Possibly doing some ATC work

[Bernie]

What is the software I need to get started. I would like to learn the ropes on the other end of the radio. I already passed the first test online for the pilot/controller.

What is the next step.

Thanks.

[Reece Hunter]

Bernie,

You will need the following:

1. ASRC 1.1
2. ZOA Sector files
3. ZOA POsition File (POF)
4. A headset with mic. You will need the mic later on when you get your voice certification.
5. Lots of time to read SOPs.
6. If you are married, an understanding spouse.
7. A tape/cd player with pre-recorded phrases like "Yes dear" and "Okay honey"

You can get item 1 from the links on VATSIM. Follow the links to the Download section in the ZOA website for 2 and 3. 4 can be picked up at any decent computer store. You're on your own with 5 and 6. Danny might be able to loan you his tape/cd for 7.

:D

[feathers]

Actually for #6 I would suggest talking to Keith. He seems to have gotten good at that particular aspect. ^_^

In all seriousness, it's not that difficult at all to get set up, Bernie. And the best part is that it's free (for now). The difficulty will come in the training and the working, but as a pilot you're already well on your way (as far as knowing phraseology and overcoming 'the fear of keying the mic').

Looking forward to seeing you on our side of the glass soon and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask me or any other smiling face that's around at the time.

James

[Bernie]

Excellent,

I have a VERY understanding wife who allows me (yes I know my place) to do things on the computer, etc. B)

I will get started on downloading everything needed. I am actually going to set up my headset that I use in planes for this as well so will be perfect (They are Bose and excellent sound dampening and quality). Plus I am used to wearing them for long periods of time.

Thanks for the help and I will post tons of questions I am sure till you all are very sick of me.

[Bernie]

OK got all that downloaded and installed. What is the next step??

:D

[Keith Smith]

Bernie,

Nice to see you might be joining us! If you've passed the initial VATUSA, you will need to select an ARTCC to join.

Once you've done that, you will receive a welcome email from us, along with the ZOA test. Pass that, you'll receive your operating initials, and then you're ready to start supervised training on the scopes!

All of this is laid out on the VATUSA site :)

Keith

[Bernie]

Keith,

Thanks I knew I was forgetting something. I joined the Oakland Artcc just now. (Thought I had already done that but had not).

Thanks doing my reading now.

[nobody291]

With the sound dampening headsets, there's no reason to worry about the spouse, right? Post away with your questions and welcome to the "other side" Bernie.

[Doug Pullen]

Welcome Bernie, soon as i get confirm on joining us, will set u up for the SOP test. In meantime, go over our SOPS'.

[Bernie]

Got them all read through last night. Alot of it was already very familiar from the pilot side of the line.

I look feel learning this side of the radio will only help to improve my piloting skills.

Many thanks to all of you so far.

[Sachin]

Welcome on board Bernie :)

[Bernie]

Wow thank you guys so much. This is a blast!!!

[Bernie]

Last night I handled my first aircraft. I did a total of three departures last night out of KSJC.

The first one went off without a hitch.

The 2nd guy turned down the wrong taxiway and spoiled my best laid plan lol. Had to do some quick changing but got him off the ground.

3rd on stayed in the pattern for some landings and then departed to the East.

I had a blast!!!! Thanks to all those on that helped and showed their support.