Pirate's Arcade - updated Control Panel Progress

[dandro]

Hello, my name is Dan.. After coming across a free 29" arcade monitor, that needed some minor work, figured might as well build a cab for it. Basically, I am one of those fools who decide to build a cabinet on pretty much no budget, with half ass wife approval  and the kids cheering you on for motivation 

Here is the monitor connected up to the dedicated Invasions PCB (I have since worked on the color levels and got the display perfect as the white was washed out when taking this picture)


Like most arcade builds, one has to have a theme in mind on where they want this to go, so here is the artwork I created thus far for the Marquee:



Here is where I am at now:



I just received the slot bit in order to do the t-molding groove. I am a bit nervous on this one as the blade I received: 3-wing, .062" (1/16") Slotting Cutter, Whiteside# 6700A
cuts through the 3/4" MDF like it isn't even there, so worried about rocking the router one way or another. I have had that bit now for a week and keep putting it off, it would be a $40 boo boo.

I keep going back and forth in regards to the coin box. I would love to see an over/under installed, but again, the $$ just isn't there and easy enough to add when it is. I am awaiting this weekend to pickup the final sheet of MDF needed to button the wood portion up (front/back). PC is pretty much ready to go, which is a WinXP 64 bit, 8 GB RAM, Core 2 Duo  spare I had, so no extra cost there.

I'll be updating the post as I keep tinkering and changing things up on the fly, which means plenty of standing around drinking beer, thinking of ways to do things. Since I have 2 kids, 3 and 7 I don't get dedicated time on it, so work on it as I can.

Here is a pic of the garage it will be going in:

[BadMouth]

Looks like a good start.  You may want to trim back the braces behind the marquee so they don't cast shadows on the front.

Cool fridge.  Those old ones run forever.

[dandro]

good point on the trimming! I was looking at that, wondering myself how that will probably be a dark spot on each corners. It's sort of seems like you have to have most of the stuff to fit and feel everything.... but still fun build none the less!

Fridge is a beast! can cool  fully loaded shelves pretty quick.

[Dalgaard]

Great start Awesome garage...I wish I had a place like that. My cab is in my daughters room

[dandro]

Thanks, one lesson learned on putting down the garage epoxy flooring: don't do it on a 102 degree day.. When I started the painting process it was 10:00am and 89 degrees, it setup too fast and caused the lines, but when you are moving in and need to get it down before the boxes arrive, you do what you have to do! 

[maffewl]

You could cut/trim the nailing strips behind the marquee or just route out a piece to hold the marquee (this is what I did seen in construction here http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=128354.0;attach=272544;image and somewhat finished here http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=128354.0;attach=276549;image)

Personally, I like the routing more because it gives a more "finished" edge look with a slight curve bevel, and I also didn't want screws showing or a different material such as plastic or metal.  However, the way most do it on here looks pretty slick as well.

Best of luck with your build and welcome to the fun!

And cheers to the Stroh's 

[dandro]

I found a great piece of metal trim at Home Depot the other day, it's called "Bar Nose Trim". It's aluminum and sold in 8' lengths for $8.50. I plan on using that for the Marquee retainer. Just have to spray it black, but plan on routing the edge flush, so it's not just stuck on top of the wood. Oh wait, dammit, is that another router bit to purchase?!? LOL *sigh* time to go to the store and buy a $25 gallon of milk, $4.99 for the milk and $20 cash back 

[eds1275]

Do yuo park in that garage, or is that space for pool table/skeebal/arcade machines/air hockey?

[dandro]

We park the wifes Acura TL in the garage.

[KnightofTruth]

Awesome start, and looking forward to how the theme comes out - not sure if you've given any thought to the CP, but there's a picture I found (perhaps from someone on here) that really inspired me to do a similar themed cab - I'll attach it here in case it helps, and my apologies for not knowing the original author.

In case you were wondering, I have not used the theme idea yet, but its in my top 5 at the moment (gotta whittle it down to just 1 idea soon though).

Keep us posted and we'll keep cheering you on!

[dandro]

Thanks, that is a cool CP theme for sure. I have thought about it and have seen many varieties. It's def. a work in progress. I do however keep doubting stuff because I know the pictures done up in the software are correct dimensions, but the printer I have here, HP T1200 HD plotter, still spits the print jobs out real small...  Makes me wonder if the dimensions are true. I am using GIMP as the editor.

[dandro]

Awesome start, and looking forward to how the theme comes out - not sure if you've given any thought to the CP, but there's a picture I found (perhaps from someone on here) that really inspired me to do a similar themed cab - I'll attach it here in case it helps, and my apologies for not knowing the original author.

In case you were wondering, I have not used the theme idea yet, but its in my top 5 at the moment (gotta whittle it down to just 1 idea soon though).

Keep us posted and we'll keep cheering you on!

What I would REALLY LOVE is to design a CP, incooperating the turning chart map, but cannot for the life of me find a suitable, high quality image of it.

This:

[nipsmg]

THIS is pretty high res, but not centered

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20111120053709/pirates/images/2/27/OSTFlorida_and_islandMap.jpg

[nipsmg]

Or, the whole map recreated in VERY high res:

http://www.farscapeprops.com/potc/Finished%20map.jpg

from:

http://www.therpf.com/f9/build-potc-map-mao-kun-charts-138980/index2.html

[mcseforsale]

$1.98 Marquee retainer at Home Depot.

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,117977.msg1268459.html#msg1268459

AJ

[dandro]

Or, the whole map recreated in VERY high res:

http://www.farscapeprops.com/potc/Finished%20map.jpg

from:

http://www.therpf.com/f9/build-potc-map-mao-kun-charts-138980/index2.html

You are a ROCKSTAR!!! thank you, exactly what I was looking for! Thank you

[dandro]

worked on the project some more this weekend for a few hours:

Worked a bit on the speaker shelf. I used the speaker assembly off of a Marantz DAVED unit (http://www.crutchfield.com/S-Itx3y6wevxm/p_642ZR6001S/Marantz-ZR6001SP.html). I got the remote unit free as brand new, but since it needs a head unit to function, was only worth the parts.



Back end, or top:




Grabbed some of Home Depot's best quality paint, which was BEHR Premium, Black Enamel plus primer. Using the best foam roller, I think the first coat looks spectacular!



Printed off some of the artwork on HP Photo Paper, using the HD plotter and mocked up what I have so far.. Unfortunately, when I turned my back the plexi slid off and hit right on the corner. It must have hit right on the spot the caused it to break, you know that ONE and ONLY spot, where it never happens, in a million years!!! that spot.. meh. 




