*Scratch Build 32" wide Upright Cab - White Melamine **99.9% Complete**

[a1pharm]

Well it's been a few years since I build my first cab.  I have received a lot of interest from folks who would like me to build them a cab.

Now that interest has reached a critical mass, and I intend to build a 32" custom slim (similar to my first cab - link in my sig).

Given the temperature is Wisconsin is officially abysmally cold, I am unable to use paint.  Therefore, I will be using melamine.  White melamine appears common on sports themed cabs, and these cabs will all be sports themed. 

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-Melamine-White-Panel-Common-3-4-in-x-4-ft-x-8-ft-Actual-750-in-x-49-in-x-97-in-461877/100070209

This build will be a departure from my previous builds, in that I will no longer be using a router as my primary means of making cuts.  I intend to use a circular saw with a guide in order to make perfect cuts.  It should cut down on dust production, while being faster, and resulting in less router burn out.

I had to use the router due to slight chipping when I used a circular saw. 

Stay tuned for plans, artwork, and build.

Cheers!
 

[Louis Tully]

.

[a1pharm]

   

4 is a bunch, dude.


Looking forward to this. Are you going one at a time or simultaneous?

I'll be doing the woodworking simultaneously, and the software configuration once, and then duplicating the HDD (3 of the comps are identical).

One of the cabs will have a different, more powerful computer, and have a few more features than the other 3, however, the basic form will be the same for all.

It should be interesting!

[jugger18]

They had better all be packer cabs.  Where in WI? Madison here.

[a1pharm]

One will be a Packers vs. Bears cab (for a divided customer couple), and the remaining ones will likely all be Green Bay.

[jugger18]

One will be a Packers vs. Bears cab (for a divided customer couple), and the remaining ones will likely all be Green Bay.

Pretty unfair matchup there 

[Vigo]

So somebody gets stuck playing as the Bears? 

Sweet, looking forward to seeing your GB cabs. 

[wp34]

They had better all be packer cabs.  Where in WI? Madison here.

 


 

[Karpro]

Does then article board core on those sheets hold screws okay?  Saw that stuff at Home Depot and was reluctant to try it.

[jugger18]

They had better all be packer cabs.  Where in WI? Madison here.

 


 

For that comment, the bears just extended Jay Cutler's contract

[Vigo]

....and raised his salary and plan on benching him a few games next season.   

[wp34]

I'm sure glad baseball starts soon.

[a1pharm]

I used to live in Madison for a few years while going to university.  Now I'm in bumble*** about an hour away from Madison.

Yeah, GB vs. Bears is a pretty unfair fight (especially if Cutler stays).  I have a feeling no one will want to player 1 (that will be the Bear's side).

This GB vs. Bears cab will have a 32" LCD, the other 3 will have 17" 4:3 monitors.  (The 32" LCD cab will be ~31" wide, while the 17" ones will be ~24" wide.)  Should I use a different design for the smaller screens, or do you think as long as I scale the width down it will look alright?  I'm using a modified and simpler (but still similar) plan as my upright.  Will upload a scan of of the plans one of these days.

Please let me know if you think a 17" would work in a cab like my upright, but narrower.

Cheers!
 

[a1pharm]

Control overlays complete.  I will need to fix the whitebalance with player 1.  Debating now on using a simple switchable 4/8 way stick for player 1, or having a dedicated 4 way stick somewhere else on the panel.  The panel will 10 x 31 inches.  It will have a 2 1/4" trackball.

[Louis Tully]

.

[jugger18]

My kids cab is 24 wide with a 17in monitor.  I think the sceen looks to small and will probably withere put in a widescreen or a 19in at some point (i have one that needs to be recapped)

[wp34]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3221/2722056059_72d4eccdeb.jpg   


Side art??

 

[a1pharm]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3221/2722056059_72d4eccdeb.jpg   


Side art??

Love it!

[jugger18]

Needs more Deeeetka

[a1pharm]

Because I am making this for someone else, I am itemizing all costs (except my time - it is a hobby!)

