How to choose a computer steering wheel?

The market of multimedia entertainment is becoming more complex and attractive. New devices, manipulators and joysticks give gamers thrills 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 pleases 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.

Optimal angle of rotation

Like a conventional steering wheel, its computer simulator 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 optimum 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 thing is that the complication and even the expansion of the possibilities still requires correlation with the gamer skills. Of course, such models bring the gameplay closer to reality, but due to obvious physical inconveniences, with long bends, dynamics may disappear.

What type of fastening is better?

Most models from large manufacturers assume fixation with the help of reliable clamps. In extreme cases, you can choose from a variant with lintels made of quality materials. Both configurations are characterized by strong and rigid fastening, which is only broken in extreme cases. Nevertheless, the budget lines still have old-fashioned Velcro with suckers. Such a computer steering wheel is more likely to deliver 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 should not occur. 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 a 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 considered as an addition, but in practice it has long been not so. Firstly, 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 it 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 here it is important to take into account 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 long been 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 latest devices, a more effective and perfect principle of simulating the sensations of what is happening in the gaming world is realized. This is the Force Feedback system, which not only translates vibrations, for example, when a race car arrives on gravel, but also recreates the characteristic behavior of gas and brake 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 of manufacturers 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.

Reviews about models Thrustmaster

Not every manufacturer can compete with the above mentioned brand, and yet the closest to the leader can be called the manufacturer Thrustmaster. The assortment of the company does not spoil in scope, and nevertheless separate models deserve high estimations of users. In particular, the computer game controls of this brand are praised for the successful design performances. That is, for ergonomic layout and model of interaction of individual blocks - the steering base, panels with pedals, gear boxes, etc. Especially the owners note the presence of two convenient petal switches that mimic the sequential controls on real sports cars.

Games for computer steering

Of course, the main emphasis of the creators of steering wheels is 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 a classic embodiment of the virtual simulator of sport driving. Emphasis on the imitation of professional competitions makes and creators of Colin McRae. But if the named computer games for the wheel with pedals provide a bunch of virtual machines with real controls, then, for example, the developers of the Gran Turismo series master the shades of these sports cars. The manufacturer closely cooperates with the largest auto giants, which produce a sports coupe. As a result, the user has the ability to control the machine, the computer version of which simulates a real concept car with some degree of detail.

Conclusion

The choice of a technological manipulator inevitably may raise the issue of cost limitations. Although against the background of the development of computer components, there is a decrease in value, the wheel for games is still not cheap. Budget segment offers models with a price tag of about 3-4 thousand rubles. We must understand that these are far from the most developed options, even by average standards. Then follows the segment in which Force Feedback technology is implemented. In this version, the computer handle can cost 10 thousand rubles.

If you plan to use the maximum configuration 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 we will also have to prepare for unexpected shortcomings. For example, manufacturers will not be able to guarantee compatibility with the computer, and after a few months of operation, individual components can not be out of order. Therefore, it is desirable to initially rely on the acquisition of a high-quality, functional and long-lasting game steering wheel from the Logitech and Thrustmaster brands.