SISMO Soluciones - Avionics Review: My Negative Experience
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I initially wasn't going to document my negative experience with Sismo Soluciones as many simmers use SISMO products and are fiercely loyal to this company. This post has sat unpublished for close to 10 months until a friend convinced me otherwise, saying that bad reviews can be beneficial, especially to new simmers who are undecided on what and whom to purchase from.
This is the first negative review I have written and in doing so realise that I will no doubt annoy some people, especially loyal SISMO customers. My aim is not to annoy, intimidate or create malicious rumours. Rather, it is to share with others my factual experience with this company. Due to the negative nature of this review, it WILL NOT be posted to any forum.
I purchased the following units from SISMO:
ADF radios (2)
Transponder / ATC radio
Audio Control Panel
rudder trim module
At the time, I was using Sim Avionics as my avionics suite.
I had issues with: aesthetics, quality assurance and the use of the SC Pascal script.
When you initially look at the modules offered by SISMO, they do look attractive; however, it's often the small things that count and the panels made by SISMO lack the attention to detail and quality expected.
This article is a little different from previous articles. I've made a basic review of the modules, then discussed the issues I had in respect to with the panels/modules. Finally I've discussed company.
Please note that I use the word panels/modules interchangeably.
Overall Module Construction and Appearance
The modules are constructed from acrylic and painted in Boeing grey. The use of CNC machining produces a crisp finish resulting in cut-out lettering that is well defined. This enables the lettering to appear very crisp when the panels are back it. The buttons and switches used in the panels are machine injection moulded and secured to rotary stems via two small grub screws. The electronics are not sealed pr boxed (such as in CP Flight) but are visible. DZUS fasteners are not included although holes have been drilled in the appropriate position (although these holes are too small to fit genuine DZUS fasteners). The backing plate is made from plastic.
Paint Work
The paint work used by SISMO is not of a high quality. The paint, eith minimal use of the panel, wears thin on the panel beneath the knobs and switches. The paint also chips very easily and is not evenly applied to include the side of the unit. Although I don’t know how many layers of paint have been used, I’d suggest it’s minimal. Minimal paint saves time and expense and does not lend itself to high quality or longevity.
Integrated Backlighting (IBL)
SISMO ADF unit & FDS NAV1 unit. Note the difference in backlighting (not seven-segmented displays) and module colour between the two units. FDS use real aircraft bulbs
SISMO does not utilise real aircraft bulbs for backlighting. Rather they use a number of strategically placed LED lights.
There are several arguments for and against the use of bulbs and LEDs. The former provide a realistic throw of light at the correct colour temperature, while LED’s are usually more pin point, require less power to run, and usually appear colder in colour temperature.
The Backlighting on the SISMO modules is reasonable; however there is not an even throw of light across the rear of the panel to allow complete illumination of all cut out lettering. The panel also does use a light skirt to inhibit stray light from illuminating the outer edge of the modules The backlighting is powered by 12 volts. The colour of the LEDS is amber yellow or warm orange.
I had an issue with two LED lights; The LED lights stopped working. SISMO informed me I would have to repair this myself. Shortly thereafter, a third LED light failed. This suggests that SISMO may have a quality issue in relation to the LEDS they use (at least in the batch I received). I have little doubt that the LEDS are inexpensively sourced from China (ROC).
Electronics
The upper panel of the module is attached to the electronic circuitry within the lower section by a backing plate made from plastic. It should be constructed from metal to aid in strength. The electronics appear substantial and to be well built (appearance only as I did not bench test the electronics).
System and I/O Cards
The modules are not standalone devices. Depending upon your requirements, the modules require connection to various system and sim cards for complete operation. As an example, to operate the ADF units and rudder trim module requires three GIC connection cards, an Ethernet motherboard card, and three servo-daughter cards – seven cards in total!
figure 1: sismo card setup. there are lot of cards
Although there is nothing wrong with this method of operation, it does pose a challenge to find a suitable location to mount the cards. The cards appear to be constructed to a high standard and are very solid; they do not feel or look like cheap Chinese-made cards.
I’ve included, for interest, a schematic wiring and card diagram of the module set-up for the Captain-side ADF radio. (click the image to enlarge the picture).
The main Ethernet mother board requires a 5 volt power supply.
