Where to place the Retro ports?

[Usul]

HI BYOAC,

as a result of the recent discussion about using original console controllers I couldn't help buying a couple of ports. Now I can't make up my mind about where they should go. I guess, as I am approaching the end of my build, I easily can held up by such details...
BTW the actual controllers are carefully stored in the drawer below the CP.

Front of CP body:
+ would suit perfectly next to my 2 USB ports for Aimtrak Lightguns
- very tight fit (if at all) due to all the wiring behind

Middle console (below screen)
+ a lot of space available
- the controller cables, if connected, would then lie on the CP and potentially move joysticks etc.

Put the ports in the drawer and have the controllers constantly hooked up
- visually not the best solution: When playing, I need to keep the drawer a bit open
+ pragmatic easy to implement solution;   


Any ideas are much appreciated.

Thank you,

[Blanka]

Make the controllers all wireless with JeeNodes.
+ Supercool Retro experience
- Money (15 euro/controller) and some programming skills needed.

[methodical]

Mount them in the front of the drawer. Don't have to worry about space with the wiring in the CP and you can keep the drawer closed while playing without wires dragged across the CP.

[sstralkowski]

Mount them in the front of the drawer. Don't have to worry about space with the wiring in the CP and you can keep the drawer closed while playing without wires dragged across the CP.

I can see this working well.  maybe one or two ports on either side of the drawer.  Or if you really want to get crafty, mount them on the bottom of the front of the drawer and place a false bottom in the drawer to cover the wiring. 

[Dazz]

Make the controllers all wireless with JeeNodes.
+ Supercool Retro experience
- Money (15 euro/controller) and some programming skills needed.

What are JeeNodes and would you happen to have a link?  I searched Google, but I'm not sure about the results being the same thing.

[kronic24601]

Not "JeeNodes" , but I found this wireless hack http://www.cravediy.com/index.php?/archives/26-Wireless-NES-Controller-for-PC.html

oh and Usual, since it would be very difficult to do a really clean cut on these, I'd consider just doing them on the bottom side of the control panel, where no one will really see it.

[Turnarcades]

Depends on your control panel design. On euro-style JAMMA cabinets or our custom designs, there is a flat underside to the control panel that would be perfect for this type of port mounting as they are not visible in normal use: