FSXA When to use a controller or effect .fx and where use it ?

[Lagaffe]

Hi,

I am building a airport scenery (CYMX - Mirabel) and I will use a library of ramp lights.

Currently my library consists of 3 Gmax objects. Each object has a simple light effect attached to it : one with the condition (DAY=0; NIGHT=1) and another with (DUSK=1;DAWN=1). Each light is placed via Instant scenery and 160 light are used.
FPS are not impacted (40 ~60 FPS day and night usage). My problem is that theses lights flicker as you walk away from the airport or when you approach it (> 5 ~ 6 kms)

Could the use of a controller effect with a distance condition be the solution to my problem ? Where I should use this controller: on one object or on each object ?

After reading through the SDK help about the effects, I still could not find an answer to this question: I understand what an effect and a controller are and theirs functions but I don't see how in my particular case how to use an effect or rather a controller and where they should be placed.

Thanks for yours replies and Good Christmas hollydays

 

[GaryGB]

Hello:

One must first be utilizing the appropriate Effect "TYPE Number" parameter value to allow visibility for a flight spawned at the local airport in question, as well as to allow visibility upon arrival at that airport after a departure from a remote airport.

Having initially met that criteria, one could utilize a "Controller" Effect *.Fx file, but that would also require a 'paired' separate "Basic" Effect *.Fx file).

Alternatively, one could use a "hybrid" Effect *.Fx file (which contains coding for both the Controller and Basic Effect functions ...as seen in the interesting worked example posted by Richard Ludowise in this thread):

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/showthread.php?t=19185&highlight=effect


FYI: The version of FS for which one is developing ( ex: FSX vs. P3D) ...may also determine whether- and how- Effect *.Fx files may be successfully implemented with satisfactory visibility at a distance.

Don Grovestine has done a rather comprehensive review of methods for airfield lighting (with particular attention to issues of light visibility at a distance), and has posted info on the feasibility of implementing Effects versus other methods as a function of the FS version one is developing for ...in this forum:

https://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/forums/airfield-lights-toolbox.142/


Hope this helps !

GaryGB

 

[Lagaffe]

Thanks for your answer, Gary.
I will apply theses advices.
Bye,