> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Configure Force Feedback Settings for ATS

> Understand Force Feedback mechanics in American Truck Simulator. Learn why FFB settings are managed locally on each player's steering wheel, not on the server.

## Mastering Steering & Force Feedback

Force Feedback (FFB) is the cornerstone of an immersive American Truck Simulator (ATS) experience, providing drivers with a tangible sense of their truck's weight, the nuances of the road surface, and the resistance of the steering rack. A common point of confusion for server owners is whether these physical sensations are controlled by the server or the player's local hardware.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Beginner Friendly
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    5 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Defining Server and Client Responsibilities

In a networked multiplayer environment, game logic is strategically divided between the central server and each individual player's client.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="The Server's Role">
    The server functions as the central coordinator. It manages synchronized data streams such as truck positions, trailer connectivity states, traffic signal patterns, and the global world clock. It does **not** process or transmit physical force signals to a driver's steering wheel or peripherals.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="The Client's Role">
    The client (your local installation of ATS) is responsible for all peripheral input and output. All aspects of Force Feedback intensity, steering sensitivity curves, and button assignments are managed locally within your game options.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

## Optimizing the Driving Experience

Although the server cannot directly influence hardware feedback, we recommend these baseline settings for your community to ensure a consistent and realistic experience.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access Peripheral Options">
    Navigate to the ATS main menu or pause the game, then select **Options** -> **Controls**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Calibrate Overall Gain">
    Locate the **Force Feedback** section. We suggest a baseline of **50% overall gain**. From this starting point, increase or decrease the intensity based on your steering wheel's motor strength.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Manage Secondary Vibrations">
    Reduce **Engine Resonance** to **5% or lower**. High resonance settings can lead to excessive mechanical noise and wear on gear-driven wheels without providing meaningful tactical feedback.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  ### Protecting High-End Hardware

  If you operate a Direct Drive (DD) wheel, be particularly mindful of "Bumps" and "Collisions" settings. High-torque motors can produce violent, sudden movements that may be jarring. Maintaining moderate levels ensures a realistic simulation while protecting your hardware's internal components from unnecessary mechanical stress.
</Tip>

***

## Troubleshooting Peripheral Synchronization

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Wheel Not Detected">
    Ensure your steering wheel's drivers and firmware are up to date. Always connect your wheel before launching the ATS client to ensure the engine initializes the HID (Human Interface Device) correctly.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Inconsistent FFB during Convoys">
    If Force Feedback feels inconsistent while in a convoy, it is likely due to local frame rate drops or USB bandwidth issues rather than server latency. Try disabling unnecessary background applications to free up local CPU resources.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

  If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
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  * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)
</Note>

<Tip>
  ### Save on Your Hosting

  Ready to get a new server? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first month!
</Tip>

***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **Peripherals:** Master your hardware.
</div>