Pilots Operating

Handbook

FTS TouchTrainer SR-20 G2 SIU Avidyne v7 Simulator

This document explains how to assemble, start, operate, and shutdown your TouchTrainer; if you
have any questions or comments please contact FlyThisSim.

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Contents
INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................................................3
TOUCHTRAINER SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................................................................5
Hardware .............................................................................................................................................................5
Software ...............................................................................................................................................................5
PHYSICAL ASSEMBLY ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Location ................................................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Throttle/Avionics Assembly ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Computer System/Monitor ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Joystick .................................................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
CABLE ASSEMBLY ............................................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
FIRST POWER UP ............................................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
SIMULATOR AND INSTRUCTOR CONTROLS ...........................................................................................................................9
TOUCHTRAINER NORMAL OPERATION ...............................................................................................................................9
TOUCHTRAINER SYSTEM POWER UP..................................................................................................................................9
TOUCHTRAINER START UP ...............................................................................................................................................9
TOUCHTRAINER SHUT DOWN...........................................................................................................................................9
TOUCHTRAINER MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ...................................................................................................................10
Touch Screen Calibration....................................................................................................................................10
Cleaning the Monitors ........................................................................................................................................10
Windows Operating System ............................................................................................................................... 10
X-Plane ...............................................................................................................................................................10
SimAVIO2 ...........................................................................................................................................................11
Re-installation ....................................................................................................................................................11
OTHER DOCUMENTATION..............................................................................................................................................11
MODIFICATION............................................................................................................................................................11

TOUCHTRAINER POWER-UP CHECK LIST .............................................................................................................. 12

INITIAL INSPECTION ......................................................................................................................................................12

POWER ON.................................................................................................................................................................12
LOG IN ........................................................................................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
AUXILIARY MONITOR AND TOUCH SCREEN........................................................................................................................13

TOUCHTRAINER START-UP CHECK LIST ................................................................................................................ 15

PROGRAM STARTUP .....................................................................................................................................................15

TOUCHTRAINER SHUT-DOWN CHECK LIST ........................................................................................................... 17

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Introduction
The TouchTrainer enables pilots to practice Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedures and the
operation of Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) avionics.

Figure 1: SimAVIO TouchTrainer featuring two touch monitors, a joystick, and a throttle

The TouchTrainer interfaces to the pilot through physical joystick, throttle quadrant and
multiple high resolution touch screens. The touch screens and TouchTrainer software
provide natural control of aircraft systems and rapid reconfiguration so each aircraft
simulated can be exactly represented.

The TouchTrainer also includes:

• The most advanced avionics simulations for TAA aircraft with accurate unique
representations of G1000, Perspective, Garmin GNS 430 WAAS, and Avidyne V7 using
SimAVIO2 from FlyThisSim.
• Smooth responsive flight simulation using the industry standard and constantly
improving X-Plane flight simulator.

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• GPS WAAS simulation integrated with avionics and custom autopilots that include fully
coupled leg, altitude and glideslope capture and tracking.
• Enhanced electrical modeling of aircraft busses ensuring electrical and avionics systems
integrate as aircraft.
• Validated, current data for airports and GPS approaches from the National Flight
Database.
• X-Plane flight models tuned for IFR ‘Pitch and Power’ and systems.
• Accurate facsimiles of aircraft instrumentation, switches and controls depicted on
multiple touch screens configured in layouts appropriate for IFR simulator operations.
• Touch screens provide a natural method of control that enables each aircraft simulated
to have a unique and realistic presentation; pilots can fly the simulator without learning
a new configuration.
• Failures of aircraft systems designed to test pilot knowledge uniquely activated by either
touch or keyboard.
• Low cost, attractive, commercially available computer and aircraft facsimile hardware.

