FAQ

Can’t find the answers you’re looking for? We’ve shared some of our most frequently asked questions to help you out!

I live in the United Kingdom. Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we do ship internationally. When your products arrive, you will be required to pay taxes and import duties. The mail provider will send you a notification detailing the amount of import duties.

Do you ship to Australia ?

Yes, we ship internationally, including to Australia. When you proceed to checkout on our website, the shipping costs will be calculated for you based on your location. Additionally, please note that customers ordering from Australia may be required to pay import taxes, customs duties, and fees imposed by Australian authorities. These charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost displayed at checkout. Import duties and taxes vary depending on the items being shipped and the destination. It’s essential for customers to be aware of and responsible for any additional charges imposed by customs upon delivery.

Do you ship to Canada?

Yes, we ship internationally. When you check out on the website, it will calculate the shipping for you. And you will also have to pay any duties and customs fees that Canada requires.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes, we offer free shipping within the USA.

Do you offer expedited shipping?

Yes, we do. While free shipping is the default option, we also provide the choice to upgrade to Priority Mail for expedited delivery.

I am trying to order something as a gift that I need urgently. Can you please tell me which shipping option to pick so it will get here quickly?

For expedited shipping, we recommend selecting the Priority Mail option on our website during checkout. You’ll find this option available after entering your personal information.

Where do you ship from?

Georgia, USA

Are your products compatible with Mac?

Yes, our products are fully compatible with Mac operating systems.

Are your products compatible with a PC?

Yes, our products work with PC systems.

Do your products work with Xbox X series?

Desktop Pilot’s products should technically be compatible with the Xbox X series, as it is also owned by Microsoft. However, we are in the process of obtaining separate certification specifically for Xbox. We have already submitted our application and are just waiting for approval.

Note: No, our products are currently not compatible with Xbox.

Are your products compatible with Prepar3D V5?

Yes, Desktop Pilot’s Flaps Panel, Parking Brake, Throttle Box, and Trim Wheel are all compatible with Prepar3D V5. Setup instructions for these products can be found on the footer of our website under the “Manuals” link. Additionally, while our Ignition Panel is also compatible with Prepar3D, it requires setup using third-party software. We provide separate instructions for configuring the Ignition Panel.

What software are your products compatible with?

Desktop Pilot’s high-end flight sim gear is compatible with a range of popular flight simulation software, including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, X-Plane 11 and 12, FSX (Flight Simulator X), and Prepar3D

I need help calibrating your products for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

To calibrate Desktop Pilot’s products for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, please visit the footer of our website and click on the manuals link. You’ll find comprehensive PDFs and instructional videos detailing setup procedures for MSFS, X-Plane, FSX, and Prepar3D.

Is your simulator hardware compatible with other types of hardware?

Absolutely. Desktop Pilot’s flight simulator hardware is designed to be compatible with a wide range of other hardware components. Each hardware device is configured separately within the software. While occasional conflicts in settings may arise, resolving them is simply a matter of adjusting configurations. Our support team is available to assist you in resolving any issues you may encounter during setup.

Does your simulator hardware work interchangeably with other hardware of different brands?

Yes, if you are mixing and matching components, Desktop Pilot’s simulator hardware works interchangeably with hardware from different brands.

I am a student pilot working on my commercial license. Do you sell a simulator that will work just like a Cessna 172?

Yes, we do. All of Desktop Pilot’s hardware components are modeled on Cessna aircraft, including the Cessna 172. You can trust that our simulator hardware will provide an authentic and immersive experience to complement your pilot training.

Are your products suitable for a 12-year-old?

Yes, our products are suitable for a 12-year-old. If your child uses flight simulation software such as Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane, Desktop Pilot’s flight sim hardware will make an excellent addition to their setup. It’s designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, providing an engaging and immersive experience for young pilot enthusiasts.

Will your products work just as well with Bonanza/Piper type GA aircraft?

While Desktop Pilot’s gear is designed based on the model of Cessna planes, it is compatible with all available plane options offered in the software.

Since I currently fly a 'real' 172, I'd like to make my simulator setup as close to that as possible. What recommendations do you have?

