It’s been just over a week since VKB-Sim teased and then announced their next major hardware release revealing not one but two significant hardware releases to their line-up. One is the fourth iteration of their popular Gunfighter series with the Mark IV replacing the Mark III. There’s also the long awaited STECS (previously TECS) throttle system. Here’s what we know!
STECS base and add-ons
VKB has revealed their long awaited throttle system and it comes packing a ton of features including plenty of modularity and the potential for even more configurations down the road.
STECS stands for Single|Twin Engine Control System which VKB suggests may come in a mono-grip at some point in the future while all currently announced products feature a split grip in a similar way to how many of their competitors have offered. What VKB seem to be doing that takes them in a slightly different direction is their modularity which enables you to buy and configure the throttle setup in a wide variety of configurations.
The base has a two axis contactless MaRS (magnetic-resistance sensor) system with 4 ball bearings on the main axes and, according to VKB, glass-reinforced plastic in all loaded structural parts. I assume that means that the plastic parts that are carrying weight will be more robust than conventional plastic.
VKB report that the base will have a user-friendly detent system that can be installed in a minute or two. There’s a frame with a detent holder with a screw and nut system to affix the detents into place. Frames are color-coded and can then be matched to a rotating switch that tells the onboard software which configuration is in place. Interesting!
There are a few different types of detents available:
- L-shape – unidirectional regular, and unidirectional large. creates a step on one side of the lever movement.
- V-shape – bi-directional regular, and bi-directional large. Creates a step on both sides of the lever movement.
- M-shape – bi-directional with a centering indent.
There are a couple of extensions to the base including the Auxiliary Throttle Extension and and the Standard Throttle Extension module. (ATEM and STEM in VKB terminology).
There’s also a button module that provide for 3 different interchangeable modules. A long-travel button, a 3 position hat, and a 4 position hat with button press. That last one comes with multiple caps to let you configure the feel for each button.
Four main versions
VKB are offering four packages that are all essentially pre-configured with different modules in one package but the message is clear that you can buy the base package only and then add-on additional extensions and button configurations later on.
VKB does point out that the STECS Mini (top left) is intended to be used with a chair, cockpit, or holder as the lightweight base needs to be affixed to stay in place. It seems to be unique in that it does not have the ability to be used with a front extension holder while the other three will.
The STECS Mini Plus (top right) gets the ATEM extension and a steel platform that can be used as standalone or on holders.
STECS Standard (bottom left) has a steel platform as well and this one is apparently compatible with the holes used by the Thrustmaster Warthog. Can be used on a desk or on holders. It has the STEM extension packaged in as well.
Finally we have STECS MAX (bottom right) which basically has everything fixing the ATEM to the front and the STEM module on the front with a holder.
That all sounds good and the modularity suggests that you can potentially buy a cheaper package and then add features later if you feel like you want to add them on. Speaking of pricing, we know what the pricing will be for North America:
- STECS MINI $199 USD
- STECS MINI PLUS $219 USD
- STECS STANDARD $279 USD
- STECS MAX $319 USD
I suspect based on feature and pricing that STECS MINI PLUS or maybe the STANDARD variant will be the volume sellers.
Gunfighter IV
The other news from VKB is that they are releasing their Gunfighter IV model to replace the Gunfighter III. Visually the Gunfighter III is the same and all of the changes are under the hood. A new generation clutch and spring pre-tighteners are all setup to provide for more control and smoother function.
The Gunfighter IV has a new connector as well which allows for the rotation of the stick without damaging the connectors.
Blackbox Mk3 is also coming. This is a hub for VKB devices and the new varant is reportedly smarter than before with the ability to detect and configure itself for use with new devices.
VKB-Sim are realizing a nearly complete flight sim setup here with a high end grip and base as well as a HOTAS system to rival its competitors. A nearly all VKB setup is now possible for combat flight sim fans or anyone who prefers this type of arrangement.
Storefronts and information
Get more information right from the official announcement here.
VKB have virtual storefronts for multiple regions and countries now. There’s a North American, Europe, UK, Australia, India and Russia storefront. You can find the appropriate store front by going to the VKB-Sim website which acts as a launching off point for various worldwide stores. Visit the VKB-Sim website here!
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