Wiring
SISMO provides you the opportunity to either use their prefabricated flat cabling or to wire everything yourself. I choose the former and this saved a lot of time and frustration (wiring and soldering). The flat cable packs are each fitted with heavy duty plastic clips for attachment to the cards. Connection is straightforward and SISMO provide large A3 colour wiring sheets so you know exactly what wire plugs into what card.
If you decide to use the flat cabling, it’s necessary to include in your system a number of additional cards. These cards, called Generic Interface Cards (GIC) act as joiners between the different system cards used by the panels. The size of each GIC card is little larger than a credit card.
SISMO panels with flat cabling. There is a lot of cables that need to connect with several interface and GIC cards
Too Many Cards
The amount of wiring and number of cards needed to use SISMO products is ridiculous!
Using four panels, the interior of the center pedestal is a mass of wires leading to and from various interface cards. There are far better and easier alternatives available from other manufacturers.
The Power of Ethernet
SISMO’s product range utilises Ethernet technology rather than USB; this has many advantages over the use of USB.
According to SISMO literature: 'USB was not designed to carry the volume of information necessary for flight simulation. Although USB is practicable and does work very well, it can on occasion malfunction (drop out), or slow the operation of the intended device by creating a bottleneck for information flow. Ethernet, on the other hand, has been designed at the onset to allow for high information flows ensuring fast and consistent transfer of information'.
An Ethernet cable is required to link the main Ethernet mother board, either directly to the computer or to a switch (if using two or more networked computers).
The two tabs overlap the OEM DZUS rails. You must cut the DZUS rails to allow the module to fit the pedestal
Real B737 Center Pedestal - Not Drop & Fly
An important point to note is that the ADF and ATC radios will not drop directly onto the DZUS rails fitted within a real B737 center pedestal.
SISMO modules have been designed so that the electronic boards, mounted directly beneath the panel, are flush to the edge of the panel. What this means is that the panel cannot be placed directly onto a rail, as the electronics board abuts the edge of the rails.
To allow correct placement in a genuine center pedestal requires that the DZUS rails be cut in the appropriate position.
All the other SISMO modules, other than the ATC and ADF modules drop onto the rails without an issue. I'm unsure why this manufacturing inconsistency has occurred.
Misleading Information
During my initial research, I asked SISMO if their panels fitted a genuine center pedestal. I also queried if OEM DZUS fasteners could be used. Juan Ma (sales) stated that all SISMO panels were DZUS compliant and did fit genuine DZUS fasteners; however, when I told SISMO they didn't fit the rails, Juan Ma claimed he had misunderstood my question due to his poor understanding of the English language - he meant to say no rather than yes.
To utilise OEM DZUS fasteners, you will need to enlarge the attachment holes in each of the panels to enable the fastener to fit into the hole. A word of caution here – SISMO use plastic backing boards which will crack easily if you are overzealous with a power drill (this is why I suggested, earlier in this article, that metal be used.
Communication and Support
Support for SISMO is either directly via e-mail or by their dedicated forum. All e-mails are answered quickly (in English or Spanish). JuanMa and Cristina answered all my e-mails in a professional level. They are courteous, exceptionally patient, and very helpful; both strive to help you as much as they can.
SISMO Modules - A Closer Inspection
ADF Radio Module
Initially, you’re impressed when you look at the ADF panels. The seven segment displays, illuminated in either amber yellow or warm orange are easy to read, well lit, and appear similar to the displays you would see in a real aircraft.
As you turn the rotary knobs to change the frequencies there is no catching as the knobs are turned, and the push-to-activate buttons move freely. They do not stick in the down position when depressed.
Problems
One small issue I immediately noticed, was that the tinted window plate which sits over the frequency display is not secured; as opposed to other manufacturer’s modules that incorporate the plate into the actual construction of the panel. If you invert the modules the cover plate will fall out of the recess. I decided this wasn’t a problem; how often are simulators inverted, and securing the plate is an easy exercise. A small piece of double-side tape is all that is needed to secure the plate in place.
My problems began after roughly four hours of use. The frequency push-to-activate button was temperamental and would not allow the stand-by and active frequency to be changed with one push; several pushes were required. The problem was intermittent, but investigation suggested an issue with the clicking mechanism or the button itself.
The next issue to develop was with the rotary knob; turning the knob caused the frequencies to jump digits. As with the push-to-activate button, the problem was intermittent but, the problem was rectified when you closed and reopened the SC Pascal script. Perhaps the script needed tweaking.
