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Overview | News | Tips | Screenshots and Videos | Key Features | Sailplanes | Plane Packs | Multiplayer | Flight School | More Features | Hardware Recommendations | Keyboard Commands | Links | Documents | Order



Overview

Condor: The Competition Soaring Simulator is designed to recreate the ultimate experience of competition soaring on your PC.  A lot of attention was put in to create an environment which would create an immersion of real competition flying. This means that the aerodynamics and weather physics were the focus of the development. The result is amazingly real feel of flight in all flight regimes and weather conditions which challenges a real soaring pilot on a competition day.

Common Uses
Condor is much more than a simple soaring flight simulator. As the name implies, it is a great competition soaring simulator.  You can compete with soaring pilots in on other computers in the same room, or half-way around the world.  But it is much more than that.  Common uses include:

  • Sailplane Racing simulator (Join races with pilots anywhere in the world, or host your own race with your friends.)
  • Flight School - Learn how to fly aerotow, winch launch, fly the ridge, fly a final glide, etc. (See the Flight School section below.)
  • Aerobatics trainer
  • Cross-Country Soaring simulator (thermal, ridge and wave flying possible)
  • Classroom training tool - Show students what a spin looks like and what the controls and control surfaces are doing during the maneuver.

News

Known Bug - "Flight School"
The Condor "Flight School" mode has some major bugs in it.  It is a known issue.  I recommend flying in "Free Flight" mode instead.  The Free Flight mode is what most soaring instructors use. 


Plane Pack 2 Bug Fix
The ASW 19 in Plane Pack 2 has a bug.  One of the instruments does not appear on the instrument panel.  The good news is that a fix has been provided and it is easy to install. 

Note: The fix must be applied manually after installing Plane Pack 2.

Instructions for fixing the bug in Plane Pack 2

  • Install Plane Pack 2 using the installation program provided when you purchased the Plane Pack 2 license.
  • Save the "speed-i-face.tga" file below into the "Program Files\Condor\Planes\ASW19\gauges\" directory.  To download it: right click on the file and select "Save Target As".  You may or may not be able to save it directly to the recommended directory.  If Windows doesn't let you save it directly, then save it to your desktop and use Windows Explorer to copy the file to the correct directory.
    speed-i-face.tga

New Book - Cross Country Soaring With Condor - by Frank Paynter
"Cross Country Soaring with Condor" is a new book which describes how to use the Condor soaring simulator to develop and improve your real life cross country soaring skills. The basics of getting started with Condor are explained in detail, along with a wealth of information that will help you progress much faster up the cross country learning curve.  Details

Now Selling Joysticks and Rudder Pedals
Cumulus Soaring, Inc. is now selling CH Products Pro Pedals rudder pedals and Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick joysticks, so you can order a complete package for your soaring simulation setup.   I'll include a FREE Condor program CD If you buy a complete package with a Condor license, joystick and rudder pedals.

News
A new free upgrade patch is available for users of Condor.  The new patch bumps it up from 1.1.2 to 1.1.4.  It is required if you want to use Plane Pack 2.  You can see details and download it here: http://www.condorsoaring.com/downloads.htm. 

New - Plane Pack 2
A new "Club Class Plane Pack" (Plane Pack 2) is now available.  It includes 5 new sailplane models: ASW 15, ASW 19, Jantar Standard 3, Libelle, and LS 4.  You can see details and order in the price list below.

Plane Pack 2 - Club Class Plane Pack
Schleicher ASW 15 Schleicher ASW 19 Jantar Standard 3 Libelle Rolladen-Schneider
LS 4

Tips
I have created a Condor Tips document to help you get started with Condor.  Reading it will help you get up and running as quickly as possible.
CondorTips.pdf

Getting Started with Condor Document by Frank Paynter
Frank Paynter and Scott Manley are writing an excellent column for Soaring magazine called Condor Corner.   The excellent document below was referenced in their article in the April 2010 edition of Soaring. Many of the Condor Corner articles are available as free downloads in the Documents section below.
Getting Started with Condor Soaring Simulator

Many helpful documents are available for download here: Documents

Connecting a PDA to your PC for use with Condor
Customers using Condor may want to connect their PDA to the PC for use with Condor.  Using a PDA with soaring flight software together with Condor is a great way to get more familiar with your soaring flight software.  Below are several options for connecting PDAs to PCs.

