Question 1

Which algorithms does SIMNET use to predict the aircraft performance?

Accepted Answer

SIMNET relies on the proprietary Typhon Physics Engine to predict the flight dynamics and performance of arbitrary drone configurations.  You can learn more about the various analysis algorithms used in the Technical Overview page.

Question 2

Can you import existing CAD designs to SIMNET Designer?

Accepted Answer

The analysis done by SIMNET is not based on the 3D model itself, but the design specifications entered through the user interface.  For this reason, it is not posisble to import existing 3D design into SIMNET.  However, you can use the 'Reference Image' feature to load top, front and side images of an existing design, to help you quickly re-create the aircraft within SIMNET.

Question 3

How does the subscription model work?

Accepted Answer

SIMNET is offered through a Software as a Service (SaaS) licensing model, which means users subscribe and pay periodically through a subscription to gain access to the service.

To subscribe to SIMNET, go to the Pricing page and select your desired plan, then submit your payment through the checkout form.  The subscription will automatically renew at the end of each plan period. Each license provides access to one concurrent SIMNET instance, on any computer.
 
You may cancel automatic renewal from your Subscription Plans page at any moment.  Once the subscription period ends, you will lose access to the account, but the account and its data will remain, and can be re-accessed by subscribing again.

Question 4

Does my subscription include technical support?

Accepted Answer

All subscriptions include email techincal support five days a week.  SIMNET Designer subscribers receive prioritized support.  We usually reply to support questions within 24 hours.

Question 5

How can I contact support?

Accepted Answer

You can contact us by using the Help widget located on the bottom-right corner of the SIMNET site and the SIMNET console.  We will reply through email as soon as possible.

Question 6

How  can I reset my password?

Accepted Answer

To reset your password, log out from SIMNET, and on the login page click on 'I forgot my password'.  Enter your account email address to receive a password reset email.

Question 7

Which browsers are supported?

Accepted Answer

SIMNET currently supports the Chrome browser exclusively.

Question 8

What are the minimum internet and hardware requirements to run SIMNET?

Accepted Answer

The following are the minimum requirements for running any version of SIMNET:

Internet connection requirements:
*  10 Mbps download speed (Test internet speed here: https://www.speedtest.net/) 
* Stable internet connection with less than 2.5% packet loss and below 30 ms jitter, and below 300 ms latency to a server located within the US (Test connection quality here: https://packetlosstest.com/)
 
Software Requirements:
Operating system: Any operating system
Browser: Chrome

Minimum hardware requirements:
CPU: Intel Core i5 or equivalent, or better
GPU: Dedicated graphics card recommended, but not required
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: No requirement

Recommended hardware:
CPU: Intel Core i7 or equivalent, or better
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or equivalent, or better
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: No requirement

Question 9

Which controllers can I use with SIMNET?

Accepted Answer

Any drone controller, gamepad, or joystick which can be interfaced to the computer, and is properly detected by the Chrome browser (browser compatibility can be tested through www.gamepad-tester.com) can be used with SIMNET.  Below are the main options we recommend, with the advantages and disadvantages of each one:

Flysky SM-001
Price: $25 - $55 USD
Advantages:
One of the most inexpensive options
Good quality for the price
Has 3 switches
Has a knob that can be used for camera tilting
Does not require batteries or charging.  Works out of the box through USB connection.
Disadvantages:
Does not work as an actual drone transmitter; it is for simulation use only
Throttle does not spring to center

Spektrum InterLink DX
Price: $99 USD
Advantages:
Has a switch that activates/deactivates throttle centering spring
Has a knob that can be used for camera tilting
Has a pushbutton that can be used for camera triggering
Has 7 switches 
Does not require batteries or charging.  Works out of the box through USB connection.
Disadvantages:
Sometimes not detected by the computer when it is plugged into unpowered USB ports.  May require a powered USB hub for use with some PCs.
Sometimes suffers from poor calibration issues
Does not work as an actual drone transmitter; it is for simulation use only

FlySky FS-I6S
Price: $75 USD
Advantages:
It has a similar look/feel to large DJI controllers
It has two sliders that can be used for tilt/zoom
Has two pushbuttons that can be used for video/photo
Has 4 switches that can be used for mode changes
Includes micro USB cable for plugging into PC
Also works as an actual drone transmitter, and includes a receiver
Disadvantages:
Requires 4 AA batteries (will not work even when USB connected, if it does not have batteries)
The throttle does not spring to center
Controller can be modded using 3rd party parts to self-center, but requires tools and opening the controller
Notes:
By default, the sliders are not activated (although switches are), so they are not detected by the computer or by SIMNET.  You have to go to the transmitter settings using its touch screen, and assign the sliders to the Aux channels.

BETAFPV Literadio 2 SE
Price: $55
Advantages:
Plug and play
It has a similar look/feel to small DJI controllers
Good quality sticks and controller feel
Can be used as an actual drone controller
Integrated rechargeable batteries
Has two 3-position switches, and two 2-position switches
Disadvantages:
Does not have knobs or sliders for smooth camera control
Throttle does not spring to center

XBox One Wireless Controller
Price: $58
Advantages:
Plug and play
Can be used wired using a micro USB cable (not included), or wirelessly through bluetooth connection
If using the USB cable, batteries are not required. Two AA batteries are needed for wireless use
Rugged
Easy to source locally, and many users may already have them
Has two sliders that can be used for precise camera tilting
Disadvantages:
The feel of sticks is not the same as an actual drone controller
No switches, but has multiple buttons
PlayStation Controller
Price: $65
Advantages:
Plug and play
Rugged
Easy to source locally, and many users may already have them
Disadvantages:
The feel of sticks is not the same as an actual drone controller
No switches, but has multiple buttons

Question 10

Can I pause or cancel my subscription?

Accepted Answer

You can access the Billing Portal at any moment to cancel or pause your subscription, which will stop automatic payment at the end of each payment period.  You will lose access to the SIMNET workspace, however, your data will remain there and will be accessible again when you resume your subscription or purchase a new subscription to regain access.

Frequently Asked Questions