All Desktop Pilot’s flight training hardware components are designed based on the model of a real Cessna 172, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience for pilots who are accustomed to flying the actual aircraft.

What is your equipment for? Can't the plane just be controlled with the keyboard when using MSFS or X-Plane?

In the software, you can control functions such as the throttle using keyboard inputs. However, Desktop Pilot’s cockpit controls offer an additional layer of realism, enhancing the simulation experience. Many customers choose to invest in our cessna flight controls as a pilot training tool to practice procedures and develop muscle memory. This hardware closely mimics the controls found in real aircraft, providing a more immersive and effective training environment.

What are the cutout dimensions of your products for panel installation?

You can find the cutout dimensions for each of our individual products by visiting their respective product pages on our website. On each product page, you’ll find a “Specification” tab next to the product description. This tab contains a diagram with the product dimensions and screw locations. You can easily print this diagram on A4 paper and use it as a template to create a design for the cutout during installation.

Regarding hooking all this stuff up, what type of connections do they all use? Do most people go with a powered hub?

Desktop PIlot’s hardware components have use USB connections, with cables featuring Type A on one end and Type B on the other. Many users find it convenient to utilize a powered USB hub to connect multiple devices.

Are your products plug and play?

Yes, they are plug and play after a simple configuration, which can be found in the manuals section located in the footer of our website.

Do your products work with AirManager and X-Plane 12, specifically with the AirFoil Labs C172 NG Analog?

Yes, our products are compatible with AirManager and X-Plane 12, including with third-party aircraft such as the AirFoil Labs C172 NG Analog. As the base game remains X-Plane 12, our products utilize the same settings, ensuring seamless integration and functionality across various aircraft.

Do your products autobind or do I need to configure them myself?

Currently, manual configuration is required, which is straightforward and detailed instructions can be found in the manuals section located in the footer of our website. However, we’re in the process of developing our own software which will enable our products to autobind in the near future.

Do I need to download any drivers for your hardware to work?

No, you simply need to plug them in using the included USB cable and configure them according to the setup instructions available on our website.

How do I mount your products to a table?

You have two options for mounting our flight sim gear. Firstly, you can attach it using double-sided sticky Velcro, which is included with your purchase. Alternatively, if you prefer to mount them into a panel, you can find the dimensions for panel mounting on the specification tab next to the product description on our website. Our hardware comes with panel nuts for this purpose. Whether you choose to mount them on a desk or in a panel, our products offer versatility and ease of installation to suit your needs.

What are the connection types from each respective item to the PC?

The USB cable is A on one side and B on the other. The A side connects to your computer, the B side connects to the product. If you are using multiple products, you will need to connect them using a USB hub.

Do you sell products modeled on Piper planes?

No, at the moment the design of our products is based on Cessna planes. We may look at developing something like that in the future.

My product isn't working correctly, what should I do?

First, check to see if there is a red light illuminated on the back of the product. If not, ensure that you have the cable securely plugged into the unit and into your computer, and that your USB hub is powered on. Then double-check that you have configured the product within the software according to the setup instructions found on our website. Next, perform a hardware test by visiting the following link: https://hardwaretester.com/gamepad. Record a video clearly showing the numbers displayed on the screen while moving the controller. Send this video to us at support@desktoppilot.com, and we’ll assist you further in troubleshooting and resolving the issue.

Are you able to provide a throttle quadrant with mixture and throttle only? I have a desktop sim that I would like to have as close to a C172 as possible.

Currently, Desktop Pilot does not offer a throttle quadrant with only mixture and throttle controls. However, this is something we may develop in the future.

Do the Throttle Quadrant controls have the vernier component i.e. you can make minor adjustments in and out for fine tuning of throttle picture and prop? And do the prop and mixture knobs unlock when the central button is pressed like the real controls?

Yes, Desktop Pilot’s Throttle Quadrant flight controls are designed to replicate the vernier component, allowing for precise adjustments just like in real aircraft. The prop and mixture knobs function authentically; they unlock when the central button is pressed, mirroring the operation of real aircraft controls.

What is the difference in quality or performance between the Carb Heat Throttle Quadrant and Carb Heat Pro Throttle Quadrant?