Ran out of time and funds are being redirected this week to the wifes birthday present.. She wants a rear spoiler for her car. 2008 Acura TL, she wants the Type-S spoiler for it, so I'll order that up and install that for her.    Keep the wife happy! Also my 7 year olds birthday is this weekend, turning 8, so will be busy with that.

Until then, I'll order some 3/4" black tmolding and some a Nova Matrix marquee setup from GGG.

[dandro]

Ohhh,.. and by the way, I think routing that Tmolding slot, was about the most stressful thing I have yet to do with this whole project.. I starred at that router for 30 minutes, had a beer and starred some more before tackling it.... I had minor oops, but luckily it was on the backside..  Glad that is over with!!!! LOL 

[nipsmg]

You are a ROCKSTAR!!! thank you, exactly what I was looking for! Thank you

NP.  I like the theme idea and happened to be bored.

[dandro]

Got an hour or less in last night in regards to the keyboard. Rack mountable keyboard/touchpad combo.

Made some cuts to the back of the CP, forgetting that I have a cable management tray to attach,.. DOH!




Better. I'll have to clean up the sloppy cut job in the back, got in a hurry to see if it would work or not. The cable tray is crucial for cable management so nothing will get crimped as the drawer slides in and out.



view from behind. This particular assembly can either be installed with PS2 or USB, I have cables for both.



weird angle for the camera, I was trying to balance the control panel while the keyboard was slid out, it wanted to fall.. LOL. I assure you, the keyboard comes out straight and centered 

[vanrose72]

Basically, I am one of those fools who decide to build a cabinet on pretty much no budget, with half ass wife approval  and the kids cheering you on for motivation 

That's me, too, in a nutshell. Hahaha! Had to laugh out loud when I read this.

[yotsuya]

Grabbed some of Home Depot's best quality paint, which was BEHR Premium, Black Enamel plus primer. Using the best foam roller, I think the first coat looks spectacular!

That paint job looks beautiful, my friend. What finish is that? Flat? Semi-Gloss? Satin?

[dandro]

Thank you Yotsuya, it's a flat enamel, I'll take a look at the can and take a picture of the codes, etc when I get home this afternoon.. But basically I told the gentlemen at the counter what I was doing (you get a ton of funny looks when you start off a conversation with "I am building an arcade") and he said "you want an enamel based paint!". The roller is key I believe,  I got a 6", 1/2 nap roller, best one they had which is shed resistant. All in all, it cost me about $50 out the door for 1 gallon of paint and rollers/tray and haven't put a dent in that gallon.

[dandro]

Question in regards to Bezel / glass: I cut out a large piece of cardboard last night just to see what I am up against for a bezel, it seems there may be about 1/2" from bezel to glass when said and done. I am open to suggestions on this one. I haven't purchased anything yet because I keep going back and forth on a plastic based glass or glass. Lowes (home improvement store) sells a sheet of glass that would fit perfectly for $8.88, I could tint that myself. Tap Plastics could cut a sheet of solar grey for about $45, but that's Acrylic. I keep reading how some people are reporting that while cleaning it can get all scratched up.. They sell polycarbonate, but cha-ching!!! like $70..... So again, on a budget I was thinking of going with that sheet of glass, self tinting it and using something like black, poster board to make a bezel?? Maybe no bezel is needed with tint?

[maffewl]

Glass all the way.  You are lucky that Lowe's has a piece ready to fit.  I got mine cut by a local glass shop (still only cost about $50) but it is smoke and tempered which I am extremely happy with.  Not to mention, it supported a local business.  For the bezel, I just painted the back of it black, and I love the look of it.

[dandro]

oh yeah, I forgot to mention that one, about painting the back of the glass, that came across my mind as well... seems that it could be a nice touch! Is the technique still painting it black, then shooting silver over that to prevent light? Appreciate the feedback!

[dandro]

With that being said, today is payday, I now have about $90 for the next two weeks to buy parts... Holy crap, where to begin,...

I need the following that I know of and don't have a clue on which order to get them in:

1.) JPAC Received
2.) Jamma Harness on order from Paradise Arcade
3.) Buttons & Sticks
4.) 3/4", black tmolding
5.) Monitor Glass
6.) Nova Matrix Marquee LED
7.) Coin Door (still in the air about this for the immediate future as I can't find one in my meager budget)
8.) Marquee printing and plexi
9.) everything else I forgot

[yotsuya]

With that being said, today is payday, I now have about $90 for the next two weeks to buy parts... Holy crap, where to begin,...

I need the following that I know of and don't have a clue on which order to get them in:

1.) JPAC
2.) Jamma Harness
3.) Buttons & Sticks
4.) 3/4", black tmolding
5.) Monitor Glass
6.) Nova Matrix Marquee LED
7.) Coin Door (still in the air about this for the immediate future as I can't find one in my meager budget)
8.) Marquee printing and plexi
9.) everything else I forgot

For t-molding, expecially if you are going the simple route, try www.gamemolding.com. Preston is a member here, he ships fast, and his prices are good.

[mcseforsale]

+1 Preston is the bomb.  He was out of leather t-molding, but scrounged up enough remnants to keep my project going forward and it was here in a flash!  t-molding.com is in Connecticut.  Me and Ct don't get along.

AJ

[dandro]

I actually got an email from Preston yesterday afternoon, will DEF be ordering from him! 

[mcseforsale]

Not sure why my post didn't take, but here's another crack at it. 

Don't be afraid of used.  The Blue Pill has used iPac-4, Optipac, joysticks and trackball.  Fistful of quarters rocks a used iPac-2 that I got for 1/2 price.  So, there's some savings there.  Just withhold any feedback on ebay until you've fully tested the unit and get in writing that if it's defective you can return it.

The coin door on The Blue Pill was also an ebay find.  I paid $5 for it and it was a rusty mess.  Some rustoleum and rust converter, a little hard work and it looks like new. 

AJ

With that being said, today is payday, I now have about $90 for the next two weeks to buy parts... Holy crap, where to begin,...

I need the following that I know of and don't have a clue on which order to get them in:

1.) JPAC
2.) Jamma Harness
3.) Buttons & Sticks
4.) 3/4", black tmolding
5.) Monitor Glass
6.) Nova Matrix Marquee LED
7.) Coin Door (still in the air about this for the immediate future as I can't find one in my meager budget)
8.) Marquee printing and plexi
9.) everything else I forgot

[maffewl]

oh yeah, I forgot to mention that one, about painting the back of the glass, that came across my mind as well... seems that it could be a nice touch! Is the technique still painting it black, then shooting silver over that to prevent light? Appreciate the feedback!