Here's what has been ordered so far:
Amazon      
USB extension cable x 2   4.7   http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P3HYHOK/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AS7T8BPEDKV97
USB 2 port external hub   5.25   http://www.amazon.com/female-socket-panel-mount-extension/dp/B00NIH1PZ6/ref=pd_cp_pc_0
Power port panel mount   3   http://www.amazon.com/Inlet-Module-Switch-Socket-IEC320/dp/B0050HH70E/ref=pd_sim_e_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1YGWNVJA23QV6ZM85DEY
2.1 Logitech speakers   33.94   http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-980-000382-Z313-Speaker-System/dp/B002HWRZ2K/ref=sr_1_186?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1423230570&sr=1-186&keywords=2.1+speakers
Geforce 610   34.99   http://www.amazon.com/EVGA-GeForce-1024MB-Graphics-01G-P3-2615-KR/dp/B00847TOLC/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3FLCJBXDR8DL8

Dirtcheaptrading.com      
Item   Cost   link
2 1/4 trackball ps2 LED   24.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/arcade-parts/arcade-controls.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=80&category_id=2
Mounting plate   9.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=101&category_id=2&redirected=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=6
Xin MO USB controller   18.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=78&category_id=2&redirected=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=6
Shipping   7.95   


I am going to experiment with the Xin MO USB controller.  It comes with wiring hanesses and it costs < $20.  I imagine I'll use the software "JoyToKey" to get it working correctly.  If this turns into a viable option, it is less that 50% of the cost of the KeyWiz I am familiar with (and even cheaper than Ultimarc's offerings).  I don't have high hopes for this device, but if it works out, I'll probably use it in every subsequent build.

[jugger18]

The kids arcade is using the Xin Mo.  No major issues with it.  I just went into each emulater and setup the controllers there.  Then set up the controllers for the frontend.  Only issue I had was on the second build (switched PC's).  Hyperspin would not see the joystick so I just used Game-ex.

[a1pharm]

The kids arcade is using the Xin Mo.  No major issues with it.  I just went into each emulater and setup the controllers there.  Then set up the controllers for the frontend.  Only issue I had was on the second build (switched PC's).  Hyperspin would not see the joystick so I just used Game-ex.

Good to know.  I intended to do a copy/paste of my hyperspin setup for this cab.  If it doesn't work, I may just get a keywiz (I'm not interested in learning a new frontend right now).  Thanks for the info!

[jugger18]

I have just rebuilt my hyper spin master image on my NAS.  I will copy it over and see if the xin-mo plays nice

[a1pharm]

I have just rebuilt my hyper spin master image on my NAS.  I will copy it over and see if the xin-mo plays nice

Oh, I've used a USB gamepad encoder in the past w/ Hyperspin, and it works great (always paired it w/ JoyToKey).   Still interested in what you notice, though.

[a1pharm]

   

4 is a bunch, dude.


Looking forward to this. Are you going one at a time or simultaneous?

Well, I'm changing the plan: there will be just 1 cab being build instead of all 4.  I will likely make 3 identical small-ish lowboys in the future w/ the 3 computers and monitors I was going to repurpose...  I also have a 4th extra computer and a 27" CRT... I might get the bug again...

[yotsuya]

   

4 is a bunch, dude.


Looking forward to this. Are you going one at a time or simultaneous?

Well, I'm changing the plan: there will be just 1 cab being build instead of all 4.  I will likely make 3 identical small-ish lowboys in the future w/ the 3 computers and monitors I was going to repurpose...  I also have a 4th extra computer and a 27" CRT... I might get the bug again...

Other guys back out? I hate when that happens.

[a1pharm]

No, no one backed out.  I was going to build 1, so I thought, "Why not 4?"

I doubt  I would have much difficulty offloading them, however, I'm building a house this year, and probably moving twice, and I do not want to move my cab + 3 others in case I can't offload them quickly.

I will likely be away from cab building for a while after this one is done (new house + planning on starting the baby train w/ the Mrs.).

I have waaaay too many working computers in my house right now (12), and I thought I'd make a margin by turning some of them into cabs.

I may still put together plans for the 17" monitor lowboys, but for now, I'll focus on this custom slim.

Cheers!
 

[jugger18]

Totally ran out of time to copy it over last night.  I will take care of it tonight.

