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Pro Flight X-65F

Product Information Publishers: Saitek Description: Semi-professional HOTAS stick and throttle unit. Download Size: NA Format: Hardware Simulation Type: FSX/FS9/X-Plane
Reviewed by: Angelique van Campen AVSIM Senior Staff Reviewer - October 6, 2010
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Preface

TOP-SECRET REVIEW ahead, so close your eyes and dont tell others. Madcatz, Saitek and AVSIM present you the declassified Saitek X-65F. A new challenge ahead, this time a hardware review. Any review is generally interesting, but this one probably more so than any other add-on hardware component. Since it has become a pretty long review over the weeks of testing, I thought it would be a good idea to add a table of contents.
Saiteks X-65F What do you get? - Intro - Unpacking the hardware - User Manual and leaflet - Software - Putting thing together - Driver Software - SST Programming Software Hardware Inspection - X-65F Stick - X-65F Throttle Unit and Switch Panel Time for Action Summary / Closing Remarks
Saiteks X-65F This covers an essential flight simulator part for every flight simmer particularly when you prefer joysticks over control yokes. Oops, the Saitek X-65F is not a joystick although it looks like one. This joystick cant move and therefore its not a joy stick, but just a stick and not a normal stick! Instead, its able to detect force sensing. That the X-65F is also a H.O.T.A.S. component, which is an acronym for Hands On Throttle and Stick shouldnt surprise anybody, but that the stick doesnt move and instead detects force sensing, is unique. Unfortunately I dont own the Saiteks X-52 Pro, so Im not able to compare where possible the X-52 with this X-65F. On the other hand, I can tell you that although Saitek still offers the X-52 Pro hardware, the X-65F is the replacement. Probably one of the reasons to keep both available for flight simmers is the price difference. While writing this review, theres no competitor who offers a force sensing stick. HOTAS equipment can be found, but that has nothing to do with force sensing. Thrustmasters HOTAS COUGAR claims to be a 100% replica of the F-16 fighter, which is according to them, the most realistic flight stick on the market, however they forget to tell the user that that stick isnt able to detect force sensing. Since the real F-16 is equipped with a non-movable stick, the Thrustmaster isnt as realistic as they say!
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Not directly related to the Saitek X-65F but worth mentioning, Robert Whitwell AVSIM Reviews Editor visited the Ein Los Angeles and had an exclusive look at Thrustmasters upcoming HOTAS Warthog. Although it seems this competitor created a great HOTAS, it still isnt equipped with a force sensing stick. This means that the competitors model doesnt offer what Saitek offers. In other words, while writing this review, Saitek is the only manufacture who offers a real force sensing stick and I can tell you already, its an awesome experience. Ok, heading back for the X-65F. As usual, the manufacturer offers lots of website information so lets see what Madcatz/Saitek writes about the X-65F Pro Flight. Pro Flight X-65F Combat Control System Rule the skies with the latest Saitek X series controller the Pro Flight X65F Control System. Custom engineered from high grade metal castings; this is a system that is built to withstand many combat engagements. The number of controls available will cater for any pilots needs, but the true innovation resides within the stick itself Force Sensing technology. What is Force Sensing? In a world first for a manufactured simulation controller, the X65Fs stick does not move; instead, like those found in real modern fighter jets, it responds to pressure that you exert on the handle, resulting in a fast, accurate and realistic response that will make you the ace in your squadron. With no moving parts and a shaft that is made from high grade steel, this provides incredible reliability and longevity. Product Features
Metal construction for the ultimate in realism and durability Unique force sensing stick all input is detected from how hard you push on the stick, just like in real modern day jet fighters. This includes a forcesensing twist rudder control Features on-the-fly adjustment of the force settings for the stick including separate adjustments for each axis of the stick for the ultimate in stick response configuration. Dual throttle for finer control over twin engine jets, or lock the two throttles together for single engine fighters Stick controls include: Three 8-way hats, one 8-way thumb hat, one trigger, two buttons and 2 pinkie switches. Throttle controls include: Two rotaries with push button controls, one mouse hat, four 8-way hats, one 2 way K switch, one scroll selector and one 4 position mode switch Back panel with 5 more control switches, force-sensing strength selection, mode indication and mounting points for Saitek Pro Flight Instrument Panels A potential total of 608 commands possible without ever moving your hands from the controls!

