Build datas base grayed out.

[howardmh]

The build data base icons for FSX & FS9 are grayed out, how can I build the data base?
I have been able to connect to FS9 but the error message states that I have the FSX data base & to build the FS9 database. I have no idea how the FSX database was loaded as I do not have FSX installed & the Build has been grayed out on both programs since I have started.

[tim arnot]

FSX is simply the default startup mode. Are you *sure* the FS9 button is inactive? It's normal colour is grey.

If the build buttons are inactive it is because Plan-G cannot find your FS installation. Please refer to the manual, pages 2 and 10 for instructions on how to set up Plan-G.

[howardmh]

After going through the manual, I attempted to get the FS9 Database, no joy. I still receive the same error message. However if I try to connect to FS9, I can use plan-G as a moving map. I just do not have any airport infon or navaids on the map.
I still get the message that the FS9 database needs to be built???

[tim arnot]

Where do you have Plan-G installed? Where do you have FS9 installed? What OS are you using?

[howardmh]

Plan-G is installed in C:\Plan-G & FS9 is installed in C:\program Files\Microsoft Games\Flight Simulator 9 & I am using XP OS.
I have FS9 set up to be shared with my laptop but the desktop is the main location, it is also connected through the ethernet cable to the internet. Could this be causing a problem?

[howardmh]

I will try to attach 2 screen shots that show the initial message about building the data base & then the screen I receive when I try to build the data base. The cursor is on the FS9 Build icon but there is no change at all when I click it. Also note that the FSX data icon is highlighted. I cannot highlight the FS9 icon.

[tim arnot]

Yes, those are definitely disabled. It ought to find your paths but obviously isn't. I'd suggest you follow the instructions on p10 to set the fs9 location (it's written for connecting over a LAN, but applies equally to local installs)

[howardmh]

If I understand the instructions correctly, I have to buy WideClient.
I am attaching a screenshot that shows I can connect FS9 to Plan-G. It will show the plane icon at KSEA & I have also imported a flight plan from FS9. I do not understand why I cannot build a DB when I am obviously connected to the program.

[tim arnot]

No you do not have to buy WideClient, unless you want to connect to FS9 across a LAN.

What you have to do is go into the Options dialog, select the Locations tab and browse to the location of your FS9.exe. This will tell it where the FS files are located, and you will be able to build the database. This is explained on pages 10 and 11 of the manual.

Connecting to a running program is not the same thing as finding its data files.

[howardmh]

Tim, Thank you for your patience. I now have a FS9 data base!! Now I will try to leave you alone for a while as I learn to use Plan-G. Oh well I do have one more question, does plan-g show the ILS approaches? I have not found them yet.

[tim arnot]

No, but they are in the next update, which will be around Christmas.  ;)

[tim arnot]

Just a thought... when you installed FS, did you install it for 'All Users' or 'Just me'?

[howardmh]

Thanks for the ILS update coming.

It has been too long since I installed FS but  how I normally install is for all users. I am the only user on my computer, except for G'kids playing games while I am there.