This DCS AH-64D Apache tutorial page describes the Target Acquisition and Designation Sight (TADS) system.
Also, we explain how to track moving targets with the LMC - Linear Motion Compensator.
Furthermore, we explain how to use an Xbox gaming controller to operate a TEDAC gadget.
TADS enables observation and tracking of targets in all lighting conditions.
Also, it uses a laser to guide Hellfire missiles to the target.
The instruction and example is located further in this chapter of the guide.
This means that we didn’t include detailed information on how to use it with various types of weapons.
Such instructions will appear in the weapon & armament chapters.
The FCR radar functionality will appear later in the Early Access period of the AH-64D Apache expansion pack.
NT displays the image in green color only.
The DAY mode with a black and white screen can also be adapted to night conditions.
Green can be less strenuous for the eyes in the dark.
The symbols will appear first.
After a while, the screen will be ready to work.
Detailed instructions are provided below in the TADS Main Features chapter.
Note - it is not always possible to get the perfect effect depending on the lighting conditions.
Calibrating the TADS image
Use the buttons and knobs around the screen to calibrate the image quality.
The first calibration is usually done during a Cold Start.
All buttons operate the FLIR infrared camera.
The DayTV camera is only controlled by the BRT and CON buttons.
Besides, the last two buttons only work with active TADS as “sight”.
Separate prefs will be necessary for the different polarities of the FLIR infrared camera (BHot, WHot).
The DayTV camera will also require separate parameters.
Press the 3-stage TADS Sensor Select switch on the LHG to switch the camera between FLIR and DayTV.
The top 4-way button on the LHG is used for this.
Use the Sight Manual Tracker knob to move the camera lens to the desired area.
SLAVE function
The SLAVE function is extremely important.
Select one of the sources from the available options.
Press SLAVE on the RGH.
Dots will appear on the cross.
The camera will rotate to the selected point.
A line with a cross will appear on the TSD map showing where TADS is looking on the map.
With the SLAVE function active, the camera cannot be manipulated with the knob.
Press SLAVE again to regain control of the camera.
Select ACQ on the TSD or WPN screen to display the acquisition source list.
Select GHS (Gunner Helmet Sight) from the options on the right.
From now on, wherever you look, the TADS camera will rotate there (after some delay).
Click SLAVE again to free the camera and leave it pointing at the selected point.
By default, the camera image will be imposed on the IHADSS.
This is especially useful at night.
Note - depending on the lighting conditions, it is not always possible to get the perfect effect.
verify you are in the attacking phase (PHASE ATK) on the TSD map.
Search for a target.
Point it with a laser using the LRFD 2nd Detent (RHG) trigger.
While using the laser, press the STORE button on the LHG to save the target’s position.
The text Txx will appear on the screen for 4 seconds with the next available destination number.
Also, the point will appear on the map and the list of targets.
To return to your target later, grab the acquisition sources ACQ on the WPN or TSD screen.
Then ?00 as the map point category.
Press SLAVE on the RHG to point the TADS camera at the target.
LMC - Linear Motion Compensator
Linear Motion Compensatoris helpful in tracking a moving target with a laser beam.
After aiming the camera crosshair on the target, press the LMC button on the LHG.
Small horizontal lines will appear at the ends of the crosshair to indicate that the LMC system is operating.
The gentle tilt of the camera controller will allow you to smoothly and stably follow the moving target.
Pressing the LMC again disables the function.
TADS in the pilot’s seat
The pilot has very limited possibilities of using the TADS system.
Then select TADS or CPG SIGHT if the gunner is currently using TADS as his sight.
Press the TADS button on the top to exit the image adjustment menu.
The screen will show CPG who is seeking and locking targets.
Also, you will be able to see any messages and symbols that appear on TADS.
Press the NVS SELECT SWITCH - TADS button on the collective lever.
The night vision source will change from PNVS to TADS.
The image from TADS will now be a source of night vision.
Then it is worth turning off the video on the MPD monitor so that the images do not overlap.
They are considered by the DCS as axles and basically cannot be used in hand grips.
The list of commands presented below is only an example.
you might assign each function to your liking.
Note - it may happen that you have to reassign a modifier when restarting the game.
pick the control controls and enter the MODIFIERS option.
Then, in the modifiers panel, click ADD.
Select your controller name from the list of devices.
Press the button on the controller that is going to be binded as the modifier and click OK.
It is worth starting with assigning analog axes that require some modification.
choose the CPG AH-64D category and the AXIS COMMANDS subcategory.
The best solution for this is to set a little DEADZONE to 2-4.
The next necessary step is to set the CURVATURE for approx.
Confirm your action by selecting OK.
Perform the same steps for the left / right axis, i.e.
Other buttons
All the rest of the other buttons are just an example of assigning the most necessary ones.
They are all in the CPG AH-64D category and in the RIGHT HANDGRIP and LEFT HANDGRIP subcategories.
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