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Saab S340Publisher: CarenadoReview Author: Meng YuSuggested Price: $44.95/images/fsc/wbicons/store-buy-now-button.pngThe Saab brand is commonly associatedwith swift and agile fighter jets such as the Gripen, but much likeLockheed, Saab too tried to venture into the civilian airliner marketat one point. In the 1970s, Saab saw interest in entering the marketfor civilian airliners. Whilst you might expect a swift and sleek airliner from a companythat produced fighters, the Saab 340 was actually designed withprimary concerns for economy, due to the energy crisis at the time itwas conceived. For this reason, the aircraft is powered by twoturboprop engines and optimized for short haul flights. The aircraft made its maiden flight on the 25th of January 1983 andeventually sold close to 500 units, with many belonging to airlinesaround the world, but also a few chosen to be VIP transports.Unfortunately due to stiff competition from other regional aircraftmanufacturers, Saab terminated production of the aircraft in 1999,though many examples continue to take to the skies today. /images/reviews/cares340/t/1-Introduction-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/1-Introduction-02.jpgIntroductionI've always been impressed by the looks of Carenado's products, andthis is no different. The Saab 340 is beautifully recreated for us toenjoy, from high quality textures to a full set of custom gauges inthe cockpit. In your simulator's root folder, you'll find a Carenado folder withseveral PDF documents that detail how to get the best experience,from recommended simulator settings to various checklists andreferences required to fly the aircraft. The package also contains two models of the Saab 340: the fullversion and the LITE version, the latter of which does not include avirtual cabin for those running their simulators on older systems orprefer to have a few extra frames. /images/reviews/cares340/t/1-Introduction-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/1-Introduction-04.jpgExterior LooksLoading the aircraft up on a clear day, the work that went intocreating this aircraft becomes immediately apparent. Whilst the S340isn't perhaps the best-looking prop out there, it certainly is one ofthe more unusual airliners that not many developers have recreated,much less to the detail that Carenado has done. Carenado has included nine HD liveries and one blank one for therepainters out there. The textures are of very high quality (4096 x4096) as can be expected of a Carenado product. Of the nine HD liveries,eight represent airlines around the world, from UK-based Flybe to Japan'sJapan Air Lines. The final livery appears to be that of a private S340so that you can embark on charter flights to any destination of yourchoosing. /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries04.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries05.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries06.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/2-Liveries07.jpgDoors on the aircraft are, well, few for an aircraft of this sizeand only the passenger and rear cargo doors are animated for thisaircraft. Nonetheless, the folding stairs of the passenger door areincluded. Parked on the ramp, the Saab is tended to by various groundservices included as part of the package. These include engine coversand an aircraft tug, and even a ground power unit that isfunctional. If you already have a ground services add-on, theseelements can easily be disabled with the click of a button, though youlose the ability to use ground power if you do so. Whilst the lookscertainly do speak for themselves, I was somewhat disappointed thatthese ground services, including the tug, disappear as soon as theparking brakes are released. It would've been nice to see thepushback tug to be functional and visible during pushback, especiallysince even freeware aircraft occasionally come with custom pushbacktugs. /images/reviews/cares340/t/3-Static-Elements-01.jpg Interior LooksAs with the exterior, the interior of the aircraft has receivedsimilar treatment form Carenado. The cockpit has a full set of customgauges and realistic night lighting effects. Cockpit textures arecrisp and sharp, but still provide excellent performance for the levelof detail. This makes the aircraft especially enjoyable to fly atnight, as I am able to more realistically light up the cockpit versusthe high-powered cockpit floodlights that default aircraft seem to beequipped with. /images/reviews/cares340/t/4-Night-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/4-Night-02.jpgWith the Saab 340, Carenado elected to simulate a pristine exampleof the S340, and as such, the cockpit textures show no wear andtear. Whilst some may ague that this detracts from the realism of anaircraft that stopped production in 1999, I personally find it ratherenjoyable to own and fly a S340 that looks like it just rolled off theproduction line. /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-04.