Using a Handbrake and Shifter in One Sim Setup

When it comes to racing simulations, realism is key. One of the best ways to enhance your experience is by adding specialized peripherals like a handbrake or shifter to your setup, giving you even more control and immersion.

If you already own a Fanatec sim racing setup, you might be wondering if it's possible to use multiple Fanatec accessories at the same time. The answer is yes - not only is it possible, but it's also relatively simple to set up and use these devices together.

Before diving into compatibility and setup requirements, it’s important to understand how peripherals are used.

The ClubSport Handbrake V2 is a great example of a high-quality racing peripheral designed to enhance the realism of sim racing, particularly in disciplines like drifting and rally racing. The handbrake technique is the most common way to start off with drifting, especially if matched with the right sim racing game for drifting.

The ClubSport Shifter SQ V1.5 features both an H-Pattern and sequential modes, allowing more driving flexibility and comfort. The shifter is built to provide satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring smooth gear transitions that add that level of immersion you’re looking for. If you’re interested in mastering the heel-and-toe technique, it’s an essential addition to your setup.

The Fanatec handbrake and shifter are designed to work with Fanatec’s wheel bases using an RJ12 connection and can be compatible with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, depending on the equipment in your Fanatec ecosystem.

If you're using both a handbrake and shifter, ensure that your wheel base has enough available ports. Alternatively, you may need to daisy-chain devices, connecting the shifter to the wheel base and the handbrake to a pedal unit.

The following Fanatec pedal models feature a handbrake connection:

• CSL Elite Pedals Load Cell Kit
• CSL Elite Pedals V2
• ClubSport Pedals V3
• ClubSport Pedals V3 inverted

Another way to use a Fanatec shifter and handbrake at the same time is to connect them directly to your PC via a ClubSport USB Adapter (not possible on consoles), with the advantage that both products can be used as standalone USB input devices.

This opens up a variety of options for racing enthusiasts who already own a steering wheel from another brand and still want to experience the precise control made possible with a Fanatec shifter and handbrake.

Once everything is connected, you’ll likely need to configure the devices using Fanatec’s driver software, which will allow you to adjust the settings of your Fanatec peripherals, including the handbrake and shifter.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Install Fanatec drivers: Ensure that you have the latest version of Fanatec’s driver software installed on all your Fanatec equipment.
• Calibrate devices: You’ll need to calibrate both the handbrake and shifter to ensure they respond accurately during gameplay. Depending on the game, this can be done directly through the Fanatec Control Panel.

Once you’ve configured everything and tested the devices, it’s time to hit the track. Both the handbrake and shifter will enhance the realism of your racing experience, allowing you to execute precise maneuvers and gear changes as you would in a real car.