The beginning of this post is copied from the simulator project email chain that was being used by the team to communicate about the project. I have posted the conversation from it to bring everyone up speed and to continue the discussion publicly with the chapter.

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"I wanted to give another update to the simulator project for those that did not make it out to the November Chapter meeting. The computer is currently up and running and is at the point where the chapter needs to make a decision to invest in additional hardware or work with what we have. At the minimum the project requires two additional small screens even if the chapter decides not to upgrade the computer. Beyond the two screens I have outlined three different courses of action I thought of. If anyone else has any suggestions please reply to this email chain.

1.  Work with what we have

    Pros 

-No additional cost to the chapter beyond the required two screens (around $200ish)

    Cons

-The performance of the simulation is poor 

2. Cannibalize the current machine using some the parts to build a new computer 

Pros

-Performance for any simulation will be outstanding and will allow the chapter to stream lessons live, along with events such as IMC club.

-Get exactly the type of machine we want

    Cons

-Expensive and will require someone or a group of people to assembly and install software to the machine.

    Suggested parts/Price outline

https://pcpartpicker.com/list/87Qt8M (This list is for computer components only, does not include screens)($1500ish)

3. Buy a pre-build machine that is on holiday sale

Pros

-Performance for any simulation will be outstanding and will allow the chapter to stream lessons live, along with events such as IMC club.

-Already built, ready to go out of the box

    Cons

-Expensive

-Often these pre-build machines skimp on one part such as a power supply that may need to be replaced at purchase ore down the road

    Suggested pre built machine

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/ibuypower-gaming-desktop-intel-core-i7-9700f-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-2070-super-1tb-hdd-480gb-solid-state-drive-black/6362981.p?acampID=8fdc98c00ef411ea9ae7f6f2c7d713a&loc=8fdc98c00ef411ea9ae7f6f2c7d713a00INT&ref=8575135&skuId=6362981 (1200ish)

I personally feel that the best course of action would be to cannibalize the current computer and rebuild the machine with current generation parts. I know the cost is steep to fully update the project, however I feel the return will be substantial. Allowing the 582nd to standout among other chapters and give people a insensitive to come out. In addition this computer would serve as a tool beyond just running simulation software. The computer can use this as a broadcasting machine to reach new faces to promote the chapter or fundraisers such as the Righteous Raffle™. As for the price, the holiday shopping season is beginning which is the best time to buy computer parts. I feel it's important that we make a decision sooner then later to capitalize on the holiday sales. Please replay to this email chain with any questions

https://imgur.com/ng3BxO0"

-Korbin Friend

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"Hello all, I would like to thank Korbin for his efforts and options for the simulator computer.

My opinion regarding this computer is a little different than Korbin's. I do agree both options would provide the computing solution and demands for the simulator. However, I really believe the best option for the club would be to buy an already configured gaming machine. I do not agree the store bought computer would have an underpowered power supply or parts that would quickly burn out. The main reason I am pro the store bought is because of the support and warranty. If we have a home built computer, then we will always need to have a person in the club to be willing and able to provide support when something breaks and we will need to buy the replacement parts. An already purchased computer can come with on-site support and I believe this is very important for a club setting. If something does break (such as the power supply), then support will come to the club and replace the parts under the warranty. Regarding the store bought computer that Korbin scoped out, the only change I would suggest is to increase the memory from 16 gb to 32 gb and make sure we are using Windows 64 bit vs 32 bit.

Regards,

Bryan Boyer"

 -Bryan Boyer

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"To all,

This is a really good discussion and I am sure it will lead to the optimal upgrade to our computer. I would like to ask a favor though, could we please move this discussion to the website for all to see.  This is one reason why we have a website in the first place.  I addition to allowing the members to respond at their convenience, it builds a record of the discussion.  So if you would, please go to https://eaachapter582.wildapricot.org/page-1736406 and subscribe.  I hope to be using this feature more in the future on various programs and you all can help get the process rolling.

Thanks,

Bill"

-Bill David

 I would like to see the simulator able to shoot approaches and log them. The FAA recently put out the information required for that and it is not that much anymore. We could charge people to use it to upgrade their approach currency help pay for the new simulator parts.