Knobs and Switches - Poor Quality
I was disappointed with quality of the switches and knobs used on the panel. The two ADF-ANT switches are made from hand injected low quality plastic; several small injection holes in the plastic are easily seen. For the minor cost involved, high quality machine-injected knobs could have been manufactured.
Each of the ADF-ANT switches slides onto and over the plastic circular shaft of the rotary mechanism. The knob is then secured to the shaft by two grub screws each side of the knob. It doesn’t take too long for the grub screws to begin to loose their grip on the shaft with resultant slippage of the knob.
Other companies have solved this potential problem by using D-shaped shafts or higher quality rotary switches incorporating metal shafts instead of plastic. Knobs manufactured by high-end companies use stainless steel shafts and stainless grub screws that screw into stainless sleeves.
My rating 4/10
Audio Control Panel (ACP/ASP)
SISMO ACP unit does not look realistic with inexpensive poorly moulded buttons and very stark backlighting. Note that some of the rectangular buttons are not in alignment. This unit has been constructed with very poor attention to detail. Note, the black knob is not a SISMO knob but comes from a 737CL (OEM)
The Audio Control Panel (ACP/ASP) replicates the audio system of the B737 (navigation radios, etc). The ACP occupies a large piece of real estate in the center pedestal and the ability to turn on and off navigation audio sounds should not be dismissed.
The main ACP switch is of similar construction to the ADF-ANT switches on the ADF module; it is poor quality with injection holes readily observed. The clear push buttons used to turn on and off the various audio sounds are of low quality. The buttons are fashioned from clear acrylic and lack detail and definition.
I was disappointed, that when the ACP unit was fitted onto the pedestal, light from the backlighting seeps along the edge of the panel (to stop this I applied masking tape to the side of the panel to create a light skirt. I also noted that some of the buttons are not accurately aligned with one another.
Often it’s the small things that count and push a product to the next level. Clearly this is not a mantra that SISMO adhere to.
I was not impressed with the quality and attention to detail on the SISMO ACP unit; therefore, have decided to convert two real B737-500 ACP panels to simulator use.
My rating 2-10
Rudder Trim Module
The rudder module incorporates a large knob that is center-spring loaded. The knob allows the rudder to be deflected in either direction and be recorded in degrees of offset on the scale. The movement of the defection needle is made possible with the use of small servo motor fitted beneath the module and powered by 12 volts.
SISMO rudder trim module. Note the very poor moulding on the knob and colour shift with lighting
The rudder trim knob is poorly moulded and clearly portrays hollow holes left over from the injection process. For those searching for aesthetics, replacement using a real B737 knob is very easy (if you can find a real knob).
The trim needle, at least on my module, is a little lop-sided. As with the ACP module, stray light from the LED backlighting is readily seen around the edge of the panel. Like other SISMO panels, there is no inclusion of a light skirt to stop stray light.
The remainder of the module is aesthetically pleasing.
The rudder trim is one of the modules that is necessary to complete a center pedestal, but unless one is regularly flying with one engine, the module is seldom used. Therefore; this module from SISMO, even with the irregularities, is a reasonably priced alliterative to some of the more expensive counterparts available (provided a replacement knob is used and light skirt is fabricated).
My rating 5-10
ATC (Transponder) Module
This is one of the better produced modules from SISMO.
The switches and knobs are manufactured to a quality at least equal to what other companies produce. There are no injection holes in the knobs, and turning the frequency knob is very smooth when altering frequencies. The digital read out is crisp, yellow amber in colour, and the tinted window, which falls out easily on the ADF panel, seems to be more secure (although it is the same drop in type). As with the ADF panel, this panel will require you to cut the DZUS rails if you are using an OEM 737 center pedestal.
As a script was never supplied with this module (SISMO did not send it), I cannot provide information to how well it operated.
My rating based solely on appearance is 7/8-10
Reliability and Performance - Software and Modules
Software - SC Pascal Scripts
The modules require SC-Pascal scripts to be installed on the simulator computer.
The basic script is downloaded from the SISMO website. A further customised script is needed to configure the modules to the avionics software package you are using (Sim Avionics, Project magenta, ProSim737, Orion, etc) and FSX. SISMO write the script dedicated to the panels you are using. To activate the panels you run the executable file when you open a flight session.