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TouchTrainer System Description

The TouchTrainer is designed to enable practice of instrument procedures, systems and
emergency procedures training. It consists of the following:

• SimAVIO2 TAA simulation from FTS

• X-Plane flight simulator program from Laminar Research
• FTS validated and enhanced flight model and systems data
• A computer system loaded with the Windows 7 operating system
• Joystick or Yoke
• Throttle quadrant
• Main touch screen monitor
• Auxiliary touch screen monitor

Hardware
All hardware and computer components are readily available and commercial quality. The
Touch Trainer hardware and software combination have been tested to ensure:

• Smooth performance of the flight simulator and other software components

o At least 20Hz for the flight simulator
o At least 15Hz for instrumentation except where aircraft equipment has a
slower update rate.
• Adequate size and resolution of touch monitors. Instrument indications can be read
and touch sensitive areas easily actuated.
o Some text used for decoration may not be to this standard
o The use of touch screens may require practice and familiarity
• Expansion. Future releases of software can be expected to perform adequately and
additional hardware components added without major upgrading of equipment.
Expansion capabilities will be somewhat limited because of cost.

Software
The software integrated into the TouchTrainer is classified into functional areas and described
below.

• Flight Simulation including aircraft performance, out of the window view (OOW) and
instructor operation station (IOS). The Touch Trainer uses Laminar Researches X-Plane
as its flight simulation component.
• Aircraft Models. The aircraft models (.acf files) have been modified and approved for
use by FTS. These models are enhanced or replaced by SimAVIO to provide additional
aircraft specific electrical and navigational systems data to improve simulation fidelity.
Other aircraft models should not be used. Use of a non-approved aircraft model will be
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detected and the user informed of the status. If this status window is displayed the
training should be halted until the correct model is loaded.
• Out of the Window View (OOW). The OOW field of view is approximately 45 degrees
horizontal by 15 degrees vertical. With practice this is adequate for takeoff and landing
but is not optimized for VFR training; please remember that the primary function of the
TouchTrainer is for IFR and systems practice.
• Aircraft systems including electrical buses and distribution
o The TouchTrainer enhances X-Plane to provide additional aircraft specific
systems modeling of electrical busses so that the aircraft checklists can be used.
However, not every component in the aircraft is modeled. This means that while
electrical bus state, voltages and equipment connectivity to the busses are
modeled correctly bus loads are typical and may be incorrect for ancillary
equipment.
• Simulation of TAA avionics systems including autopilot.
o The TouchTrainer enhances or replaces the autopilot system to be an aircraft
specific simulation. It provides its own modeling of reduction of vertical velocity
commanded before altitude capture, leg interception and GPS glideslope
capture. In particular the TouchTrainer has enhanced autopilot operation for
missed approach sequences ensuring correct operation.
o The TouchTrainer enhances X-Plane with a complete WAAS GPS Flight Deck
simulation, FTS’s SimAVIO2 is used to provide these facilities.
• Integration of hardware devices such as touch screens and aircraft facsimile hardware
o X-Plane integrates to flying, trim, throttle and mixture controls
o SimAVIO2 integrates to avionics control hardware.
• Audio
o X-Plane is used to generate aircraft environment and equipment sounds such as
engine noise, wheel rumble, marker and Morse code and aerodynamic noise.
o SimAVIO is used to generate all other avionics specific warning tones
• Navigation Data (Only US Data is available). The following features are available:
o Airspace. Class B, C, D and special use airspace, airports, obstacles, navigational
beacons are provided in PFD and MFD map presentations.
o Terrain. Terrain is represented as a Shaded Relief Map, in order to keep load
times to a minimum and reduce memory requirements this data is typically half
to one quarter of the resolution in the aircraft. The effects of this can only be
seen at lower map ranges when few coastal airfields may appear to be in the
water.

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o Cultural Data. Roads, geographical boundaries coastline etc. are typical of the
geographical data seen on Flight Deck equipment. Not all the geographical
layers seen on specific equipment are available.
o Aeronautical Data. The National Flight Database (NFD) from the FAA is used to
provide airport and approach waypoint, NDB, VOR and other data.
o Airport close in detail: Runways, taxiways, structures and other airport details
are not drawn on the map
o ILS and Ground Radio Based Approaches.

The NFD provides few GPS overlays for ground based approaches (VOR,
LOC and ILS approaches). If not included in the NFD approaches will not
be available in the TouchTrainer FMS systems. Ground based approaches
can still be flown by tuning to the correct frequency and flying the radio
based component. GPS based initial and missed approach legs will not
be available.

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Physical Assembly
Carefully unpack and inspect the items delivered for transit damage. The contents delivered
should match the Build Record that was received as part of your proposal and included in your
shipment. Please save packaging materials especially for the main computer and monitors until
the manufacturer’s warranty period expires. If there are any problems please do not hesitate
to contact FlyThisSim.

