Even the best flight simulations for the PC are only as good as the interface and the input; traditional gamepads and keyboards can't accurately replicate the flight controls of an airplane. There are plenty of sticks, throttles and even pedal systems on the market, but they still leave virtual cockpits with an out-of-place QWERTY keyboard as an input device. At least until now: CH Products and Ergodex have introduced the CH Multi Function Panel ($189.95).

Instead of a generic avionics control board (which might be correct-looking for a small prop plane but horribly inaccurate for a large jet), the Panel is basically a blank template that you put together to suit your needs. Wannabe pilots can craft their own controls on the Panel's "active surface," placing and even repositioning 25 individual keys to emulate avionics, communications, and GPS panels. Up to 16 panels can be used on a single PC, and they utilize wireless technology so your virtual cockpit doesn't get tangled up in cords.

The companies say you can use the Panel for any Windows app, not just with flight sims, so you can use your imagination and rearrange keys to your heart's content.

Post by Peter Suciu