What parts do I need for the CP?

[Violineb]

OK I'm going to go ahead and order all the parts that I'll need for the CP of my MAME controller and then eventually it'll be for a whole cabinet. But since the heart of a MAME machine is the controls, that comes first.

OK I already have my 2- 8 way joysticks and 20 buttons, both use microswitches. They're replacement X Arcade parts because I didn't really feel like spending $10-15 for each joystick and $1-2 for each button. Maybe in the future but currrently this isn't supposed to be an obsessision, just something to play with

Now what's next? Tell me if I've left out anything.

-KeyWiz Max

-2-50 packs of Q-disconnects .187" size 16-22AWG from of groovygame@3.49 ea.

-50 ft. each of red, blue, and black wire from McMaster @ $3 for 50ft.
I'm not sure how much I need so if someone can estimate for 20 buttons and 2 joysticks that would be very helpful.  I think that makes 28 inputs+groundwire. hmmmm

-Lastly any suggestions to more parts would be appreciated too, I want to put a coin door/mech but as usual I don't want to spend 30+ dollars for a single mech. Oh and I'm not even sure what exactly a mech is. Is it just the mechanism without the coin input part and the coin return part? Links to some good and inexpensive coin thingys are also a good idea.

Thanks very much, can't wait to play some arcade games the right way. Bet it will be good for PSX fighters too  

[cdbrown]

Why blue, red and black wire? Why not just red (active) and black (ground)

[Violineb]

I thought maybe red for P1 blue for P2. Ok then just red and black then. How about some other suggestions.

[ekopp2]

Don't forget zip ties to clean up your wiring. Browse through the project announcements... there are lots of good examples there.

[Apollo]

Ya gonna need some wood dude, lol.

[cdbrown]

Do you like spinner or trackball games.  They are good fun and will eventually be part of my cab.  You can't go past Oscar Controls for great quality arcade spinners.

Wire stripper/crimping tool will come in handy.

Don't know anything about coin doors so sorry can't help.

[Violineb]

I have wood, lots of it. But that reminds me. What thickness do I need for the top? Normal, uh wood will do right? 1/4" or so? I don't know what's too thick and what's too thin. I figure if it was too thick then the joystick would be too short and it wouldn't be half as enjoyable.

[cdbrown]

most people have 3/4" thickness but mine is 5/8".  1/4" may be a little thin and be a bit flexible

[Apollo]

I advise using mounting plates on wooden panels. Then your joysticks will always be the right length.

[JamesS]

Mounting plates come when you buy the Joysticks right?

Or are you talking of something else.  I am about to get started on my CP as well and trying to make sure I do not forget anything.

I am doing swappable panels, and will probably end up building me a spinner.  Partly because it looks like it will be fun and mostly because it is cheaper.

[Minwah]

I am using swappable metal panels...

I know it isn't a terribly popular choice here but IMO metal CP's are the way to go, since most joysticks are designed to be mounted on metal, as are MANY (nearly all?) genuine arcade controls (wheels, spinners, analog sticks etc.).  Saves having to route wood, or use mounting plates etc.  

[Stingray]

IMO metal CP's are the way to go

I agree completely. A metal CP just feels more authentic. I realize that not everyone has the tools and/or know how to work with metal, so I completely understand why many choose to use wood.

-S