How-To: Modifying a Microsoft Sidewinder FFB2 for Use With the SopGrip
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 21 авг 2024
- This video takes you step-by-step through the modifications needed to mount your SopGrip MK1 to the good ole' Microsoft Sidewinder Force-Feedback 2. Unlike more modern joysticks like those from Thrustmaster and Virpil, the MSFFB2 was never intended to have aftermarket grips installed, so installation of the SopGrip is a bit more difficult (but quite straightforward with this tutorial!)
Obligatory Disclaimer: The MSFFB2 base may contain high-voltage components. I am not responsible for any injuries to yourself or your joystick if you attempt this modification.
Note: Installation of the SopGrip to the MSFFB2 will remove the twist axis function, so I only recommend this if you have a set of rudder pedals.
Link to instructions for FFB resistor mod (increases feedback force):
forums.eagle.r...
A great video from a fellow flight simmer about the resistor mod:
• Building the ultimate ...
Keywords: SopGrip, Microsoft Force Feedback 2, MSFFB2, VRSimpits.com, Sopwith Joystick, WW1, Flight Simulator
Thank you for this video. I struggled to open the down part of joystick. I bought a Virpil Warbird grip I’ll try to attach it when it arrives.
Can you do a video about The resistor mod, showing us exactly what to do?
I unfortunately don't have a spare MSFFB stick to use for a video right now, perhaps in the future I might be able to do that. In the meantime, check the description of this video, there is a link to a set of instructions on the DCS forum, they are very well written
Hi! I came here to check what's inside this joystick. As it seems it is a basic, potentiometer based stick. Can you confirm this?
On the resistor mod: isn't that risky? Seeing those tiny cogs on the plastic cogwheels, won't it strip with double the power?
Yes, being 1990's tech, it is a simple potentiometer based joystick. And I've been using mine with the resistor mod for many hundreds of hours with no issues, as have many others! I think the MOSFETs would burn out long before exceeding the strength of the gears.
@@vrsimpits Okay, I trust your experience more than my observation. ;)
So, potentiometer. Does this mean it requires calibrating? I'm surprised by it, because I have the older, FFB Pro which is an optical(!) design making it far superior to FFB 2. The downside is it has DB15 connector and adapting it to modern systems (Win7 onwards) is tricky. I still love it though.
What do you use this old stick for? Do you enjoy FFB features?
@Sekir80, I think you are actually right about the X and Y axes being optical sensors, it is only the rudder (Z) and throttle that are pots. I've never had to calibrate the stick before, but I use totally separate external rudder pedals and throttle with my modded stick.
And yes, I love FFB in conjunction with VR and a butt kicker, very immersive!
@@vrsimpits Even the rudder is optical, that's why it has two LEDs at the end of the stick, not just one. But I forgot about the throttle. Given it's position and rotation I'm 99% certain it is optical as well.
Which game do you use the joy with FFB?
does anybody know why the stick goes "limp" and not centering when in game?
The stick does that when it is not receiving any force feedback data from the game. I believe it is to save wear and tear on the motors
I really want to buy a grip but you guys are still set to temporarily unavailable. Any idea when you will have a stock of these?
Hi there CodeRed001! Yes, now that the first production run of Tampier Throttle quadrants is complete, I can turn my attention to SopGrips again. I'm just a one-man operation, doing this in my spare time, so I have to alternate between production of various products.
@@vrsimpits cool to hear, i'll keep my eye on your site for availability.
Any idea when you’ll have more of these in stock?
I wish I did, but very hard to say. I have redesigned the stick to a new MK2 version, for which I have all the mechanical design done, but not the electronics. With a full time job and multiple kids I just don't get as much time to work on it as I used to. The short answer is hopefully someday soon, but still a while to go!
@@vrsimpits Thanks for the response. Well you have a customer here when you do! Looks amazing
Do you recommend the resistor mod?
If you are planning on adding any kind of grip or extension, then definitely. If you are keeping the stock grip as-is, then it's not necessary.
@@vrsimpits Hey. I'm sitting here with an F16 grip I purchased from Viktor, along with plenty of resistors to solder on. I'm no electrician and I don't know how to mod it all together.. Do you know if there are anyone in the forums that would take payment to make the modification for me? Someone that does this as a service?
@@kimmossige263 There used to be a guy on the IL2 forum that would do this service for a small fee, but I think he stopped a few years ago. It's really a very simple modification to perform, even if you haven't done much soldering before. Check the description of this video, there's a link to a good diy about it. Good luck!
@@vrsimpits Thanks, yes I purchased the parts from the guy that made the video you're mention, Viktor I think his name is. This project has been doormant for me for a few years now since I didn't have the skills required to do such modifications. He uses some sort of PCB to solder together the new grip, and I don't know what PCB he uses, or if I also need an arduino (which I vaguely remember he mentioned to me that I needed).. I also need to make an extender at a very spesific length in order to make it fit to my rig, and it's all these things together that I feel makes it a bit complicated.. Can I for example make it so that I can unscrew the grip when I'm not using the simulator? How would I make such a detatchment system? Also I want to find a way to make it get power from USB instead of that short power cable, etc.. Many things I'd want on this thing if I first gonna start the project, and it would be easier for me to maybe collab with a person that knows how to do all these things.
In any case, your video made it a step more logical to me, in the right direction. I hope there will be more videos like these, so I eventually can try and do it myself.. Most of all I wish for companies to start making FFB joysticks again :)