We are always looking for prospective talent and we invite you to read the following page for the software and hardware requirements. Those interested in applying for an open position on the Virtual Snowbirds team should visit the forums area of the website for more information.

Please read through the information below and ask any questions you may have in our forums. Once you've met these requirements then it's time to start your training with us.

We usually meet up on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings on our Ventrilo server. More information on our practice times can be found in our forums area.

Software and Hardware Requirements
The following are requirements that you will need to have in place prior to a tryout flight. A member of the team can be made available to assist with getting set up. Please use our forums to make contact with members and to get help.

• 3 Programs
• Flight Controls
• Headset with Microphone
• Gaming Computer
• High Speed Internet

**Mac users be advised, this is Windows based. Mac users will be able to connect to our Ventrilo server.

Programs

MSN Messenger
The buddy list program that we use. The latest client can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/messenger.

Ventrilo
The voice communications program that we use for in-cockpit communications over the internet. Visit www.ventrilo.com to get the latest client.

Lock On: Modern Air Combact + Flaming Cliffs v1.12a, aka "Lock On Gold" pack
Lock On: Modern Air Combat is the flight simulation program we use. You will need a copy of Lock On installed along with the Flaming Cliffs expansion package.

• Lock On: Modern Air Combat
• Flaming Cliffs 1.12a

Flight Controls
There are many flight sticks and throttle combinations out there, and experienced virtual pilots will agree that the flight stick you may not make you a better pilot but can make it easier to learn the basics.

Getting your controls setup properly is another topic all together. If you need help with this please ask in the forums and check out other community websites where these dicuessions are going on.

The flight controls that we recommend are as follows. Please keep in mind that a $40 joystick can be used for formation fly and some spendy flight controls can be crap. When it all boils down it is personal preference.

• CH Products
• Logitech G940
  
• Saitek X-52
• Saitek X-52 Pro
• Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals
• Thrustmaster Cougar (FSSB modifcation recommended)
  

Headset with Microphone
You will need one of these in order to talk with us on our Ventrilo server. Where to get a headset:

• Just about anywhere these days, even Walmart carries them.

Gaming Computer
You can build one yourself or buy it all put together. It all depends on which kind of you prefer.

• http://www.Tomshardware.com is a great site for learning how to build a gaming PC yourself.
• http://www.dell.com is great place to get an already put together rig that is warrantied well. Check www.techbargains.com for coupons.