Genesis/Megadrive/NES controller storage in an arcade cab

[MrXBob]

I have four console controllers connected to my arcade cabinet (2 NES + 2 Megadrive/Genesis) to make playing games from those systems much easier.

My problem is how to attach/store those controllers in an easy-to-access way that doesn't look messy or cluttered.

My first idea was to drill holes for the cables at the front of the cabinet below the main arcade controls and use some plain black hooks to sit the controllers in. The problem with this is it seems to be impossible to find any hooks that they'll sit in comfortably without slipping out. The Genesis/Megadrive controllers are especially tricky because of their shape.

Another idea was to build a wooden 'shelf' in the same place with a small lip on the front so that they won't fall out. Problem with that is I think it'll look pretty ugly.

Does anyone currently use console controllers in their cabs, or have any idea how I could do this?

[eds1275]

Velcro! Attach a strip to the underside of your control panel [assuming it has a lip] and then a short tab on the wire of each controller maybe 3 or 5 " from the gamepads so that they hang and there is no velcro where hands touch.

I PERSONALLY would keep them in the coin door and then put ports in the coin return slots [if they would fit.] Or make custom cradles for them out of wood/mdf. Of course without knowing what your cab looks like it's kind of hard to imagine.

[TheSlim]

I am wrestling with this too.  I put NES,SNES,N64, and GC ports on the side of my control panel. 

The plastic hooks from Harbor Frieght would work but they are ugly and make your system look cluttered.   

I would recommend a hidden compartment for the controllers above or below the coin box.  Alternatively, a self on top or behind the cab. 

Install the ports on the side of the CP or near the coin drawer.

[MrXBob]

Yeah I had thought of putting ports on the cab and just having the controllers hidden away until they needed to be plugged in, but I like the convenience of just being able to grab the controller and play.

I'm going to go the velcro route, I think! Thanks for the ideas 

[madmatt]

Velcro! Attach a strip to the underside of your control panel [assuming it has a lip] and then a short tab on the wire of each controller maybe 3 or 5 " from the gamepads so that they hang and there is no velcro where hands touch.

I PERSONALLY would keep them in the coin door and then put ports in the coin return slots [if they would fit.] Or make custom cradles for them out of wood/mdf. Of course without knowing what your cab looks like it's kind of hard to imagine.

oh yes.... the coin door holds many of my items: my keyboard, and my power and light button.....

OUT,

MM