So check this out....

Finally got Tom's serial cable to work (pretty smooth)! If you do this out of order, it won't work.
You've got Tom's USB cable, so I can't say for sure...
This sucker is big on proper sequence when getting everything ready.
The PICJoy and serial (or USB) cable should be enabled and the Tx should be on.

1) Boot up the sim WITHOUT the AFPD USB plugged in.
2) You get the "unable to find USB, etc."
3) Plug in the AFPD USB and hit Search. That window should dissapear.
4) Go to Calibrate; you should see USB and then Analog Joystick in the window.
If you don't see Analog Joystick at this window, there's still a problem.
5) Click on Analog Joystick and then properties. You should get some movement on the bar graph.

I've duplicated my previous problems by hooking everything up in different orders.
Still getting a replacement for the Ikarus USB...whenever they come in.
AWESOME>>>