As always, every manufacturer writes awesome things about their product as if its something unique. This time I completely agree with statements like Custom engineered from high grade metal castings or ultimate in realism and durability. Knowing other Saitek Pro Flight products, I must admit that this X65F unit looks and feels massive, well designed and ergonomic, but above all; it looks and feels almost professional. Almost because youll never find it in a real fighter or an Airbus, which makes sense if youre aware of the aviation rules. Anyway, this stick with throttle unit, although mainly made out of metal castings, is the opposite of the Pro Flight yoke with throttle unit. If you want, you can connect to both Pro Flight units (either the X-65F or the Pro yoke with throttle quadrant) and the Pro Flight pedals. One last remark before heading to the next section; since the stick is equipped with yaw sensing, you could eliminate the rudder pedal. On the other hand, rudder pedals are standard real cockpit equipment so why not within your virtual cockpit?

What do you get?

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Intro This section covers a little more than only what hardware do you get. Ill try to start with the hardware, but include in a logical order how to connect the units together and how to test it before using it. Not that its a shock of whats coming up, but it definitely helps those who are not familiar with Saitek products or not familiar with HOTAS stick and throttle units. Unpacking the hardware After I opened the declassified brown X-65F box, I still had no idea of what would be inside. Ok, I knew it should have the stick with throttle unit inside. Unless youve seen it in your local flight store, its massive, its heavy and its not flight simulator stuff! Its almost professional equipment. No, thats the only thing thats not true. Its not used within the professional world, but studying the overall quality of the units gives the impression it is. Im so sorry, Im going too fast unless youve purchased it already. Lets start again with opening the box and seeing whats inside. Logically, theres the stick- and throttle unit with the two control boxes, which are to be mounted on the front. Furthermore, a few pieces like screws, an Allen key, Teflon rings, Velcro tape, and a heavy metal plate. Furthermore, two DVDs, a paper manual and a quick mounting leaflet. It seems not much but more is not needed. Before I continue, lets have a look at the following screenshots.

picture III

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picture IV

picture V

picture VI

Picture I: Put the stainless steel plate upside-down. Picture II: Put one side of the Velcro tape along the side of the plate as shown on the screenshot. Picture III: Turn the stainless steel plate back and notice the 4 nuts and the three angled side walls. Picture IV: Position the stick over the plate as shown above. The front opening is needed to connect the throttle cable to the stick. Picture V: Insert all four screws with rings and tighten with the provided Allen key. Do not over tighten! Worth mentioning is that the Allen key as shown on the picture can turn 360 without hitting the stick structure. Picture VI: Press the marking plate (click the thumbnail and see within the red square) firmly on the stick hand palm. Now its time to connect the switch- and dummy panels to the throttle unit. Not a complicated job, but remember to put the switch panel on the left hand side as you can see in picture III. Placing the switch panel on the right hand side could give the impression that this is also possible. This is unfortunately not the case since each panel is then only tightened with one screw instead of two. Since the throttle unit isnt provided with a stainless steel plate, theres probably a need to adjust the throttle tension screw to prevent lifting the unit when moving either or both throttles. According to Saitek the stainless steel plate was primarily put in for the stick, because the stick is force sensing and some users might like a very heavy feeling thus the plate is there to help secure the stick down. We have included the plate for that reason although the plate can be used for the throttle side if required.

picture VII

picture VIII

picture IX

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Picture VII: Turn the throttle unit upside-down and connect the two stainless steel brackets with the supplied screws to the bottom of the unit as can be seen within the red squares. Within the light blue square youll find the throttle tension adjustment screw. It allows you to change the necessary force to move the throttles. Picture VIII: When youre done, its time to connect the switch and dummy panels. They are positioned at the end of the brackets as can be seen on the picture. Position the panels in place as shown and tighten them each with two screws (see for this the orange squares). Again, do not over tighten them and notice the position of the panels. The left hand panel is the dummy while the right hand is the switch panel. Not shown on this picture are the two screws that are left. Those are not spare screws but they should be used to connect the two panels on the inside together. See the leaflet for this. Picture IX: This is the way the panels should be fitted. You can swap the panels on the brackets, but then youll find out that each panel can only be tightened with one screw instead of two and furthermore, youre not able to connect them on the inside together. For the cable connection between the throttle unit and switch panel it doesnt make any difference. Finally, you need to connect the three cables from the throttle unit. The throttle unit has three cables at the back. One with a USB connector that needs to be connected to your PC or a USB hub. The other two cables differ in length but have the same type of connectors. On the short cable connector head is written SW/P from SWitch Panel while on the long cable connector STICK is written.

