Configuring ASX and FSX

Active Sky X is pre-configured after installation for recommended default settings.

These default settings should work well for most users.  If you'd like to customize the way weather is reported and/or depicted, please see the Settings Screen section of this documentation.  We do recommend that you first experience ASX with these normal default options.

FSX will need to be configured for the best balance of graphics and performance.  Essentially, any settings that you normally use in FSX with default weather should work fine.  Do realize however that ASX can increase the complexity of weather scenarios and cause a further hit on performance when conditions dictate. 

The most important settings relating to weather and performance are found in the Settings/Display/Weather menu within FSX:

• Cloud draw distance: Controls the maximum distance at which you will see cloud formations.  The further the distance, the slower the performance (we recommend 60-70 miles on most systems, perhaps higher on very high-end systems).

• Thermal visualization: We recommend the most-realistic "None" setting here, but you may wish to enable visual cues to help you identify thermals.  See the FSX documentation for more information.

• Cloud detail: Detailed clouds are highly recommended on all but the lowest-end systems.

• Cloud coverage density: We recommend the Maximum setting on all but the lowest-end systems.  Lowering this setting will increase performance but at the cost of losing cloud density.

• Download winds aloft data with real-world weather: This setting does not affect ASX operation.

• Disable turbulence and thermal effects on aircraft: Check this option to disable all turbulence and thermal effects (not recommended).

• Rate at which weather changes over time: This controls how fast weather can "drift" from one set of conditions to the next, and also controls how fast clouds will form/dissipate within the area.  ASX has an option which automatically controls this setting (defaults at medium), so it is irrelevant what option you choose here.