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**Kent** · 01-29-2018, 03:22 PM

You have enough room for a GC2. You'll be hitting a little off center due to the 12' width, but your height and length shouldn't create any issues. You need about 14-15' of width to hit centered, but that depends on your swing.

**Mekongmike** · 01-30-2018, 08:42 PM

Thanks for your input bond and Kent...!

How does hitting off center affect one's practice and play?

I'm still seeking opinions on screen size based on my dimensions. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Since the GC2 doesn't come with courses then how does a person go about acquiring them? Is it through software that is compatible with GC2. Sorry...rookie here...

Thanks,
Mekongmike

**Kent** · 01-30-2018, 09:48 PM

On TGC you can adjust the offset on the software so your target is directly in front of you. I don't think you would have any adverse effects from hitting off center in a 12' wide room. For your dimensions, I would fill the entire wall with screen. Slotted angle iron mounted to the side walls and ceiling make for an easy installation. The best bang for the buck for software is TGC. It''s a one-time purchase and there are tons of courses. It is compatible with the GC2. There are licenses that pop up for sale on the forum or you can purchase directly from Protee-United. The license will run you about $600-1000.

**Kent** · 01-30-2018, 10:23 PM

There aren't any other fees. All of the software necessary is included with the license.

**Mekongmike** · 02-01-2018, 04:57 AM

Thanks again guys!

I'm still plotting on my build kalcormier. Got to figure out which components and crunch the number. All of the various acronyms keep me hopping.

I just looked at this webpage and it says that the TGC software is not compatible with "Foresight GC2":

https://golfsimulatorstore.com/produ...r-software-tgc

It's obvious that many on this forum are using both GC2 with TGC. However, some are not happy as they are having problems. One problem appears to be issues with "Bluetooth".

Question: If I build it will be out in the garage where currently I only have one bar on my cellphone. We live in the country with only 10 Mpbs of fiber optic cable. It enters the house in my office, which is about 30-35 yards from the build area with 3-4 walls in between. Will I need a direct hookup to the 10 Mpbs out in the garage??? Or would the Bluetooth operate directly from my PC in the build area? Another person mentioned an "extended range Dongle". As you can see I'm not up on all of this technology at almost 70 years of age.

Any other ideas on software with quality courses? I believe that I am going to avoid WGT, which is on Jack Nicklaus' and perhaps other software. I am not sure what you guys mean by "SDK fee" and "licenses that pop up for sale". Could you explain? Thanks!

Sounds good on screen size. Using slotted angle iron would be pretty easy, but since my room is 12' net wide I would guess that a screen that is a little narrower would be better so I would be assured that I could add the ties to the angle iron and screen without the screen reaching both walls. Since I do not know how the scree connects to the angle iron I do not know if a net 12' screen would be a bit too long.
If I custom ordered one is it much more? Or maybe I could go with 11' wide if they have one. I'm thinking 9' high?

I mentioned side and top netting to catch potential stray balls. Plus if it were mostly enclosed then it would be easier to heat. Do you guys think this is "overkill?"

I'm still trying to narrow down which components I'll be considering so I can come up with a price list and total price. Once I get it roughed in then I'll post it. I'd roughed out a list earlier. If anyone can toss in their suggestions on what is working for them and where they purchased them it would be appreciated.

I am seeing that Par2Pro mentions that the items ship directly from the Netherlands and that "Brokerage, international fees, and local taxes are not included and may be due upon delivery." YIKES! This is literally an unknown. There's no mention of Shipping Cost either. What gives here? I'm sure that many of you have ordered from them. Is the shipping included in the price? Were there extra fees?

Mekongmike

**Mekongmike** · 02-01-2018, 08:04 AM

Thanks again kalcormier!

I see there are ceiling mounted screens too. Seems like that would be simple if the screen just hung with it's own weight and no side bungies, but not sure it would be this way. I included one below, but it's not cheap.

I roughed out a list tonight. I'm already over budget so I need everyone's help in cutting it back some or I will not get the wife's approval.

I'm am not 100% sold on all of the below items. I'm just brainstorming in order to get an idea and some responses. I've added notes here and there.

It's not clear in my head on the Putting as well as the actual hitting surface where you tee the ball?

If I could come up with a used GC2 for the $3.500.00 then that would help. If not, I may have to consider a cheaper unit. I don't want to give up quality graphics, but if it's a matter of cost then I might have to.