Assemble your TouchTrainer according to the separate document titled “TouchTrainer Start
Guide” included with your TouchTrainer.

While every effort is made to accurately simulate the items detailed FlyThisSim do not
recommend the use of SimAVIO for flight training outside of a supervised training system
with qualified instructors. As always the responsibility for any and all flight operations
remains with the Pilot in Command.

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TouchTrainer Normal Operation

TouchTrainer System Power Up

Please follow the TouchTrainer Power-Up Checklist. If the system does not pass the checklist
items, please unplug all power connectors, check cabling against color coding, connect the
power, and run the checklist again. If the system again fails the checklist, please contact
FlyThisSim.

TouchTrainer Start Up
Following a successful Power Up follow the TouchTrainer Start-Up Checklist. If the system fails
the checklist then contact FlyThisSim for further assistance.

Simulator and Instructor Controls

Please refer to the attached document Simulator and Instructor Controls

TouchTrainer Shut Down

After using your TouchTrainer please use the TouchTrainer Shut-Down Check List. Doing so will
ensure the computers file system is not corrupted. Never just turn the 120v power off.

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TouchTrainer Maintenance Procedures

The FlyThisSim TouchTrainer requires no annual inspection but should have a daily inspection
completed before the first sortie of the day. These items are included in the Start Up checklist.

All components in the TouchTrainer can be replaced if necessary; care and maintenance of
them are typical of electronic retail systems.

Touch Screen Calibration

From time to time touch screens, throttles and joysticks may need re-calibrating. These
calibration processes have been completed at FlyThisSim prior to delivery. If you believe these
items require recalibration please follow the following procedure:

1. Complete the TouchTrainer Power-Up checklist

2. After power-up, the TouchTrainer Supervisor window is displayed. Place your finger on
each touch screen and move it around. Check that the computers touch indicator or mouse
pointer follows your finger.
3. Stop moving your finger, while maintaining light pressure on the touch screen, stop moving
your finger. Check that the computer touch indicator or mouse pointer is within 2mm of
the point where your finger touches the screen.
4. Repeat operation 3 in various locations on the screen both in the center of the screen and
at the screens edges and corners. Check that the computer touch indicator or mouse
pointer is within 2mm of the point where your finger touches the screen.
5. If the touch monitor fails the above test the monitor needs recalibration. To recalibrate,
locate the TouchTrainer Supervisor screen and the correct maintenance tool for the
calibration of the monitor that failed, select the tool and follow the on screen instructions.
After calibration run tests 1 to 4 again until the touch monitor is calibrated.

Cleaning the Monitors

Follow the procedures outlined in manufacture’s manual to clean the touch monitors. The
selection of cleaning solution and cloth are critical to avoid damaging your screen.

Windows Operating System

Occasionally, you will receive notifications for updates to the Windows operating system. The
updates should be installed.

X-Plane
DO NOT update your X-Plane installation without specific instruction from FlyThisSim. We
qualify any X-Plane updates to ensure that they are compatible with the touch trainer.

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SimAVIO2
FlyThisSim will notify you of any updates available that will improve the reliability, fidelity and
features of your TouchTrainer. These updates may require you to update X-Plane or other
systems.

Re-installation
If the worst happens and you are SOG (Simulator On Ground) please contact FlyThisSim before
you try any re-installation or other unauthorized maintenance. We are here to help.

Other Documentation
• SimAVIO2 has its own instruction manual that can be found while running your
TouchTrainer under the SimAVIO Help Menu Item. This manual provides detailed
information on preferences and other items.
• X-Plane documentation is available at http://wiki.x-plane.com/Category:X-
Plane_Desktop_Manual.
• For Cirrus aircraft operations, avionics and systems check the aircraft’s Pilot’s Operating
Handbook (POH) and the avionics manufacturer’s documentation for simulated
equipment operating instructions. The cirrus POHs are online at
http://cirruslink.com/mycirrus/onlinepoh.aspx
• Simulator Hardware. Your Touch Trainer includes the manuals that come with the
individual hardware components. Examples include the computer, monitor, joystick,
and throttle.