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-05.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/5-Cockpit-06.jpgIn line with most add-ons today, the Carenado S340 does not featurea full 2D panel, merely a partial one for several gauges that may bedifficult to accurately access in flight. The PFD, MFD, lower pedestalsystems and the "Universal" FMC are all part of the panels that 2Dpanels have been included for. Additionally, a handy panel stateselector is available, along with the animation and ground servicescontrol panel. For harder to reach gauges, there are several pre-madeviews in the virtual cockpit that simulate 2D panels excellently,although I'm once again somewhat disappointed that there is no viewfor the main overhead panel, which made the initial learning processrather difficult as it was more difficult to locate the appropriateswitches to start the electrics and engines. Nonetheless, I chalk thisup to more of my personal gripe and should become a non-issue once youbecome familiar with the aircraft. I find the inclusion of a panel state selector to be very helpful,as this eliminates the trouble of first loading up the default Cessna,turning everything off then loading the desired aircraft again whenyou wish to simulate a full flight form Cold and Dark. However,Carenado takes this one step further and supports starting the flightfrom several states between Cold and Dark and being fully ready fortakeoff. Whilst I'm curious as to the rationale behind someone whowishes to start the flight with only one engine running, nonethelessthe choice is there should you wish to take advantage of it. SystemsWhilst the aircraft certainly wowed me with the looks, I can't helpbut be somewhat disappointed with the lack of in-depth systemssimulation. Functionality aside, the included "Universal FMC" isnon-functional in the virtual cockpit view and must be manipulatedusing the 2D version. This gives the impression of laziness on thedeveloper's part as something so basic feels like it should be a givenconsidering the price of the add-on. /images/reviews/cares340/t/6-Gauges-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/6-Gauges-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/6-Gauges-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/6-Gauges-04.jpgAdditionally, the Universal FMC itself seems rather lacklustercompared to a fully functioning FMC, providing only basic navigationfunctions, though it does provide the ability to fly SIDS andSTARS. Nonetheless, there appears to be click-spots on the FMC gaugefor more functionality than was described in the "FMS.pdf" manualprovided, including a VNAV button, though clicking the button producedno apparent results and the manual provides little to no help onthis. Perhaps there are plans to improve upon the FMC in the future? For now though, it would appear as if Flight1's GTN750 (soldseparately) is one of the best options for an immersive experience forthis aircraft. Flight ModelHaving taken a thorough tour of the aircraft on the ground, I wasexcited to see what it felt like to fly the aircraft. For my firstflight, I elected to try out one of Loganair's (operating with theFlybe livery) routes from Glasgow, UK to Bergen in Norway. /images/reviews/cares340/t/7-Parked-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/7-Parked-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/7-Parked-03.jpgThe aircraft is rather agile, as one would expect from an aircraftof this size. During taxi, I found the controls to be very touchy, asmall bump in the rudder would often turn the aircraft severaldegrees. Coming from flying larger jets, it can take some gettingused to. The takeoff was rather uneventful and pulling the yoke back atabout 100 knots allows the aircraft to rise smoothly into theair. Once in the air, the aircraft cleaned up nicely and easilyachieved the stipulated climb speed of 140 knots. /images/reviews/cares340/t/8-Departure-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/8-Departure-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/8-Departure-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/8-Departure-04.jpgI tried