=====

My List:

* Launch Monitor - (GC2 - Used $3,500.00 - Refurb $5,400,00) - Compatible with Apple or Android

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/index.ph...i66r0ve8rphi7v 13 (Canadian Customers Only?)

* PC - What would be my best bet if I just dedicate the desktop or laptop to the SIM?

* Software - TGC if Compatible with GC2: $1,195.00 one time fee?

https://www.protee-united.com/golfsimulator/pricing

OR:

ProTee Base Pack TGC Golf Simulator / Analyzer - $3,095.00

OR:

ProTee Golf 2.0 with TGC - $3,790.00

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/product_...roducts_id=332

* 150 W 120V to 12V Transformer = $40.00

* What about a “Putting Sensor”? No clue on how the putting works?

* Projector - What “Throw Distance”? - Suggested: Optoma GT1080Darbee ($710.64/Amazon) or BenQ HT2150ST ($875.69/Amazon)

* Impact Screen - HQ2-T0 Transformer Impact Projection Screen with Ceiling Mount Kit: 10’ x 9’ = $818.99 - 12’ x 9’ - $968.99

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/product_...roducts_id=138

OR:

DIY at Carl’s Place: Best Buy: 10’ x 9’ H Screen - $404.46 - (50) Bungies - $17.50 - EMT Fittings for 10’ W = $82.00 / 1” x 10’ @ Home Depot = $7.25 ea. x 9 = $65.25 - Veteran’s Discount = $58.72. Total: $562.68. The 10' EMT lengths stop me from going out to 11' on my screen. Are there couplings?

* Stance Mat/Hitting Section/Insert - Is this included above? (Divot Action seems good)

* Artificial Turf - (on rest of Deck for appearance - Check with “SynLawn” on Remnants per Aeroburner.

* Lighting - No clue

* Bluetooth Dongle: About $14.00 if I need one. - Asus USB-BT400 Bluetooth 4.0

* Wifi Extender: Between Router and Computer. Do I need one?

* Deck - (DIY - Rubber locking squares or 2x4 base with plywood and artificial turf - 2x4 better for an "Insert”?)

=====

Hope this all makes sense. I have a feeling that it doesn't as I'm not sure myself on some of the components.

Thanks in advance for all responses...!!!

Mekongmike

**kalcormier** · 02-01-2018, 08:52 AM

Hope this helps.

My List:

* Launch Monitor - (GC2 - Used $3,500.00 - Refurb $5,400,00) - Compatible with Apple or Android

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/index.ph...i66r0ve8rphi7v 13 (Canadian Customers Only?)

I wish I knew why only in Canada. I might spring for a GC2 if I could get it at that price.

* PC - What would be my best bet if I just dedicate the desktop or laptop to the SIM?
Minimum:

OS: Windows 7 (32bit or 64bit)
Processor: Intel Core i5 or equivalent
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: NVidia GTX 670 or AMD 7850 w/ 2GB (or better!)
DirectX: Version 11
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Hard Drive: 20 GB available space
Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible

Recommended:

OS: Windows 10 (64Bit)
Processor: Intel Core i7
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: NVidia GTX 970
DirectX: Version 11
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Hard Drive: 20 GB available space
Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible

* Software - TGC if Compatible with GC2: $1,195.00 one time fee? $995 for just TGC one time fee

https://www.protee-united.com/golfsimulator/pricing

OR:

ProTee Base Pack TGC Golf Simulator / Analyzer - $3,095.00 This is a sensor system with TGC software. You could go this route instead of a GC2.

OR:

ProTee Golf 2.0 with TGC - $3,790.00 Same as previous

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/product_...roducts_id=332

* 150 W 120V to 12V Transformer = $40.00

* What about a “Putting Sensor”? No clue on how the putting works? With GC2 or skytrak you don't need a seperate putting sensor the unit reads it. If you go the ProTee route a putting sensor is optional but probably recommended

* Projector - What “Throw Distance”? - Suggested: Optoma GT1080Darbee ($710.64/Amazon) or BenQ HT2150ST ($875.69/Amazon)
Depends on screen size you go with. Usually 7 to 10 feet

* Impact Screen - HQ2-T0 Transformer Impact Projection Screen with Ceiling Mount Kit: 10’ x 9’ = $818.99 - 12’ x 9’ - $968.99

OR:

DIY at Carl’s Place: Best Buy: 10’ x 9’ H Screen - $404.46 - (50) Bungies - $17.50 - EMT Fittings for 10’ W = $82.00 / 1” x 10’ @ Home Depot = $7.25 ea. x 9 = $65.25 - Veteran’s Discount = $58.72. Total: $562.68. The 10' EMT lengths stop me from going out to 11' on my screen. Are there couplings?
My opinion here is biased. I have a Carl's Preferred (middle of the road one) and have never owned anything else.
They do make couplings. But is it worth the cost for the extra foot is my question. Maybe someone can help answer that.

