How to Resolve Thrustmaster Airbus Joystick and Quadrant Button Conflicts in FSX

I understand the frustration you're experiencing with your Thrustmaster TCA Officer Pack Airbus edition in FSX. Configuring multiple controllers can be tricky, especially when dealing with overlapping button assignments. Fortunately, there are ways to resolve this issue and get your joystick and throttle quadrant working harmoniously in FSX.

Understanding the Issue

FSX recognizes controller inputs based on button numbers, and by default, it doesn't differentiate between buttons with the same number on different devices. This means that if both your joystick and throttle quadrant have a "Button 2," pressing it on either device triggers any function assigned to "Button 2" in FSX, leading to the conflicts you're encountering.

Solution: Using FSUIPC to Manage Controller Assignments

One effective way to resolve this conflict is by using FSUIPC (Flight Simulator Universal Inter-Process Communication), a versatile third-party tool that allows for advanced controller configuration. FSUIPC can distinguish between different devices and their respective inputs, enabling you to assign unique functions to buttons even if they share the same number.

Here’s how you can set it up:

1. Download and Install FSUIPC: Visit Pete Dowson’s website to download the latest version of FSUIPC compatible with FSX. Follow the installation instructions provided.
2. Access FSUIPC in FSX: Launch FSX and navigate to the Add-ons menu at the top of the screen. Select FSUIPC to open the configuration window.
3. Assign Controllers Separately: In the FSUIPC interface, go to the Buttons + Switches tab. Here, you can assign functions to buttons on each device individually.
4. Configure the Joystick: Press a button on your joystick, and FSUIPC will detect it. Check the box "Profile Specific" to ensure the settings apply only to the aircraft you're configuring.
5. Set the Joystick Function: Assign the desired function to the joystick button by selecting it from the drop-down menu or entering the control code.
6. Repeat for the Throttle Quadrant: Press a button on your throttle quadrant and assign the appropriate function, ensuring it doesn't conflict with the joystick assignments.
7. Save Your Settings: Once you've configured all the buttons, click "OK" to save your settings and exit FSUIPC.

Important Notes:

• FSUIPC distinguishes between controllers by their unique identifiers, so it can manage buttons with the same numbers on different devices without conflicts.
• You may need the registered (paid) version of FSUIPC to access advanced controller assignment features.
• Ensure that you clear any default assignments in FSX to prevent conflicts. Go to Settings > Controls, select each controller, and remove unwanted default assignments.

Alternative Solution: Manually Reassigning Controls in FSX

If you prefer not to use third-party software, you can attempt to manually reassign controls within FSX, although this might be less effective due to FSX's limitations.

1. Access Control Settings: In FSX, go to Settings > Controls.
2. Select Controller Type: Choose your joystick from the drop-down menu.
3. Reassign Joystick Buttons: Reassign or disable functions assigned to overlapping button numbers.
4. Repeat for Throttle Quadrant: Select your throttle quadrant and adjust its button assignments accordingly.
5. Test in the Simulator: Try out the new assignments to see if the conflicts are resolved.

However, keep in mind that FSX may still not differentiate between the devices at this level, which is why using FSUIPC is the recommended approach.

Final Thoughts

By utilizing FSUIPC, you can effectively manage your controller inputs and eliminate the button assignment conflicts between your Thrustmaster Airbus joystick and throttle quadrant. This allows you to fully enjoy the immersive experience they offer in FSX.

If you have any questions during the setup process or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Many fellow simmers have navigated this issue, and the community is always here to help.

Happy flying!