I just taped it off and painted it black with a standard roller and a couple coats.  Then used an exacto knife to make straight edges just in case it was too thick for the tape.  No light comes through and I think it has a very clean look.  Here's a pic of what mine turned out like.  http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=128354.0;attach=276549;image

[mcseforsale]

How big's that cab?

AJ

oh yeah, I forgot to mention that one, about painting the back of the glass, that came across my mind as well... seems that it could be a nice touch! Is the technique still painting it black, then shooting silver over that to prevent light? Appreciate the feedback!

I just taped it off and painted it black with a standard roller and a couple coats.  Then used an exacto knife to make straight edges just in case it was too thick for the tape.  No light comes through and I think it has a very clean look.  Here's a pic of what mine turned out like.  http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=128354.0;attach=276549;image

[dandro]

Cab is about 74" high x 27.5" wide. A bit large but seeing I am 6'0 tall, it fits me well. Kids will stand on chairs.. this is daddy's cab!!! LOL Oh and the monitor is a BEHEMOTH! it is very snug in that thing.

[maffewl]

How big's that cab?

AJ

6'-6" bottom to top, 29" wide (to be able to fit through any household 2'-6" door), and 40.5" back to front. 

Edit:  Not sure if you were asking about my cab or the OP... if it's the latter, please ignore this post.

[dandro]

How big's that cab?

AJ

6'-6" bottom to top, 29" wide (to be able to fit through any household 2'-6" door), and 40.5" back to front. 

Edit:  Not sure if you were asking about my cab or the OP... if it's the latter, please ignore this post.

LMAO,.. guess what I did when I got home last night!!!??? I ran to measure the cab, not EVER thinking about a doorway  as this is going to be in my garage. But in the rare off chance I ever sell it, would be good to know! WHEW, it would fit through any door way.. LOL

So, I just starred at the cab last night,.. not much to do right now, but stare.... need parts and material... 

[yotsuya]

LMAO,.. guess what I did when I got home last night!!!??? I ran to measure the cab, not EVER thinking about a doorway  as this is going to be in my garage. But in the rare off chance I ever sell it, would be good to know! WHEW, it would fit through any door way.. LOL

As long as you don't go this wide, you should be OK...

[dandro]

one of the goals I set for myself before building this thing was NOT to get on the "Shame build list". I can appreciate the hard work someone would put into a build, but I am more of a minimalist and not looking to literally, surf the web on mine 

[yotsuya]

I can appreciate the hard work someone would put into a build, but I am more of a minimalist and not looking to literally, surf the web on mine 

 

[maffewl]

I love that Stargate/Snow Bros. renovation... I heard there were some posts on KLOV about it.  Can't seem to find those. 

Edit:  Nevermind... found them.  My personal favs.

3.  "He should use the extra real estate on the CP for some game-room amenities, like drink holders, ashtrays, sink, soda fountain, popcorn machine, tanning bed..."

2.  "he could have built a whole new addition to his house with that much wood "

and the winner by a very slight margin is...

1.  "when its not playing playing games it acts as a pull out bed, or a shelter from the rain. "

Sorry to go Off Topic... but just had to comment.  Carry on...

[dandro]

My now 8 year old son had a sleep over party this weekend, so between the house full of kids, cleaning up, etc.. not much time to work on the build. I did manage to do some minor work on the marquee area.. Funny, what seems like a job that should only take a few minutes, takes an hour.. time flies when working on these.



and lined it with duct tape, the real duct tape. Left over from when I installed the new oven exhaust hood.

[dandro]

hmmm.. I keep looking at the marquee art, wondering if it's "right"... been playing with it,...

[dandro]

Received my JPAC yesterday and also ordered the Jamma harness from Paradise Arcade.... Went through some old computer stuff and came across a video card that I forgot I had, a Radeon X1600 Pro 512MB, PCIE.. woohoo... putting that in the PC today.

[dandro]

Worked on the Marquee a little,.. think I am almost there.. lots of work, so this is what I have so far..

[PL1]

You're definitely on the right track.

The only thing that seems a little off is that the "Pirates Arcade" banner looks too small.


Scott

[dandro]

I was looking at that too,.. maybe bring it to the bottom and enlarge it?

[PL1]

Everything is focused on the vertical center-line.

Maybe shift the main image to the right and move the banner to the upper left?   

Another possibility is to let the banner go behind Captain Sparrow's head and adjust the text spacing as needed.


Scott

[dandro]

ok, on the bottom...

[PL1]

Banner resize looks good.

How does it look in one of the corners instead of centered?


Scott

[dandro]

dind't look so hot, looked "off".. i'll keep playing with it.. thank s for the feedback though!!! the more the better, I have very little experience with the editor, so I am amazing myself right now.. LOL

[yotsuya]

I'd go bigger on the text. Look at examples of classic marquees- the name sells the game.

[maffewl]

I had a similar theme idea when I started my build but ended up choosing a different route.  I agree the text needs to be larger, and maybe instead of "Pirates of the Arcade"... I thought "Pirates of the Arcadean" fit better when I was creating a logo.  I'm liking the imagery though.

P.s... Where's the monkey?

[yotsuya]

Examples




Try making your text the visual center point, and fill in the area around it with your graphics. 

[dandro]

Sorry guys, left work and got busy, so couldn't jump on the ol' computer to respond. I like the ideas, the Monkey!!!!! how the heck did I forget Jack!?? I'll rough something up and see how it goes.

[dandro]

Another quick one,.. I am liking the idea of the separate colors on each side... Also gives a great leadway into a two player control panel..

[Gamester]

I think you're definitely headed in the right direction. 

I would consider brightening up the text more.  Maybe give it a brighter color.  Seems just a little too subtle to me.  I think even pure white would be an improvement.

Also, maybe you can bring in the lower area a bit so there's not quite so much empty black space?

[JDFan]

Another quick one,.. I am liking the idea of the separate colors on each side... Also gives a great leadway into a two player control panel..

Looking good but perhaps center the text a bit by enlarging to crop the empty space to the bottom and right hand side, brighten the color and add a border coloring around it something like this :

[dandro]

I think you're definitely headed in the right direction. 

I would consider brightening up the text more.  Maybe give it a brighter color.  Seems just a little too subtle to me.  I think even pure white would be an improvement.

Also, maybe you can bring in the lower area a bit so there's not quite so much empty black space?

Great feedback! thank you... here is my take on that: I also droppe "of the" seemed weird and sort of implied...? thoughts on that?

[yotsuya]

That last one is perfect.

[yotsuya]

Err, the one with the red outline is perfect.