You can control the force setting on the switch panel by pressing either button (F1, F2, F3 or F4). The result of this is that less force is needed to get a certain output and thus control flight movement. By the way; F1 means more force is needed for an output while F4 equals a minimum force is required to get a flight control deflection.

TEST STICK

TEST THROTTLE

TEST SWITCH PANEL

TEST STICK: Allows you to test not only the pitch, roll and yaw twist force function, you can also press the buttons and/or switches. An activated switch or button illuminates on the screen. This tells you that the particular switch or button is sending a signal via the throttle unit to the PC and thus its working. At the same time you can press on the switch panel on-the-fly the FORCE SETTING buttons. This directly reflects the needed force to get a certain stick output. TEST THROTTLE: Although were dealing with the throttle unit, the principle is the same as that of the TEST STICK tab. Throttle movement, rotary selectors, switches, buttons; they all result in a direct output on the screen. TEST SWITCH PANEL: Whats applicable for the previous two is also applicable for the switch panel. On the screenshot you can see two green lit buttons. These are pressed by me and captured for the screenshot. The only switches that dont provide a feedback are the F1, F2, F3 and F4. Software bug? The four MODE light units are not interacting because these are just lights and no buttons! FORCE: The force tab shows you the default F1, F2, F3 and F4 force settings of the buttons on the switch panel and thus the required stick force. This window allows you to modify a stick force or all the underlying F buttons forces.
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So the executable driver file installs the necessary Saitek drivers, however it will not create any shortcuts on your desktop or add something under the Start menu button. What does this mean? It means once youve finished the tests and adjusted the stick force, the Saitek window is closed and you arent able to do this procedure again? Yes you are! That part deals with the Saitek Programming software. SST Programming Software When you havent the intention to work with game profiles, this software is mandatory. As said before, its not only used for creating or editing profiles, its also used when needed, to test the different components or to adjust the force settings of the stick.
Ok, either you go for the supplied DVD or you download again the latest programming software from Saitek, which is my preference. Start the executable file and before you know youre done. When theres a need for it, additional information about the installation process is available in the manual. Once finished, youll find under the Start menu a folder All Programs | Saitek SD6 Programming Software (see the upper screenshot on the right). It offers the Profile Editor program, Profiler, which is no more than a tray-icon. Theres also a sub folder named Manuals with many different language html files. These manuals are an extension to the previously discussed paper manual. All examples given in this digital html manual are in combination with the Cyborg joystick. Despite it being a different joystick, the basic software principle is the same. Furthermore, the installer adds also a Saitek tray icon. The software is configured in such way that with every PC restart this tray icon becomes active. The only thing you need to do is right click on it. This brings up the small menu with several options as you can see on the lower right screenshot. Some are self-explanatory while clicking the Profile Editor as it brings up the Profile Editor Program. That will be discussed below and the Control Panel brings up the same test control panel we saw before during the driver software installation. Can you remember them; the TEST STICK, TEST THROTTLE, TEST SWITCH PANEL and FORCE? I hope so since its only one section back!

Its time to move on so lets start the Profile Editor program and see what you can do with it. As you can see on the screenshots below, it comes with four buttons (read sections); - Product page - Settings page - Programming page - Support page
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Product page Product page:

