EasySMX wireless game controller and LAC

[bbosen]

The "EasySMX" wireless game controller (shown above) works well with LAC. I larrange its controls to match my Sony Wired game controller like THIS:

To get this setup, download THIS file:

https://askmisterwizard.com/2019/LinuxAirCombat/Controls/LacControls.EasySMXWirelessConsoleGameController.txt

Store that file in your hidden .LAC folder, and then copy its contents into your "LacControls.txt" file, over-writing any old text you find there.

One other important detail is configured from the bit-coded "NetworkMode" variable within LAC's main configuration file, named "LacConfig.txt". That file is located in the same hidden folder as the "LacControls.txt" file, at ~home/.LAC/LacConfig.txt. As explained in that file's commentary text introducing "NetworkMode", you can use the "32 bit" component of "NetworkMode" to specify an important detail of the hardware control you choose for control of your throttle. Conventional joysticks intended for aircraft simulations (like the Logitech Extreme 3dPro) have a dedicated axis control intended for use as your throttle. Known as "Throttle Levers", these controls can be set to represent any throttle position from "idle" to "maximum power", and they remain in the selected position after you let go of them. Real airplanes have a similar throttle control, and once a real pilot sets his throttle at an appropriate setting for a flight segment, it is commonplace for him to leave that setting unchanged for long periods of time. Game Controllers, on the other hand, generally do not have a "Throttle Lever". Any Game Controller axis lever that you choose for your throttle is likely to have a "return to center" spring that makes it impossible to leave it at your chosen setting while your hand is busy with something else.

LAC implements a workable compromise for this situation: If you set the "32 bit" component of "Network Mode", LAC will interpret your spring-loaded throttle axis differently: Your throttle setting will INCREASE while you push upward on your spring-loaded throttle lever, and it will DECREASE while you pull downward. It will REMAIN UNCHANGED when the spring pulls it to the center. Many LAC players have used this configuration option with good success. With a little practice, you'll find it works almost as well as the dedicated throttle lever of a more conventional, aircraft-oriented joystick.

You can get further information on this subject from FAQ #53 in our "LacFaq.htm" page here:

https://askmisterwizard.com/2019/LinuxAirCombat/LacFaq.htm