[dandro]

Looking good but perhaps center the text a bit by enlarging to crop the empty space to the bottom and right hand side, brighten the color and add a border coloring around it something like this :

I like this idea too, did you just use a brush to outline? I am using Gimp, second week using it,.. have no idea how to outline other than freehand..

[JDFan]

Looking good but perhaps center the text a bit by enlarging to crop the empty space to the bottom and right hand side, brighten the color and add a border coloring around it something like this :

I like this idea too, did you just use a brush to outline? I am using Gimp, second week using it,.. have no idea how to outline other than freehand..

Using Photoshop I used the magic wand selection tool to select the text (using a tolerance of around 30 and contiquous ) Takes just a few mouse clicks around the text to get all of it selected - then expanded the selection by 2 pixels then added a 2 pixel border to the selection - then picked a color for the outline using the dropper tool on the headband of the skull then just brushed in the entire selection outline. Not sure if Gimp has that or a similar tool but it should have some sort of selection tool or if using layers for the text you should be able to select the text that way. (if you need some help with it upload a link to the full size image and I'll make that change to it for you.

[maffewl]

Not sure if Gimp has it, but in Photoshop you can just use a stroke.

[dandro]

JDFan, sent you a PM... Thank you for your offer!     

I swear with the skills one must learn from building these things, you can add to your resume!!!!

[JDFan]

JDFan, sent you a PM... Thank you for your offer!     

I swear with the skills one must learn from building these things, you can add to your resume!!!!

PM received and image sent by E-mail - let me know if you do not receive it for some reason and I'll resend -- Also if you need other tweaks (ie. if the color of the border needs adjusting etc.) just let me know ! Also just in case here is a copy of the pic (if Photo bucket and this site do not crop it !)

[dandro]

nah, this is awesome!! thank you sir! your help is tremendously appreciated!!! I think we have a winner...

[yotsuya]

So it is Pirates Arcades, meaning an arcade for pirates, or Pirate's Arcade, an arcade belonging to pirates? I only ask because the long "E" leaves a space before the "S" that looking like a missing apostrophe. 

Personally, I like "Of The" myself, but I don't think removing it is a deal breaker. I love how this has evolved! 

[dandro]

lol! if anyone asks, i'll just say a Pirate designed it, one who was illiterate! 

[yotsuya]

lol! if anyone asks, i'll just say a Pirate designed it, one who was illiterate! 

 

[PL1]

+1 on adding an apostrophe to show possession.


Scott

[JDFan]

Just in case here is with the apostrophe added :



And with \out cropping\enlarging and apostrophe added :

[dandro]

Thanks again,.. lord help me, now the Control Panel.. LOL   

[JDFan]

Wasn't real happy with the border so touched it up a bit by adding a bit darker color to the inside portion and think it looks much better now  :



And with Apostrophe :

[Gamester]

The latest versions look great.

One nit picky thing:  The apostrophe doesn't look right to me.  It's 3D where the rest of the text is pretty much flat...

[PL1]

That font's apostrophe looks like a 3-D brick.   

Maybe try using an apostrophe from another font?


Scott

[JDFan]

The latest versions look great.

One nit picky thing:  The apostrophe doesn't look right to me.  It's 3D where the rest of the text is pretty much flat...

You're right ! Here is one with it fixed (also added a bit of canvas texture to the white to make it look a bit better) :

That font's apostrophe looks like a 3-D brick.   

Maybe try using an apostrophe from another font?


Scott

Just removed the 3d look - but yeah it was the font I grabbed it from !

[dandro]

Sweet deal guys!! I love this community!! 

P.S. Have my control panel, with cupholders done by noon tomorrow! 

[Gamester]

Just removed the 3d look - but yeah it was the font I grabbed it from !

Perfect!

[dandro]

Just removed the 3d look - but yeah it was the font I grabbed it from !

Perfect!

agreed! pretty productive day..... time for a beer! lol

[PL1]

Looking good.   

One minor tweak to consider is widening the red and dark red outlines a bit more on the apostrophe to match the other text.


Scott

[JDFan]

Looking good.   

One minor tweak to consider is widening the red and dark red outlines a bit more on the apostrophe to match the other text.


Scott

Hmm - thought I had made it the same but maybe not (think I scaled it down a bit to fit in place after placing) This should be closer :

[PL1]

    


Scott

[korbitz]

Have you not thought about just calling in 'Pirate Arcade' that way it has the same chars per side, might help to balance left and right, atm left has the focus a bit, just my 2 cents, looking good so far though

[JDFan]

Have you not thought about just calling in 'Pirate Arcade' that way it has the same chars per side, might help to balance left and right, atm left has the focus a bit, just my 2 cents, looking good so far though

I was actually thinking  "Pirate's Arr!!Cade" Similar to below (ignore the background text as I don't have a copy of the art without the text layer right now so just made a temporary pic for concept) - but not sure if it would be something dandro would be interested in and it is his cab !

[dandro]

I think we are good to go on the marquee 

I should be receiving the wiring harness this afternoon. Since I have my PC ready to go for the most part, the JPAC, etc.. I should be able to get the monitor hooked up and make sure that all works. I know the monitor works when hooked up to a Jamma PCB, but now I need to make sure it all works hooked up to the PC. Next week I'll order some controls for the CP and get working on that artwork  If anyone has any ideas on that, I would be happy to hear them! LOL.

[dandro]

oh yeah, I forgot to mention that one, about painting the back of the glass, that came across my mind as well... seems that it could be a nice touch! Is the technique still painting it black, then shooting silver over that to prevent light? Appreciate the feedback!

I just taped it off and painted it black with a standard roller and a couple coats.  Then used an exacto knife to make straight edges just in case it was too thick for the tape.  No light comes through and I think it has a very clean look.  Here's a pic of what mine turned out like.  http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=128354.0;attach=276549;image

ok, so I am about ready to buy the glass and tint it, so my question is do people paint over the tint? or tint over the paint? just something I haven't thought of until recently...

[maffewl]

I bought the glass pre-tinted.  If I was doing it myself, I would apply the tint first, then paint.

[dandro]

that was my thought as well, thank you.

[dandro]

Progress!

