DCS A-10C Tutorials #2: Cold Starting the A-10C

[@PhillMagGamerDad]

I got the A10C after the Hornet. For some weird reason, I found the A10 startup sequence extremely daunting, but after watching this tutorial it just clicked. If one thinks about it, it's not so much different. Different buttons yes, different sequence yes, but the concept is the same. Get power up, get engines up, do Nav alignment, check flight controls and stores, taxi and take off. You just earned a sub, thank you! Off to your next tutorial......

[@Kmbtkrl]

Yes the Hornet is a different beast for sure, but the concepts are the same. A-10C is to me still one of the more 'involved' startups. and still one of the more lengthy ones. Glad the tutorial helped you! Thanks for the sub, hopefully I get some motivation up to do some more videos in the future!

[@mossberg0]

Actions in the video: 1. 04:18 Apply battery power 2. 04:42 Turn on inverter to standby 3. 04:48 Turn on AC generators. When the engines are started they will take over power generation from the Auxiliary Power Unit 4. 05:37 Turn on Auxiliary Power Unit (05:56) 5. 06:45 After the APU reaches 100%, turn on APU Generator power 6. 07:57 Turn Mode knob for VHF COMM1 to "TR" position 7. 08:05 Turn Mode knob for VHF COMM2 to "TR" position 8. 08:10 Turn main Mode knob for UHF radio to "MAIN" position 9. 08:40 Ensure oxygen supply is on. Green switch should be at "ON". Use the "OXY IND TEST" button to test the oxygen indicator 10. 09:20 Turn on Wing an Main fuel boost pumps, to supply fuel to the engines 11. 09:40 Ensure engine fuel flow switches are set to "NORM" 12. 09:47 Ensure engine operation switches are set to the middle position 13. 10:00 Start the engines in sequence, using your PC keyboard or joystick 14. 12:40 Switch off the APU power generator (from step 3) now that your engines are generating electricity for the aircraft. Do not switch off the APU itself (from step 4) 15. 14:25 Turn off APU after you have started the second engine 16. 15:00 Close the canopy 17. 15:42 Turn on the Central Display Unit (CDU) and EGI navigation system 18. 18:08 Turn on CICU (Central Interface Control Unit), JTRS (Joint Tactical Radio System), and turn IFFCC (Integrated Flight and Fire Control Computer) to "Test" position 19. 20:00 Confirm engaging of the IFFCC by clicking the "Enter" button on the UFC 20. 20:13 Turn on both MFDs 21. 21:00 Turn on Yaw and Pitch SAS panels 22. 21:21 Press and hold the Takeoff trim button for about 2 sec 23. 22:05 Turn IFFCC to "ON" position when the test has finished as indicated on your HUD 24. 22:55 Turn on Anti-skid 25. 23:09 Unlock the attitude indicator 26. 23:41 Turn on pedal heat 27. 26:38 Click the "Load All" button to load the complete data cartridge into the aircraft computer and await the DTS Upload to complete 28. 28:47 Click the "NAV" button on your right-hand MFD 29. 29:19 Set navigation mode to "EGI" 30. 29:55 Switch on the Radar Altimeter (RDR ALTM) and switch EAC to "ARM" 31. 30:55 Turn on taxi lights 32. 31:20 Turn on Nose Wheel steering through your PC keyboard or joystick. Ensure the "Steering engaged" light comes on

[@Kmbtkrl]

mossberg0 hey! thanks for doing this!

[@mossberg0]

No problem. :) Crossed my mind that it would be useful as I often need to remember a specific step and have to scroll through parts of the video until I find it

[@AirGuitar]

This is gold! Hopefully getting this amazing machine today!

[@mopic312]

Why do every Tutorial Never, ever request ATC to start their engines after they turn their radios on..... Why Why Why...

[@Kmbtkrl]

@@mopic312 For me personally, its because DCS's ATC is really, really broken, and starting that process will just get you a bunch of bad, broken radio spam. Besides if I'm playing online we're usually on SRS and theres someone either acting as ATC or we're all just using a CTAF freq and clearing ourselves that way.

[@georgeseaman8072]

I'm a simulator flight instructor one day a week at work (dream job!) with FSX. I received my Warthog for my birthday recently and decided to finally (after owning DCS for years) learn this simulator. I have been over video after video trying to get a comprehensive explanation of the start up procedure for the A-10C. I decided to research the process and create my own series of tutorial videos. Now I don't need to, this one has done it! Excellent, excellent work. I can't wait to continue my A-10C education with your other videos.

[@Kmbtkrl]

Thanks! Means a lot! hopefully I should have more vids up soon but a reformat is in the works so its gonna take time... any questions, let me know I'll try to help.

