Saitek PK24 Eclipse III Wired Keyboard Reviews

Saitek PK24 Eclipse III Wired Keyboard Reviews
Other products by Saitek Ratting 4.5 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 27 Total Use 2

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The Saitek Eclipse III is a sleek backlit multimedia keyboard with touch-sensitive lighting and volume controls, and ergonomically placed shortcut keys. It features adjustable, multi color backlighting that highlights key controls, touch-sensitive control panel to change settings quickly and easily, two stage height adjustment and removable wrist rest increase comfort, pass through headphone and microphone audio ports for simple connectivity, time-saving Windows and Internet shortcut keys, USB plug and play, and laser-etched, soft touch, durable keys. Color and keyboard settings remain even after system reboot. System requirements are USB 2.0, Windows XP, XP64, Windows Vista (all versions) and Windows 7.

Technical Details

- Backlighting with choice of three colors blue red purple
- Two stage Height adjustment / Removable wrist rest
- Pass through Audio ports for Headset
- Touch-sensitive control panel changes settings quickly and easily
- Compatible with Windows 7, Windows XP, XP64 and Windows Vista (all versions)
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"The Best" 2010-02-18
By M. Higgins
I ordered this keyboard, and received it in 24 hours (normal shipping)
The Keyboard is heavy duty, solid, & sets up through plug & play as soon as
it's plugged in. I run Windows Vista Pro, and there where no conflicts.
The Back lights on the keys are perfect, Color selection, & brightness all done through optical sensors on the dash of the keyboard. It's USB friendly,
& gives you a Mic, and headphone jack right on the dash of the keyboard.
Audio volume, play, and flip backwards and forwards, through all your songs
right on the keyboard dash. It has simple paddle switches on the left and
right sides, for many windows options, Like: mail, Music player, Windows
search. Also it has Browser controls, like Home, back, forward, refresh.
Everything at your finger tips. It's a thick keyboard, not like Microsoft's
version of being a paper thin back lit keyboard.
This one is meant for long term use, and well worth the cost.
I looked at many back lit keyboards before getting this one,
And I feel this one past all my expectations !

"Saitek PK24 Eclipse III Wired Keyboard Review" 2010-02-14
By T. Fortune
Not bad, thought it could have been better designed. Side buttons too close to edge.

"Work in Color" 2010-01-18
By Crystal A. Murray (Kentucky, USA)
Color is a powerful factor in our moods, and that makes it a powerful factor in our productivity. Being able to change this keyboard to a color that either fits or redirects my current mood makes it well worth the higher price tag. I purchased this for its back lighting, but I find I have even more reasons to enjoy it, including the extra shortcut buttons that line each edge. The browser shortcuts on the left side include forward and back buttons as well as refresh. The computer buttons on the right side include "my computer" and a one touch button to my on screen calculator which I use quite often. I still have more to read to find out if these buttons are programmable, but as it stands right now, this is by far the most enjoyable keyboard I've owned yet. I did rate ease of use at 4 rather than 5 stars simply because the buttons are a little harder to push, though that may just be about getting used to them as compared to my old keyboard.

"Neat and has a nice look with touchy colors" 2009-11-19
By F. Alshaeer (KSA)
I am enjoying this keyboard with it`s nice buttons and back light which you get to choose the color and it`s level of brightness. the side short-cut keys are also a nice touch. but because of it the keyboard is kinda wide. I constantly hitting the side accidentally with my mouse when am playing games.

"GOOD BANG FOR THE BUCK" 2009-10-04
By G. Gibbs (U.S.A.)
There are many well written reviews about this keyboard so I won't repeat what you have previously read. I had the Saitek II keyboard and loved it. Once you have an illuminated keyboard there is no going back. I'll be the first one to admit that I am hard on a keyboard. Spilled drinks, cigarette ashes,(I quit) food crumbs etc. The Saitek took all of this abuse but after 4 years of heavy use the space-bar key broke. There was no fixing it. Having had a good buying experience I ordered the Saitek III. This keyboard is very impressive looking with many bells & whistles that you may not need. It does take up a lot of real estate on your desk top so make sure you have the room. It's about 6 inches longer than the compact Saitek II so if space is an issue you may not want this. Most desk tops should accomadate this without a problem. The most noticeable difference is the "Feel" of the keyboard. The Saitek II keys feel hard with short strokes. The Saitek III keys feel much softer allowing faster typing speeds. Your fingers float over the keys as opposed to banging them. Bottom Line: This is one impressive keyboard that I highly recommend. You will not be disappointed.


