FYI - I've been using an old Dave Brown Flight Simulator controller with FMS for a long while now on my desktop PC. I is a Mode 2 type and worked first time perfectly through the joystick port on my old Win98a system. I now use it with a plugin Radio Shack USB joystick on my WinXP system.
I use a Futaba Mode 2 Transmitter connected to the Mic port of my Laptop through a Futaba trainer cable and a simple interface I built. I use the newest version of SmartPropo on my laptop ... works perfectly.
If anyone wants to know more about either item.. let me know... Flying RC Planes with a Mode 2 Transmitter is necessary to fully enjoy FMS. Also, v8 planes and a great landscape adds tremendously to an already Great Program !!!