SNES Super Mario Kart on the Force Dynamics 301 [29-04-2008 | JZ | Comments (3) ]
As it says in the video, we've spent years building our reputation as a leader in driving simulation... and we're releasing this anyway!

Hope you enjoy it!

David.

Ultimate Formula 1 Simulator [19-02-2008 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
We have recently finished building our latest Formula 1 Simulator. Using the moulds and several genuine components from a top running 2007 F1 car, it is the closest possible representation of a modern Formula 1 car.

I think it is the most realistic simulator built to date, in every way possible identical to a real Formula 1 car.

Running the faithful rFactor it provides an entertaining and realastic simulation package.

New Virtual Roadster Kit Model [24-01-2008 | JZ | Comments (2) ]
I have some good news I’d like to share with my fellow simracers. I’m pleased to announce, after many years of work, the new Virtual Roadster racing simulator cockpit Kit model is now ready for delivery. And at 1/3 the price of the earlier prototype version!

Precision made in Europe out of laser cut steel, the kit packs in a 7" deep box for economical shipping and storage. Streamlined with custom machined stainless steel accents, the new cockpit refines the original's sleek lines and bold stance.

Designed for strength, the chassis is built solidly from 6mm aluminum plate and 45mm steel tubes. Both eye-catching and rugged, the Virtual Roadster is perfect for public events, able to withstand the most aggressive of drivers. With a steel framed, reclining racing seat mounted on regulation sliders, the cockpit fits drivers from 5' to 6'-6" and so far, up to 350lbs!

The retail price is for the Virtual Roadster Kit, seat and sliders is $795, optional G25 Stick Deck prototype is $99.

Please visit the website: http://www.virtualroadster.com for photos and details.

In addition, there are two videos on YouTube:

The CAD assembly animation:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzxQfECGdUM

The Virtual Roadster in action:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_XnI11Pzl4&feature=user

Thanks for your time and I am eager to hear your opinion of the model, website and videos.

Kind Regards,
Ted Heys

Force Dynamics' 401 is Out [22-01-2008 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
That's right... We put another axis on it, added a hundred, and there's a new baby at Force Dynamics! The 401 is basically a 301 with an added rotation axis that lets you feel the way the car is moving under you - the tail sliding out, rotation into and out of a corner, and so on. With 180 degrees of yaw at 90 degrees per second, we're not aware of any commercially available motion system which can match its specs, for any price.

The extra axis makes the 401 suitable for serious car control training - and one hell of a lot of fun!


Check out our page for the 401 [URL="http://www.force-dynamics.com/content/whatis401.php"]here[/URL] or look at the youtube video directly [URL="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ld6xT5yfbhw"]here.[/URL]

Or, if you want a higher quality version, grab it [URL="http://www.force-dynamics.com/content/video.php"]here.[/URL]

Enjoy!

David W.

Full Size 6DoF F1 Simulator [30-06-2007 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
This simulator, first delivered in June 2006,
is the world's first F1 simulator purposely
designed, built and tuned, with respect to hardware,
software and content. No Playstations here ;)


The GP-XL-B simulator features a full size
Formula One car with all details and realism up
till the BBS rims and racing tires. Of course,
the racing chassis has no engine and this room
is used to store a long list of electronics,
computers, sensors and other hardware.

Launch of the NIXIM Racecraft [16-05-2007 | JZ | Comments (3) ]
Launch of the NIXIM Racecraft Mark 2 at the London Hilton.

Dateline July 8 2007

Venue; Hilton London Olympia

Hilton Hotels are a sponsor of Mclaren F1, and is to hold a live F1 event for 350 invited guests at the above venue.

The race will be transmitted to the venue direct from Silverstone with commentary by Martin Brundle.

NIXIM will be launching the new Racecraft range at the event with a Silverstone hot lap competition to see who can set the fastest lap around the oldest circuit in F1 history.

Prizes over the day will include signed tea shirts by the two Mclaren team drivers Lois Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, - culminating in a Playstation 3 for the fastest overall drive, donated by Hilton Hotels.

The launch will include two Racecraft GT simulators fitted with large LCD flatscreens, tactile speakers, Logitech G25’s, and all the latest equipment available to Simracing.
Naturally the two simulators will be in Mclaren and Renault livery, it was not thought suitable to show a red car at this event.

Although the main prize is a Playstation 3 , NIXIM hope to give a taste of PC Simracing to as many of the rich and famouse as possible which is in line with NIXIM’s general Simracing promotion and goals.

Introduction to Formula One Simulator [19-12-2006 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
The SimDeck Formula racing car is from the SimDeck division of ICE AV Technology Ltd. An actual car that can be road raced or used in any virtual environment like Live For Speed, rFactor, GTR or similar.

The vehicle is designed for 7 - 16 year old or small size adults. Our full size racing car is underway and will be released in the near future.