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Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals Reviews

Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals Reviews
Other products by Saitek Ratting 4.0 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 29 Total Use 2

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Complete your virtual pilot’s controller setup and take flight simulation reality to the next level with the Pro Flight Rudder Pedals. Control the rudder and toe brakes of your aircraft with your feet - just like real pilots. Adjustable, smooth action gives you optimum control and realism, and brings you even closer to the experience of flying a real aircraft.

Technical Details

- Self-centring pedals with adjustable damping / Foot rests adjust to fit all sizes and include non-slip materials
- Precise rudder and braking control / Tension adjustment - choose resistance to suit the way you fly
- High quality, part metal construction for long life
- Saitek¿s powerful Saitek Smart Technology (SST) programming software allows gamers to configure their controls to suit their preferred gaming style, and to save the configurations aspersonal profiles
- Connectivity: USB 2.0 Works with: Windows XP, XP64 and Vista (all versions) Windows 7
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"Very disapointed" 2010-02-28
By Oscar Wilde (Houston, Texas)
I have a Sitek yoke system that I purchased some time back. I was not able to get these pedals to work properly. every time I pushed one of the pedals the airplane went totally out of control. I called the help line with Sitek. Even though the person was very polite, he was not able to give me any clues other that connecting directly to the computer instead of the Sitek yoke console in case the input was too much for the single USB port from the yoke to the computer...(I thought this system was meant to work together) I did that and it didn't help at all, nothing changed. He suggested that I call Microsoft ! ! ! Can you imagine? calling Microsoft?
I returned it and got my money back. I now am back to using the number keyboard pad for rudder control. I am a private pilot and was hoping to get the complete control of the plane with these pedals. The experience was a total failure. I would not recommend them unles you have time to call Microsoft in case it doesn't work... ;-(

"Full Flight Authority" 2010-02-23
By Rice Chaparral Homes (Arizona)
These are a great set of rudder pedals. Very well constructed but not made of steel. They function smooth as glass and are easy to set up. If used in a normal fashion, they should hold up well. Because plastic is used in the construction, a strong "stomp" might break them. I have had no trouble with mine and am happy with the purchase.

"Best pedals EVER" 2010-02-15
By Tony Rayhorn
Best pedals ever! Thousands of times more realistic than the CH pedals! Love them. Just plug them in and go. Differential braking makes all the difference! Can't believe that I ever flew without them! So much more sturdy than the CH pedals, and also the motions are so much more realistic. Would recommend this to any flight simmer.

"Saitek Rudder Pedals as advertised" 2010-02-11
By Tim Hoch (Prior Lake, MN)
I use the saitek rudder pedals with a saitek Pro Joystick and everything works as advertised!
The install went smoothly. I use them with FSX.
Construction seems to be of high quality.
The adjustable control knob in the middle of the pedals does a good job of adjusting the tension on the pedals.
Getting the toe breaks to work in FSX took a little trial and error, but does work.
I would recommend these to my friends.

"good" 2010-02-10
By Rodolfo Diaz
Really good and a fastshipping.

