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Just getting started...can you veterans start a (new) newbie thread?
P-chan:
I've run MAME in the past many times, have built many computers, but I am about to start building a dedicated MAME cab with a real control panel.
Since this is often going to be the first stop for newbies who are building their own cabinets, can we put together an updated, comprehensive thread on the very basics, such as :
What are the recommended choices for the most common 4/8 way joystick controls (I'm guessing probably J-stik, U360, and something else)?
What are the "best" buttons to use? I understand that "best" is a subjective term, but again - in each category (backlit, convex, concave, flat, microswitch, leaf) what's recommended?
Also maybe a tutorial on which MAME version works best with which frontend, how to check your ROM compatibility with each, and configure it correctly?
I have to imagine for nearly every single MAME cabinet build, we're all using almost the same hardware, right (some kind of Windows machine, along with an I-pac2 and joystick/buttons/etc.) Theoretically, this should make it a little simpler to write something up that will apply to 95%+ of builders.
Also, what retailers/websites to buy from? I read the sticky about RAM controls, but what about others like Ultimarc or http://www.arcadeshop.de/ or straight from Suzo-Happ? Are they reliable/overpriced/fast shipping/good customer service?
I also understand that everyone will have their opinion, and opinions differ, but I'm also pretty sure that on a lot of this stuff there will be a pretty obvious consensus on what to use, or at least, what NOT to use ;D
Sorry for the long post, I hope I'm not out of line....I've looked for recommendations and all the "FAQ" threads seem to be pretty old.
CheffoJeffo:
I heard that somebody wrote a couple of books on this subject ... ;)
And there is always The Wiki
Asking what the best choices for joysticks, buttons, versions of MAME etc is problematic -- you invariably get either holy wars or graveyard threads -- the questions get asked SOOOOO often and there is no single right answer. People either dive in or ignore (and in some cases, the most experienced just ignore the thread). If you do ask, be sure to include what types of games you want to play.
As far as Vendors go, RTW.
You aren't at all out of line, but it certainly ain't close to being cut-and-dried either.
BTW -- welcome to the hobsession!
:cheers:
Donkbaca:
Really, there are plenty of ways to get it done, and lots of pro's and cons. I would suggest browsing the projects section and finding something you like and then tweaking it. That's what I did with my cab. I am surprised you didn't start with the whole MDF or plywood, paint or laminate? questions.
If you really want a good noob guide, buy Saint's book, its a good walk through.
--- Quote ---What are the recommended choices for the most common 4/8 way joystick controls (I'm guessing probably J-stik, U360, and something else)?
--- End quote ---
There are none, depends on what games you want to play and what you personally prefer
--- Quote ---What are the "best" buttons to use? I understand that "best" is a subjective term, but again - in each category (backlit, convex, concave, flat, microswitch, leaf) what's recommended?
--- End quote ---
Ditto with above joystick questions. Really with buttons the main thing is what kind of games are you going to play. FWIW, Other than concave or convex, or lit/unlit, buttons don't matter, its the switches that matter more, and here again its a lot of personal preference.
--- Quote ---Also maybe a tutorial on which MAME version works best with which frontend, how to check your ROM compatibility with each, and configure it correctly?
--- End quote ---
I don't think mame versions matter with front ends. Most front ends let you configure things pretty easily, as for ROM versions, there is always ClrMAMEpro, but that's a pain in the ass. Its easiest to just to get the latest MAME version and romset, I think.
--- Quote ---I have to imagine for nearly every single MAME cabinet build, we're all using almost the same hardware, right (some kind of Windows machine, along with an I-pac2 and joystick/buttons/etc.) Theoretically, this should make it a little simpler to write something up that will apply to 95%+ of builders.
--- End quote ---
I would say that probably 90% of builds use Windows XP, with the rest being linux and windows 7. I wouldn't say most use an Ipac 2, there are TONS of interface options. I use hacked xbox 360 pads in one, and also have a LONO for another build, and an x-arcade if I ever do a third.
--- Quote ---Also, what retailers/websites to buy from? I read the sticky about RAM controls, but what about others like Ultimarc or http://www.arcadeshop.de/ or straight from Suzo-Happ? Are they reliable/overpriced/fast shipping/good customer service?
--- End quote ---
The stickies in the buy/sell/trade section pretty much cover this
--- Quote ---I also understand that everyone will have their opinion, and opinions differ, but I'm also pretty sure that on a lot of this stuff there will be a pretty obvious consensus on what to use, or at least, what NOT to use
--- End quote ---
Nope, there really is no consensus. People are all over the place. Truth is, most of the stuff is going be decent quality stuff, there isn't anything you are going to get from a reputable place that is garbage. Its all really just preference and what sorts of bells and whistles you want.
Sorry for the long post, I hope I'm not out of line....I've looked for recommendations and all the "FAQ" threads seem to be pretty old.
Vigo:
--- Quote from: Donkbaca on April 11, 2012, 05:12:51 pm ---If you really want a good noob guide, buy Saint's book, its a good walk through.
--- End quote ---
+1 Even if you don't think you will need it much, it is a great addition...or a gift for someone you want to bring into the hobby. 8)
--- Quote from: Donkbaca on April 11, 2012, 05:12:51 pm ---Sorry for the long post, I hope I'm not out of line....I've looked for recommendations and all the "FAQ" threads seem to be pretty old.
--- End quote ---
Again, +1. I personally think the FAQ needs to be updated, moved to the Wiki so anyone can edit, and linked in a very obvious fashion so that every noob can see what all the big questions are upfront.
Donkbaca:
Yeah I think at some point a quick faq and a cleaned up wiki would be helpful too. maybe a Newbs section