Every racing car is fully fitted as a complete system. Turn the key and road race or connect to the computer and race in some of the major world Grand Prix's and race tracks that puts you directly into the drivers seat and relive the adrenalin of high speed racing.

SimDeck simulation platforms use the revolutionary ICE Digital Daytime screen technology enabling perfect huge size images in well lit environments. We have a range of technologies to recreate the reality of road racing, including VRF Corporation force feedback system that accurately recreates the feel of road, tyre, engine and speed vibrations.

SimDeck Formula Racing cars are available for lease, rental and franchise purchase.
The perfect entertainment and promotional tool for birthdays, retail promos and expos.

SimDeck Simulators also use eDimensional technology to enable 3D sterescopic viewing for both drivers and viewing audience.

Further platforms will be developed under the SimDeck brand.
Full details of the SimDeck division will appear in the near future at www.simdeck.com In the meantime please call +64-9-443 7531 or email sales[at]simdeck[dot]com.


Features
• Steering column force feedback
• Momo designed steering wheel with multi button controls
• Audio transducers create realistic computerised virtual world
• 110cc motor and 4 position gear box
• Digital Daytime High Res screen for daytime use

Logitech G25 Review Part 4 [02-12-2006 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
"Chunx" concludes his series on Logitech's G25 with Part 4: "In-Game Performance ". Read how it works with GTR2, rFactor and Richard Burns Rally.

SimHQ G25 Review Series [29-11-2006 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
SimHQ Review: Logitech G25 Force Feedback Racing Wheel

[url=http://www.simhq.com/_technology2/technology_099a.html]Part I: "Controller Overview"[/url]

[url=http://www.simhq.com/_technology2/technology_100a.html]Part II: "Sum of the Parts"[/url]

Virtual Racing Chassis Reviewed at Barry's Rigs [04-11-2006 | DH | Comments (0) ]
Racing games on PCs and consoles have come a long way in terms of realism and
visual quality, enhanced by the latest wheel and pedal sets—particularly the ones
with Force-Feedback technology. Clamped to a desk, table, or placed in the lap, they
lack one important element of immersion: the ability to put the player in the same
seating position as an actual race car driver for maximum comfort and control while
playing their favorite racing game or simulator—until now.

Logitech G25 Racing Wheel Review [03-10-2006 | JZ | Comments (2) ]
A few years ago the market for PC racing peripherals was literally being swamped with products that were of dubious quality to say the least. Meanwhile its seem as though the majority of the brands that once produced racing wheels have retreated from an over saturated market segment. This has left only two manufacturers who are still releasing products for the mainstream market: Logitech and Thrustmaster.

Introductory Promotion From VirtualMotorsports [21-06-2006 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
We are at the point where the products you've been waiting for, such as the HyperReal brake option and the Racing Rack Professional, are available from the factory. We'd like to get orders placed for those who have been waiting for this availability as well as those that have pre-ordered.

As an incentive to get this program rolling, effective immediately, we are offering a 5% discount on all equipment orders for customers in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Placing your orders now will ensure that the correct mix of products are available when they ship from the factory.

The prices on the website and store have been updated to reflect the promotional pricing.

Looking forward to hearing from all interested parties.

Virtual Motorsports Is Open [17-05-2006 | JZ | Comments (7) ]
Although we have been live for a number of days now, I'm pleased to announce that with the completion of phase one of our e-commerce site, we are officially open for business.

Virtual Motorsports LLC is proud to serve as the exclusive North American distributor providing sales and service of VPP premium racing equipment systems. You are encouraged to visit our site at www.virmotorsports.com. Your comments and feedback will be most welcome in addition to any questions you may have.

It has been our goal to provide the most efficient shopping experience possible. To that end, please don't hesitate to contact us should you encounter anything that hinders you from realizing that experience. We have tested the store for complete functionality, however it is difficult to imagine every possible scenario. So again, please don't hesitate to contact us with any issues concerning site access.

Over the coming weeks you will most likely notice changes to the interface of the e-store portion of our site. These changes are specifically planned to further enhance the experience during your visit. Your patience during this time will be greatly appreciated.

Best Regards,

Bruce Saltzman

Logitech G25 Racing Wheel [10-05-2006 | IS | Comments (11) ]
LOS ANGELES — May 9, 2006 — Today at the Electronic Entertainment Exposition (E3), Logitech (SWX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) unveiled its most advanced gaming wheel ever, the Logitech® G25 Racing Wheel, enabling people to bring the most lifelike racing experience into the home. But amateurs beware: The limited-edition G25 wheel´s uncanny realism could lead to moments of extreme exhilaration and fear.