  • Connections to PDAs Using Bluetooth
    Bluetooth is a low-power wireless radio connection.  Some (but not all) PDAs and PCs have Bluetooth built-in.  If both your PDA and your PC have Bluetooth capability, this may be the easiest way to connect them.  However, I don't have any experience with this method of connection - so I don't know whether it is easy or difficult to setup.
     
  • Connections to PDAs Using the PDA's Desktop Cradle
    The Keyspan USA-19HS USB Serial Adapter has a standard DB-9m (male) connector - just like PCs used to.  If your PDA was provided with a desktop cradle with a DB-9m connector, you can connect it directly to the Keyspan USA-19HS USB Serial Adapter.  It can't power your PC, but most PDA cradles include power supplies for powering and charging the PDA.  However, most newer PDAs were provided with desktop cradles with USB cables only.  This adapter won't work with USB cradles.
     
  • Connections to PDAs When You Don't Have a Desktop Cradle
    If you don't have a desktop cradle for your PDA, or your PDAs desktop cradle doesn't have a serial cable with a DB-9f (9-pin female) connector, then you may want to use the Goddard Condor-PC-5V-DB9f-0.3 cable.  It includes a 5V wall power supply for powering the PDA and 2 DB-9f (female) connectors.  One connects to the Keyspan USA-19HS USB Serial Adapter and the other connects to a standard PDA power/data cable - such as a Goddard I38C-1.
     
  • Connecting to a Naviter Oudie PNA
    The Naviter Oudie is an extremely popular soaring flight PNA with SeeYou Mobile soaring flight software.  The Oudie is delivered with a nice power/data cable called the Oudie-Cable-Kit.  It includes a mini-USB connector for the Oudie, 12V power leads, and an RJ45 connector for connection to a variety of devices.  Also included in the box is a configurable RJ45 to DB-9f adapter.  It can easily be configured for connection to the Keyspan USA-19HS USB Serial Adapter.  Directions on how to configure the RJ45 to DB-9f adapter are shown here: Oudie-Cable-Kit.  If you are already using the Oudie's power/data cable in your glider, you can order and extra here: Oudie-Cable-Kit.  Note: The Oudie also has a built-in Bluetooth radio, so it may be possible to connect it to a Bluetooth enabled PC without any cables.

Screenshots and Videos

Here you can view various screenshots and videos from Condor: The Competition Soaring Simulator. 
Click on the small images below to view large versions.


The image above shows the optional Alpi3 scenery.  The images below show the standard scenery.

Videos:
Condor Overview Video

Cool YouTube Video showing add-in (scenery of the Alps?): http://youtube.com/watch?v=EhVRQ7oqc54
Video showing the awesome optional Alpi3 scenery kit: http://youtube.com/watch?v=KPgeLbKIVOs
Another Alpi video (Alpi 2): http://youtube.com/watch?v=fn-StWuY_y0
Other YouTube Condor videos: http://youtube.com/results?search_query=Condor+soaring+simulator&search_type=

Yeehaa spinning time!: cockpit view, external view
Fox & inverted half flick roll: cockpit view, external view
Fox says Abracadabra!: click here
Ups.. do not loose your wings buddy!: click here
Flying at lee side of the ridge in a strong wind: click here
Uncle McCready time: click here

Key Features:

Amazing feel of flight due to the advanced flight dynamics model

  • Advanced 6DOF flight model for complete freedom of flying.
  • Accurate sailplane performance and handling – also at and beyond critical angles of attack.
  • Sailplane damage simulation – flutter, high G stress, collisions.
  • High time fidelity physics engine (up to 500 cycles per second).
  • Accurate ground forces for realistic takeoffs, landings and crashes.
  • Detailed, sub-object collision detection for mid air and ground object collisions.
  • Accurate conditions for a realistic towing and winch start.