I really like the Product fast to install no CD needed just plug & Play




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Saitek Pro Flight Yoke with Three-Lever Throttle (PZ44) Reviews

Saitek Pro Flight Yoke with Three-Lever Throttle (PZ44) Reviews
Other products by Saitek Ratting 4.0 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 33 Total Use 3

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Precision. Realism. Control. The Saitek Pro Flight Yoke System is highly engineered to meet the exacting needs of the true flight simulation enthusiast. Stainless steel shaft, ergonomic controls, integrated chronograph, and separate throttle quadrant ensure a smooth, accurate and totally realistic flying experience. Features: Durable stainless steel shaft with precision bearings gives smooth and predictable elevator and aileron control; Used with the supplied SST Programming software, integrated mode switch trebles the number of controls you have at your fingertips; Accurately time each leg of your flight plan with the integrated chronograph; Separate throttle quadrant with additional switches to configure any combination of throttle, flaps, mixture or prop pitch. Mount on top, in front of your desk, pilot or co-pilot side so that the controls are exactly where you want them; Unique, 2-position desk clamp keeps your yoke and quadrant securely fixed no matter how extreme the flying conditions; Use the integrated USB Hub to easily connect other parts of the Saitek Pro Flight range of products, such as additional Pro Flight Throttle Quadrant or Pro Flight Instrument Panel (both sold separately); Saitek’s powerful Saitek Smart Technology (SST) programming software allows gamers to configure their controls to suit their preferred gaming style, and to save the configurations as personal profiles. Specifications: 14 buttons; POV Hat Switch; 3-position Mode Switch; 3 axis levers on Quadrant; Elevator and Aileron Axes on Yoke. System Requirements: Connectivity: USB 2.0 Works with: Windows XP, XP64 and Vista (all versions) and Windows 7

Technical Details

- POV Hat, 14 button controls, and 3-position mode switch
- Stainless steel yoke shaft and 2-position clamp
- Comes with separate three axis lever throttle
- Integrated 3-port USB 2.0 Hub
- XP, Vista and Windows 7 compatible
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"Saitek Pro Flight Yoke - Paul" 2010-02-23
By Paul Johnson
I have Flight Simulator X, Saitek Pro Flight yoke with the 3 lever throttle unit, and the Saitek Rudder pedals.
This program is just what it is named a Flight Simulator. I thought this program would be more game like. This program is not very friendly. I think this program assumes the people who buy it are familiar with flying planes. I have found that many people that buy this package are pilots when I called tech support. I suggest that you print out and read the instructions and the controls diagram if you are a beginner like me. In order to enjoy this program you need to buy the Flight Yoke and throttle controls using the keyboard is difficult and not much fun. I also bought the rudder pedals, but it is going to take some time for me to get it all working together, I'm a beginner so the yoke and throttle is enough for now.
If you are thinking of some day flying a plane this is the package to get. If you just want jump in and just start flying get something easier. Also USB extensions over 8 feet without an amp should not be used because I had problems with a 10 foot extension cable turning the yoke on and off.

Good luck and happy flying.

"Economic realism for flight sim." 2010-02-15
By Donald J. Warden (League City, TX USA)
As an old commercial pilot, SE & ME CFII, and aviation enthusiast (retired) I decided to get back into my love of aviation with FSX and a joystick was not realistic for my general aviation background. The Saitek ProFlight Yoke System is within my budget and still provides a near actual feel and capabilities that I desired. The only problem was mounting the units on my computer desk that has a front sloping edge. A quick trip to Home Depot for some foam weather stripping and commercial grade velcro allowed me to create a padding to compensate for the gap at the slope and also secure the units for good steady use. I strongly suggest the use of the ProFlight Rudder Pedals to complete the setup. They also work well mounted to a plastic chair mat with velcro. Using a Sharpie fine point pen to make an outline around the units makes it simple to re-install and find your velcro after a removal. I had my doubts about the plastic design but that has proven to be no problem. Windows 7 searched for the current Saitek software drivers and made the whole experience enjoyable. Amazon free shipping in 2 business days along with the best price was a plus.

"Great product!!!" 2010-02-15
By J. Foley
By far the best yoke out there. Easy plug-and-play connection. Very realistic yoke tension. Plenty of programmable buttons. The only minor con is the complicated mode switch integration into Microsoft Flight Sim, but that is more of a convenience issue, and is not required for use.