Settings page

Programming page

Support page

This page doesnt seem to be a very interesting way to start, however it shows the user the installed software versions at the left hand bottom. If needed or on a regular basis not automatically you can use the Support button on the top, following the Download Drivers and Software option. Settings page: This offers you a few interesting things like testing your stick's pitch, roll and yaw outputs including the force needed to do so. Force scale units can be changed according to your own preferences. I would like to add something, which reflects my personal experience. Im left handed, but using my right hand on the stick isnt that bad at all. It offers me the hand palm rest, my thumb rests on HAT switch 3, my index finger (or pointer- or forefinger) on the trigger and the rest of the fingers fit around the stick itself. With this situation, applying a pitch and roll input, it seems Im doing quite well on the graph. The moment Im also trying to apply a yaw, then my right hand control isnt able to do that in a correct manner. My left hand would perform much better. On the other hand, using Saiteks Pro Flight Rudder pedals would solve this problem and yaw can be applied as it should be via the pedals. By the way; if you want to reduce the stick YAW channel, you simple move the Z-axis slider completely to the right. It doesnt eliminate the Z-axis or YAW input/output, but the necessary force is set to a high value. Long story short; when youre also left handed, you either perform much better than me or you face the same problem, but is it a problem? No, using your right hand on the stick feels good. Why bringing this all up? When youre left handed and in the lucky position of being a real F-16 pilot, the stick is situated on your right hand side with the throttles on the left, so would you face the same problem or not? Back to our Settings page, section Set Forces. It allows you, as weve seen already before, to adjust the needed stick forces for the switch panel buttons F1, F2, F3 and F4. Clicking an F button on the screen also activates and illuminates the same button on the switch panel. You can change the X-, Y- or Z-AXIS slider to a higher or lower force value and save this. In case you made a mess of it, theres always the restore default forces button. And you can do this all on-the-fly! Programming page: When you open it for the first time, it could look complicated, but believe me, it isnt. Creating game profile files is not difficult and allows you to use every switch, button on the stick, throttle or switch panel. But what the heck is a game profile? According to Saitek a game profile is the name we call a file that has programmed controller commands saved into it for example, you may have a joystick with a number of buttons / hats. If you want one of these to do something in-game that you would normally have to use a keyboard shortcut for, you can assign that command to that button. So, if you want button A to activate the landing gear (which is the g key), you can assign this in the Profiler Editor. You can of course do more complicated assignments, like shift+F2 or even timed commands.

Hardware Inspection

X-65F Stick Its not an easy job to describe what I see or when I touch the stick. I mentioned in the beginning that I dont own the Saitek X-52 and therefore I cant
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compare the two. The only thing I can compare, are the things that can be seen by the naked eye. Bunches of screenshots or even a video wont help us, but Ill give it a shot with some close-up photos. Looking at the stick itself tells me that its a massive unit with a well-balanced design. The stick is matt black and expresses metal and absolutely no plastic. Oops, mistake its made of metal. That the stick itself is made of metal is also applicable for the HAT- and POV switches, levers and buttons although the red buttons on the front and back are, as far as I can judge, made of high quality plastic. When youve placed your hand around the stick, its very easy to reach every switch and/or button. Ergonomic wise it is almost perfect and Ive got the feeling that this almost perfect fit is over a large range of hand sizes. Anyway, the simulated nut at the bottom of the stick, which connects it to the base (I dont believe that, but it looks for like that) as well as the base itself, are again made of metal. Altogether a heavy unit of approximately 1.7 Kilograms ( 3.7 Pounds). Though the overall unit is heavy, theres still a need for the stick base to connect in one way or another to a table. For this reason it comes with what Ive described before, a stainless steel mounting plate that can be mounted to the stick base and with Velcro tape it can be connected to a table. The advantage is, when you no longer need the stick, you simple pull the stick up, splitting the Velcro halfs. For those flight simmers who want it permanently available; they can use the four base holes and connect the stick with longer screws directly to the table or bracket. For programming purposes, every switch and button except for the two triggers/levers are marked on the stick with a number or text. urthermore, putting my right hand around the stick, leaving my hand palm resting on the platform, gives me the idea that Saitek put a lot of effort creating a thorough and well-designed stick. It could be a mistaken for a professional side stick. Pictures show you something, but dont offer you the 3D look I have in my personal FS hangar. On the other hand, this X-65F is totally different in design than the X-52 models and seems to me a lot more sophisticated with a professional grip. With that said, I tried to make some close-up images, hoping that these help you understanding what I see and feel.