* Stance Mat/Hitting Section/Insert - Is this included above? (Divot Action seems good)

Not included above.

* Artificial Turf - (on rest of Deck for appearance - Check with “SynLawn” on Remnants per Aeroburner.

Check at home depot/lowes as well. Do you plan on it doubling as a putting surface or just appearance?

* Lighting - No clue

* Bluetooth Dongle: About $14.00 if I need one. - Asus USB-BT400 Bluetooth 4.0

* Wifi Extender: Between Router and Computer. Do I need one?

* Deck - (DIY - Rubber locking squares or 2x4 base with plywood and artificial turf - 2x4 better for an "Insert”?)

=====

**wbond** · 02-01-2018, 02:06 PM

You'll be lucky to get a gc2 for 3500 as it's usually pretty quite rare to get one at that price.

You could go the skytrak route and that would be just under 2k.

TGC for ST is 1k and you cannot buy used. Sometimes they have sales that drops it 100-200. You can buy tgc used for other systems.

Impact screen, depending upon how soon you need it, you can get on the next direct from mill order which should cost you less than 300 and it's a great screen. You could also buy the new SQ raw screen from par 2 pro. As far as mounting it, get tarp clips from home depot or lowes and then attach adjustable ball bungees to it. Very easy and you don't mess around will finished edges. Also, you can order it a little longer in width and unroll a little bit if the impact area starts to show wear. I've done this on my last two screens.

Stance mat can be made very inexpensively if needed. Lay 2x4 on their side and cover with plywood and then indoor outdoor carpet and then you can cutout or create a hitting strip off to the side for whatever you want to use. Fiberbuilt panels, divot action, CCE, etc.

Artificial turf I have not used, but there are lots of options.

**Mekongmike** · 02-02-2018, 05:55 AM

Wow...it's almost like I'm starting over again. Not really, you guys have provided a LOT of great info.

I jumped on GC2 at first, but I think that it may be overkill as at my age I'm not looking for all of the finite details of my swing. I definitely want to know distances, swing speed, etc. I'm thinking now, with your assistance, that SkyTrak will do the job.

I'll alter my list based on what you both have advised and also from my research on this forum:

=====

My List:

* Launch Monitor - SkyTrak - (feels better already

) - $1,995.00 - Hard Case: $149.95 = $2,144.95

Or: SkyTrak Launch Monitor with Game Improvement Package (Includes hard case) - $2,244.90 + $22.08 shipping = $2,266.98

https://smile.amazon.com/SkyTrak-Launch-Monitor-Improve-Package/dp/B01LYD46YR/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517541939&sr=8-1&keywords=skytrak+launch+monitor

* PC - I'm quizzing a buddy on the PC using the "Minimum" and "Recommended" specs that you sent.

* Software - $995.00 for just TGC one time fee

* Projector - What “Throw Distance”? - Suggested: Optoma GT1080Darbee ($710.64/Amazon) or BenQ HT2150ST ($875.69/Amazon)

Depends on screen size you go with. Usually 7 to 10 feet - I think I will fill out the 12' width and 9' high.

Any ideas on Throw Distance? I read on the All Sport website that a 12' w x 9' H has a 4:3 Aspect Ratio (1024 x 768). Does this help?

* Impact Screen - DIY at Carl’s Place: Best Buy: 10’ x 9’ H Screen - $404.46 - (50) Bungies - $17.50 - EMT Fittings for 10’ W = $82.00 / 1” x 10’ @ Home Depot = $7.25 ea. x 9 = $65.25 - Veteran’s Discount = $58.72. Total: $562.68.

As mentioned, I'll figure a 12' x 9' screen and use couplings to get the width.

I am not sure about your source for the

My opinion here is biased. I have a Carl's Preferred (middle of the road one) and have never owned anything else.
They do make couplings. But is it worth the cost for the extra foot is my question. Maybe someone can help answer that.

The "Best Screen" mentioned above is the middle of the line on Carl's Preferred. I'm assuming it in the one you have been using. Do you
have a cage? What about lofted shots?