"Does the job. " 2010-02-04
By Q. M. Eisenbraun (AK, TX, CT)
I suppose it's the best available for the price. Besides the much lauded metal shaft with bearings, I was surprised at how cheaply constructed this product is. It feels very fragile, like you could crack the thin plastic with little force. The throttle quad is also quite insubstantial, giving the impression that they could easily snap off. I guess I'm just used to racing on my G25, a very high quality peripheral.
Also, I was surprised to learn that the yoke only has 45 degrees travel in either direction from center. Almost all aircraft yokes have 90 degrees travel from center. This makes for an undesireable input curve to the sim.
Again, in this price range it's about the only thing available. You'll probably have to spend $700+ for the next best product. But still, on the basis of quality of materials and construction, this one is disappointing.

"Flight Yoke" 2010-02-02
By Chris White (Houston, Tx)
This product is awesome. It feels much more sturdy than it looks in pictures. I've been impressed with all of the Saitek products and this yoke system does not disappoint.


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Saitek X52 Flight Control System

Saitek X52 Flight Control System Reviews
Other products by Saitek Ratting 4.0 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 33 Total Use 6

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The World's most advanced flight controller The X52 Flightstick and Throttle combination give the most realistic flying experience ever. With the feature-laden Throttle and Stick split into two separate units, the X52 delivers ideal flying position. Programmability and illuminated Multi-Function Display expand the possibilities for Sim Pilots everywhere!

Technical Details

- Program your controller for each game using the powerful Smart Technology software. 3 mode settings and cool-touch metal pinkie switch provide enhanced programming options.
- Precision centering mechanism; no contact technology on X and Y axes and constant spring force improve control and increase durability.
- 5 position handle adjustment system to suit all hand sizes with soft-touch, contoured grip for maximum gaming comfort.
- Progressive throttle with resistance adjustment and detents for afterburner and idle.
- Illuminated buttons and enhanced gameplay through intuitive LCD Multi-Function Display.
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"Review from a Different Background" 2010-02-23
By M. Woods
First of all, I'm not to terribly big into realworld style flight sims. While I have always had an interest in flying, I more or less gave up on it simply because it was too involved for me to "relax" with. My previous tastes in joysticks have always been fairly simple - I went from a 2button stick to a Logitech Wingman Digital, from that to a Wingman Force, from that to a Saitek ST290...

Well, last week, my ST290's trigger bit the dust, ironic, huh? So, I considered dragging the Wingman Force out, but still could not find a compatible adapter. It was time to upgrade again. After much consideration between sticks, I decided on the X52. I had a mostly positive experience with my previous stick, and I had always been interested in trying a fullblown HOTAS setup. It came in last night, and so now my real review can begin:

Out of the box, I was fairly impressed. Looking at the buttons and stuff in pictures is one thing, but actually seeing the sheer size and complexity of the system first hand is another. I had never used a HOTAS setup before, so I was slightly intimidated. I downloaded the updated drivers profiler and got busy. When I finally hooked it up, I found that one of the LED's (T5/6) was dead. No big deal though because I love the option of being able to KILL the LED's in the settings. I load up an old favorite that I had been playing through before the ST290 died - TIE Fighter.
Well, I knew I'd run into difficulty, seeing as how complex the stick was, and comparing it to how TIE Fighter only supports 3 variable axis - X/Y for the stick and Z for the throttle. No big deal though. I set things up and actually start a mission... Only to find out how incredibly responsive this stick is. Going from the ST290 and Wingman series to something like this is a huge jump. It was almost TOO responsive - I had been used to having larger deadzones and less responsiveness so it is a huge adjustment going to this.

Next I decided to crank up X-Wing Alliance. After some painstaking setup, I found that XWA actually supported FEWER buttons in the game than TIE Fighter did, although XWA supports the rudder twist. So, I tried out the Profiler. I couldn't find any preexisting profiles for XWA, so I began working on my own. A Half an hour later, I was done. It was still incredibly sensitive, but overall it was really nice being able to program via the profiler.