Realistic weather model for all aspects of competition soaring
  • Realistic thermals life cycle: starting from the ground they reach cloud base, the cloud becomes bigger and more dense and later dissipates which causes the air below it to sink.
  • The location and strength of thermals is based on terrain sun exposure and ground features like forests, fields and villages.
  • Realistic daily sun travel which affects the frequency and strength of thermals.
  • Up slope wind on sunny ridges (anabatic winds).
  • Ridge lift with leeward downwind and turbulence, venturi effects.
  • Waves behind ridges, wavelength depends on wind speed and stability of the atmosphere.
  • Correct atmosphere pressure, density and temperature height distribution.
  • 3D isotropic turbulence model for thermal and mechanical turbulence.
  • Preset and custom weather conditions
  • Output NMEA GPS data information from the PC to your PDA soaring flight software.  This is a fantastic way to learn how to use your PDA soaring flight software safely while on the ground - before using it in your glider.  Below is a note from a customer using this feature.
    "I just bought See You from you couple weeks ago. I didn’t know if you knew that you could hook Mobile SeeYou / PDA to Condor. I fly the Gold tasks at Minden and other places. It allows me to practice using SeeYou Mobile without the stress of a real cockpit and way more fun than simulator mode. Simply hook up the cradle to the serial port on the computer; select NMEA output in Condor and you are ready to go." - Mike Mason

Detailed Sailplanes with Fully Animated Cockpits

Note: Additional Sailplanes are available in the optional Plane Packs

  • Standard class:
    ASW 28 LS 8 Discus 2
  • FAI 15 class:
    ASW 27 LS 6 Ventus 2
  • 18m class:
    ASW 28-18 LS 8-s Discus 2c
  • Open class:
    ASW 22 Nimbus 4
  • Acro class:
    Fox MDM-1  
  • School class:
    ASK-13
  • Realistic speed polars and handling.
  • Configurable water ballast and C/G position.
  • Detailed plane models.
  • Moving parts, flexing wings, environment mapping.
  • Custom registration and competition numbers.
  • Custom skin support.
  • Fully animated pilot.
  • Modern cockpit instrumentation with averager, speed command, custom vario time constants, ...
  • Support for metric, imperial and Australian units.
  • Handheld computer with its own software.

Plane Packs (optional)

Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 are optional upgrades you can purchase at any time.  Each includes 5 additional sailplanes.  You can see details and photos of the gliders in the price list at the bottom of this page.

Plane Pack 1
Schleicher ASG 29 Rolladen-Schneider
LS 10		 Schempp-Hirth
Ventus 2cx		 Jantar 2b PW-5
 

Plane Pack 2 - Club Class Plane Pack
Schleicher ASW 15 Schleicher ASW 19 Jantar Standard 3 Libelle Rolladen-Schneider
LS 4

Multiplayer

  • Support for up to 32 pilots.
  • Simultaneous Internet and LAN support.
  • Dedicated server option.
  • Central web based servers list for easy connecting.
  • Host configures flight plan which is automatically propagated to clients (task, weather, plane class, realism options).
  • Real time scoring and support for regatta starts for maximum excitement.
  • Radio frequencies support when chatting.
  • Sub-object collision detection for realistic mid-air collisions.

Flight School
The Flight School feature is a powerful tool learning tool.  It is not just about how to use the flight simulator, but rather how to fly a sailplane. Each topic below includes a lesson to view and offers the option to try flying the lesson yourself.

  • Basic
    • Preflight Check
    • Effects of Commands
    • Turns
    • Winch Launching
    • Aerotow launching
    • Traffic pattern and landing
  • Intermediate
    • Thermal Soaring
    • Ridge Soaring
    • Wave Soaring
    • Upslope (Ridge) Soaring
  • Advanced
    • Starting task and navigation
    • MacCready Theory
    • Final Glide
  • Acro
    • Loop
    • Stall Turn

More Features

Detailed Terrain
  • Support for high resolution terrain mesh (SRTM, DEM etc.).
  • Forests with high density trees.
  • Ground 3D objects (villages, castles, farms, communication towers, etc.).
  • Unique synthetic textures (satellite and ortophoto images can also be used).
  • Airports with grass/tarmac surfaces and 3D objects (hangars, wind sacks, hauses, restaurants).
  • With the Scenery Toolkit, new sceneries will easily be added.

In the release version you can fly over Slovenia which is made in 90 meters resolution. Combine that with the fact that this is an alpine country, it is perfect for the soaring experience.

Ability to record and analyze flights
  • Every flight can be saved as a replay file and viewed later.
  • Custom cameras during replay playback.
  • Every flight can be saved to proprietary "flight track" file format which is used for flight analysis and record claims.
  • Flight tracks can be exported to IGC file format and viewed with external IGC viewers.
  • Replays and flight tracks can be exchanged with other players and used to either compare the flying or to race against the "ghosts" of other pilots tracks.

Real-time NMEA output

  • Real-time NMEA output trough serial port.
  • GPGGA, GPRMC and LXWP0 sentences are supported (the set can be expanded if needed).

