Saitek Launches the X52 Pro - the World's Most Advanced Flight Control System.

LOS ANGELES -- Saitek (www.saitek.com) today announced the launch of the X52 Pro - its flagship flight control system. Packed with programmable controls, engineered from realistic, military-spec materials and fully customizable, the X52 Pro maximizes interaction with PC flight sims or flight combat games, delivering the ultimate flying experience. To create the last word in flight control, Saitek consulted the world's leading flight-sim experts, reviewed every component and function of the acclaimed X52 and made more than a dozen significant improvements.

Total control

With seven control axes, 19 buttons, 3 hat switches and a thumb mouse - all programmable - the X52 Pro increases the precision, accuracy and realism of flying. High resolution, absolute linearity and enhanced non-contact technology on Stick X and Y axes improve responsiveness and control, while the new dual concentric spring centering mechanism progressively increases resistance, just as it would in a real aircraft.

Completely interactive

The X52 Pro's new interactive Multi-Function Display (iMFD) works with leading flight sim software, presenting and controlling cockpit instrumentation at a glance. Already working fully with Microsoft Flight Simulator X, the supplied Software Development Kit (SDK) can be used to customize the iMFD for any other software.

Fully adjustable

Saitek knows how intense flying can be, so for complete comfort, the X52 Pro's stick is fully adjustable to accommodate any hand size and position. The throttle unit features adjustable handle resistance, detents for afterburner and idle, with LED indicators to clearly indicate throttle position, no matter how dark the surroundings. The X52 Pro provides a choice of LED color and intensity to suit the pilot and his environment.

Durable

The X52 Pro is built to last from military-spec materials, with soft touch grips on throttle and stick, non-contact technology on X and Y axes, and positive action aluminum trigger and pinkie switch.

Full feature list

Stick

* 2-stage Aluminum trigger

* 4 fire buttons including missile launcher

* Aluminum Pinkie switch for shift functionality

* 2 x 8-way hat switches

* 3D rudder twist with lock-out

* 3-position rotary mode selector

* 3 spring-loaded knurled toggle switches

* 5-position hand size adjustment

Throttle

* Progressive throttle with adjustable resistance, detents and LED position indicators

* interactive Multi-Function Display:

    -- Works with Microsoft Flight Simulator X to display and control
       real-time flight information

    -- Programmable for many other sims

    -- Backlit with full control of color and intensity

    -- 2 metal MFD scroll wheels, one with built-in button

    -- MFD Start/Stop and Function buttons

* 2 fire buttons

* Mouse controller/hat switch with left mouse button

* 8-way hat switch

* 2 x knurled rotary and slider controls

* Clutch button disengages controls to allow identification of button command assignments

Software

* Full SST programming software

* Microsoft Flight Simulator X plug-in to control radio stack

* Software Development Kit

Commenting on the launch of the X52 Pro, Mark "Specter" Starrett, Saitek Product Manager, said: "The X52 Pro really does represent the best there is in flight control system design today. Working with the world's best flight sim players and pilots of real aircraft, we've re-engineered the existing X52 to provide a host of improvements to design and functionality, all of which make the flying experience more realistic. Used with our new Pro Flight Rudder Pedals, Saitek's line-up for the serious flyer is now unmatchable."

The Saitek X52 Pro has an RRP of US $199.95 and will be available from Flight Sim specialists and Saitek in November. Saitek's complete line of award-winning computer peripherals and digital media entertainment products are carried by major retailers nationwide and are available at www.saitekusa.com. Vendors interested in carrying any Saitek products should contact Irene Griffiths at [e-mail].

ABOUT SAITEK

Founded in 1979, Saitek Industries initially built its reputation on smart products, establishing itself as the market leader with its Mephisto chess computers. In 1993 Saitek entered the computer games controller market and has since grown to become a major brand for PC gaming peripherals. Saitek's extensive range of award-winning products are designed and manufactured by gaming enthusiasts for gaming enthusiasts -- with the goal of helping gamers win.

All of Saitek's award-winning controllers are produced in the company's wholly owned ISO 9002-certified factory and distributed worldwide.