Pros/Cons:

Pro - A huge jump up in sensitivity.
Pro - The Feel. Even in a game like XWA and TIE Fighter and XvT, there's something just plain cool about being spread out with the hands on a full blown throttle and stick. I might've sucked in game because of the sensitivity, but I was grinning like a fool the whole time.
Pro - Throttle Control - The throttle has two spots that require a bit more of a push to engage - one is nearing 100%, one is nearing 0%. I really liked this because in the X-Wing Series games 33% is best for turning. The extra push required keeps me from completely throttling down when busy with a bogey.
Pro - Mouse Control on Thumb. It's just cool, and VERY handy.

Con - A huge jump up in sensitivity. If you're used to older sticks or more primitive sticks, you will likely find yourself overshooting targets.
Con - Intimidating. Alot of options can be incredibly intimidating to set up if you're not used to dealing with as much complexity.
Con - Lack of support in older games. I love the idea of the knobs and sliders, but unfortunately, they're not supported in alot of older games, and even with the profiler they are not easily set up.
Con - Lack of Force Feedback. I thought it had it, but I guess that's the Pro model. Not a big con, but still on there. For $100, I kind of expected it.
Con - I have slightly smallish hands, so the most tall Hat is kind of hard to manipulate easily.

Overall, I have to say it's a great stick. For my application, it's OVERKILL, however. I still have a few games that I'm going to try out with it, but currently, it's overkill. I enjoy it, but overkill.

"Great product" 2010-02-15
By Aida (New York)
I use to have the Extreme Pro Joystick and it was nothing compare to the X52. I have FSX and this joystick was perfect for it. very cool, adjustable to hand size, customizable brightness of the LED's and much more.
I really recommend this product for you guys that play FSX or for EX: Tom Clancy's Hawx.

"Great hardware" 2010-02-13
By P. McCain (Frankenmuth, MI)
Works very well with flight sim. Happy with purchase - haven't started to work on customization/"programming" of the devices, but they worked well right out of the box. You won't be disappointed with the X52!

"Good Flight Control System" 2010-01-27
By J. L. Tasco (Kathmandu, Nepal)
I purchased this with the CH Pro pedals. I used the control system with a IMAC 24" XPlane flight sim and all worked fairly well. The sensitivities of the controls are good and the control assignments were easily. Setup was simple, the construction seems durable and the included rubber cups prevents the controls slipping on my desk. I really like the setup since it uses only one usb port to connect to my computer. When I get bored with XPlane, I switch over to windows/fusion and fly MS Flight Sim X - and whether it's the control systems or Sim X control assignments are limited.
Overall a good product.

"Software did not work with Windows Vista X64" 2010-01-21
By e_identity (Washington, DC)
I purchased an X52 joystick from Amazon in January 2010. My PC runs Vista Professional X64 and I planned to use the X52 with Microsoft FSX. I downloaded the current drivers & software for Vista X64 from [...]. With FSX, the X52 can be used as or, a better alternative is to create a "profile" -- which assigns keystrokes to the buttons/switches on the X52. For example, the trigger on the joystick can be assigned the keystroke "." -- which turns on the airplanes brakes while taxiing in FSX. Saitek provides a downloadable FSX profile on its website or you can create your own. The software allows you activate the profile, and, in theory, you can then use the buttons/switches on the X52. I can see how FSX would work a lot better with the button/switches on the X52. In my case, when no profile was in use, the X52 seems to work OK--I could press any button or switch and, while it had no effect on the game, the X52 did not lockup. When a profile was in use, the X52 worked OK until I used a button or switch (any button or switch that had been programmed in the profile). Then all buttons/switches locked-up--though the throttle & joystick continued to work. I could clear the problem by disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cable to the X52--but the problem reappeared the next time I used a button or switch. Also, after the X52 locked-up, I was unable to shut down the PC until I unplugged the USB cable to the X52. I uninstalled and re-installed the software and drivers. No change. I tried both the FSX profile downloaded from [...] and a profile I made myself. Same result in both cases. I made sure all cable connnections were fully inserted. I connected the X52 to the PC using the USB port at the back of the PC--not via a USB hub. I emailed Saitek for technical assistance, but did not receive a response. I then returned the item to Amazon.com -- the return went very, very smoothly and I was really pleased with that aspect of it.


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