You don't need to use the Control Manager, you can get by just using the default button mapping in AH but I still recommend installing for calibrating in Windows. Though, personally I think it's a waste not to use CM as you can do some really nifty things that you can't do with the default mapping in AH.ack-ack
What can you do with CM? I just uninstalled the software since I don't use it and never figured out it's capabilities. TIA
Macros are the biggest thing. Hit one button and it will start your plane, drop a couple notches of flaps, go max throttle and raise gear after a certain time and then flaps.
Thanks guys for all the advice! When I'm back home I'll have a CH stick, throttle, and rudders waiting for me. I'm looking forward to having a little more precise control over my cartoon plane. My sidewinder is so worn out. Now I'll probably waste even more of my days off in the cartoon skies. Not good.