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What I said before; many parts are made of metal or light alloy. The red buttons on the stick are made of high quality plastic. Where needed, youll find on the button itself a letter or number otherwise when its too small, its marked on the stick itself.The moment the stick is wired to the throttle unit and connected to a USB port and thus electrically powered, a green backlight at the HAT switch illuminates. The handpalm rest offers a stable and natural support for all stick force operations. Not sure, but the nut at the bottom of the stick seems fake to me, nonetheless it looks professional and as real as its possible. As far as I can see, the base plate of the stick (and throttle unit) are a mixture between plastic and metal. The fact that this is a mix composition doesnt harm the overall unit weight. Its still heavy and doesnt give any problems with force inputs. Overall impression. Very professional like! With the stick connected to the throttle and the overall X-65F set to the PC, green backlights at the HAT switch 1, 2 and 3 illuminate, indicating that the unit is powered. Some last words about the force sensing and the unit. Dont worry about applying a high stick force and pulling the whole unit off from the Velcro tape. As you can see for yourself on one of the previous pictures, the Velcro tape is fitted at every side of the mounting plate and nothing will happen, even if you select the highest default force, which is the F4 button. The stick as well as the throttle unit can be used with many games. Remember what I said before; basic or default stick and throttle functions are directly active or can be assigned correctly within the simulation program. The SST software is universal. This means you can create any game profile file for FS9, FSX or X-Plane. The only thing the software is doing is assigning game keyboard commands to the stick or throttle, irrespective of which game its intended for. X-65F Throttle Unit with Switch Panel Lets start this time with the base, which as it happens, is the same as the stick. This means it offers four holes to connect the base plate to the stainless steel mounting plate if not connected to the stick or if you want to connect it to a table. To make one thing clear; Saitek only supplies one stainless steel mounting plate, which can be fitted to either the stick or the throttle. The split throttle option is probably the biggest change compared to Saiteks X-52. You can use them individually or connect them together via a steel pin. The throttles are, as far as I can see, made of heavy duty metal and offer a tremendous grip when moving them forward or pulling them backwards. The same as we saw with the stick, each throttle offers lots of switches including two HAT switches, two rotary switches, a scroll wheel and a MODE switch and every item is identified / marked on the housing with a letter or number. Im not 100% sure, but I think that those are all made of metal. The throttle plate is probably the only visible plastic part with no backlight facility, but again, its well integrated in the overall metal housing and shows not to be a cheap component. Throttle movement force is adjustable via a socket head screw on the backside. The previously mentioned Allen key can be used for this. Once set at your preferred tension, they move very smoothly along the range. I would like to bring up one item in case you face this problem. When you know the solution, the problem is no longer an issue!

Time for Action

Intensive tests taught me that the overall X-65F works very well in combination with Microsoft Flight Simulator programs (FS9 and FSX) and X-Plane 9.x. I dont own Combat programs except for the supplied demo by Saitek, which I didnt use for testing. It doesnt make any difference which airplane you take; they all follow your pitch, roll and yaw commands. This direct and quick response is also applicable for the throttle unit. During the hours I flew, I made some notes for myself. Find a collection of them below. They represent what I experienced while flying FSX and X-Plane but moreover, using the X-65F.
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During my FSX flight with the Aerosofts F-16 (picture I) I faced a great response in respect of the stick and throttle versus the simulated model. Nice detail is the non-movable simulated stick in Aerosofts F-16. Like reality! The X-65F can be used with almost every aircraft or helicopter. This screenshot (picture II) shows the Carenados PA34 200T Seneca. Although the throttle unit isnt equipped with a mixture and prop control lever, you can assign them to in my case rotary switches on the throttle unit. End result; youve got prop, mixture and throttle control apart from many other assignments. As you can see for yourself; I used split throttle control. The simulated Carenado model shows throttle slightly pulled back, which can be confirmed by the X-65F left hand throttle. My last challenge was an X-Plane 9.x model (picture III). It was the default F-4 Phantom II. Was it different or did it work differently? It worked like a charm! In principle no difference compared to FSX.
Dont forget to activate your created game profile file otherwise you may end up in complete confusion. Why? Because when you forget to activate your dedicated game profile file, all the switch and button assignments you made previously will not be active and suddenly it becomes a wrestling partly between your stick and/or throttle controls. Lets assume youve forgotten to activate the game profile file while flying or trying to fly, you can right click the Profile tray icon and activate it on-the-fly. The icon turns green indicating its activated. Finding the correct force setting to fly with is a personal matter. I personally fly with the default F1 or sometimes the F2 setting. The only change I made for the F1 setting was the yaw slider, which I had set to the maximum. Now, when I apply a stick force, theres hardly any yaw input detected. For the rest, trying the F3 or even F4 force settings, means to me instable flight characteristics. This instable flight characteristics has nothing to do with Saitek, but with me. But again, thats my opinion and as I said before; you can always change the selected force settings by pressing either button on the switch panel before the flight or on-the-fly. For both FSX and X-Plane I programmed the different HAT switches with certain commands. The result was, with my hand around the stick, that I had full control over all my programmed HAT switches and buttons. No need to move my hand from the stick to operate something located too far away. Conclusion; well positioned and well thought about their location! How strange it may sound, I sometimes wanted to move the stick out of the center as youre used to with an ordinary joystick. You can forget that unless you want to move the stick and base together and lift it from the table. No, before you know it you are used to it and know that the stick wont move. Oops, Im sorry, that the stick cant move! The first few times its a little odd flying with something in your hand that cant move, but shortly after some flights youre used to it as if it was normal from the beginning. Not a problem for me, but something to keep in mind when flying GA aircraft equipped with a MIXTURE and/or PROP control. Remember, this throttle base unit doesnt have those levers. In that respect it is pure and only made for non-propeller models. Oops, before making more trouble; you can fly any GA plane with the X-65F but it doesnt offer the PROP and MIXTURE levers. Hold-on, if you want to, you can, as an example, program throttle rotary switch E to become MIXTURE and rotary switch F into PROP control. Its not as realistic as with the Pro Flight throttle quadrant from Saitek, but there are many ways to simulate those controls. I did this on the fly in FSX with the FSX settings, but its better to do it within the Saitek game profile. Lucky for us, the problem is solved! It depends a little on the type of aircraft, but I flew the Flight1 BN-2 Islander with split throttle control. I can tell you that Im very enthusiastic to hear the different engine sounds when pulling one throttle back or when simulating a throttle stagger. That the Islander sound is well simulated isnt really important for the moment although for some it is, but for me in relation to the review title, its the smooth operation of the X-65F throttles itself. This is of course something thats not only applicable for this add-on model, but also for the default ones. Although I must say that their response is not as