[@georgeseaman8072]

+Kmbtkrl I'm a video editor, let me know if you need help. Also, do you have a shut down sequence? I just cranked up the Warthog and taxied down the ramp. I shut it down but not sure I did it right.

[@jayjenkins4721]

A little late, but browsing start up videos and yours is the most comprehensive. Well done. I'm an A-10C Crew Chief in the Air National Guard for the past 11 years, and I'm an engine run instructor/certifier for the past 10 years. You're about 99% right with everything. In the comments someone did mention you should test the warning lights prior to APU start (in real life) to make sure your caution and fire warning lights are indeed working. One thing that I did find wrong, the APU running alone does not produce any hydraulic pressure during a normal start up. It can, however. provide left or right side hydros for maintenance runs if the Crew Chief goes under the belly and maneuvers the hydraulic transfer selector valve to either the lt or rt side so we can test flight controls, braking system, etc for maintenance. Prior to engine start you have to have the position lights on. Flight lines are noisy, so this gives warning to folks that your engines are running. Since I'm not a pilot...shouldn't you have the IFF turned on before you take off? Good video!

[@Kmbtkrl]

Thanks so much for the info! It's good to get a little validation from someone with practical experience with the real thing; I really appreciate it!!! Some of the things I skipped over were just because this was the bare bones- get a new pilot in the air startup tutorial, but I agree there are a ton of little things I skipped over- warning lights test, o2 gauge test, IFFCC BIT, etc but it was just stuff that wasn't 100 crucial in a beginner sim environment. I was wrong about the APU hydro tho. When I made this video, the IFF was non-functioning in the sim so I skipped it. The new A10C II is out now tho, so I'm working on updating the videos for all the new goodies we get like HMCS, a working IFF, OBOGS ect. Again, thanks for the feedback, I always love to hear stuff from the people who actually do this every day.

[@keyroseair]

Very useful video for a new virtual pilot, love the level of explanation, just enough for a beginner.

[@Kmbtkrl]

Thank you!

[@jeffleonidas6109]

Are you going to do more tutorials? The videos are great and in depth on the subject, a lot of time put into the scope.

[@HEATER_]

FINALLY...now I will go fly my A10C!!! Keep these up for sure please! This is GREAT!

[@neilser1975]

This Tutorial is much more than just hit this switch hit that switch.. it explains why!! Kudos!!

[@league6]

Great vid. This by far the best tutorial on A10-C start up procedure on KZbin. The relaxed style and pace makes it so easy to follow, and the explanations are very helpful. Thanks so much for this!

[@therickening7323]

Excellent. Thank you for actually explaining WHY you're doing what you're doing. It makes it a lot easier for me to go back and troubleshoot if I mess something up. Way harder if you're just "turning knobs" lol

[@KevTCC]

Thank you SO MUCH!!! I was a maintainer (Avionics Tech) in the Canadian Air Force. Spent my career on Sea Kings. This series is very helpful.

[@wm973]

Subscribed....Just got DCS and A-10. Also lost my mind and got the Warthog HOTAS that also included the TFRP Pedals. Man... this thing is a beast! Searching for info I found your tutorials and all I can say is WOW! Really well done! Thank you so much.Now... If I can only get the pedals to work...WM

[@Kmbtkrl]

NIICE. You will LOVE that TM Warthog. It is amazing for DCS A-10C and does a pretty good job for most other sims too, with some minor functionality tweaks. Have you figured out the pedals? I really need to replace my aging Saitek ones, and the only affordable ones are the TFRPs, unless i want to step up to something like the Crosswinds or similar, and thats a big chunk of change for just rudder pedals...

[@PranzosAPrat]

I'm just starting the A-10C moving up from the F-86 and find your tutorials extremely helpful. I am planning on doing them all in order as this A/C seems very daunting to learn. Thanks for taking the time, its appreciated

[@dasparado]

I actually trained on A-10s before I crewed F-15E's in the Air Force, and you could be a real instructor. Well done.

[@Kmbtkrl]

Thanks! that means a lot!

[@digiminer]

I mean, EVERY TIME I clicked on a beginner tutorial video the instructor just flew through the steps and explained NOTHING... Until... I found you're videos. Simply the best newbie videos for the A-10C. A little old but I think still relevent. I'll see, as I haven't bought the module yet, but I am going to today for my first DCS plane. Thanks!!! I wish you would do more vids

[@Kmbtkrl]

Hey I really aprreciate that, and glad it helped! As far as I know all of this still applies, and if ED has changed anything with the module, (which I dont think they have) the concepts here all still apply. The A-10 is a neat plane, and IMHO a good starter becasue of its complexity.