Yesterday when I got home, the Jamma harness was in the mailbox (yay!). Had to cut off the molex connector for the video and solder on the one from the monitor, 5 minutes. Started looking at the harness and realized that I need to brush up on my Japanese, apparently Paradise Arcade understands this language better than I. Back on track, figured out which way was what on the harness, connected it up to the JPAC. After 3 hours of *^$#ing around with the video, resolution, etc., I have this:



Let me tell you, this was a pain in the --I'm attempting to get by the auto-censor and should be beaten after I re-read the rules--. I am still seeing something weird. Since I had my LCD attached to the DVI port of the video card (Radeon X1600 Pro) and the JPAC connected to the VGA port, the video displays on the arcade monitor just fine (@ 320x240 32 colors). When I disconnected the LCD via the DVI port and even disabled the screen in the display properties of Windows, the arcade monitor won't come on. Plug the LCD back in (still disabled) and the arcade monitor works flawlessly...    so..at that point I was pretty tired 10:30pm and had to be up at 03:30 this am.. I'll have to play with this more.

Monitor Calibration Question:  If anyone is using an arcade monitor with the 320x240 resolution, what on earth are you using to calibrate the colors? Guess connect, re-enable LCD and get something over to the other screen? The resolution is so horrible for Windows, that it really renders a keyboard just about useless... Which reminds me, that cool slide out keyboard tray may very well just come out, I can't see any reason for one on these things. I hadn't expected to network this PC, but it appears i'll be tossing in a wireless card for VNC'ing into it (remote).

[Endprodukt]

Calibration of colors is done via pots on the neckboard or chassis of the monitor.

[dandro]

Calibration of colors is done via pots on the neckboard or chassis of the monitor.

right, okay what I meant was, a calibration screen that one can normally select up on a jamma board via the service switch so you can calibrate the monitor:

like this:

[Endprodukt]

You can find a Nokia test screen around the Internet. Check it out.

[dandro]

I was trying to over think this one.. Just grabbed an image and resized it to 320x240... we'll see how that goes.

[dandro]

Little weekend work update:

Got the monitor squared away with 640x480 resolution YAY! I uninstalled the ATI drivers, reinstalled, reloaded soft15k and it worked like a champ... ?? Still cannot figure out why monitor, connected to DVI output still needs to be plugged in, not on, just plugged in, in order for the VGA port to function. Under investigation at this point.

Cabinet, cut holes in the rear for the ventilation system going in. I'll have to get pictures of this one, it's not your ordinary PC fans. Since the cab will be in my garage and if I can stand playing in the heat during the summer, it will get seriously hot in there, so circulation will be a must.

Also installed the speaker shelf. Wanted to get another few coats of paint on this thing, but just ran out of steam. After fighting the monitor thing for hours, I was done.. LOL 

[JDFan]

Little weekend work update:

 Still cannot figure out why monitor, connected to DVI output still needs to be plugged in, not on, just plugged in, in order for the VGA port to function. Under investigation at this point.

Might be that when you installed the video drivers you had a monitor hooked up to the DVI port so that was set to the default - try uninstalling the video card driver (so that windows substitutes the generic VGA driver) - shut down the system - unhook the DVI connected monitor leaving just the VGA port monitor plugged in and then reboot (hopefully the VGA monitor will work at that point and you can reinstall the video card driver.

[dandro]

OKay, got the video sorted out, just changed the cables from DVI to vga and have just the one monitor now..

With that being said; I got the dreaded email from the wife "no buying of ANYTHING!!! funds are tight this month, writing out the budget for groceries and gas".. so looks like my project is on budget-hold. 

[yotsuya]

OKay, got the video sorted out, just changed the cables from DVI to vga and have just the one monitor now..

With that being said; I got the dreaded email from the wife "no buying of ANYTHING!!! funds are tight this month, writing out the budget for groceries and gas".. so looks like my project is on budget-hold. 

What do you need, my friend? Some of us might have parts lying around.

[dandro]

Thank you for asking Yotsuya;


pretty much all I need that is store bought (stuff I can't get or make) is:

• buttons, going with 2 player CP, 6 buttons each + 1P/2P
• Joysticks, since I am on a modified budget, looking at the competition 8 way $8.95/each jobs bat style.
• coin door, but since I am making the front easily removable, I can always add that later. Love the idea of making the eject button, the coin in..
• T-molding, going to get 3/4" black. I suppose I need the standard 20' roll

Ordered from GameMolding.com

• Plexi/acrylic/lexan, something to cover the 32x19" CP since I will be printing my own CPO and sandwiching it in.
• Smart Strip, Home Depot has a Belkin that will do the job nicely, $30
• 26"x24" glass for monitor, Lowes has the exact size for $8.95. SO I will need to get that as well as tint.
• Marquee lighting, looking at the GGG Nova Matrix

not a whole lot of $$ here, but it adds up. THe good ol' IRS (taxes) are reaming us this year.. 

I guess and in all, not such a bad thing, need to work on the CPO graphics anyhow

[dandro]

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

[griffindodd]

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

I'd take away the skull and the lettering from the Marquee and use that as the base, that circular compass art is screaming out to have the trackball in the middle of it.

[Le Chuck]

[mcseforsale]

Don't worry, Dandro.  You're in really good hands with these 2.

AJ

[Nephasth]

Would be cool if you could find something like these in the right size to swap out with a trackball...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/80mm-3D-Laser-Crystal-Ball-Sphere-Halloween-Skull-Base-/330892201706?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d0ab64eea
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BIG-HEALING-SINGING-SONG-SKULL-INSIDE-CRYSTAL-BALL-/400441599520?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d3c2de620

[dandro]

Would be cool if you could find something like these in the right size to swap out with a trackball...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/80mm-3D-Laser-Crystal-Ball-Sphere-Halloween-Skull-Base-/330892201706?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d0ab64eea
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BIG-HEALING-SINGING-SONG-SKULL-INSIDE-CRYSTAL-BALL-/400441599520?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d3c2de620

oh yeah, that would be slick!! I think the trackball is something i'll have to add later due to cost. 

I am also liking the other ideas, I guess it would make too much sense to have the CP and Marquee somewhat fluid and similar in style and design. Maybe have the button layout, faded black with the red outline as the lettering...

[Le Chuck]

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

I'd take away the skull and the lettering from the Marquee and use that as the base, that circular compass art is screaming out to have the trackball in the middle of it.

The map is gorgeous but so busy it would be hard to get the components blend properly perhaps.  Dunno.  The trackball would look sick tho.  I think that going with some nice dark sea tones on the CP would be a good palette to work from.  Also I thought about an open treasure chest and having the buttons be the cursed doubloons from the first film. 

[griffindodd]

Maybe have the button layout, faded black with the red outline as the lettering...

There you go Stella, you're starting to get your groove now

[mcseforsale]

Adding a track ball later would be difficult, IMO.  I'd at least plan it into the design with the proper cutouts.  I bought my trackball used on fleabay for 15 bux a few years ago.  It was a re-card Happ, too, so it'd been already updated. 

