1.  N1 is the rotation speed of the low-pressure compressor in a high or low bypass turbojet engine.  In a non-bypassed engine it is the engine rotation speed.  N1 and N2 are given as a percentage of maximum rotation speed of the engine.  So N1 at 100% means the engine is spinning as fast as it should and will be giving maximum sustainable thrust.

2.  APU is an auxiliary power unit, which supplies power to the aircraft when the main engines aren't running.

3.  The alternator is a generator on a reciprocating engine that is driven by the crankshaft to charge the aircraft batteries while the engine is running. 

4.  The magneto is part of a reciprocating engine that generates the power for the spark in the spark plug.  Aircraft have two of them as a back up in case one fails.  Having two also increases power and efficiency.

5.  I have no idea, I think it's in the realism settings some where.  Remember though, there's no flight path when you're actually flying!

We always seem to respond to the same questions at the same time Brett!

At least our answers agree with each other.

You Packer guys have it covered, however lets point out, in case that was one of the questions, the VASI boxes Microsoft has placed at almost every airport merely Indicate a Visual Approach Slope.  Seeing mostly red, add power and a little up 'til you see both red and white.  Seeing mostly white, reduce power and a little down.  I always liked one red and the other a pinkish white  .

Brett_Henderson wrote on Oct 8^th, 2009 at 8:06pm:


Just to add to the explanation, the Auxiliary Power Unit is basically a small jet engine, but rather than use it's power for thrust, as Brett says, it is used to power electrical systems, or utilise its bleed air (for engine starting, ground heating etc).