Cabinet Design Prep question

[Capt.Dreamer]

Hi all,

Long LOOOOOONG time reader, first time poster here. I have a quick question. Im in the early stages of planning my cabinet and wanted to know how you guys design your innards? Im likely going for a half cab like Kneivals Woody or similar, I want to add some room for a coin mech and still have room for the computer.

I thought of fleshing it out on paper, but, i'll be honest, im not much for drawing.

Any ideas how to get what's in my brain onto paper or into the computer? I can 3d model like no-one's buisness, but am not sure what program would be best, if any.

Also, how does one get the ability to PM on these boards? I figured I would ask some questions direct to the people who built the cabs, but dont have the ability.

Thanks again for any help and will post my project in the projects forum when I get more than just an idea. 

[Donkbaca]

The innards are easy, it'd just a big box with wires in it.

You don't need much space for the computer. Coin mechs are only myane six inched deep.

A lot of people use google sketchup, and a lot of others just start building and figure things out on the fly. As long as you aren't trying to do something new or super complicated, it's not that hard. Time consuming, yes, but not overly difficult with the right tools

[Capt.Dreamer]

Oh man, you gave me the best present ever. A free, powerful 3D engine... I might never get to the cab now.

Amazing, thanks a ton. This will work splendidly.

Any clue as to PM'ing forum members?

[deadmeat]

I used AutoCAD for my basic design and cuts.  The insides and supports I just did freehand as I needed.  I based my Cab off Jeff's ultimate arcade cabinet(jst google it) nice design (thanks Jeff).