NMEA is a standard communication protocol for transferring navigational data (position, speed, heading, bearing, etc.).
Today, every GPS hardware features NMEA output to communicate with handheld devices or laptops trough serial port. Condor uses this protocol to enable you to use your own handheld devices and software for navigation.

Real-time flight parameters output

  • SimKits output
  • Condor UDP protocol based output

Using these outputs, there are possibilities for interfacing Condor with external devices like instruments or motion platforms.

Various competition disciplines
  • From FAI rules to innovative Condor specific additions.
  • Classic and window type sectors.
  • User configurable penalty zones.
  • Classic and regatta starts.
  • Configurable penalty points for various infringements.
  • Tail hunting - "eating" other players tail knuckles.

Accessible to players of all skill levels

Condor has beside its flight school lessons also a number of helpers like visual turn points, thermal indicators, icons for other players planes, etc. which help player shallow the step learning curve of flying.
For example, in flight school you can actually practice yourself boxing the wake in tow like you would do it in real life! This is something which was never done before on the PC!

3D sound support

  • 3D sound support with doppler effects
  • Digitally recorded sounds from a real cockpit

Native TrackIR support

  • TrackIR enhanced mode support.
  • Mouselook emulation with classic Web cameras and appropriate software.
TrackIR device captures the movement of your head to pan the view in flight simulators and other 3D games.
Please visit http://www.naturalpoint.com/for more information.
There is a fantastic video demo of the product here: http://www.youtube.com:80/watch?v=_AO0F5sLdVM
I have tested the TrackIR unit and I like it.  It is especially useful when trying to look at the runway while in the landing pattern, or when looking up to view cumulus clouds.  It does take some time to get used to using it.  A joystick with a hat switch is a much lower cost alternative, and nearly as useful.

Realistic Force Feedback Support

Force feedback until now was never really done with a realism in mind. Most simulators used it as a 'movie' effect. This however changes with Condor , as it was designed with force feedback joysticks in mind for the ultimate experience.
Condor simulates forces on the stick directly from its advanced flight dynamic model and controlling trimmer actually moves your stick like in real life!

A good example of a Force Feedback Joystick with twist rudder control is the Saitek Cyborg Evo Force PC Flight Stick as found here:
http://www.amazon.com/Saitek-Cyborg-Force-Flight-PS27/dp/B00068P3O4/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1209862489&sr=8-1
I owned one in the past.  It is very well made.  However, I'd have to admit that the force feedback option didn't do as much for me as I thought it would.  Also, the drivers were a little flaky because it seems to be necessary to go to the setup screen and run it around in a circle ("stir the pot") and twist the stick to both stops to calibrate it every time I use it.  After that it worked great.  I eventually sold it and now use a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick (which does not have force feedback).

Hardware Recommendations

I am often asked to recommend a joystick and rudder pedals for use with Condor.  Below are a few good options which are recommended by myself or other Condor users.

Joystick
The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick seems to be the joystick of choice for most Condor users - including myself.  It is a nice, low cost option.  It has a twist handle which is great for rudder control if not using rudder pedals.  If you are using rudder pedals you won't need the twist feature, but it won't hurt either.  Details are available in the price list below.

Rudder Pedals
 Many experienced Condor users and recommend the CH Products Pro Pedals rudder pedals.  They are highly recommended when practicing cross-wind take-offs and landings, slips, skids, slow flight, stalls, spins, and aerobatics.  Details are available in the price list below.

Are Rudder Pedals Necessary When Using Condor?
I am often asked whether rudder pedals are required, or highly recommended, or...?  My opinion, and the opinion of several experienced Condor users is:

  • Rudder pedals are not absolutely necessary.  Most joysticks offer a twist action that can be used for rudder control, or you can enable "auto-rudder" in Condor. 

  • Rudder pedals are very highly recommended for anyone using Condor to learn how to fly gliders, or using Condor to practice flying skills such as cross-wind take-offs and landings, slips, skids, slow flight, stalls, spins, or aerobatics.

  • Rudder pedals are probably not necessary for cross-country soaring and contest flying.  Experienced users tell me that they enable the "auto-rudder" feature when flying cross-country or racing - because it is more about how you find lift and how fast you fly than about how well you work the rudder.