The more affordable version just has slider style controls that you can push and pull. The more expensive vernier style controls that knobs that can be turned in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction as in a real aircraft. The vernier style controls more closely resemble the action you can make in a real aircraft.

On the switch panel, can you remove the magneto key?

Yes, you can remove the magneto key from the switch panel.

My preference is for a twin-engine plane. Are there any plans to introduce a dual-start ignition system?

Desktop Pilot’s Spring Return Key Switch is designed to integrate with our ignition panel and caters to users seeking a twin-engine setup.

Why does the fuel shutoff knob in X-Plane behave oppositely – pulling the knob makes it push in, and pushing the knob makes it pull out?

For the fuel tank select, you just have to click the fuel shut off knob once in the cockpit (actually do this in the software by clicking it with your mouse) to put the X-Plane knob in the proper position.

I am interested in buying your full flight simulator. Will you come to my home to help me set it up?

Desktop Pilot does not offer home setup services. However, once our full flight simulator is available, we will provide comprehensive setup videos to assist you. Additionally, our customer support team is available to answer any questions you may have during the setup process.

For beginners looking to build their flight simulator setup, we highly recommend Desktop Pilot’s full flight simulator. Designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience, it will offer all the necessary equipment to get started on your flight simulation journey. Keep an eye out for its release, as it will be an excellent choice for those starting out in the world of flight simulation.

What’s the best setup for a Cessna 172?

We recommend Desktop Pilot’s full flight simulator for the most immersive experience.

What’s going to be included in the full sim?

Desktop Pilot’s new full flight simulator will have the G1000 Glass Cockpit with programmable autopilot and all essential flight controls found in the C172 G1000 cockpit.

The Following Instruments are Included in the Flight Deck:

Desktop Pilot Yoke
Desktop Pilot Rudder Pedals
Circuit Breaker Panel with Spring Return Key Switch
ELT Switch and Hobbs Meter
Multi-Instrument Panel with air speed indicator, attitude gauge, altimeter
G1000 Switch Panel
G1000 Primary Flight Display
G1000 Multifunction Display
Audio Panel
Carb Heat Pro Throttle Quadrant
Trim Wheel with Indicator and Auto Pilot Features
Flaps Panel with motorized indicator
Parking Brake
Fuel Shut-Off Valve & Fuel Selector Panel

I'm in ground school and preparing for flying lessons. How can I set up a quality simulation experience?

If you’re looking to build a setup for a quality simulation experience, you’re in the right place. Desktop PIlot’s full flight simulator, tailored to mimic the design of Cessna planes, which are commonly used for training, will be available for purchase soon. Equipped with all the necessary components, it will provide an immersive experience to complement your ground school and flying lessons perfectly.

Do you have any bundle packs available?

Yes, we do! To explore Desktop Pilot’s bundle options, simply navigate to the “Bundles” tab located on the main menu at the top of our website. From there, you can create your own bundle by selecting the products you desire. Additionally, any bundle you create automatically qualifies for a 10% discount, allowing you to enjoy greater savings while customizing your ideal setup.

I have a coupon code, but it is not working with the bundles. Why not?

We apologize, but unfortunately, coupon codes do not apply to Desktop Pilot’s bundles. This exclusion is clearly stated on our website. The rationale behind this is that bundle packs already come with a built-in 10% discount, and further discounting them would not leave enough profit margin to sustainably support our operations.

Do I get a discount on the bundle packs?

Absolutely! All Desktop Pilot bundle packs come with a built-in 10% discount.

We apologize but the reason could be that the welcome10 promo code cannot be applied to Desktop Pilot’s bundles or combined with any other discounts or promotions. If you are not trying to purchase a bundle and it still won’t work, please email us at sales@desktoppilot.com for further assistance.

How do I cancel my order?

To cancel your order, please send an email to support@desktoppilot.com. If your item hasn’t shipped yet, we will process the refund immediately. However, if your product is already in transit, you will need to return it to us upon receipt. Once the item has been inspected, we will issue the refund accordingly.

What if I order your product and am not happy with it?

We offer a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee, so if for any reason you are not satisfied, you can ship the product back to us and as long as it is in good condition with the original packaging, you will receive a full refund.

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