the various autopilot modes during climb, though the VSmode seem to produce the best results. The autopilot IAS mode seems tobe bugged, and when activated, the aircraft will fluctuate up and downrepeatedly (I was careful to ensure no time acceleration was usedhere) and struggle to maintain speed. During cruise, the autopilot was able to accurately track the routeas per the FMC, though the FMC did not cycle through the waypointscorrectly and was stuck on the first waypoint. Nonetheless, theautopilot was still able to follow the route without a hitch. /images/reviews/cares340/t/9-Cruise-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/9-Cruise-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/9-Cruise-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/9-Cruise-04.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/9-Cruise-05.jpgOn descent, I noticed the VNAV button on the autopilot console so Idecided to give it a try. VNAV mode does work surprisingly well at thestart, and initiated a smooth descent into Bergen airport. Isuccessfully utilized the FMC to select a STAR and the ILS 17 approachinto Bergen airport. However, my success with VNAV mode ended here,with the aircraft refusing to descend to the altitude listed on theFMC, instead remaining about a thousand feet higher despite resettingthe altitude alert to reflect the correct altitude. It was at this point that I took over control from the autopilotand flew the approach by hand to get a feel for the aircraft. Onapproach, the aircraft has a tendency to sink rather quickly (asevidenced by my position on approach being slightly lower than theglideslope) and significant engine thrust is required to ensure that Idid not descend below the glideslope. Nevertheless, I was able to landthe aircraft rather smoothly without incident. /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-03.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-04.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-05.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/10-Approach-06.jpgDuring the rollout, the aircraft decelerated surprisingly quicklyand then began an unremarkable taxi to the stand, which concluded mytest flight. /images/reviews/cares340/t/11-End-01.jpgSoundsHow an aircraft sounds is always bound to be a subjectivediscussion, more so when it comes to turboprop aircraft. Whilst Icannot say for sure whether or not the sound set of the S340 isauthentic, I can attest that the aircraft does believable, and similarto how other turboprop aircraft sound in flight simulator. /images/reviews/cares340/t/12-Pics-01.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/12-Pics-02.jpg /images/reviews/cares340/t/12-Pics-03.jpgConclusionIn the end, much like Carenado's other propliners, the avionics andsystems simulations with this add-on are somewhat basic. Whilstcertainly an upgrade over default aircraft and freeware add-ons, forthe price that you're paying I can't help but feel that more should'vebeen done. Additionally, I've noticed several kinks within theavionics and FMC still left to be worked out, which is disappointingto say the least. Despite so, the visuals do convey the impression of a respectableadd-on which I am certainly impressed by. Compared to other Saab 340add-ons, payware or freeware, Carenado's rendition is certainly themost presentable, realistic and enjoyable. With its recent depictionsof regional aircraft, Carenado has certainly delivered some amazingmodels of rarer turboprops, including this Saab 340 and theFokker F50I reviewed previously. In fact, Carenado is perhaps one of the only flightsim developersto have recreated the Saab 340 to a respectable standard thus far. Ifyou're a hardcore Saab 340 fan who would really enjoy a good-lookingmodel in your hangar, this add-on is definitely for you. However, ifyou're merely looking for a realistic flight simulation experiencewith a regional turboprop, there are certainly better options for theprice, in my opinion. /images/reviews/cares340/cares340.jpgMeng Yu Purchase Carenado - Saab S340 for FSX/Prepar3D Purchase Carenado - Saab S340 for X-Plane 11
