I finally took the plunge and purchased a copy of the Shared Cockpit plugin for X-Plane and I wish had done it months ago. I met up with @sellener777 here on the forums, traded some messages and set up a time for the test. Here's my write-up of the experience.
I downloaded and installed a free piece of software called Hamachi from a company called "LogMeIn". I had initially set up a different version, but was pointed in the right direction after we did some testing. Installing the software creates a VPN connection between your computer and the computer of your partner pilot. Super simple to use and highly recommended. We made sure to pick a supported aircraft, in this case the very excellent FlyJSim 732 which had the added bonus of a very accurate SmartCopilot configuration file. We matched versions of the config file tested the connection with no problems. After some initial back and forth, I was able to assume the pilot role, and @sellener777 was pilot not flying for this test. We briefed the flight, in this case a departure from KSNA John Wayne, vectors to the Seal Beach VOR, then on to the ILS for 20R back at KSNA. The flight was a success with only some minor pilot-related issues, nothing truly major, and I'm ready to do it again.
Lessons learned:
- Expect to spend 15 minutes or so on the first setup. Make sure to have a basic knowledge of networking (like "What's an IP address?") covered before you jump in to it. It will make things run smooth during the VPN setup.
- Use Skype for the "cockpit conversation". It was perfect, allowing an open mic between us and the sound quality was like sitting next to the other person.
- Pick a simple flight as a test, and brief it out loud to the other pilot. Talk through it like you're explaining it to someone at the counter at the FBO. In my case, I walked through it from the basics like the departure, route and arrival procedures, but also make sure to work out which aircraft systems you'll handle and which ones the PNF (pilot not flying) will take. For me, I realized during the flight that I wanted control of the autopilot and flight director, but I hadn't briefed it well before takeoff.
- Remember to use the PNF/copilot to your advantage. Ask them to perform tasks like set flaps, gear and radios. Make sure to get an acknowledgement back.
- Find a checklist for the aircraft online and make sure that both pilots use the same one.
- Listen to the PNF and they will keep you out of trouble, remembering items you forgot.
https://youtu.be/hrjwvpgpnbI
That is Keith Smith and Peter Grey making it sound easy, but once you're in the air, it's a whole 'nother way of doing business. That video is what got me to buy the FJS 732 and encouraged me to do Shared Cockpit in the first place.
Thanks all...
Steve