[@digiminer]

@@Kmbtkrl What would be really cool is if you could do a MFD tutorial. I'm not sure if you cover that as I'm only on the first sensor tut

[@Kmbtkrl]

@@digiminer the SOI, SPI and other sensor tutorials cover alot of MFD functionality. It is important to remember that the functions of the MFD are dependent on what sensor you are using them for. Otherwise the general functions are the same. If there's anything specific you're confused about you can ask me here, too!

[@digiminer]

@@Kmbtkrl thanks for the response, Actually I don't even have the module yet lol, just doing all the research I can. Expecting my new hotas on the 24th, a X56, then I'll get the module and start putting you're fine tutorials to use instead of just watching them. I decided to buy the X56 after watching you're HOTAS tutorial Thanks Again

[@Kmbtkrl]

@@digiminer Good luck! It's definitely an adventure diving into the systems for the first time, and a lot of it is very abstract until you start clicking around in the pit, but hopefully these tutorials give you a good foundation! Congrats on the x56, I have not used it (went from an x52 to a TM warthog) but friends who have them say they work well for them. It will definitely make operating the Hog easier.

[@jamespoh3402]

Thank you so much, because of your explanations, I could already remember almost half of the steps. It becomes so logical to follow..

[@Sailordoc3349]

Great tutorial as are all your videos on DCS. Just getting back into DCS after several years off. I basically became frustrated with the process and had to back off. Though I am encouraged by the support of this community. Thanks again Kmbtkrl...kudos from an ole USS Nimitz sailor...'FLY NAVY"

[@raisingcane225]

Excellent tutorial - thank you SOOOO much!. Until seeing this I was pretty much overwhelmed by this A/C.

[@tylerw1418]

4 years later still helping people. Got to make more!

[@ApeStep]

Thanks for making these guides, The A10-c has a steep learning curve and I'm really grateful to you for making a guide that's easy to follow but covers everything i need to know..... Good job :)

[@Kmbtkrl]

Franky Red Thanks, glad it helped!

[@boarsassbrewing2026]

really like your videos. Simple to fallow. Better than the others. I am just beginning and do not know anything about DCs. It has been very intimidating so far. Thanks

[@craigjackadymond3522]

great job... you help me understand this air craft... i was struggling before i saw your vid. thanks

[@jamestanner7340]

Outstanding work! Very grateful for your efforts and much needed to say the least! Thank you so much.

[@Kmbtkrl]

Thank you! Glad it helped!

[@AndyMillerPhotoUK]

Excellent -- thanks -- it is surprisingly simple (when you do it).

[@kevinwsmith2021]

Thank you very much! Excellent tutorial video, I'll be watching your others.

[@FonzvanderLindenAlphonsius]

Yes, from several start-up sequences I found here on KZbin, I decided to use yours because it makes sense, good job. But, are you also gonna make a shut down sequence based on your start-up?

[@Relax2437]

Grate video :) that made me wanting to buy this, witch I'm going to do now!

[@EMTinVA]

Another fantastic vid. Thank you.

[@luigi7009]

Very nice video, thanks.

[@DavNagle]

Amazing tutorial dude, thank you so much, really well done.

[@peterwassmuth4014]

Awesome! Q: on the left side of R-MFCD the ALT indicator. Should that not be set to 0 ?

[@AlexDubois]

Great thanks so much for sharing your knowledge. I'll have to build a voiceattack profile A-10 checklist as with a VR headset it is a must have... I need to find a way to bind the mouse to my eye sight and a button for the left click...

[@jamesjackson6708]

Thank you....Really good video. Helped me a lot!

[@OverkillSimulations]

Great vid buddy!

[@weslicar]

Awesome tutorial...

[@Jax0319]

wow, awesome!! thanks

[@fmpphoto]

great vid ... thanks ... very informative

[@StubbeFres]

Great tutorials! are you using VR to look around in the cockpit? or is there some controls I don't know about?

[@Kmbtkrl]

Ole-jørgen Martinsen I do fly in VR sometimes, but for these videos I was using TrackIR. Its a system that uses IR light to track your head position ad translate it into camera movement in game. Check it out at naturalpoint.com

[@harpoonhenry4114]

Very well done sir thank you

[@NoFear1979]

Hello Kmbtkrl! I very much appriciate your videos and your slow pace explaining along with mentioning shortcuts and being overall systematic in showing how to makes your guides top notch enjoyable to watch and learn from. Thank you very much for your effort o7 :)

[@acfpv6007]

Great tutorial. Thanks! Out of curiosity, what's the rope across the front cockpit for?

[@Kmbtkrl]

i believe those are bungies for holding stuff like maps and other small items

[@acfpv6007]

Cheers!

