Maximum number of devices: Do keyboards count towards the maximum limit of 8?

[SvAF/F16_Goosebuster]

Hi.

 

I’m in the process of constructing an extensive button box. The end goal is to be able to control close to all functions in IL-2 without having to reach for the keyboard. I’ve opted for a Teensy build with a modular approach using several Teensy LCs.

 

I read that the maximum number of support devices in IL-2 is 8, but that keyboard devices do not count towards this limit. Given Teensy can be recognized as a keyboard device the hypothesis is that I can connect as many “keyboards” as I want as long as I don’t exceed 8 “game controller”-device limit such as sticks, throttles, pedals, trim wheels etc.

 

Is my assumption accurate?

 

 

 

Thank you.

 

 

[LukeFF]

If it doesn't show up in the list of Game Controllers in Windows, then no, it doesn't count as a device, just like mice aren't counted as game controllers in IL2, either. 

[Sokol1]

Look in Windows Games Controllers (joy.cpl) and count how many devices you have there, then deduce from the 8 limit to know how many more you can use.

 

BTW - Each Teensy can have up to 64 buttons, IL-2:GB buttons limit per controller- if was not changed, like in DCS and iL-2:CloD BLITZ; for 128, Direct Input limit.

 

BTW - Windows only has drivers for a single unique keyboard and mouse, so if you plug an additional keyboard Windows will set this as a mirror of the first, limiting the usability. 

 

In the past an guy - focused in X-Plane, work in a software to give unique identity for each keyboard, the HIDMacros, but abandon this development in prol of "Lua Macros", seems limited to X-Plane.

 

Another try follow their steps with "Multiple Keyboard Remapper" - but a failed Kickstarter seems end the project.

Edited September 8, 2022 by Sokol1

[SvAF/F16_Goosebuster]

2 hours ago, Sokol1 said:

if you plug an additional keyboard Windows will set this as a mirror of the first, limiting the usability. 

Thanks a lot for your input.

 

What does "mirror of the first" mean in practice? Let say I have one Teensy that is programmed to press keys with CTRL as modifier, another with SHIFT, a third with ALT, would that work?

[Sokol1]

Means that for Windows is the same of the keyboard already installed, you can type the same keys or keys combo in both, then a second keyboard don't work for expand the number of key press usable.

 

If you program Teensy for send key press though a button, eg. CTRL, SHIFT will be the same of the keyboard, the only advantage is than you can place the button for this CTRL, SHIFT in a place more convenient than in keyboard.

Edited September 10, 2022 by Sokol1

[SvAF/F16_Goosebuster]

Makes complete sense, thanks for the clarification!