SC-Pascal scripts are completely new to me, but a little research indicates that the script is used as a software interface between the actual functionality of the various panels, FSUIPC and simulator software.
Once the scripts are installed and configured correctly, a folder is created in which is stored the config.ini file and the executable script. The folder and files can be named and stored anywhere on your computer system. The panels are turned on by activating the executable script (.exe).
As an option, direct access to the script can be made by adding the executable command to the auto start folder of your computer. This option automatically starts the modules when the computer is turned on. The script then runs in stand-by mode until flight simulator is turned on. This option saves time and repetition by not having to turn on the executable file.
As SISMO utilises Ethernet technology, the various IP addresses of the computer (s) you are using need to be correctly configured to allow communication between the computer and the panels. This is basic networking knowledge and is relatively easy to learn.
Once the software is configured, the software and modules should function flawlessly.
Script Problems
I did have some issues with the SC Pascal script freezing when it was initiated. The script also caused some issues which appeared to cause the ADF radios to incorrectly display frequencies. To Juan Ma's credit, he did tweak the script, however, the problems remained.
As I know nothing about SC Pascal scripts, I don't know with certainty whether the problems experienced were caused by a script issue, hardware issue, or something particular to my system. If push comes to shove, my guess is that the problem lay with the SC Pascal script.
I try to keep things simple in my simulator, and running multiple scripts for various panels through several interface cards doesn't exactly fit into this ethos.
It would be inaccurate to state that SC Pascal scripts don't work, because there are many enthusiasts who have them operating perfectly. But, I am not one of these individuals.
Note that I was using Sim Avionics. If using ProSim737 there is an option to use a script or direct drivers within ProSim737.
Quick List - Pros and Cons
PROS
Fairly accurate 1:1 ratio (or close to)
Easy to install and use software (knowledge of SC Pascal required if altering software)
Laser cut and stenciled lettering
Ethernet technology
CONS
Plastic shafts on ADF-ANT knobs (should be metal/stainless)
Poor quality knobs and switches on ADF, ACP and Rudder Trim module
Average light coverage for LED backlighting
ADF and ATC modules don't drop directly onto DZUS rails; the rails must be cut.
Large number of cards needed for operation
Not DZUS complaint (requires existing holes to be enlarged)
Plastic backing plate on panels (easily damaged when enlarging holes for DZUS fasteners)
Light seepage around edge of some panels from backlighting (no light skirt)
SC Pascal script troublesome and works intermittently.
Poor quality paint work
Considering the above, the panels are expensive.
Final Call
The modules are ideal for the budget-conscious flight simmer. This said, a potential user must have knowledge to troubleshoot problems.
The lack of quality knobs, switches and poor attention to detail detract aesthetically, while the large number of cards that need to be installed can make installation challenging. Three failing LEDS and problems with the frequency selector switch on the ADF radio panel may point to quality assurance issues. The use of Ethernet over USB is highly commended and may reduce information bottlenecks.
My rating for the software is 4/10 (The supplied scripts didn't work with my system, which at that time was Sim Avionics and not ProSim737).
My overall rating for the modules is 3/4/5-10 (based on fitting issues, quality of knobs, poor attention to detail, poor painting, no light skirts and temperamental frequency selection switches on ADF).
Please note that this review is my opinion only and is not endorsed.
POST SCRIPT: - July 15, 2012 - RETURNED MODULES TO SISMO REQUESTING REFUND
I have returned all the panelss, cards and wiring o SISMO for a full refund (minus freight).
Initially, SISMO offered me 10% of the value of the products purchased (this included the interface cards that had never been used).
SISMO stated that the return period had been exceeded, and any products returned would be treated as second hand units. It didn’t matter that SISMO had not, at that time, sent all the appropriate SC Pascal scripts to ensure correct operation of the modules.
The writing of the SC Pascal scripts was delayed close on 2 months after I received the modules, and when received, the scripts didn't funcyion as intended. Excuses were; staff holidays, workloads, Easter break, and awaiting confirmation from another company to facilitate operation.
Upon receipt of the returned items, SISMO claimed that many of my issues were incorrect or not relevant.
They claimed that the modules had been damaged.
They stated that I had broken the LEDS (I told them the LEDS were not working when I received the parcel).
They claimed I had disassembled the units and damaged the paint and screws.
They claimed I had re-painted portions of the units.
