Originally Posted by
N410DC
I think getting the "feel" for your own transmitter is an advantage of using the interlink edition. There are clear advantages to getting the Interlink Elite edition, but I personally like using my Futaba 6EX with the simulator, since the dual rate switch, and a couple of other switches, are not in the same place on the Interlink Elite controller.
If you use your own controller, it helps a great deal to use one that can handle multiple planes, and to assign on model memory slot to the simulator. Otherwise, you may have to change some settings when you go between the simulator and the real airplanes. The software can handle servo reversing, so these settings do not have to be changed on the transmitter. Others settings may need to be saved.
Originally Posted by
takEon
The real value of using your Tx is that you can learn how to take advantage of all those fancy mixes, set points, and exponentials. You can really learn how to get the most out of that computer radio, plus some great practice flying. I have updated my Tx batteries to LI-FE, so they serve me well at the field as well as at home on the sim without being a charging nightmare.
I wound up upgrading from my Futaba 6ex to a Futaba 7c. Unfortunately, the 7c would not work with Realflight (incompatibility is a know issue with the 7c.) I contacted GP, and they offered to trade out my interface device for the Interlink Elite controller for $40 (to difference in price between the "Interface" and the "Interlink Elite" versions.) I was not initially aware that you
can use your own controller with the Interlink Elite controller, simply by connecting your transmitter to the Interlink Elite device, though the trainer jack. As a previous poster said, you get "the best of both worlds." Furthermore, it's apparently possible for two people to fly two planes simultaneously on one computer if a transmitter is connected to the Interlink Elite device. Lastly, the Interlink Elite controller has 8 "channels," more than most of the transmitters on the market.
I sent my transmitter interface device a check to Hobby Services about a week ago, and got a new Interlink Elite controller today. As always, the service and turnaround time was excellent.
All said and done, (an in hindsight, in my case), the Interlink Elite version is probably worth the extra $40.