Keyboard Commands - Commonly Used

  • R: Release
  • P: Pause
  • Delete: Trimmer up
  • Insert: Trimmer down
  • F12: Trimmer Center
  • N: Airbrakes In
  • B: Airbrakes Out
  • F: Flaps up
  • V: Flaps down
  • G: Cycle landing gear up or down
  • . (period): Wheel brake
  • Home: MacCready Up
  • End: MacCready Down
  • M: PDA Next Screen
  • Page Up: PDA Zoom In
  • Page Down: Handheld Zoom Out
  • Right Ctrl: Toggle between Cruise mode and Climb mode
  • H: Lift helpers (see the thermals!)
  • J: Task Helpers
  • Q: Miracle (bump the glider up hundreds of feet instantly)
  • w: Dump water ballast
  • T: Smoke
  • +: Zoom in
  • -: Zoom out
  • Y: Panel Zoom
  • ]: Vario Volume Up
  • [: Vario Volume Down
  • Esc: Menu
  • Tab: Show classification
  • *: Show Icons
  • ' (tilde): HUD (heads up display) toggle
  • F1: Cockpit View
  • F2: External View
  • F3: Chase View
  • F4: Tower View
  • F5: Towplane View
  • F6: Fly-by View
  • F7: Padlock View
  • F8: New Player View
  • F9: Replay Camera

Links

  • Condor web site

  • Monday Night Soaring Contest - USA, Europe and "Pacific" - Several contests at times that work for U.S. pilots

  • Sceneries (Additional Soaring Sites)
    I was impressed by the Sierra Nevada Scenery found here: condor-club.eu because it allowed me to fly out of Minden, NV. They offer many nice scenery downloads - some require small donations.  They are also available at: http://www.gliderracing.com/pub/.  For the U.S. they offer sites in central Florida, the Pennsylvania ridges, New Mexico, Appalachia, Montana (Glacier Park), Sierra Nevada, Mifflin, PA, Rio Grande (Texas and Mexico), the Pacific Northwest, and several others.

    Alpi
    But the most impressive scenery packages must be the Alpi series from Post Frontal.  I don't sell them, but you can buy them by clicking on the images below.  I purchased the Alpi 3 scenery and it is awesome!  If I were to purchase one today I would probably start with the West Alpi scenery.

  • Forums

  • Localizations (Languages)

  • Servers List (Join an online race)

  • Downloads (Download the latest patches, etc.)

  • Links

  • Support and FAQs

  • Contact

Documents

Manual
The most recent version of the Condor manual is available for download here:
Manual.pdf

Tips
CondorTips - by Paul Remde

Getting Started with Condor Soaring Simulator - by Frank Paynter

Condor Corner Articles
Frank Paynter and Scott Manley are writing an excellent column for Soaring magazine called Condor Corner.   Many of their articles are available here:
CondorCorner-2010-04.pdf - An Introduction to Condor Corner and Condor, by Frank Paynter and Scott Manley
CondorCorner-2010-05.pdf - What’s the problem? (Airplanes make lousy classrooms, Classrooms make lousy aircraft), by Scott Manley
CondorCorner-2010-07.pdf - Condor as a Competition Trainer, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2010-08.pdf - Why Glider Flight Simulation?, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2010-09.pdf - Parowan, Utah and Condor, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2010-10.pdf - Glider Flight Simulation and the Curriculum, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2010-11.pdf - Setting up and flying a short cross-country flight, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2010-12.pdf - Features, Tips & Tricks - Round 1, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-01.pdf - Using SeeYou on the PC to evaluate your Condor flight, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2011-02.pdf - Features, Tips & Tricks - Round 2, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-03.pdf - Cross-Country Instruction the Condor Way, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2011-04.pdf - Features, Tips & Tricks - Round 3, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-05.pdf - Installing Sceneries, Online Racing, and PDA Basics, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2011-06.pdf - Features, Tips & Tricks - Round 4, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-07.pdf - Flying the Logan Scenery with B4, by Frank Paynter and Bruno Vassel IV
CondorCorner-2011-08.pdf - Frequently Asked Questions, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-09.pdf - Cross-Country Mentoring in Condor, by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2011-10.pdf - Glider Flight Instruction at a Distance, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2011-11-Oudie.pdf, CondorCorner-2011-11-SoarPilot.pdf, Mifflin_90m_AAT.ftr, Mifflin_90m_AAT.igc, mifflin_90mi_AAT.fpl - Using an External PDA with Condor - by Frank Paynter
CondorCorner-2011-12.pdf - Attaining / Regaining / Maintaining your Proficiency, by Scott Manley - CFIG
CondorCorner-2012-01.pdf - Online cross-country contest flying in Condor, by Frank Paynter

How to Order
To order a product, click on the button next to the product. 
When you are ready to complete your order, click on the button. 
Click on the small images to view larger versions.