Someone mentioned the All Sports PDF. It has good info on constructing a cage:

http://www.allsportsystems.net/wp-content/uploads/MiniBay-SuperBay-Installation-Guide-Rev-102617.pdf

wbond: the Raw SQ-Beta-Raw Impact Projection Screen Material looks interesting too. Did you use slotted angle material? That would be pretty simple to run on the walls and ceiling. It seems like grommets would make it simple combined with ball bungies and the angle material. Good idea on ordering more than one needs so that you can shift over.

I'd still need some sort of cage or netting right? I could order one separately.

http://www.par2pro.com/shop/product_...roducts_id=428

* Stance Mat/Hitting Section/Insert - Is this included above? (Divot Action seems good)

Not included above.

I'm lost here on what I would need. I like the DivotAction. What kind of room would I need for the "Insert"? At first I was thinking of building a 2x4 base with plywood over it. Another thought is the interlocking rubber mat. An "Insert" into the 2x4/ply situation is a no-brainer. How about the rubber mats? Do you simply surround the "Insert" in a "Stance Mat"? I don't think that I would need it to be "Portable". It seems like the "Style Three" 4' x 5' on this page with one 12" x 18" insert would be sufficient: $399.95

http://www.customdesigngolf.com/divotactiontrade-mats.html (what about tees? How do they work on something like this?)

* Artificial Turf - (on rest of Deck for appearance - Check with “SynLawn” on Remnants per Aeroburner.

Check at home depot/lowes as well. Do you plan on it doubling as a putting surface or just appearance?

It would be just for cosmetics. All the hitting would be done on the above "Stance Mat".

* Lighting - No clue. You'd want to light up the "Stance Mat", but not too bright that you affected the graphics on the screen right?

* Bluetooth Dongle: About $14.00 if I need one. - Asus USB-BT400 Bluetooth 4.0

* Wifi Extender: Between Router and Computer. Do I need one?

=====

Another evening with 4 or 5 browser windows open while trying to digest it all. It's slowly coming more clear. Plus the price is down where it is manageable. I ran a $6-7K rough price the wife a little while ago. She still didn't respond positively.

Thanks again guys! I'm looking forward to some more fine tuning with your help...

Mekongmike

**Mekongmike** · 02-02-2018, 09:44 PM

Thanks on the Throw Distance kalcormier! That will help in my decision making for sure.

If, say, the HT215ST projector is mounted at 11' then where would my Stance Mat/Tee area be located in relation to the screen? I wouldn't think the projector would be directly above it.

If your wedge shots are hitting the ceiling at 6.5' kalcormier, then it appears I'll need netting overhead too. I'm thinking of a cage with netting coming out about 5'. It depends on the Throw Distance and how far I'm standing from the screen??

"I am not sure about your source for the..." I completely lost that thought last night kalcomier. It happens at almost 70.

Good on the "Stance Mat". I could go 2x4 all the way to the screen or just 2x4 in the hitting area and then rubber matting over the rest of the concrete floor. Just thinking here...

Ok on ST not doing "clubhead speed" wbond. Not real critical.

Got to run. Buddy just called me for a round of REAL golf. We have a break in the rain out here in Oregon so I'm taking him up on it.

Thanks again....!

Mekongmike

**Mekongmike** · 02-03-2018, 05:42 AM

Sounds good on the projector mount. I'll research it better as I get close to the build. Good points!

Ok on the cage/netting. Makes sense. I think that I'll be hitting from a little farther back than you. Must be exciting to be planning on a larger space for your SIM.

Good on the "Stance Matt" and sub-flooring. Once I firm up my distance from the screen I will build a 2x4 floor with plywood from behind the Stance Mat to the screen. I could place some putting cups in for fooling around too. Sure, let me know how that DivotAction insert comes out.

Right on SkyTrak. At first, as a complete rookie, I was thinking that the Simulator determined your screen graphics. Now I think I'm correct in seeing that the PC/Software/Projector do that. That solved my decision for not going with a used or refurbished GC2.

Just went out golfing for fun. We usually do not keep score unless it's during the spring/summer/fall when it's dryer. My back was a bit tweaked when I went out. It's been bothering me for a few months. Feels more like a muscle on my flank rather than backbone, which is better. Anyway, I twisted it on a iron shot off a hillside and had to rest it for several holes. I'm have a cold pack on as I write this. First one heated up too much so I have a ribeye steak placed there now.

