I was just wondering why this came this way and not with a USB port. As sophisticated as this program is I cant understand why. Any computer that has been produced in more than the last 6 years has USB as standard.
Not bashing, the program more than lives up to any expectations I had. I am just curious.

The Serial Port is usually free on most computers these days, so I found it to be a plus. I didn't have to use up one of my precious USB ports since I already have a printer, a camera cable, and an MP3 Player cable already hooked into a USB hub. Just plug it into the Serial Port and leave it there, that way it is ready to plug into your transmitter anytime you are ready to "fly."

It would be nice if it was usb though as most laptops don't have the serial interface []

You gotta remember guys in the sim market AFP does everything they can to keep the prices down. This is still one of the lowest prices on a simulator out there with superior capabilities.

I know that all sims have a high price tag, but there is much more involved in these sims then you know. If you have ever tried to fly Microsoft Flight Sim, you would know that the physics of AFP is far superior of a program that has taken over 20 years to develop. That means a lot of R&D goes into programs like AFP. Hence the price.

The 9 Pin to USB dongle will only run you about $10 on Ebay or from a couple of online merchants. IPACS is aware about a USB cable and it's coming. However the price is most likely going to go up as well. So get it while you can and save.

The dongle will work if you have the serial port. If not.....

It should be pretty easy to ad a serial port on your laptop, that might be the easiest, most permenant, long term solution. It will cost you more than $10, but I would pay to have my AFP while I am on business trips. I regularly travel around the world, and am away from home for long periods of time...gotta love the Air Force!

Here is one for $13 and change. I have seen plenty go on Ebay for $10 or less.

http://www.thenerds.net/productpage.asp?un=154913&s=1

I think I tried that with the laptop. Wouldn't work

I've got one like it on my Dell, works great.