RailDriver

RailDriver
Type Game controller
Game type Train simulator
Supported games Microsoft Train Simulator
RailWorks
Trainz
BVE Trainsim
World Of Subways
OS/ Windows 2000, XP, Vista and 7
Connection USB (2.0/3.0)
Size 34cm x 18cm x 10cm
Weight 4.3 kg
Controls Throttle, reverser, brake, horn, 34 programmable buttons
Other features Speedometer, speakers
Price $199.95 (USD)
Release date 2003 (initial release)
Manufacturer P.I. Engineering, Williamston, Michigan
Website http://www.raildriver.com/
Railworks Website http://www.railworks.com/

RailDriver is a desktop cab controller for train simulation software. It replaces keyboard and mouse operation as far as possible to provide a more realistic train driving experience.[1][2] It is designed to be compatible with Microsoft Train Simulator,[3] N3V's Trainz, BVE Trainsim and World Of Subways.[4] Other software may be controlled using downloadable resources.[5]

Controls

RailDriver includes the basic throttle, reverser, and brake levers as separate control handles that mimic generic operation of real locomotive controls. Frequently used switches for lights, sand, bell, and whistle are also included, with programmable switches for other frequently used functions. For operations such as camera movement the RailDriver has a four-way pan pad with zoom rocker switches.[6]

Compatibility

Microsoft Train Simulator does not come with an Application Programming Interface included. Therefore, RailDriver uses alternative methods to communicate with the software. It reads settings directly from the Heads-Up Display on the screen, which therefore must be in view at all times when using the hardware. To operate RailDriver with Train Simulator it is necessary to run additional software supplied with the product.[5]

Kuju Rail Simulator announced in August 2008 that they would make their product compatible with RailDriver.[7]

A downloadable software development kit[5] enables users to integrate other applications with RailDriver, or even use it to control model railways.[8]

Notes

  1. "Model Railroader Magazine - P.I. Engineering RailDriver cab control makes computer railroad simulators more realistic". www.trains.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  2. "AVSIM Commercial Rail Sim/Utility Review". www.avsim.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  3. "TrainMaster". www.trainmaster.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  4. "TechEBlog » Top 10 Strangest Game Controllers". www.techeblog.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  5. 1 2 3 "RailDriver: Technical Downloads". www.raildriver.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  6. "TR Forums • View topic - TrainSim Fans: RailDriver Desktop Train Cab Controller". techreport.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  7. "Kuju Announces Rail Sim Peripheral Deal News - TotalVideoGames.com". www.totalvideogames.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.
  8. "Microsoft Train Simulator - Articles - The Raildriver: Hardware for Train Simulator". www.microsoft.com. Retrieved 2009-01-24.

External links

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