When you're ready, at least you'll have the measurements.  I think this works with Betsons, too, but I don't know:

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,119081.0.html

AJ

Would be cool if you could find something like these in the right size to swap out with a trackball...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/80mm-3D-Laser-Crystal-Ball-Sphere-Halloween-Skull-Base-/330892201706?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d0ab64eea
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BIG-HEALING-SINGING-SONG-SKULL-INSIDE-CRYSTAL-BALL-/400441599520?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d3c2de620

oh yeah, that would be slick!! I think the trackball is something i'll have to add later due to cost. 

I am also liking the other ideas, I guess it would make too much sense to have the CP and Marquee somewhat fluid and similar in style and design. Maybe have the button layout, faded black with the red outline as the lettering...

[dandro]

Since I am waiting for $$ and parts, I gave the cab another 2 coats of paint and added the front panel. I also managed to score a free sheet of tinted Lexan from a buddy who had left overs. I went to Lowes home improvement store on Friday to see about the glass, HOLY COW!! you def. get what you pay for! That sheet of 24"x26" glass was as thin as paper, no way would it have survived the ride home and if it managed to do so, first time someone smacked it (kids) it surely would have broke.

The marquee is just a printed off version for mock up.

Anyway here it is today:

[JDFan]

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

Maybe something similar to this :

[griffindodd]

Ummm, why does Kiera Knightly have a joystick for a nose, and Johnny Depp a trackball?

[PL1]

Maybe something similar to this :

ONLY if you re-compose the photo so that P1 buttons aren't covering eyes and P2 joystick isn't sprouting like a "witchie-poo" nose.   




Scott

[griffindodd]

BURN HER!!!

[dandro]

you guys are crazy.. lol.. 

[maffewl]

I would take Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom off it completely.  Sparrow is the franchise.  If you needed other characters, I would go with Barbosa/Davy Jones/Blackbeard, and of course Jack the Monkey way before those two made it to my control panel.

[griffindodd]

now...if you move the joystick hole to Kiera's mouth....... erm.... I've said too much already

[maffewl]

now...if you move the joystick hole to Kiera's mouth....... erm.... I've said too much already

[yotsuya]

I liked the idea of the treasure map CP, especially as the flat area of the CP reminds me of a table. You could have a map, some items, really do it up.

[dandro]

yeah,.. I have been messing around with it, nothing worth while has evolved from these hands... but I am working on it.

[dandro]

okay, this is what I am liking so far,... can't seem to get the layout right for buttons etc, so not sure what I'll do with that, yet. I know I want 6 buttons for both players, 1P/2P, 8 way joys. I'll go investigate what else should be on here without cluttering it all up.

[Nephasth]

I like it!

[maffewl]

I like it!

+1

[dandro]

thanks guys,.. this was a tough one for me conceptually as there is so much one could do with this theme.. But yeah, I had a vision last night and was hoping I could translate that to image,.. beer time. 

[JDFan]

thanks guys,.. this was a tough one for me conceptually as there is so much one could do with this theme.. But yeah, I had a vision last night and was hoping I could translate that to image,.. beer time. 

Looks good --- One thing you might want to add a bit more of a border on the bottom and\or sides or bring the red outline in a bit - it looks like the bottom center of the red border will wind up very close to the edge of the CP and may get cut off or leave no border toward the bottom of the CP.   

[dandro]

yeah, I failed to measure the CP at home for exact measurements as I modified it from the initial cut (removed an additional 2"). So, I am going to print a 1:1 scale printout of this, take it home to see how it lines up and where to adjust. I got smarter this time and saved the image BEFORE adding the outlines! 

[JDFan]

yeah, I failed to measure the CP at home for exact measurements as I modified it from the initial cut (removed an additional 2"). So, I am going to print a 1:1 scale printout of this, take it home to see how it lines up and where to adjust. I got smarter this time and saved the image BEFORE adding the outlines! 

That or create the outlines on a seperate layer and save in a format that retains the layers. 

[Gamester]

That or create the outlines on a seperate layer and save in a format that retains the layers.

Yep.  Layers are your friend, big-time!

[dandro]

yeah, I'll be googling that... I am sort of Forrest Gumping my way through graphic arts 101 here.. LOL

[JDFan]

yeah, I'll be googling that... I am sort of Forrest Gumping my way through graphic arts 101 here.. LOL

Using layers is sort of like using transparent paper that you can lay on top of each other and makes it much easier on things like this since you can make changes to any layer without effecting the other layers. Once you learn to use them you'll wonder how you made it without them ! -- So for example in this case if you have the red outline on a seperate layer and change the size\location off the border all of the background is still in the other layer so when you move the border it uncovers the part that used to be covered and covers the new portion by the border rather than having to go back to an image without the border and start over adding the border - so you can play with the border size\placement and not have to make any changes to the background each time. (just like you could using transparencies instead of having to use an eraser and repair the background image in a drawing)

[Drnick]

I can tell you this, In the UK at the moment Layers are definitely the way to go   

[dandro]

yesterday before leaving work, I decided to real quick, mess around with a Bezel. The plan has been to just paint the glass  from behind and call it a day, but had to see what a printed bezel would look like. Here are the results of that experiment..





Not yet sure if I'll keep the artwork as is or modify it, but was thinking of doing a bezel and maybe incorporating some of the Aztec gold into it.. I'll have to play later, work to do, since I am at work.. LOL

[kahlid74]

okay, this is what I am liking so far,... can't seem to get the layout right for buttons etc, so not sure what I'll do with that, yet. I know I want 6 buttons for both players, 1P/2P, 8 way joys. I'll go investigate what else should be on here without cluttering it all up.

I like this one a lot.

[dandro]

Thanks Kahlid, I plan on working on it more, with the actual dimensions of the CP..

[dandro]

So here is the actual dimensions of the CP....




Would like to have the 8-way and button lay out something like this (couldn't get the 8 way to look right, nor the button area)

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

Maybe something similar to this :

here is what I tried to make it look like..  I don't think I plan on getting a trackball this go around.. no money and would probably hold this project up another month or two..

[Le Chuck]

Your aspect ratio squash is kind of noticable as the skeletons look squat.  Might want to play with the image a bit and crop if necessary.

[JDFan]

Your aspect ratio squash is kind of noticable as the skeletons look squat.  Might want to play with the image a bit and crop if necessary.

