Review: iFMS

Review: iFMS from Michael Defeyter By Paul Mort

As a simmer who thoroughly enjoys the world of flight simulation, I am always on the lookout for software which enhances the perception/immersion of flight. It was on one such occasion that I happened upon a little program called iFMS. Having purchased it from the Google Play store, I thought I would share my experiences of this wonderful little utility.

So what does it do?

The iFMS system is a Boeing style set of instruments displayed in real time on your tablet. It has the ability to display an array of cockpit instruments including PFD, HSI, FMC with integrated autopilot and EICAS for either two or four engine aircraft.

When using your tablet in portrait mode, it will display any one of the above instruments but the clever bit comes when the tablet is placed in landscape mode. In this mode, the screen will display any two instruments (of your choice, from the ones available) side by side. What's more, this neat little program can be used on both iOS or Android devices.

The configuration screen for the instruments is available by double tapping the very top right corner of the screen whilst in portrait mode.

Installation

Once purchased and downloaded from either the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS), you'll need to install a small plugin into your main computer so that your simulator can communicate with the app. These plugins are available from the iFMC web site and include versions for X-Plane 9, X-Plane 10, FSX and also Prepar3D.

With your plugin chosen and iFMS running, you are then required to input the IP address of the computer running your simulator. This is done via the FMS and its numeric keypad and works very well. Once done, and with both iFMS and your simulator running, the word 'CONNECTED' should appear in the CONFIG screen.