Pricing
Please note that I do my best to keep my prices in US $ slightly lower than the price when purchased directly through the Condor web site.  I sometimes get calls from customers stating that my prices are higher when they take the price in Euros and use an online currency converter to calculate the price in US $.  That will always result in a low price because there are no credit card conversion fees taken into account.  The best way to find the actual price you would pay using the Condor site is to start to place an order.  After you select the software you will see a table which shows both the price in Euros and US $.  My price should be just a little lower than the price on their site.  Please let me know if my price is higher.  I try to keep up with currency changes, but they can change rapidly. 

Part # Description Photo
Click on image to view larger version

Price

Lead-time

Condor Condor Competition Soaring Simulator - PC Software - License Key
Designed to recreate the ultimate experience of competition soaring on your PC.

Registration Key
The software must be enabled using a registration key.  I will e-mail your registration key to you. It will also be included on the invoice that is sent to you.  Be sure to keep it in a safe place for future reference.  To enter the key you must first install and run the Condor program. Then click on the Register button and enter the key.

Software Delivery
Unlike other soaring software products, the Condor installation software is not available as a download.  This is done to limit the use of unlicensed copies.  I will upload the files (Condor and Plane Pack 1 Install Programs) to YouSendIt.com and e-mail a link to the files to you.  That way you can download the files immediately.  The link to the uploaded file will expire in about 15 days - so be sure to download the files immediately and back them up on a CD.  Uploading them is a bit of a pain - so please back them up.  You will also receive links to the Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 Installation programs regardless of whether or not you purchased them.  You can install them at any time, but you can't use the gliders until you enable them with a license key. 

Program CD
If you prefer to buy a Condor Program CD (rather than the free download mentioned above) you can do so for $10 plus shipping (order below).  The CD includes the Condor and Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 installation files, but you would need to purchase license keys to enable the Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 sailplanes.

 $59 In Stock
CondorBasicKit Condor Basic Kit
This is a special package price including the items listed below.

Note: Rudder Pedals and Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 license keys are not included in this kit.  They may be ordered separately below.

Complete System with Condor License, Program CD, and Joystick
Condor Condor CD Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick
$99 In Stock
CondorStandardKit Condor Standard Kit
This is a special package price including the items listed below.

Note: Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 license keys are not included in this kit.  They may be ordered separately below.

Complete System with Condor License, Program CD, Joystick, and Rudder Pedals
Condor Condor CD Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick CH Products Pro Pedals
$204 In Stock
CondorUltimateKit Condor Ultimate Kit
This is a special package price including the items listed below.
Complete System with Condor License, Plane Pack 1, Plane Pack 2, Program CD, Joystick, and Rudder Pedals

 		 Schleicher ASG 29
Rolladen-Schneider LS 10
Schempp-Hirth Ventus 2cx
Jantar 2b
PW-5 		Schleicher ASW 15
Schleicher ASW 19
Jantar Standard 3
Libelle
Rolladen-Schneider
LS 4
Condor Condor Plane Pack 1 Condor Plane Pack 2 Condor CD Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick CH Products Pro Pedals

 
Condor Plane Pack 1
Schleicher ASG 29 Rolladen-Schneider
LS 10		 Schempp-Hirth
Ventus 2cx		 Jantar 2b PW-5

 
Condor Plane Pack 2
Schleicher ASW 15 Schleicher ASW 19 Jantar Standard 3 Libelle Rolladen-Schneider
LS 4

Condor License Key


Plane Pack 1


Plane Pack 2

  		$238 In Stock
CondorPlanePack1 Plane Pack 1 - License Key
The standard Condor package includes 13 very nice sailplanes.  This very nice upgrade is available if you want to add the 5 very nice additional sailplanes listed below to your installation of Condor.
 
Condor Plane Pack 1
Schleicher ASG 29 Rolladen-Schneider
LS 10		 Schempp-Hirth
Ventus 2cx		 Jantar 2b PW-5

Registration Key
The software must be enabled using a registration key.  I will e-mail your registration key to you. It will also be included on the invoice that is sent to you.  Be sure to keep it in a safe place for future reference.  To enter the registration key for Plane Pack 1 you must go to the glider selection screen, select one of the new gliders and press the Register button.