On our trip to LA in early December I played 18 at the "Black Bear Golf Club" in Delhi. Nice course. I'll be playing it more in the future.

Mekongmike

**legendsfan** · 02-03-2018, 09:39 AM

Also, I believe the benq TH671ST is a replacement for the 2150ST and is cheaper. The higher lumens will be greatly appreciated if you have any ambient light which I didn't go through convo to see if you do. I replaced my 2150ST with this projector and I believe it's cheaper on Amazon once back in stock. https://www.amazon.com/BenQ-Entertai...70_&dpSrc=srch

**Mekongmike** · 02-03-2018, 11:39 PM

More great information guys.

Thanks for jumping in legendsfan! I am completely lost on the electronics portion of a SIM Build. My ignorance is showing here and there. "Ignorance" gets a bum rap, but it's not always bad. Like kalcormier says, I am "starting to have a good idea", but I certainly need some fine tuning. It's almost scary when it comes to the electronics side. I'm sure that I'll be asking a lot of questions when I'm settings things up and afterwards.

Great info on the BenQ TH671ST. I've added your info to my build list.

Will definitely keep a round or two in mind when we are down your way kalcormier! Thanks for the invite. BTW, the back is still ailing, but I'm resting it. I didn't thaw that ribeye enough to toss it in the pan.

The wife just asked to go out. I may give it a try. Perhaps just pitching and putting practice.

Mekongmike

**Mekongmike** · 02-04-2018, 11:38 PM

Ok...I revamped my "List" and narrowed things down a bit based on the assistance that I have received here on the forum. Right now I'm hovering at a little over $5K without a PC. That is unless I'm missing something.

As usual, I welcome all input. I'm certainly not firm on all of the components below. Many of you have used them and can attest to their value.

=====

My List:

* Launch Monitor - SkyTrak - With Game Improvement Package (Includes hard case) - $2,244.90 + $22.08 shipping = $2,266.98

* PC - (Any ideas/recommendations on a cheaper gaming PC that would be appropriate?)

* TGC Software - $995.00 (One time fee)

* Projector - BenQ TH671ST = $749.00 - What “Throw Distance” on 11’ w x 9’ h screen? (11' - 13')

* Impact Screen - DIY at Carl’s Place: Best Buy: 11’ x 9’ H Screen - $439.95 - (55) Bungies - $19.25 - EMT Fittings for 11’ W = $82.00 - EMT - 1” x 10’ @ Home Depot = $58.72. - 1” EMT Couplings (4) $3.30. Total: $603.22.

Or:

Par3Pro SQ-BETA-RAW: 13’ (2’ extra to shift) x $25.99 = $337.87 - Bungies: 1/lin.ft - 10” HB (22) = $22.00 - Tarp Clips: (12) $15.00 - Slotted Angle Iron - 1 1/2” x 96” (4 pcs) = $115.00 - Total: $489.87 - With Carl’s Cage - $163.27 - Total: $653.14

* Stance Mat/Hitting Section/Insert - DivotAction “Style Three” 4’ x 5’ with 12” x 18” insert - $399.95

http://www.customdesigngolf.com/divo...rade-mats.html

* Artificial Turf/Putting surface - (Around Stance Mat and on rest of Deck for appearance and maybe a couple of holes for short putts)

* Deck - I will build from 2x4s and Plywood

=====

Thanks in advance...!

Mekongmike

**Mekongmike** · 02-05-2018, 10:09 PM

Thanks again kalcormier!

I'm not sure about the being "tagged" situation. Where do I look for that? Nothing popped up that was noticeable. Thanks though!

Would be nice to find one of those $1,695.00 deals on the ST.

I noted the throw distance. I'm guessing that can all be tinkered with and adjusted to the screen once it is in place. Would that determine how far away I hit from the screen? Not sure how that works either.

Great on your DivotAction...! Any ideas on building my own stance mat to insert the DivotAction? Would it be enough savings to warrant doing so? I'm certainly not wealthy by any means.

Good on the lighting situation. I forgot to answer your question the other day wbond. The only natural light that I will have is a 3'x4' window on the right hand side of the SIM. It can be covered no problem.

Wifey is still playing "mum" on any encouragement so I'm going to have to work on her a little more. The reduced price will help.

Mekongmike

Announcement

Plotting on a Sim Build in Oregon

Plotting on a Sim Build in Oregon

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