Building an arcade console - Help!

[Roflgorilla]

Hello!

For some time now I've gotten the interest to make my own arcade machine, but due to lack of space I'll have to wait until I move out (still living at home, moving out next fall for studies)

So, to satisfy my hunger, but also to learn more about this wonderful hobby, I'm planning to build a console that I'll simply plug into the TV that'll be running MAME and some other emulators.

I'm going to take inspiration from this one:
http://www.koenigs.dk/mame/eng/stepecon.htm
But instead of having control on the top of the console, they'll be connected via USB ports.

And since I am new to this.. I have some questions.


Tips on computer parts that work well, but still are as cheap as possible? - Should be able to run MAME, NES and SNES.. but preferable N64 and Playstation aswell.

What material should the outside of the console be made of? - Been thinking about using MDF, anyone got any experience with this?

How can I get it to connect to the TV in the best possible way? - Preferably so that it works on most TVs.

Do you have a free front end that can be recommended? - Have thought a little about using Hyper Spin Arcade and AtomicFE.


Then I also thought about building an arcade stick to it by stealing the PCB from a gamepad and remap it so ..

Is there a cheap gamepad that would work well for that?



And if you have anything else I should think about with this project, please tell me, as any help is appreciated!

[BobA]

Take a look at this thread to get an idea of a full mame in a box.  Link

Since you are not using controls on top you do not need the CP info but it gives an idea how to build with MDF if you are not going to atempt acrylic.  You can make it as small as you want as long as it can contain your computer MB and power supply.

Since you want to run MAME and other emulators I would suggest a dual core processor and 2 GB of memory.  MAME does not need an separate video card but alot of the other emulators do.  You will also probably need to get a video card to make sure you have the right output for your TV.  The available inputs on your TV should determine what you need as an output from the video card.   DVI, VGA, Component are good.  Try not to use RF, composite or s video if you can use higher res inputs.  XBOX 360 gamepads work well with a PC.

The geewiz front end right now is Hyperspin where everyone has been waiting for the new release for over a year.  Mala, Maximus Arcade and Gamex are very popular.  It depends on the look you are going for.  This is a very personal choice.  Try them all if you want.

Lots of cheap gamepads at the goodwill and other like stores but if you want a cheap interface with all the versatility of a gamepad but none of the mess look at the ones VIGO is selling in buy and sell.

Good luck on your build.