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spectacular as with add-on models. Not surprising I think! Not being a FSX fighter pilot, I still wanted to test the X-65F in combination with a fighter, so I chose Aerosofts F-16 and I was pleasantly surprised. The F-16 has a side stick, which means it cant move in real life. Hey, thats the same as the Saitek X-65F stick although the Saitek stick isnt a replica of the F-16. The question is; will the simulated stick move in Aerosofts F-16? I can happily confirm that the stick while flying the F-16 doesnt move, but follows perfectly my pitch and roll commands. The throttle on my left hand side as it is situated in the real F-16, moves when moving my Saitek throttle, which is of course normal and correct. The only big difference between flying my simulated F-16 and the real one are the missing G-forces. You cant have it all! Anyway, flying Aerosofts F-16 was suddenly a pleasure and because of the simulated non-movable stick as well as the direct stick response. In the end, Im even more enthusiastic than I was already!
This concludes my real X-65F flight experience. From all that you may expect from this stick and throttle; its doing it all. This review isnt an endurance test, so I cant say anything about how HAT switches or buttons function after hundreds of flight hours. Ive also no idea if the throttle unit stays the same. Looking to the overall quality and material choice, I think it will hold and offers many hours of fun.
Summary / Closing Remarks
With a review like this, Im always asking myself what else can I add? Many years ago I had a CH joystick with integrated throttle control. Then I moved to a CH flight yoke with throttle, mixture and prop control with a separate CH rudder pedal unit. In the beginning I was happy with it, but once the CH stuff became older, it showed too many problems. It was time for Saitek equipment, but which one? The Pro Flight series was an obvious choice. I hesitated between the X-52 Pro or the Flight Yoke with throttle unit. I chose at the time for the Flight Yoke with Saitek Rudder pedals. Im still happy with it because of the durability of the materials they used although the throttle is primarily made of plastic as well as the flight yoke horn. Using joysticks or this non-movable stick means youve entered a totally new flight simulator world. It first starts with the X-65F look. Theres no need to touch it since it expresses durability and has at the same time a professional look. This time professional means that it looks awesome, but of course, its not used within real aviation. You could have your thoughts about a stick thats not movable. On the other hand, why should it move? Movable sticks mean possible component wear over the years, problems with component malfunction, dust that enters internal components like sensors etc. A stick that doesnt move like the X-65F, feels in the very beginning very strange and you can hardly believe that the electronics are able to detect force sensing.