A member of the company´s extreme-performance G-series family of peripherals for PC gamers, the Logitech G25 wheel offers advanced features which, until now, could be found only in specialized or custom-made racing simulators that sometimes cost thousands of dollars to assemble. These features include a six-speed gated shifter and clutch pedal; two high-torque force-feedback motors; an 11-inch wheel; and a full 900 degrees of rotation. The wheel, shifter and pedals are made with premium materials such as stainless steel and leather, delivering the look and feel of parts from a race car cockpit.

"We´re helping people bring the race car into their home," said Ruben Mookerjee, Logitech´s director of product marketing for interactive entertainment. “The G25 wheel will take expert gamers to places they´ve never been. It will make people forget they are in front of their PC, and it will put them in the pole position at Indianapolis, Monza or Brands Hatch race tracks.”

Six-Speed Shifter and Clutch Pedal
The Logitech G25 Racing Wheel is the company´s first to include a six-speed gated shifter, complete with a push-down reverse gear, offering a new level of control. Now racers can quickly shift into any gear as they decelerate going into turns and accelerate out of them — rather than cycling through gears sequentially or hoping an automatic transmission selects the most appropriate gear. Advanced driving techniques such as heel-and-toe downshifting are made possible with the included clutch pedal.

Two-Motor Force Feedback
Logitech, which has sold more force-feedback wheels than any other company, introduced the industry´s first two-motor force-feedback mechanism with the G25 wheel console, providing stronger and more precise feedback. With a second motor, the directional forces are more realistic and evenly distributed throughout the wheel — drivers will feel everything from the banks in the road to impact with walls, structures and other cars. The two-motor system is also much quieter than other force-feedback solutions.

Sturdy Design, Premium Materials
The 11-inch wheel and the shift knob are wrapped in leather, providing comfortable grips over extended periods of intense racing. The wheel´s spokes and two paddle shifters are made of stainless steel, and the pedals consist of stainless-steel faces and steel frames. The pedal platform includes rubber feet that adhere to hardwood floors and a unique carpet grip system, ensuring that the pedals won´t shift or slide across the floor during a close race to the finish line. Both the shifter and steering console feature secure clamping systems and can be easily attached to a table or desktop.

900-Degree Steering, Advanced Controls
The G25 wheel turns 900 degrees lock-to-lock, much like a typical race car, allowing drivers to navigate hairpin turns with greater accuracy. And with anti-backlash gearing, there is no slack in the steering response, making any race a smooth, realistic and quiet experience. The wheel also features 12 programmable buttons — four buttons on the wheel, and eight buttons and a directional pad on the shifter — allowing gamers to put the most important controls where they want them.

Game and Platform Support
The Logitech G25 Racing Wheel is compatible with current racing titles, such as rFactor™ and Live for Speed, as well as several other PC racing titles currently in development. The wheel can also be used with any PlayStation®2 game that is compatible with other Logitech force-feedback wheels, including the Logitech® Driving Force™ and Logitech® Driving Force™ Pro.

For PC and PlayStation 2 games that don´t support the six-speed shifting mode, racers can switch the gearbox into sequential shifting mode, which is supported by almost all driving games. A complete list of games that support force-feedback wheels, 900-degree steering, and the six-speed shifter can be found on the G25 product information page at www.logitech.com.

Pricing and Availability
The limited-edition Logitech G25 Racing Wheel will be available online at www.logitech.com and through select retailers in the U.S. and Europe beginning in October. Its suggested retail price in the U.S. is $299.99.

TrackIR 4 Pro Now Shipping [01-12-2005 | JZ | Comments (0) ]
NaturalPoint Inc. Announces the TrackIR 4 Pro, a Revolutionary Six Degree of Freedom Optical Head Tracker for Computer Game View Control.
posted : Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Corvallis, Or -

TrackIR 4 Pro – New Technology
NaturalPoint Inc. is proud to announce the next leap forward in Head Tracking Systems for PC computer games. The TrackIR 4 Pro offers computer gamers and simulation fans an experience and level of immersion not possible with any other product on the market.

Using NaturalPoint’s exclusive Vector Technology the TrackIR 4 Pro offers full six degrees of freedom (6DOF) tracking capability, allowing users to quickly, easily and intuitively look around their game environment with slight movements of the head. 6DOF literally means users can move their head any direction and have their game view move correspondingly – instantly providing improved situational awareness in flight and racing sim cockpits, or on the field of battle.

We have also given the TrackIR 4 Pro a 46 degree field of view. This is a 30% larger tracking and movement area than its predecessor. Other improvements include a quicker response time and increased resolution using NaturalPoint’s Resolution Doubling Technology.

The TrackIR 4 Pro has also been slimmed down to a ½” profile, resulting in a lighter, sleeker, more compact design. Its mounting base is now designed to specifically accommodate flat panel monitors.

The TrackIR 4 Pro is available directly from NaturalPoint's own online store and from leading online computer game and peripheral resellers. TrackIR 4 PRO MSRP $179.95