[@bjarne_maritime]

I started with the basic start-up of the engines to just go and fly around so I didn't complete the whole video. I started in a hangar and started the engines gave have some power and started rolling, but since I didn't watch the entire video I forgot nose wheel steering and I didn't enable it. She started to roll a bit to the right and I tried to correct but nothing worked and I slammed into the hangar wall and exploded. From that moment on I allways check the nose steering twice. Sorry for possible broken english .

[@Kmbtkrl]

SGT-Bjarne haha yes! I still do this, probably 1/ 10 times!

[@LawmanIL]

Great video series. It is really helping me out alot! I was wondering, does anyone know if the A10 has fuel mixture knobs/levers in real life? I noticed that you never have to change the fuel mixture and was wondering if it does it automatically, or if you don't even have to do that for jets or something?

[@Kmbtkrl]

+DayTripperID Thought I replied to this, sorry for the lag. In most turbofan engines the mixture is controlled internally inside the combustion chamber. Its a completely different process than in a piston aircraft, where you will most commonly find mixture controls.

[@Athomeintheshed]

good job helped loads :-)

[@DD-sw1dd]

Do u not zero out the altimeter in the A-10C like you do in the F-16 in BMS? Just noticed your altitude was reading 400ft even tho your were on the ground.

[@Kmbtkrl]

+Dereck Dunn Yeah, normally you would. Didn't really get that far in the tut...Usually the tower will give you a QFE once youre cleared for takeoff.

[@gaarasage1]

can you reply to me whats the control buttons about zooming in, looking around and for looking outside your plane.....Thanks

[@Kmbtkrl]

JoshtheGamer exterior cameras are F1-F4, zoom in/out is the / and * on your numpad. dont know the freelook keyboard commands. usually theyre are default to the hat switch on your joystick if you have one. snap views in the cockpit are very useful, hold numpad 0 and press another numpad key and your view will snap to a certain cockpit area. num5 will recenter your view quickly.

[@gaarasage1]

I thank you very much dude now i can see my plane from outside :D I subscribed to your channel and great video by the way.

[@crazycdn8327]

You did make a mistake at 6 mins in, you turn on the APU without testing the warning systems, you're supposed to (according to the real manual) test all the bells and whistles because sometimes they kill certain bulbs behind warning lights. I've saved my butt once by doing this actually. Just a heads up. Otherwise, so far a great video.

[@HaganDave]

In real world, yes. But this is a video game.

[@digijunk95]

@@HaganDave if you have random failures on it still is necessary.

[@HaganDave]

digijunk95 Well, I will try to fly with this option activated :). But even without it, my Su-27 sometimes tears into pieces if I fly on afterburner after being damaged by missile.

[@moody_goose]

A lot slower and more understandable than that Samuel Jackson sounding tutorial guy that speeds through everything a million miles a minute.

[@moody_goose]

@@Oldmandoom95 Yes

[@Sandw1ch3s]

omg this is so confusing. I bought the a-10c without understanding how difficult this would be. also I use an attack 3 and nothing else.... no track IR no expensive hotas

[@DD-sw1dd]

Yeah this is a true high fidelity simulation. You can get buy with a low value HOTAS....but this module was built to be used with the Thrustmaster Warthog HOTAS. The game automatically has all the TM Warthog parameters mapped when you play. They are that closely intertwined. TrackIR is also a MUST HAVE for DCS in general. Even for the lower fidelity aircraft. If your into modern combat flight sims I cannot stress how great the Thrustmaster Warthog is. Yes it's expensive...but IMO worth every penny. As much as I play flight sims I've come to believe I've actually saved money bc I bought the Thrustmaster. Prior to owning the Thrustmaster I went through 2 Saitek HOTAS controllers in 2 years. Saitek X-52 Pro costs $160-$200. Thrustmaster warthog costs $299 now. Why bother with anything less if you love modern combat flight sims. Only other brand of HOTAS I'll use is CH Products. I own a CH Fighterstick and Pro Throttle for use with space flying sims (Elite Dangerous).

[@Kmbtkrl]

+Andrew James™ - Design Echoing what +Dereck Dunn said, you can play with a lower end setup but it will put you at a disadvantage. I've set up several profiles for people with simple sticks like the Extreme 3D Pro and the lower end TM sticks, but its a struggle and makes the game harder to learn. If you are seriously looking into getting into this game, I'd reccomend a Saitek X52 at the very least, it is a good all around HOTAS setup, with lots of flexiblity to be used in other games and still gives you that hands-on feel necessary for the A-10. It also won't set you back nearly as bad as the Warthog HOTAS. And yes, because of the game taking up all the button 'real estate' on the stick, TrackIR is almost a must have, and once you have flown with it, IMHO its near impossible to fly without it...

[@Sandw1ch3s]

Dereck Dunn Man i wish i had some money for that stuff but its damn expensive....I can see your points though