Test System Intel Core Extreme i7-965 6GB Tri-Channel DDR3 1600Mhz EVGA GTX-285 FTW 1GB Triple WD VelociRaptor 300GB HDD Single WD 1TB HDD Windows 7 Ultimate X64 Flight Simulator FSX SP2 Flight Simulator FS9.1 X-Plane 9.55rc3 Saitek Pro Flight System Saitek Pro Flight X-65F TrackerIR Pro 4 TrackerClip Pro Flying Time: 100+ hours
The Control Panel and Profile Editor graphs confirm that it can detect your applied force and the flight simulation programs follow, without any hesitation, your steering commands. Even for me as a left handed person, using my right hand on the stick doesnt give any problems. All the buttons, switches and trigger are directly accessible. I flew many hours with different airplanes and even some fighters and can come to only one conclusion; it flies like hell. Oops, the stick cant fly! No, it feels natural, it reacts directly and you have full control over the force to apply. Together with the profile editor software you can create any game profile file you want for either overall FSX airplanes/helicopters or even specifically for an airplane, fighter or helicopter type. Since the stick can detect X, Y and Z axis forces or in normal English pitch, roll and yaw, theres no need to buy Saiteks rudder pedals however, for me its an absolute need. Because of my right hand coordination, I had problems applying a yaw force on the stick. Consequently, I was not only applying a yaw but also a roll and when Im lucky, even some pitch. That doesnt work for me so I placed the yaw slider to the maximum and tried it, this solved those problems. I also used it in combination with my rudder pedals. Remember, this is just me! Editing the buttons, which are available on the throttle unit, is fun and gives you full control over your flight simulator aircraft or helicopter. Not unimportant, split throttle movement is available when you wish and it works great with twin engine aircraft. You really feel the massive metal piece moving underneath your hand. When youve split the throttle (engine) control, youre still able to move them without any stagger. Thats because your hand-palm covers both throttle halves.

http://www.avsim.com/pages/1010/Saitek/X65.html (17 of 19)06/10/2010 5:13:58 PM
As said before, I dont own any combat flight simulation programs, so Im stuck with FSX and tried out many aircraft types. The stick may give the impression that its intended for combat, but it works great with every aircraft model, ranging from single engine General Aviation models to add-on fighters or the F/A18A Hornet that comes standard with the FSX Acceleration Expansion Pack. By the way, it also works with helicopter models. I also tried several X-Plane 9.x models and even here the X-65F stick and throttle unit works like a charm. I wont write its a gift from heaven since Ive got no practical experience with the X52 Pro, but because of the X-65F design, accuracy and direct control input/output without any play (slack), makes it a great add-on hardware piece. Ok, lets finish this last section with a short summary. The X-65F components are well packed in a declassified box; most of the components are ready for use except for the stainless steel mounting plate and the switch- and dummy panels. The box also offers two DVDs with a demo combat game and drivers with software. Either you go for these or check the Saitek website for the latest version. Furthermore, it includes a paper user manual and a leaflet with installation instructions. When youve bolted the things together, connected the cables, installed the driver and SST software, you are ready to go. When you dont want to create game profile files, the basic stick and throttle functions work with either Microsoft Flight Simulation or X-Plane or at least thats what I have seen and tested. Honestly, its a shame not using game profile files since its easy to create them, to edit commands, to modify them if needed, but importantly, youre able to get the most out of your X-65F hardware. Flying with a non-movable stick is a little strange in the beginning although that beginning wont last but for a few minutes. After those minutes youre used to a stick that cant move. The force sensing is so accurate and precise that every airplane follows directly your commands. This is not different for the throttle unit, either as one throttle or as split control. Is this the ultimate HOTAS equipment? For me it is! Im aware that with an average European price of 350.00 its not cheap, but its absolutely worth every penny. I think Ive covered every dark corner of this hardware, made many flights with it and didnt detect any anomalies so far. Whenever youve got questions, feel free to contact me by mail or else on the AVSIM forum.
What I Like About Saitek's X65F