They claimed sticky plaster was attached to one of the units. (this is correct as I used tape to secure the wiring & also to create a trial light skirt)
They deducted from my refund, Spanish import duty and inspection fees (returned the goods to Spain).
They claimed I did not include paperwork (which I did).
They stated that as the ATC RADIO module was discontinued, a refund was not possible. At the time of purchase they did not inform me this panel was discontinued.
I'm not going to go into a long account to what has transgressed. But, I will say that this company cannot be trusted…..They promise the world to you, but if you aren't happy with the products, they provide every excuse possible to NOT provide an adequate and reasonable refund.
For example, when I reported the failure of the LEDS to SISMO, their response was 'they worked when they left the shop'. They did offer to replace the LEDS but, at my shipping expense (which was expensive). They also offered, because of the inconvenience caused, a discount on further purchases.
It should also be noted, that in my initial correspondence with SISMO, I asked whether their panels would drop directly into an OEM B737 center pedestal. Juan Ma stated 'YES'. However, on receipt it was discovered that the modules were too large to fit directly onto the pedestal DZUS rails. I queried Juan Ma from SISMO on this; he stated that it was a language misunderstanding.
Juan Ma understood perfect English when it came to avoiding a refund of purchase money.
Legislation, PayPal and Delays
Spanish legislation states that every purchase has a 7 day cooling off period, in which a return and refund can be made. PayPal policy states you have 45 days in which to make a claim. EU legislation states that refunds are possible if items do not function correctly - within a set time frame.
Without a working script for Sim Avionics (which took two months to receiveve), how can testing of panels occur. Because of the approximate two month delay on sending operating scripts to me, all options available to me had expired.
I cannot help but think that SISMO delayed the sending of the scripts so as to provide a reason for NOT refunding 100% of the purchase price.
SISMO Solicones appears to be a company that will ONLY support and stand by their products if you continue to use their products and not complain, or attempt to return them.
If you ask for a refund due to faulty components, components that don't function, or scripts that don't function correctly, then expect NOTHING, or at the very least, a minimal refund (and you will have to fight to get this refund).
What you can expect from SISMO, is e-mail after e-mail informing you that you have no right to a refund, that you have damaged the items, and that you did not follow SISMO policies, etc, etc.
After many e-mails, I succeeded in gaining a E400 Euro refund for an initial E1400 Euro outlay.
I'm sure there are many happy customers using SISMO products; however, I am not one. I do not recommend SISMO Solicones.
Their products are of poor quality. The attention to detail that is required (and expected) when replicating an aircraft panel is very poor. And finally, their customer service is dismal if you are seeking to return an item.
In my opinion, it's VITAL that a company standby and support their product-line, and this includes refunds if the product (for whatever reason) is not suitable with your simulator set-up.
If you search the Internet, you will find very few comments regarding SISMO, other than company endorsed reviews on forums that are supported by manufacturers and resellers.
If you are searching for quality avionics panels, look no further than Flight Deck Solutions or CP Flight.
These two companies are reliable, produce quality products and provide exceptional after sales service. They also offer a refund if not 100% satisfied with their product. Whatever you do, don’t spend your money on inferior products from SISMO! (my opinion only).
This review is rather negative towards SISMO Soluciones. I have 'toned down' my anger to this company considerably in an attempt to produce a balanced and accurate review. Please understand that this is my experience with this company. Your experience may well differ.
Feel welcome to make comments, either good or bad in the comments section.
Updated and Amended 15 April 2020
Update
on 2015-08-27 00:15 by FLAPS 2 APPROACH
I wasn't expecting such a response to this post. Nor was I expecting SISMO Soluciones to link this negative review to their website, face book account, and on several other prominent forums.
Whether an individual likes or dislikes a product based on aesthetics and functionality is subjective; what I dislike, another simmer may like very much. I know several simmers that use SISMO and are very happy with the product.
My main 'gripe' with SISMO, apart from poorly produced products, is their no questions non-return option should you be in the former (dislike) category.
Whatever transpired between myself and SISMO is water under the bridge. If a company stands by their products they offer a no questions return policy.
I have since heard, based upon this review that SISMO may be taking legal action against me for what I have written. I have told the story as it unfolded and refuse to retract what has been written on an independent and non-industry supported website.
This is one of the purposes for this site - unbiased and honest appraisal of products I have used.
Thanks for your lively comments. Cheers
