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BAe 146 Panel
By Dan Vanevenhoven (27 May 2002)
atthias Lieberecht's
BAe 146 panel is outstanding at the least, and is by far one of the
best panels I have ever seen. It's so close the the real thing it's
almost scary. The panel even comes with a 40 page manual in PDF
format, which is a must read.I start up FS2002 with the 146 shut down because the startup is so very realistic I don't want to miss it. Starting up the BAe 146 by simply doing CTRL+E to start up the aircraft definitely takes away from the real life experience and the realism of the panel. A complete checklist from startup to shutdown are in the manual, and it's best if you follow that checklist when starting up the 146.
As you can see this is a very true to the real life experience. The
overhead panel, which uses the compass icon to switch, is very
detailed as well. It includes APU, fuel, hydraulics, electronics,
pressurization, ice protection and lights not to mention the very
detailed engine startup area. It also shows you the the fire
protection area and even has air conditioning vents. When you look
at this panel the first time, if you are unfamiliar with the real
panel, it looks like a lit christmas tree. But if you follow the
checklist in the manual, which is for the most part the real
checklist for the BAe 146, you're off and running. As each system
comes up its warning light goes off.
Then there is the throttle screen. The trim wheels are very nicely
done. They even have the guide and zero marker on them. The flap
control has a few more steps in it than the real one but I think it
is done that way because most of the flightsim planes have way too
many steps in them. Additionally you will find window views on the
pilot's and co-pilot's side and even a place to put your coat.
In conclusion, if you compare it to a real BAe 146 the realism of Matthias Lieberecht's BAe 146 panel is uncanny. While not every switch is working (FS2002 doesn't even have the capacity to make every switch and gauge work) this has got to be one of the most advanced panels I have ever seen. Take a flight in a 146 with this panel and you are as real as it gets. Matthias Lieberecht has gone where most panel designers only dream about. I give this panel a 9 out of 10.
Dan Vanevenhoven
Download
the BAe 146 panel.
dvaneven@rocketmail.com