Tip
You can’t install Plane Pack 1 until after you enter the Condor program’s registration key. It does not hurt to install Plane Pack 1 before purchasing a key.

Software Delivery
Unlike other soaring software products, the Condor installation software is not available as a download.  This is done to limit the use of unlicensed copies.  I will upload the files (Condor and Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 Install Programs) to YouSendIt.com and e-mail a link to the files to you.  That way you can download the files immediately.  The link to the uploaded file will expire in about 15 days - so be sure to download the files immediately and back them up on a CD.  Uploading them is a bit of a pain - so please back them up.  You will also receive a link to the Plane Pack 2 Installation program regardless of whether or not you purchased it.  You can install it at any time, but you can't use the gliders until you enable them with a license key.
 

 
 $16 In Stock
CondorPlanePack2 Plane Pack 2 - Club Class Plane Pack - License Key
The standard Condor package includes 13 very nice sailplanes.  This very nice upgrade is available if you want to add the 5 very nice additional sailplanes listed below to your installation of Condor.
 
Condor Plane Pack 2
Schleicher ASW 15 Schleicher ASW 19 Jantar Standard 3 Libelle Rolladen-Schneider
LS 4

Plane Pack 2 Bug Fix
The ASW 19 in Plane Pack 2 has a bug.  One of the instruments does not appear on the instrument panel.  The good news is that a fix has been provided and it is easy to install. 

Note: The fix must be applied manually after installing Plane Pack 2.

Instructions for fixing the bug in Plane Pack 2

  • Install Plane Pack 2 using the installation program provided when you purchased the Plane Pack 2 license.
  • Save the "speed-i-face.tga" file below into the "Program Files\Condor\Planes\ASW19\gauges\" directory.  To download it: right click on the file and select "Save Target As".  You may or may not be able to save it directly to the recommended directory.  If Windows doesn't let you save it directly, then save it to your desktop and use Windows Explorer to copy the file to the correct directory.
    speed-i-face.tga

Important Compatibility Note
Plane Pack 2 requires the use of Condor version 1.1.4 or higher.  Patch 14 upgrades version 1.1.2 to version 1.1.4.  It is a free upgrade. 
Condor installation files provided by Cumulus Soaring, Inc. after January 9th, 2011 will be of version 1.1.4 or higher - so it will not be necessary to do install the upgrade patch if you received your Condor installation file from me after that date.

Registration Key
The software must be enabled using a registration key.  I will e-mail your registration key to you. It will also be included on the invoice that is sent to you.  Be sure to keep it in a safe place for future reference.  To enter the registration key for Plane Pack 2 you must go to the glider selection screen, select one of the new gliders and press the Register button.

Tip
You can’t install Plane Pack 2 until after you enter the Condor program’s registration key. It does not hurt to install Plane Pack 2 before purchasing a key.

Software Delivery
Unlike other soaring software products, the Condor installation software is not available as a download.  This is done to limit the use of unlicensed copies.  I will upload the files (Condor and Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 Install Programs) to YouSendIt.com and e-mail a link to the files to you.  That way you can download the files immediately.  The link to the uploaded file will expire in about 15 days - so be sure to download the files immediately and back them up on a CD.  Uploading them is a bit of a pain - so please back them up.  You will also receive a link to the Plane Pack 1 Installation program regardless of whether or not you purchased it.  You can install it at any time, but you can't use the gliders until you enable them with a license key.



$23 In Stock
Condor-CD Condor Program CD
If you prefer to buy a Condor installation CD (rather than the free download mentioned above) you can do so for $10.00 plus shipping.  The CD includes Condor, Plane Pack 1 and Plane Pack 2 installation files.  However, the installation files won't be of any use unless you also buy the software license keys above.

I'll include a FREE Condor program CD If you buy a complete package with a Condor license, joystick and rudder pedals.

 $10 In Stock
LogitechExtreme3DProJoystick Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick
The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick seems to be the joystick of choice for most Condor users - including myself.  It is a nice, low cost option.  It has a twist handle which is great for rudder control if not using rudder pedals.  If you are using rudder pedals you won't need the twist feature, but it won't hurt either.

Advanced controls
You’ll experience superior response and control with 12 conveniently-placed action buttons, eight-way rubberized hat switch, twist handle, and rapid-fire trigger.

