What is the Fanatec SDK and what can you do with it?
The Fanatec SDK is a package (VS-based library) which lets programmers and developers use the extended features of our Fanatec Wheel and Pedal products. By using the SDK code, your game/software can
...make use of the additional wheel vibration/rumble motors (not the FFB motors)
...make use of the tuning display (for gear display, speeder, ...)
...make use of the vibration motors on ClubSport Pedals
...make use of the rev LEDs
...detect exact type of Fanatec Wheel Base, including the available torque
...detect the type of steering wheel attached to the Wheel Base
...etc.
Is the Fanatec SDK available for anybody?
No, not generally speaking. If you want to use the Fanatec SDK, please contact us using this form and explain what your plans with the SDK are. If you qualify, you may receive an NDA which has to be signed prior to receiving the SDK.
What is not a function of the Fanatec SDK?
The SDK is not necessary to get output (pedal axis, steering wheel axis/rotation, button inputs) from our hardware. This is controlled by DirectInput only, as our devices are HID standard devices.
The SDK is not necessary to send force feedback effects to the wheel. For that you will only need to install the driver and send standard direct input commands for FFB.
In summary, no input/output and FFB features of our products need the SDK. It is only need for special Fanatec functions as mentioned in the first part of this article.
In general we are not able to provide developer support on how to read and control force feedback devices (which work 100% the same way for Fanatec hardware as for Logitech, Thrustmaster, etc.). Please use Microsoft documentation. Here are some useful links to get you into the topic:
DirectInput - Enumerating devices - https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb153253(v=vs.85).aspx
DirectInput - Capturing from Devices - https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb153252(v=vs.85).aspx
DirectInput - Using Force Feedback - https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb153254(v=vs.85).aspx