[a1pharm]

99% done w/ woodworking.  Excuse the horrible pic (low light phone pic).  I'll get some better ones after I get the pine battons attached this week.  I expect to get this finished within the next two weeks (shipments allowing).  Wish me luck!

Ordered everything except for the marquee and CP artwork.  Here's a tally of all costs so far:

Dirtcheaptrading.com      
Item   Cost   link
2 1/4 trackball ps2 LED   24.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/arcade-parts/arcade-controls.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=80&category_id=2
Mounting plate   9.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=101&category_id=2&redirected=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=6
Xin MO USB controller   18.95   http://www.dirtcheaptrading.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=78&category_id=2&redirected=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=6
Shipping   7.95   


Amazon      
USB extension cable x 2   4.7   http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P3HYHOK/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AS7T8BPEDKV97
USB 2 port external hub   5.25   http://www.amazon.com/female-socket-panel-mount-extension/dp/B00NIH1PZ6/ref=pd_cp_pc_0
Power port panel mount   3   http://www.amazon.com/Inlet-Module-Switch-Socket-IEC320/dp/B0050HH70E/ref=pd_sim_e_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1YGWNVJA23QV6ZM85DEY
2.1 Logitech speakers   33.94   http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-980-000382-Z313-Speaker-System/dp/B002HWRZ2K/ref=sr_1_186?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1423230570&sr=1-186&keywords=2.1+speakers
Geforce 610   34.99   http://www.amazon.com/EVGA-GeForce-1024MB-Graphics-01G-P3-2615-KR/dp/B00847TOLC/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3FLCJBXDR8DL8


GroovyGameGear.com      
Zippy Arcade Stick x 3   23.85   http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=65&products_id=371
Joystick Mounting Kit x 4   6.95   http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=70&products_id=317
White pushbuttons x 23   27.6   http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=73&products_id=351
T-molding white 40 ft   16   http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=75&products_id=222
Shipping   14.45   


Newegg.com      
320 gb HDD   29.99   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA5AD1S71713
2 gb DDR3 1333 x 2   35.99   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231394
500w PSU 80 plus cert   34.99   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817159124
Motherboard LGA 1155   29.99   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813186244
Intel Celeron 2.7 ghz G1620   46.99   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116888
Shipping   3.99   


Best Buy      
Insignia 32" 1080p 60hz LED   189.99   http://www.ebay.com/itm/Insignia-32-034-Class-31-1-2-034-Diag-LED-1080p-HDTV-Black-/201190265417?_trksid=p2054897.l4275#shpCntId
tax   10.45   


Lowes #1      
2 x 3/4 x 4 x 8 Melamine      
5 x 2x2x8      
L rail      
U rail      
various hardware      
plexi      
   153.82   

[jugger18]

Sorry for taking forever.  My install still has the same issue.  I set up controllers in hyperhq, but when in hyper spin the joystick does nothing

[DeLuSioNal29]

Sorry for taking forever.  My install still has the same issue.  I set up controllers in hyperhq, but when in hyper spin the joystick does nothing

Joysticks are not supported with Hyperspin.  You need to use Joy to key to get it to work.

[jugger18]

Sorry for taking forever.  My install still has the same issue.  I set up controllers in hyperhq, but when in hyper spin the joystick does nothing

Joysticks are not supported with Hyperspin.  You need to use Joy to key to get it to work.

That would explain it then.  I will test tonight.  Although I swear it worked when I was first testing it.

[a1pharm]

I've used JoyToKey and USB gamepad controllers (KeyWhiz) in the past on some bartops.  As long as the Xin Mo is recognized by joytokey, I think I'm good to go.

[a1pharm]

FYI: Routers start on fire (especially cheapo generic 1.75 HP ones...)

I had to buy a new router after 5 hours into the woodworking segment of the project.

Went with a 2.25 hp Skil router w/ fixed and plunge base.  I can't recommend this router enough... wow!
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Skil-2-1-4-HP-Combo-Base-Router-Set-1830/203362513?cm_mmc=Shopping%7cG%7cBase%7cPLA%7cD25T%7cPowerTools&gclid=CjwKEAiAx4anBRDz6JLYjMDxoQYSJAA4loRmPHKiPARXZdmW1Z4knDlh-Tl3ZoyGvmWibnwRyQaF0hoCEDvw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

It's like going from a rusted out jalopy to a brand new Lambo.

