An FPS test is a useful tool to get performance data about how well (or not) a computer runs X-Plane. You can run FPS tests manually via the command line, but for ease and to ensure controlled, consistent data, we have created a script to run 6 versions of the FPS test in sequence. Which script you should use varies by operating system–Mac & Linux can use the same script, but Windows has its own.
On Windows
- Download the script here and unzip the file.
- Copy the fps_test.bat file into the directory where you have X-Plane 12.
- Quit any other open programs, especially internet browsers.
- Double click the file to run the tests.
- You’ll be asked to enter your screen resolution in the form of widthxheight.
- Example: if your monitor has a resolution of 1920 by 1080 you’d enter 1920×1080 without spaces.
- Sit back & relax while X-Plane runs 6 tests at various settings.
- Once they complete, zip & send the folder fps_output from the main X-Plane folder to Laminar Research.
On Mac & Linux
- Download the script here and unzip the file.
- Copy the fps_test.sh file into the directory where you have X-Plane 12.
- Quit any other open programs, especially internet browsers.
- Launch Terminal.
- In the window type cd then a space.
- Drag the main X-Plane 12 folder to the Terminal window then press return.
- In the Terminal window type: ./fps_test.sh
- Press return again.
- If you encounter “permission denied,” type in the terminal:
chmod 777 fps_test.sh - Try step 6 again.
- If you encounter “permission denied,” type in the terminal:
- You’ll be asked to enter your screen resolution in the form of widthxheight.
- Example: if your monitor has a resolution of 1920 by 1080 you’d enter 1920×1080 without spaces.
- Sit back & relax while X-Plane runs 6 tests at various settings.
- Once they complete, zip & send the folder fps_output from the main X-Plane folder to Laminar Research.