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Very durable and almost professional looking and functional HOTAS stick and throttle unit, Hardware well packed in a nice declassified box, so dont throw it in the basket, Unique and first of his kind; equipped with force sensing technology, If needed youre able to adjust the force on-the-fly, Stick equipped with lots of HAT switches, buttons, triggers etc. Together with the 4 MODE switch, youre able to multiply by four every switch or button function. Altogether an huge amount of flight simulator functions integrated in the stick and throttle, A dual throttle unit, that can be locked to one throttle if required, The throttle unit is equipped with a lot of additional switches, mini-HAT switch, scroll wheel and rotary switches. As applicable for the stick, via the 4 MODE switch you can multiple by four these switches and wheels. The throttles offer an almost professional smooth movement along their range, Easy to install driver and SST software, Nice and useful paper manual in different languages as well as a comprehensive digital version, available via the SST software, Cable length between throttle and stick and from the throttle to the PC are long enough for any normal setup
http://www.avsim.com/pages/1010/Saitek/X65.html (18 of 19)06/10/2010 5:13:58 PM
What I Don't Like About Saitek's X65F
Normally it shouldnt be that difficult to find an item, but this time it isnt that easy. No hard feeling about the hardware, the connectors are all ok, cables offer nice length, smooth throttle feeling, highly accurate and direct input/output control of the stick. No, I couldnt think of anything.

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http://www.avsim.com/pages/1010/Saitek/X65.html (19 of 19)06/10/2010 5:13:58 PM

Mad Catz Announces Expected Shipping Date for Premium Saitek Pro Flight X-65F Control System
First Hands-On Throttle and Stick (H.O.T.A.S.) Control System with Force Sensing Technology, Ships with a Host of Bonus Software
San Diego, January 06, 2010 Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ), a leading worldwide third-party interactive entertainment accessory provider, today announced plans to ship the highly anticipated Saitek Pro Flight X-65F Control System, a premium hands-on throttle and stick flight simulation device utilizing Force Sensing technology, in February 2010. Announced in 2009, the Force Sensing technology used in the X-65F simulates the authentic aircraft controls typically found in modern fighter jets by responding to the pressure exerted on the stick while it remains still at all times. With the stick remaining still and in-game movements reacting only to the players pressure, gamers can command with extreme precision and realism. In addition to the Force Sensing Shaft and Twist Rudder Controls, the X-65F affords gamers the opportunity to adjust multiple aspects of the Force Sensing system on-the-fly, including adjustments for each axis of the stick, resulting in customized control without the need to interrupt game play. Included in pack, gamers can enjoy a complementary CD containing ready-made control profiles for many leading flight simulation and flight action software titles, providing gamers with the optimum control configuration without the need to manually map button layouts. Software profiles provided include: Microsoft Flight Simulator X, Lock On: Air Combat Simulation, Microsoft Combat Flight Simulator and Falcon 4.0. Also included in pack is a complementary PC demo of the Ubisoft game, Lock On: Flaming Cliffs, allowing gamers to experience the realism of the X-65F without the need to purchase additional software. Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, The Saitek brand has always been synonymous with flight simulation, realism, and build quality. The X-65F was designed from the ground-up and revolutionizes H.O.T.A.S. control systems with the addition of Force Sensing technology. Since announcing the X-65F last year, the flight simulation community has been following the development closely. We are delighted that simers and gamers can now experience it for themselves. The X-65F demonstrates a continuation of our strategy of developing products that evoke a passionate consumer response.
The Saitek Pro Flight X-65F Control System is expected to ship in February 2010 and will have an SRP of: $399.99 / 349.99.
For further information please contact: Media Alex Verrey: Global PR & Communications Manager t. +44 (0) 538 e. averrey@madcatz.com Michael Greco: Vice President of Marketing t. +1-619-321-3564 e. mgreco@madcatz.com Investors Stewart Halpern: Chief Financial Officer t. +1-619-e. shalpern@madcatz.com Joseph Jaffoni, Norberto Aja and Jim Leahy Jaffoni and Collins Incorporated t. 212/835-8500 e. mcz@jcir.com
About Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. Mad Catz is a global leader in providing innovative peripherals for the interactive entertainment industry. Mad Catz designs and markets accessories for videogame systems and publishes videogame software, including the industry-leading GameShark videogame enhancements, under its Mad Catz, GameShark and Joytech brands. Mad Catz also designs and markets mice, keyboards, headsets, PC gaming controllers and other PC peripherals through its Saitek and Cyborg brands, and manufactures and markets proprietary portable earphones under its AirDrives brand. Mad Catz distributes its products through most of the leading retailers offering interactive entertainment products across North America and Europe, and is increasing its distribution reach in Asia. For additional information please go to www.madcatz.com, as well as www.gameshark.com, www.airdrives.com and www.saitek.com.

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