Introduction
Welcome to the world of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. This guide provides essential information for installing, operating, and troubleshooting your new flight simulation software. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to pilot a diverse range of aircraft, from light planes to wide-body jets, across a highly detailed and realistic global environment. Prepare to create your flight plans, experience dynamic day-night cycles, and navigate challenging weather conditions.
This edition is designed for PC Computers and is distributed via DVD-ROM.
System Requirements
Before installation, ensure your PC meets the necessary specifications for optimal performance.
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel i5-4460 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200 or higher
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 770 / AMD Radeon RX 570 or higher
- VRAM: 2 GB
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 150 GB available space (SSD recommended)
- DirectX: Version 11
- Internet Connection: Broadband internet connection required for installation and online features.
Note: Performance may vary based on system configuration and graphics settings.
Setup and Installation
The Standard Edition of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is distributed across multiple DVD-ROMs. Follow these steps carefully for a successful installation.
- Prepare Your System:
- Ensure you have at least 150 GB of free disk space.
- Disable any antivirus software temporarily to prevent interference during installation.
- It is recommended to turn off autoplay for your DVD drive in Windows settings to avoid potential CRC errors during installation.
- Insert Disc 1: Insert the first DVD-ROM into your computer's DVD drive.
- Start Installation:
- If the installer does not launch automatically, navigate to your DVD drive in File Explorer and double-click the
setup.exefile. - Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the installation process.
- If the installer does not launch automatically, navigate to your DVD drive in File Explorer and double-click the
- Disc Swapping: The installer will prompt you to insert subsequent DVD-ROMs as needed. Ensure discs are clean and free of scratches to prevent read errors.
- Product Key Activation: During or after the DVD installation, you will be prompted to enter your unique product key. This key is typically found inside the game packaging. An active Microsoft account is required for activation and ongoing use.
- Initial Download: After the DVD installation is complete and the product key is entered, the game will connect to the internet to download additional content and the latest updates. This download can be substantial (e.g., 70-100 GB or more) and requires a stable broadband internet connection.
- Launch the Game: Once all downloads and updates are complete, you can launch Microsoft Flight Simulator from your desktop shortcut or the Start Menu.
Image: The retail box for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Standard Edition, showing the PC DVD logo and game title.
Operating the Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator offers a deep and immersive experience. Here are some key aspects of operating the simulator:
First Flight and Tutorials
It is highly recommended to complete the in-game tutorials, especially if you are new to flight simulation. These tutorials cover basic controls, navigation, and flight procedures.
Aircraft Selection
The Standard Edition includes a variety of aircraft. You can select your desired aircraft from the main menu before starting a flight.
Image: A visual comparison chart detailing the number and types of aircraft and handcrafted airports included in the Standard, Deluxe, and Premium Deluxe editions of Microsoft Flight Simulator. The Standard edition includes 20 planes and 30 handcrafted airports.
World Map and Flight Planning
Use the World Map to select your departure and arrival airports, set your flight path, choose time of day, and adjust weather conditions. The simulator features a highly realistic world with over 2 million cities and 1.5 billion buildings.
Image: An aerial view from above a small propeller plane, showcasing the detailed ground textures and varied terrain, including agricultural fields, within the simulator's world.
Controls and Peripherals
The simulator supports various input devices, including keyboard, mouse, gamepads, joysticks, and flight sticks. You can customize control bindings within the game's options menu.
Image: A close-up view of an aircraft's cockpit dashboard, displaying various gauges, switches, and controls, highlighting the intricate detail of the in-game instruments.
Weather and Time
Experience dynamic weather conditions, including accurate wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, rain, and lightning. You can also fly day or night with realistic lighting.
Image: A large commercial airliner, possibly a Boeing 787, soaring above a layer of clouds with snow-capped mountains visible in the distance, demonstrating the realistic atmospheric effects.
Image: A small private jet flying over a sprawling city at dusk, with city lights illuminating the landscape below, showcasing the realistic night lighting and vast urban environments.
Maintenance
While Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is software, regular maintenance practices can ensure optimal performance and stability.
- Keep Drivers Updated: Ensure your graphics card drivers and other system drivers are always up to date. Visit your hardware manufacturer's website for the latest versions.
- Game Updates: The simulator frequently receives updates. Ensure you have a stable internet connection to download these updates when prompted, as they often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and new content.
- Disk Space Management: Periodically check your hard drive for sufficient free space. Large updates and add-ons can consume significant storage.
- Verify Game Files: If you encounter persistent issues, you may be able to verify the integrity of game files through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app (depending on your installation method).
Troubleshooting
Encountering issues during installation or gameplay can be frustrating. Here are some common problems and their potential solutions:
Installation Errors (e.g., "Transfer Error", "File Missing")
- Clean Discs: Ensure all DVD-ROMs are clean and free of smudges or scratches. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe them.
- Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software during installation. Remember to re-enable it afterward.
- Disable Autoplay: Turn off the "Autoplay" feature for your DVD drive in Windows settings before starting the installation.
- Copy Discs to Hard Drive: As a last resort, you can try copying the contents of each DVD to a separate folder on your hard drive (e.g., "Disc1", "Disc2", etc.) and then running the setup from the copied Disc 1 folder. This can sometimes bypass read errors from the physical discs.
- Sufficient Disk Space: Verify you have ample free space (at least 150 GB) on your target installation drive.
"Code Already Used" or Activation Issues
- Microsoft Account: Ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account that the game was initially activated with.
- Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is required for activation.
- Contact Support: If the issue persists, contact Microsoft Support directly. Provide your product key and proof of purchase.
Performance Issues (Low FPS, Stuttering)
- Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date.
- Adjust Graphics Settings: Lower in-game graphics settings (e.g., resolution, texture quality, cloud quality, anti-aliasing).
- Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources.
- Internet Speed: A slow internet connection can impact streaming world data, leading to stutters.
Game Crashes
- Verify System Requirements: Double-check that your PC meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements.
- Check for Updates: Ensure the game is fully updated.
- Overheating: Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures. Overheating can cause crashes. Ensure proper ventilation for your PC.
- Corrupted Files: Consider verifying game files through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Title | Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 - Standard Edition (PC DVD) |
| Brand | Microsoft |
| Model Number (ASIN) | B08FCK6WMQ |
| Type of Item | DVD-ROM (Physical Media) |
| Included Aircraft | 20 highly detailed aircraft |
| Included Airports | 30 handcrafted airports |
| World Data | Over 2 million cities, 1.5 billion buildings, real mountains, roads, trees, rivers, animals, traffic |
| Dynamic Weather | Live real-time weather, including wind, temperature, humidity, rain, lightning |
| Day/Night Cycle | Full day and night cycle with realistic lighting |
| Release Date | December 10, 2020 |
| Country of Origin | Germany (for physical media) |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support regarding Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, please refer to the official Microsoft support channels.
- Official Support Website: Visit the official Microsoft Flight Simulator support website for FAQs, forums, and troubleshooting guides.
- Microsoft Support: For direct assistance with product activation, installation issues, or technical problems, contact Microsoft Support.
- Product Key: Keep your product key and proof of purchase in a safe place, as they may be required for support inquiries.
Note: Issues related to physical media (damaged discs) should first be addressed with the retailer from whom the product was purchased.
