Newbi question

[David Freeman]

Hello all,

It's good to be here.  I've been siming and flying real world for a long time and finally decided to take the next step with online flying.  I have my VATSIM account set up and have logged on using squakbox.  I have a couple of questions.

1.  What server should I log on to?  I ask because I'm stationed in Korea, but fly my flights in the US.  Should my server choice be based on my computer location or where I fly?

2.  What are my options if I'm dropped from the server mid flight?  Can I log back on and pick up where I left off, or am I done for that flight.  I ask because in Korea, while my internet is fast, it does drop from time to time.

Thanks, and I look forward to flying with all of you online soon.

Dave Freeman
American Airlines Virtual

[Kevin Copeland]

Welcome aboard Dave

1.  What server should I log on to?  I ask because I'm stationed in Korea, but fly my flights in the US.  Should my server choice be based on my computer location or where I fly?

Ideally it should be the closest to your physical location.
But...the one closest to you may also have the most number of users logged in to it so that would not be the best choice. I live on the east coast USA and I connect to the UK servers all the time.
I would suggest using the closest one and if you seem to have any trouble then switch to another server.
 

2.  What are my options if I'm dropped from the server mid flight?  Can I log back on and pick up where I left off, or am I done for that flight.

Just re-connect.
This happens all the time. You can dis-connect and re-connect at any time.

[David Freeman]

Welcome aboard Dave


Ideally it should be the closest to your physical location.
But...the one closest to you may also have the most number of users logged in to it so that would not be the best choice. I live on the east coast USA and I connect to the UK servers all the time.
I would suggest using the closest one and if you seem to have any trouble then switch to another server.
 

Just re-connect.
This happens all the time. You can dis-connect and re-connect at any time.

Sir,

Thank you.  If I could ask another question...If I am flying from an area with no controllers active, to a place where they are active, how will I know when to contact the controller.  If I am going from Dallas to LA and SOCAL Approach is the only facility manned, when do I contact SOCAL approach?  I'm guessing I'd stay on 122.8 until a controller came up and told me to change to SOCAL approach.

Thanks again,

Dave

[Bob Carmona]

Usually ATC will send a message to you to contact them. You can also contact them on your own just prior to entering their airspace. There are several programs that show which sectors are being manned. Servinfo, Vattastic, vRoute, and others. Personally I use Servinfo a lot.

[Bob Carmona]

P.S. Welcome to VATSIM!!!

[Don Desfosse]

Just to add on to Bob's answer -- you are expected to contact the controller when entering their airspace, which is why those programs are invaluable.  Welcome to VATSIM!