+1 -- looks like you could scale up the men a bit to get them back into the correct aspect ratio by drawing a selection box just above their heads in the fog to the bottom of the CP and then transforming (Ctrl-T) and dragging the upper part of the selection box up till they look correct, then may need to draw another selection box in a small area where the fog and water meet in the adjusted area - deselect the red outline parts (if they are on a single layer with the background) and then adding a bit of a blur to keep it from being a sharp line where the fog meets the water sort of like this :

[dandro]

**Edited to add white middle and include a drop shadow to resemble the lettering on the Marquee, to further tie it in **

good catch guys, thanks! I made the modification,... looks better




Also, the T Molding as suppose to show up yesterday, but did not,.. which is weird because even the tracking said out ofr delivery,.. meh.. Anyway, I ordered black, but now wondering if red would be the way to go.. Wouldn't be a waste as I need to redo the molding on my Invasion cab anyhow....

[dandro]

got the t molding in yesterday,.. hmm, black is certainly a good color, but not sold on it for this cab based on the artwork..... 

How do you gurus out there, that pre-design your cabs with artwork, do this with the molding? In other words if I take a picture of the cab as it is today, do you normally just use photoshop and use colored lines? or do you find actual t molding images and overlay those onto the drawing? I would hate to go buy more molding (red) and then look at it, cringe and be out another $20.

[mcseforsale]

Red FTW.

You could probably offload the black on here in the FST section. 

AJ

[JDFan]

got the t molding in yesterday,.. hmm, black is certainly a good color, but not sold on it for this cab based on the artwork..... 

How do you gurus out there, that pre-design your cabs with artwork, do this with the molding? In other words if I take a picture of the cab as it is today, do you normally just use photoshop and use colored lines? or do you find actual t molding images and overlay those onto the drawing? I would hate to go buy more molding (red) and then look at it, cringe and be out another $20.

Tmolding.com ( http://www.t-molding.com/store/product.php?productid=28&cat=1&page=1 ) offers free samples - you just choose what color and size you want a sample of and they'll send it to you (just select one of each color you are thinking about)-- figure they do this so you can avoid doing exactly what you are thinking of  and will send you a few inches of each color to put on the cab and see what you think - and Hopefully when you do place the order you'll use them since they sent you the sample !!

[dandro]

got the t molding in yesterday,.. hmm, black is certainly a good color, but not sold on it for this cab based on the artwork..... 

How do you gurus out there, that pre-design your cabs with artwork, do this with the molding? In other words if I take a picture of the cab as it is today, do you normally just use photoshop and use colored lines? or do you find actual t molding images and overlay those onto the drawing? I would hate to go buy more molding (red) and then look at it, cringe and be out another $20.

Tmolding.com ( http://www.t-molding.com/store/product.php?productid=28&cat=1&page=1 ) offers free samples - you just choose what color and size you want a sample of and they'll send it to you (just select one of each color you are thinking about)-- figure they do this so you can avoid doing exactly what you are thinking of  and will send you a few inches of each color to put on the cab and see what you think - and Hopefully when you do place the order you'll use them since they sent you the sample !!

The sucky part about this, I HAD ordered and received red, green and black samples from T-MOlding.com. Turns out when I had a spare piece of MDF, that I painted and added my red sample too, got tossed out! DOH! LOL 

[JDFan]

The sucky part about this, I HAD ordered and received red, green and black samples from T-MOlding.com. Turns out when I had a spare piece of MDF, that I painted and added my red sample too, got tossed out! DOH! LOL 

  --- Isn't that the way it always goes !!! --- Game molding.com (http://www.gamemolding.com/products/112-t-molding-samples.aspx )  offers them also if you are too worried to order another sample from the same place or want to osee if there is a diffference in the color red !  

[dandro]

Ok cool, thank you for that. I did order my black molding from Preston, so makes sense to continue my business there as I am very pleased with his store/product and shipping. I was hoping to have this molding on by the end of the weekend, but I seriously think red would just be the right way to go.

[mcseforsale]

What part of the world are you in Dandro?

AJ

[dandro]

I am in Mountain House, between Livermore and Tracy. Northern California. On a larger scale West of San Francisco and south of Sacramento.

[CoryBee]

I am in Mountain House, between Livermore and Tracy. Northern California. On a larger scale West of San Francisco and south of Sacramento.

Huh??

[dandro]

I live in California, U.S.

[yotsuya]

How much black do you have, Dandro? I need to order some black molding soon.

[dandro]

How much black do you have, Dandro? I need to order some black molding soon.

I have a 20' roll of it black. Sorry, weekends stink for me on replies, usually pretty busy working in the yard and hanging with the kids.

[dandro]

just got word that the red sample of molding went out on Saturday... so as soon as I see how that will look, it's a waiting game. In the meantime I really need to get cracking on the CP. I am pretty much researching what people are using for joy's and buttons and wondering if LED lit buttons are the way to go, no go, etc.. I have about $100 budget right now, which if I went with the Ultimarc way, is just enough for to 4-8 way MagStickPlus .. but still trying to decide.

[yotsuya]

Dandro, LED buttons are fun, but they'll eat up most of that $100 budget. I'd build without initially, but save up for eventually. It's not that hard transitioning over to them.

[mcseforsale]

Yep.  16 GGG EI2 buttons cost me more than a C-note.  Plus, they play lighter than the others I've tried.  Their ClassX buttons are awesome with the standard microswitch and at 2 duckets a pop, they're a great value.  Of course, I've used Happ, too and they can't be beat either.

AJ

Dandro, LED buttons are fun, but they'll eat up most of that $100 budget. I'd build without initially, but save up for eventually. It's not that hard transitioning over to them.

[KnightofTruth]

I am officially stumped on the control panel art... any thoughts from you creative geniuses? I keep tossing stuff together, but bleh,,... The control panel is 32w x 19h so it's a nice canvas sizem just can't get into the rhythm I had with the Marquee

Maybe something similar to this :

The saddest thing about CPs that look like this is the placing of the joystick... definitely have a Pinocchio-looking female on the right there if you had gone with this one

[dandro]

Good call guys, I am all about saving the $$ I'll have more $$ in a few weeks for this, but I still need some more MDF to finish the back end, tools for hole drilling and a flush router bit for the detail work.

[Seith]

Control Panel artwork is coming along nicely.

Are you happy with that tinted lexan over your monitor?  It seems to have a matte finish from what I can see in the pics.  I spent the extra $$$ and went with tinted glass on the advice of the board here, just wondering how the lexan looks in person.

[dandro]

it looks matte simply because I have the protective film on it. I wanted glass, budget said otherwise. I plan on putting a bezel on it rather than painting the back side, because it just seems to pop, being the cab is all black, needs some color. So far I am really happy with the idea and overall look.