Twist-handle rudder
A twist of the wrist lets you turn on a dime or zero in on your target with deadly accurate direction control.

Configuration in Condor
There is no need to install the Logitech software.  Simply connect the joystick to your PC's USB port.  Then, in Condor, from the main menu, go to "Setup" > "Input" (tab) > "Assign Controls" (button).  Then double-click in the center column in the "Bank" row and move the joystick to the left or right.   Next double-click in the center column in the "Pitch" row and move the joystick forward or back.  Then (if using the twist action of the joystick for rudder control) double-click in the center column in the "Rudder" row and twist the joystick left or right. 

Below are some other suggestions for joystick settings.  They work well for me, but feel free to configure them as you desire.

  • View POV: "Hat" switch on the top of the joystick
  • Flaps Up: The button on the top left on top of the joystick
  • Flaps Down: The button on the lower left of top of the joystick
  • Trimmer Down: The button on the top right on top of the joystick
  • Trimmer Up: The button on the lower right on top of the joystick.
  • Trimmer Center: Trigger on front of joystick
  • Airbrakes: "Throttle" lever on the base of the unit, in the center

Tip
Different glider types use different trimming methods.  Some use the Trimmer Up and Trimmer Up functions (as found on the left side of the cockpit in many gliders) while others use the Trimmer Center function (as found in gliders that have a trim trigger on the control stick).

Manufacturer's Web Site: Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick

Are Rudder Pedals Necessary?
I am often asked whether rudder pedals are required, or highly recommended, or...?  My opinion, and the opinion of several experienced Condor users is:

  • Rudder pedals are not absolutely necessary.  Most joysticks offer a twist action that can be used for rudder control, or you can enable "auto-rudder" in Condor. 

  • Rudder pedals are very highly recommended for anyone using Condor to learn how to fly gliders, or using Condor to practice flying skills such as cross-wind take-offs and landings, slips, skids, slow flight, stalls, spins, or aerobatics.

  • Rudder pedals are probably not necessary for cross-country soaring and contest flying.  Experienced users tell me that they enable the "auto-rudder" feature when flying cross-country or racing - because it is more about how you find lift and how fast you fly than about how well you work the rudder.

 $35 In Stock
CHProPedals CH Products Pro Pedals - Rudder Pedals
Many experienced Condor users and recommend the CH Products Pro Pedals rudder pedals.  They are highly recommended when practicing cross-wind take-offs and landings, slips, skids, slow flight, stalls, spins, and aerobatics.

The rudder pedals have 2 functions.  They slide forward and back for rudder control (they are mechanically linked so they move in opposite directions) and each pedal can be rocked forward and back for differential wheel brake control (when flying power plane simulators).  They can also be locked so they don't slide if you want to use them as brake and accelerator pedals in a auto racing program.  Some experienced glider pilots may find it a bit different to use the sliding action for rudder control - since many glider rudder pedals rock forward and back rather than sliding.  But it is easy to get used to the difference. 

Features

  • Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP/XP64,Vista (all versions), Windows 7
  • Mac OSX (Note: The CH Control Manager software is not Mac compatible.)
  • 3 axes
  • X and Y axes for Left and Right Toe Brake control
  • Z axis on self centering sliding mechanism for Rudder control
  • Realistic heel-toe differential brake control
  • Locking rudder axis for Gas/Brake emulation for racing games
  • Large sturdy base with 7 foot USB cable
  • Plug and Play driverless USB installation
  • Quality industrial components and construction
  • Two year limited warranty

Manufacturer's Web Site: CH Products Pro Pedals

Are Rudder Pedals Necessary When Using Condor?
I am often asked whether rudder pedals are required, or highly recommended, or...?  My opinion, and the opinion of several experienced Condor users is:

  • Rudder pedals are not absolutely necessary.  Most joysticks offer a twist action that can be used for rudder control, or you can enable "auto-rudder" in Condor. 

  • Rudder pedals are very highly recommended for anyone using Condor to learn how to fly gliders, or using Condor to practice flying skills such as cross-wind take-offs and landings, slips, skids, slow flight, stalls, spins, or aerobatics.

  • Rudder pedals are probably not necessary for cross-country soaring and contest flying.  Experienced users tell me that they enable the "auto-rudder" feature when flying cross-country or racing - because it is more about how you find lift and how fast you fly than about how well you work the rudder.

 $110 In Stock


Paul E. Remde

8661 Connelly Place
Savage, Minnesota 55378
USA


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