How to choose a computer steering wheel?

The market of multimedia entertainment is becomingmore complex and attractive. New devices, manipulators and joysticks give gamers the thrill and impressions of the gameplay. At the same time, developers do not always surprise users with fundamentally new solutions. The fact that the computer steering wheel is not the first year is pleased fans of virtual racing, but modern models are fundamentally different from the versions that were available 10-15 years ago. Together with the increase in manufacturability and functionality, the principles of choosing this manipulator become more complicated.

Optimum angle of rotation

Like a conventional steering wheel, his computer simulatorIt is a complex device that interacts with several components in the process of work. But while it is necessary to determine exactly with the characteristics of the steering wheel, the main parameter of which is the angle of rotation. On average, it is 150 °. Increasing the angle is a sign of a more technological device. To achieve the optimal turning accuracy required for modern games, a simulator with a range of 180 ° is needed. On the other hand, and the computer steering wheel with a turn from an emphasis to the stop can not justify the user's expectations. The fact is that the complication and even the expansion of capabilities still requires correlation with gamer skills. Of course, such models bring the gameplay closer to reality, but because of obvious physical inconveniences, with long bends, dynamics may disappear.

What type of fastening is better?

Most models from major manufacturersAssume fixation with the help of reliable clamps. In an extreme case, you can choose from a variant with jumpers made of quality materials. Both configurations are characterized by strong and rigid fastening, which is only broken in extreme cases. Nevertheless in budget lines still there are old-fashioned Velcro with suckers. Such a computer steering wheel is more likely to cause a lot of problems and inconveniences in the management process. Therefore, it is not worth saving. The problem is that the budget manipulators themselves can have decent characteristics, but it is almost impossible to remodel their fixation system. For this reason, it is worthwhile to focus on more solid devices.

Ways to connect

Special connection problems do not arise.must. Most computer manipulators are connected via the USB interface. The package also includes the necessary software to equip the system with drivers of a particular model. The only nuance is the compatibility of the model with the version of the operating system. Also worth thinking about is another nuance. Some of the complexes that operate as whole stations with plug-in components may require the capture of multiple USB ports. For example, complex computer rudders with gearbox in some versions are connected separately. That is, one connector is allocated to the interaction of the computer with the wheel, and the second - with the gearbox. The same can apply to pedals, which are worth considering separately.

Parameters of pedals

Although this component is often consideredaddition, but in practice this has long been wrong. First, a rare manufacturer produces a steering wheel without pedals, and secondly, much depends on them in the game process. And this is not to say that the unit with pedal manipulators requires a more responsible and close inspection. To begin the analysis on conformity follows from the sizes. This is the case when large sizes are in favor - a massive unit is more elementary in the course of operation than miniature analogs. Also, a computer steering wheel with pedals can be supplied together with the said gearbox. But it is important to consider that not every modern game allows the use of 6-speed gears. It is much more important to determine the composition of the pedals themselves. Basic equipment involves the presence of two elements - for the brake and gas. The expanded complete sets provide also inclusion of coupling. In addition, it will not be superfluous directly in the store to check the elasticity of pressing the pedal, which will depend on ergonomics. Although, as noted by experienced gamers, you can get used to any of the branded models in this respect, without experiencing any particular inconveniences

New technologies: what to consider?

Steering computer simulators have notare considered only as a means of signaling a virtual object - usually a car. A sign of a quality model in terms of ergonomics and functionality is the technological provision of feedback. We can say that this is the central direction of the development of the segment as a whole. Until recently, Rumble Feedback technology dominated, thanks to which a computer steering wheel with a gearbox and pedals provided the user with a basic range of sensations transmitted to the vibration controls. But in the most recent devices, a more effective and perfect principle of simulating the sensations of what is happening in the gaming world is realized. This is a Force Feedback system that not only translates vibrations, for example, when a race car rides on gravel, but also recreates the characteristic behavior of gas and brakes in difficult traffic situations. Again, a multifactor management model does not fit every player - at any rate, newcomers will have to adjust to it too.

Model Reviews Logitech

Despite the presence of a large number ofmanufacturers in the industry of computer equipment and components, manipulators of this type are not produced by all companies. This is due largely to the technological complexity of the devices. Logitech in this category has won the status of leader. Users emphasize the high quality of the models, their functionality and reliability. In addition, the steering wheel computer Logitech is distinguished by the successful implementation of technology vibrodidachi. Develop steering wheels of this brand and in the basic characteristics. So, premium modifications have a maximum steering wheel with an additional grip along the axis, have 12-14 buttons and additional controls.

Thrustmaster Model Reviews

Not every manufacturer can compete withthe brand mentioned above, and yet the closest to the leader can be called the manufacturer Thrustmaster. The range of the company does not indulge in scope, and yet individual models deserve high user ratings. In particular, the computer gaming wheels of this brand are praised for successful constructional performance. That is, for the ergonomic layout and model of the interaction of individual units - the steering base, the pedal panels, speed change boxes, etc. Especially the owners point out that there are two convenient petal switches that mimic sequential controls on real sports cars.

Computer Steering Games

Of course, the main emphasis creators of steering wheelsdo to recreate the atmosphere of driving. Accordingly, most of the games for which such manipulators are intended are arcade races recreating the mechanics of cars. The most popular series is Need for Speed, which is the classic incarnation of a virtual sports driving simulator. The focus on the imitation of professional competitions and make the creators of Colin McRae. But if the named computer games for the helm with pedals provide a bunch of virtual machines with real controls, for example, the developers of the Gran Turismo series master the shades of real sports cars. The manufacturer works closely with the largest automakers that produce sports coupe. As a result, the user has the ability to control the machine, the computer version of which with a varying degree of detail imitates a real concept car.

Conclusion

In the choice of technological manipulator is inevitablethere may be a question of cost constraints. Although there is a decrease in cost amid the development of computer components, the steering wheel for games is still not cheap. The budget segment offers models with a price tag of about 3-4 thousand rubles. It should be understood that these are far from the most developed options, even by average standards. The following is a segment in which Force Feedback technology is implemented. In this version, the computer steering wheel can cost 10 thousand rubles already.

If you plan to use the maximumcomplete with pedals and gearbox, you should prepare an amount in the region of 15-20 thousand rubles. Of course, if we talk about little-known Chinese companies, then such a modification can be found for more modest money, but you will have to prepare for unexpected shortcomings. For example, manufacturers will not be able to guarantee compatibility with a computer, and after a few months of operation, individual components may not be out of order. Therefore, it is desirable to initially rely on the acquisition of high-quality, functional and durable gaming steering wheel from the brand level Logitech and Thrustmaster.