[a1pharm]

Here's the finalized CP artwork - already sent to the printer...

It will be printed on polycarbonate - no need to put plexi over the top.

[phoenixtom]

Cool project!

[jugger18]

Found this on hyperspin forums http://www.hyperspin-fe.com/forum/showthread.php?36933-Xin-Mo-DUal&highlight=xinmo

I don't know why it shouldn't unless the XinMo isn't registered as a typical joystick in Windows, and this may be the case. In any case, HyperSpin doesn't have native joystick support. Works with an i-Pac but not a joystick. To add joystick support, you will need to use the HyperSpin Startup Script. No way around that. There are two ways you can do this:

1. The easy way is save HyperSpin Startup Script.exe to your /HyperSpin/Utilities folder (create the Utilities folder if you don't have one).
2. Launch the program once so it will create an ini file.
3. Open the ini file and change 'Joysticks_Enabled=False' to 'Joysticks_Enabled=true'. Save the file and close the ini file.
4. Open HyperHQ and in the Main Settings>Startup/Exit Tab, set the startup program to HyperSpin Startup Script.

Now launch HyperSpin and see if you have joystick navigation. Function buttons for HyperSpin when using the HyperSpin Startup Script are hardcoded. So in your Windows Control Panel Properties, once you find out which buttons are 1-7. The corresponding functions for those buttons:

Button 1: Enter
Button 2: Esc
Button 3: Genre
Button 4: Roulette
Button 5: Skip up
Button 6: Skip down
Button 7: Favorites

Now if this doesn't work, then you will have to use Xpadder and the HyperSpin Startup Script. I made a video to help folks get that going but it is a little outdated. Be sure to read the comments in the video where I corrected the mistake.


Tested and worked fine.  No need for joy2key unless you want to customize buttons (may be able to do this in the ini file as well)

[a1pharm]

Found this on hyperspin forums http://www.hyperspin-fe.com/forum/showthread.php?36933-Xin-Mo-DUal&highlight=xinmo

I don't know why it shouldn't unless the XinMo isn't registered as a typical joystick in Windows, and this may be the case. In any case, HyperSpin doesn't have native joystick support. Works with an i-Pac but not a joystick. To add joystick support, you will need to use the HyperSpin Startup Script. No way around that. There are two ways you can do this:

1. The easy way is save HyperSpin Startup Script.exe to your /HyperSpin/Utilities folder (create the Utilities folder if you don't have one).
2. Launch the program once so it will create an ini file.
3. Open the ini file and change 'Joysticks_Enabled=False' to 'Joysticks_Enabled=true'. Save the file and close the ini file.
4. Open HyperHQ and in the Main Settings>Startup/Exit Tab, set the startup program to HyperSpin Startup Script.

Now launch HyperSpin and see if you have joystick navigation. Function buttons for HyperSpin when using the HyperSpin Startup Script are hardcoded. So in your Windows Control Panel Properties, once you find out which buttons are 1-7. The corresponding functions for those buttons:

Button 1: Enter
Button 2: Esc
Button 3: Genre
Button 4: Roulette
Button 5: Skip up
Button 6: Skip down
Button 7: Favorites

Now if this doesn't work, then you will have to use Xpadder and the HyperSpin Startup Script. I made a video to help folks get that going but it is a little outdated. Be sure to read the comments in the video where I corrected the mistake.


Tested and worked fine.  No need for joy2key unless you want to customize buttons (may be able to do this in the ini file as well)

Thanks for this info!  I was trying to avoid using JoyToKey for an odd reason that has to do with Mushroom Kingdom Fusion and another platformer... this info might just save the day...

 

[a1pharm]

I noticed I haven't uploaded any pics of the (almost) completed cab.

[a1pharm]

Here's the rough plans on graph paper.  I drew everything to scale in another series (not uploaded).  This design is a departure from my first cab.  Fewer angles = easier construction.