[Seith]

it looks matte simply because I have the protective film on it. I wanted glass, budget said otherwise. I plan on putting a bezel on it rather than painting the back side, because it just seems to pop, being the cab is all black, needs some color. So far I am really happy with the idea and overall look.

Ah okay!  I was wondering why it looked like it did.  And I agree, a graphical bezel would really kick this project up a notch.  Watching for updates.

[dandro]

Update: no update, I am still around, just ran into Mothers Day stuff, etc.. so funds are being redirected to operation "Keep myself married"...lol 

[Sshado]

Hey, it is June, where are the updates???

[dandro]

Yeah no joke right!? My son is bugging the hell out of me to get this thing moving. I need to get some parts. I think I hit the brick wall when it came to the control panel and t molding. After receiving the red tmolding sample after weeks, I am very much digging the red. So, with that being said, I need to order 20' of that and get moving on this thing. As you know it will be getting hot this summer, so might be slow going working on this in the garage....

I have a huge list of parts needed which will further slow progress. Family took a medical/IRS bill ass kicking so funds are not quite there yet for this... 

[dandro]

OMG progress....

just placed an order for:

• 2 Red Joys
  1 and 2 player buttons
  16 Red buttons
  Nova Matrix LED Marquee Lights
  Red TMolding

[dandro]

So received all the parts but with our heat wave in the California Bay Area (104-107 degrees), NO way am I working in the garage on this.. LOL. Going to have to wait for a cool down.

[dandro]

of course,... lol ran out of molding, it's never really enough is it?   

but anyway, I think red was a way better choice over the black that I originally got. I also was able to install and wire up the marquee lights as I bought the PC plug in converter to speed things along. I'll take pictures of that later.

[dandro]

Printed out the Bezel artwork on Photo glossy, attached to art board.. ready to mount. the sides and everything will be trimmed up once I get home and access the cutter...

[robe_uk]

Cool 

[portugese pirate]

that is going to be so nice......savy....lol

[dandro]

that is going to be so nice......savy....lol

thanks matey... 

and, installed:

[jasonl2972]

I just absolutely love this project!!Big fan of the whole pirate theme and the way this has all come together.Awesome work!

[dandro]

I just absolutely love this project!!Big fan of the whole pirate theme and the way this has all come together.Awesome work!

Thank you sir, first time building one I am learning what not to do the next go round, when and if that happens..LOL

[dandro]

Made more progress and got the button holes drilled out..

[dandro]

also they have me busy at work making quad monitor slide trays that I designed to solve a few ergonomic/technical  issues at work.. This all started form a 2'x4'x3/4" sheet of MDF. I designed, built and installed these here at the 911 Dispatch center where I am employed as a Network Engineer...  don't get me started on how all of a sudden I am local carpenter.. LOL  Basically we have 3 monitors, needed a 4th but no room on the desks so had to get a quad arm. This slide allows them to bring monitors closer or further based on vision needs, so that the backs can remain against the rest and limit the ergonomic issues we are dealing with. Watson Furniture wanted $2000 per position, I did this for $75/position (both $ not including monitors).

Final


In Place

[dandro]

I printed out the control panel artwork and dry fitted it with buttons on and,.. I wasn't all that impressed. Maybe because of the dull paper (normal) I used to print it off on and no plexi mounted over it, which may add to the effect I was hoping to see (shiny).. Figure I'l print it off on photo paper and hope for the best.

[dandro]

Well,.. this is why you wait to print out artwork,.. Need to make adjustments to the lines below, they don't match up with the wood. Good thing I have access to plotter, so this I just printed out myself, no cost... Please ignore the protective film under the buttons, dry fitted them to make sure all lined up.

[dandro]

Some more work to the CP. The front of the CP, has a routed out section behind the tinted plexi to hold red LED lighting. I made a custom vinyl decal that a local person is working on that will affix to the front of the plexi that will have the words "Dead men tell no tales" and will be lit up with the LED.





and cooling system, a little over kill, but it gets warm in the garage where this will live.

[dandro]

Just spoke to a friend that lives in my hood who makes custom air filters.. He and I are going to fabricate an air box that will surround the fan assembly and have removable air filters to keep the dust from being inhaled into the cab. Since these fans push a ton of air, I feel it's necessary to have some protection. The cost, some beer!    The universal bartering tool... a brewski

[a1pharm]

I love bartering with alcohol...

Air filtration in a cab, this is the first time I've heard someone doing this.  Build is looking great, keep powering through it!

Cheers!
 

[dandro]

yeah, normally I wouldn't give a darn about some dust, but since this is in the garage and I live in one of the most windy places ever, they actually put wind turbines on the hills nearby, that it makes sense here.

[dandro]

Picking up the decal tonight that will mount on the front of the CP plexi, backlit via a routed channel, so that the lettering will be illuminated via red LED. The lettering is cut out.

[Capp]

great work mate   

[mcseforsale]

Where are you in the world?

AJ

yeah, normally I wouldn't give a darn about some dust, but since this is in the garage and I live in one of the most windy places ever, they actually put wind turbines on the hills nearby, that it makes sense here.

[dandro]

Where are you in the world?

AJ

Mountain House, Ca

[a1pharm]

Any updates?

[boomerbrian]

Nice job on the art work.

[dandro]

Haven't had much free time since my sons tackle football started back up and they asked me to be Concessions Manager (never do that job!!! lol ). I did manage to obtain the smart strip for this project, so I'll be doing some wire clean up and assembly soon... I also smurfed up the front of the control panel, where the keyboard tray sits. The vinyl decal touched and when I pulled it up to move it, it broke the decal.. uhg.

[dandro]

Nice job on the art work.

Thank you, I enjoyed working on it, especially the valuable feedback I got from here.... It generated a lot of posts, but it was worth it.

[yotsuya]

Bump for progress? Where you been, bro?

[dandro]

ohhh boy... okay catostrophic failure on moving.... We moved up to washington state and in the midst of getting it off the truck, the cabinet's weight took out the entire bottom section which held the castors. So, with the bottom structure now destroyed, I have to beef it up and get it mobile again. ALong with that, the computer which was going to house the brains tanked.

At this point, I am not going to go the MAME route, but rather will be buying a power supply and going dedicated PCB route. I always, always wanted a SFII cabinet.

We are now having a house built, which will be done in October so moving again, in state. Funds are gone, parts destroyed, cabinet is sort of sitting there mocking me on a daily basis... I am hoping I may be able to trade or see the JPAC and the ATI video card to help with the needed funds to see this thing shine, but who knows...... 

[yotsuya]

Sorry to hear about that, my friend! Still, good to know you're out there, kicking. Hit us up when you start with the SF cabinet.