Modification
Modification of the TouchTrainer is prohibited as defined in AC 61-136 Appendix 2: Section 5
APPROVAL OF BATD FOR USE UNDER PART 61. The FTS TouchTrainer cannot be used for FAA
approved training unless it:

c. Successfully pass the start-up self-test described in ….The TouchTrainer Start-Up Check List…..
If the device is being used in a course of training for a pilot certificate or rating, a person authorized
by the FAA to provide ground or flight instruction should observe this test. After the ATD self-test is
complete, no other software of any kind may be started on the computer running the ATD software.

d. Remain(s) in the approved configuration during the training session. Authorized ATD instruction
may not proceed after a malfunction of the ATD system has occurred. The operator must correct the
ATD malfunction and repeat the start-up test described in paragraph c of this section before resuming
authorized instruction.

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TouchTrainer Power-Up Check List

The TouchTrainer Power-Up Check List should be completed at the beginning of the day or just
before the trainer is to be used and in a powered off state

Initial Inspection
Inspect the TouchTrainer and the immediate area.

1. Ensure the area is clean and tidy.

2. Check the table supporting the TouchTrainer is secure and the computer equipment,
throttle quadrant and joystick are in good condition. The keyboard and mouse should be in
close proximity.
3. Check that all power indicators are OFF.

Power On
Switch on Line Power to the TouchTrainer and auxiliary monitor. Momentarily press and
release the computer system on/off power switch and if applicable the main touch monitor
power switch. The TouchTrainer computer system will begin to boot up.

4. Check that within a few minutes the system has completed its boot sequence and the login
screen is visible.

5. Ensure the power indicators on the throttle quadrant and auxiliary touch screen monitor
are both ON. If the auxilliary touch screen monitor does not indicate ON then cycle the
Auxiliary Monitor power switch.

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Auxiliary Monitor

Throttle Quadrant

TouchTrainer autostart

6. The TouchTrainer Supervisor has been configured for your trainer and includes a Real Time
Monitor. This software constantly monitors the state of essential controls and their
connections to the TouchTrainer. After a short period, check that all Real Time Monitor
annunciations are Green.

Auxiliary Monitor and Touch Screen

7. Check the windows desktop is displayed on the auxiliary touch monitor.

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8. Firmly place a finger on the auxiliary monitor touch area and drag the finger across the
screen. Check a rectangle is created on the screen that follows the movement of the
finger.

Check list complete: The system is now powered up, logged in and ready to run the
TouchTrainer Start-Up Check list

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TouchTrainer Start-Up Check List

This checklist should be completed after the TouchTrainer Power-Up Check List. The main
computer monitor will have the TouchTrainer Supervisor window open. Check that all real time
monitored items shown are green.

Program Startup
On the TouchTrainer Supervisor window locate the ‘Start TouchTrainer’ button and activate it
by touching it. The buttons caption will change to indicate the progress of the TouchTrainer
load and start-up

1. Ensure that the TouchTrainer is loading and monitor its progress.

2. Once the TouchTrainer has loaded, the Supervisor will move itself behind the TouchTrainer
and continue to monitor equipment state.
3. When the TouchTrainer has finished loading, check by inspection that that both touch
monitors display the panel layout correctly.
4. Test fly the TouchTrainer. Check that all touchscreens, joystick/Yoke, trim controls,
throttles, mixture and propeller levers work correctly.
5. Ensure that engine or other audio effects are working and set the system volume controls
as appropriate.

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On the auxiliary touch screen, press the X-Plane Instructor Operating Station (IOS) button.
Using X-Plane, load the correct aircraft for the next sortie, locate the aircraft at the correct
location on the departure airport and set the required gross weight and fuel load. Turn off the
IOS using the auxiliary touch panel and ensure the SimAVIO graphics correctly overlay the X-
Plane out of the window view.

Check the TouchTrainer main and auxiliary screens are ready for training.

Ready to Train

Checklist Complete: The system is ready for use.

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TouchTrainer Shut-Down Check List

1. On the auxiliary touch screen locate the TouchTrainer Shut-Down button and select it.
Check that the TouchTrainer windows are no longer displayed.
2. Shutdown the TouchTrainer computer using Windows controls to shut down the computer.

Wait until the computer has powered itself off.

3. Turn off all monitors.

4. If required disconnect the computer and auxiliary touch screen from the 120v domestic line
power.
5. Check list complete

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