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/images/notams/notams19/care0307/care0307a.jpgFeaturesHigh-end 4K PBR (Physically-based Rendering) graphics throughout, with ultra-realistic materials rendition (dynamic reflections, realistic metal and dielectric materials, etc.) Fully customized in-depth annunciator logic/aural warning logic/throttle logic, with friction control, gate, flight idle and flight idle override. Custom EHSI and EADI instruments and custom MFD85 with moving map, all featuring detachable pop-up windows Integrated FMS with detachable pop-up window (Laminar default) Custom APS85 Autopilot with detachable pop-up window Rain effect support* Fully customized Custom Torque on Take-Off (CTOT) system Fully customized pusher (anti-stall) logic In-depth FMOD sound design implementation, including distance effects, realistic prop reversal effects, etc. Functional gust lock system Custom electrical system/Starter Logic/Fuel System/prop logic/Bleed Air System/Avionics busses/Hydraulic Logic (Requires, among other things, pressurizing brake lines prior to chock removal)/Electrical Temperature system/de-ice logic Custom independent windshield wiper logic (with functional off and park positions) Airspeed Indicator with "Barber Pole" and functional test sequence RealityXP GTN750 support (with 3D panel display support) Extensive VR support with snap points in every passenger seat (All knobs, buttons, dials, handles, etc. also optimized for VR usage) Extensive HDR lighting with gimballed 3D lights and dynamically illuminated tail logo and ice lights for amazing night lighting effects Ground steering (tiller) system /images/notams/notams19/care0307/saab340_1.jpgIncludes air conditioning, pressurization, and oxygen system Features reversionary logic for EHSI and EADI. All passenger seats support seat backs, table trays, arm rests, HDR reading lights, stewardess call buttons. Main door has optional retractable passenger stairs. Functional stewardess control panel Visible and functional Ground Power Unit End-user customizable via Manifest.json file. Goodway compatible Engine design optimized for XP11.30¡¯s new turboprop model Flight dynamics optimized for latest improvements in XP11.30. Support for ¡°librain¡± plugin, including wiper support (Requires separate plugin install) Librain support also includes visual ice effects on windows.*Requires downloading Librain plugin. /images/notams/notams19/care0307/saab340_2.jpgIncluded In The Package9 HD liveries 1 HD blank livery S340 Emergency Procedure PDF S340 Normal Procedures PDF S340 Performance Tables PDF S340 Reference PDF S340 Overhead Panel Layout PDF DCP PDF X-Plane FMS PDF Recommended Settings XP11 PDF /images/notams/notams19/care0307/saab340_3.jpgPurchase Carenado - Saab S340 for X-Plane 11
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/images/notams/notams19/care0220.jpgFeaturesHigh-end 4k PBR (Physically-based Rendering) graphics throughout, with ultra-realistic materials rendition (Dynamic reflections, realistic metal and dielectric materials, etc.)Fully customized in-depth annunciator logic/aural warning logic/throttle logic, with friction control, gate, flight idle and flight idle override.Custom EHSI and EADI instruments and custom MFD85 with moving map, all featuring detachable pop-up windowsIntegrated FMS with detachable pop-up window (Laminar default)Custom APS85 Autopilot with detachable pop-up windowAnd many others... Purchase Carenado - S340 X-Plane 11 Released
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/images/notams/notams19/care0128/carenado1.jpgIn a very brief announcement on their Facebook page, Carenadohas announced they are working on the S340 for X-Plane 11. The alreadyoffer theSaab S340 for FSX/P3D. Along with the announcement the offered some screen shots: /images/notams/notams19/care0128/carenado2.jpg /images/notams/notams19/care0128/carenado3.jpg /images/notams/notams19/care0128/carenado4.jpgSource
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/images/notams/notams18/care0516.jpgFeaturesOriginal autopilot installedHD quality textures at 4096 x 4096Real SF34 soundsCustomizable panel for controlling windows transparency, instrument reflections and static elements such as wheel chocks and sights propsReal behavior compared to the real airplane; real weight and balanceTested by real pilotsRealistic night lights effects on panel and cockpitSpecial FeaturesFull FSX, P3D v2, v3, v4, and Steam compatibleFlight1 GTN 750 integrationUpdatable databaseAIRAC cycle 1310 (October 2013) includedSequence ProcedureCold and Dark start optionVolumetric side view prop effectTakeoff run and landing real rolling movement effectDynamic propeller shines effectCustom brakes sounds on taxi and landing run /images/notams/notams18/care0516.pngIncluded In The Package9 HD liveries1 HD Blank liveryS340 Emergency Procedure PDFS340 Normal Procedures PDFS340 Performance Tables PDFS340 Reference PDFS340 Overhead Panel Layout PDFFMS PDFDCP PDFRecommended Settings (FSX and P3Dv4) PDF Purchase Carenado - Saab S340 for FSX and P3D